Edge 89 introduced two features for different frustrations: vertical tabs make a crowded tab row easier to scan, while Startup boost prepares browser processes in the background so Edge can launch faster. Microsoft reported a 29%–41% startup-time improvement with Startup boost enabled versus disabled in its Stable-channel experiment; that is a historical Microsoft result, not a promise for every PC.
What changed in Microsoft Edge 89?
Microsoft announced these Edge 89 features in March 2021. The announcement date is not the release date for every Edge 89 maintenance build: Microsoft’s archived release notes include version 89.0.774.54 dated March 13, followed by additional builds later that month and in April.
The two features solve separate problems. Vertical tabs change how you find and switch between open pages. Startup boost changes how Edge prepares to launch.
How do I enable vertical tabs in Microsoft Edge?
Use the vertical-tabs icon at the upper left of the browser frame to move the tab list from the horizontal strip into a side pane. Microsoft’s Edge 89 release notes describe the feature as placing tabs at the side, where longer site titles and vertically aligned icons make it easier to scan, identify, and switch to the page you want.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Why move tabs to the side?
When many tabs are open, horizontal tabs shrink until their titles are cut off and some controls disappear. A side pane gives titles more room and arranges tabs vertically, making it easier to distinguish pages without relying only on their icons. It is a tab-management option, not a way to make pages or the browser launch faster.
How do I make Edge start faster?
Check Startup boost in Edge’s system settings. Microsoft Support currently directs users to Startup boost settings and guidance; the setting is available at edge://settings/system/manageSystem. There you can check whether it is enabled or toggle it if the option is available.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What Startup boost does
Startup boost keeps minimal Edge processes ready in the background while the browser is closed. Microsoft says this lets Edge start more quickly when launched. That trade-off means processes remain in the background; the cited feature descriptions do not establish a battery, CPU, or memory benefit for Startup boost.
Who may be eligible
Microsoft Support’s current guidance describes eligibility as conditional, based on factors including device memory and disk, regular Edge use, and conflicting extensions. Its documented eligibility guidance excludes Windows 10X and Windows Server. These are present-day support criteria, separate from the Edge 89 feature announcement, and Microsoft may update them.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What does Microsoft’s 29%–41% startup figure mean?
In a March 4, 2021 Edge performance post, Microsoft reported a 29%–41% improvement in startup times in an experiment comparing Edge Stable with Startup boost enabled against the same feature disabled. A March 2 Microsoft post also described 29%–41% faster startup after rebooting on Windows 10, based on internal Microsoft Edge Stable-channel results.
These figures are Microsoft’s reported historical results, not an independently verified benchmark or a guaranteed improvement on an individual device. The posts do not provide enough experiment detail to establish that the same range applies across hardware, Windows versions, usage patterns, or current Edge builds. The 2021 announcement says the improvements were available in the Edge 89 Stable channel; it should not be read as current performance guidance.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Which feature should you use?
| Feature | Useful when | What it changes |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical tabs | Your horizontal tab row is crowded and page titles are hard to distinguish. | Moves the tab list into a side pane for scanning and switching. |
| Startup boost | You want Edge to launch more quickly and the option is available for your device. | Keeps minimal browser processes ready in the background while Edge is closed. |
You can use either feature independently; they address different tasks. Neither requires buying a computer, memory, storage, peripheral, or printed guide.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Sources
- Microsoft Edge Blog: Edge 89 performance improvements, March 4, 2021
- Microsoft Learn: Microsoft Edge Stable release notes archive
- Microsoft Support: Get help with startup boost
- Windows Experience Blog: Microsoft’s March 2, 2021 Edge post
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
