Helium Browser review
A free Chromium browser with strong built-in blocking and desktop-only limits.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Helium Browser is a free, open-source Chromium-based browser for desktop users who want built-in blocking and minimal data collection. It is available on macOS, Windows, and Linux, with support for Chromium extensions through the Chrome Web Store. The feature set also includes fingerprinting protections, vertical tabs, split view, web app installation, tab groups, tab hibernation, and locally processed !bang shortcuts. Its focus is privacy-oriented desktop browsing rather than a cross-device browser experience.
The free plan covers the browser itself and includes built-in ad blocking, tracker blocking, cookie-banner blocking, and third-party-cookie blocking. Fingerprinting protections add another privacy-focused control, while Chromium compatibility preserves access to the Chrome Web Store extension ecosystem. For organization, Helium combines vertical tabs, tab groups, tab hibernation, and split view. Web app installation and locally processed !bang shortcuts extend the browser beyond basic page viewing. Automatic updates are available on macOS and Windows.
Helium’s main trade-off is its desktop-only scope. It has no mobile apps or cross-device data synchronization, so users who move between devices will not get a shared browser state. The browser is also currently in beta and does not support Widevine DRM, which may affect compatibility with some protected media services. Helium suits users who prioritize open-source software, built-in blocking, Chromium extensions, and desktop tab management. Those who need mobile browsing, synchronized data, or Widevine support should choose a browser that provides those capabilities.
Helium Browser pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Built-in ad, tracker, cookie-banner, and third-party-cookie blocking
- Chromium extension support through the Chrome Web Store
- Vertical tabs, split view, web apps, and tab hibernation
- Where it doesn't
- Currently in beta
- No mobile apps or cross-device data synchronization
- Does not support Widevine DRM
Helium Browser fact sheet, pricing and score →
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