Zen Browser
A beautiful privacy browser on Firefox
Overview
Zen Browser uses the Firefox Gecko engine with a modern Arc-inspired UI: vertical tabs, workspaces, and split view reflect current browser UX trends while staying Chromium-free.
uBlock Origin is bundled alongside Firefox privacy features (ETP, etc.). No Google Sync/Sign-in; Firefox Account Sync is supported. A fresh option if you want modern design without leaving Gecko.
Released in 2024, long-term stability is still unproven, but active development and community interest make it worth watching for Firefox users who do not want to lose a modern interface.
Scores
Google Chrome — comparison
No Google account integration and a non-Chromium Gecko engine. UI modernity rivals Arc/Chrome while dropping Google Sync, Timeline, and similar collection paths.
Pros
- ✓ Chromium-free Gecko engine
- ✓ Arc-style modern UI/UX
- ✓ uBlock Origin bundled
- ✓ Workspaces and split view
- ✓ Fully open source
Cons & caveats
- − Relatively new—long-term track record unproven
- − No mobile version
- − Some Firefox extensions may have compatibility issues
- − Smaller community than Firefox proper
Best for
- Users who want Firefox with a modern UI
- Arc-style workspaces and split view fans
- Design-conscious users avoiding Chromium
Not ideal for
- People who prioritize long proven support records
- Users who need a unified mobile browser
- Anyone requiring 100% Chrome extension compatibility
Specs
- Pricing
- Free — Completely free. Open-source community project with no paid tiers.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Data location
- Firefox Account Sync uses Mozilla (US) servers when enabled. uBlock Origin and ETP run on-device.
- Platforms
- Windows · macOS · Linux
Migration from Google Chrome
- 1 Install Zen Browser (can run alongside Firefox)
- 2 Import bookmark HTML from Chrome or Firefox
- 3 Set up workspaces by use case (work, personal, research)
- 4 Confirm bundled uBlock Origin and start daily use
Setup steps
- 1 Install from https://zen-browser.app/ for your OS
- 2 Export bookmarks from another browser and import HTML
- 3 Create workspaces and organize tabs by purpose
- 4 Optionally configure Firefox Account Sync
Related on Amazon
Books and devices that may help your migration. Verify specs and price before buying.
- Books
Permanent Record — Edward Snowden
Essential reading on surveillance and personal privacy—the “why” behind de-Googling.
View on Amazon ↗