Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge: A free, cross-platform browser suited to Microsoft users who want broad compatibility. Ranked #2 of 145 in Web Browsers by our editors (9.2/10); pricing: Free plan; best for microsoft users needing a full-featured browser.
At a glance
- Editor score9.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forMicrosoft users needing a full-featured browser
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Browser engineChromium
- Founded1975 · Redmond, Washington, United States
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Works across web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android
- Supports Edge Add-ons and compatible Chrome Web Store extensions
- Combines Copilot, SmartScreen, tracking prevention, and device sync
Where it doesn't
- Microsoft integrations may matter less outside the Microsoft ecosystem
- Cross-device synchronization depends on signed-in devices
- Copilot may not suit users seeking a browser without built-in AI
Our verdict on Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge is a free web browser for consumers, organizations, and developers. It uses Chromium-based web rendering, supports compatible extensions from Microsoft Edge Add-ons and the Chrome Web Store, and runs across web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Its feature set covers everyday browsing and account management, including password generation, password management, passkey support, progressive web app installation, and InPrivate browsing. Microsoft Copilot is integrated into the browser, with Bing and Microsoft 365 listed as integrations.
Security and privacy controls are central to Edge’s offering. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is designed to protect against phishing and malicious downloads, while tracking prevention provides Basic, Balanced, and Strict levels. InPrivate browsing removes session history, cookies, and form data when the window is closed. These controls give users several ways to adjust browsing protection, although the browser’s wider value is strongest for people who also use Microsoft services and want those connections available within the browser.
Synchronization is another practical strength for users with multiple devices. When signed in, Edge can synchronize favorites, passwords, history, extensions, settings, and open tabs across supported devices. That makes it a strong fit for Microsoft-oriented households, workplaces, and developers who need Chromium compatibility across operating systems. Users who prefer a browser with fewer built-in Microsoft services or no integrated AI may find its direction less suitable. Edge is the better choice for broad platform coverage, extension access, security controls, and Microsoft ecosystem integration in one free browser.
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Microsoft Edge pricing
Microsoft Edge fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Both |
| Browser engine | Chromium |
| Built-in ad blocking | Yes |
| Tracking protection | Standard |
| Extension support | Both |
| Cross-device sync | Yes |
| Open source | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Support | Docs, Community |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | microsoft.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Microsoft Edge
- Google ChromeA complete free browser with broad platform coverage, sync, extensions, and built-in security.9.3
- Mozilla FirefoxA mature, privacy-focused browser for everyday browsing across desktop and mobile.9.1
- Brave BrowserA privacy-first Chromium browser with broad platform and extension compatibility.9.0
See all Microsoft Edge alternatives →
Microsoft Edge vs the competition
- Microsoft Edge vs Google Chrome
- Microsoft Edge vs Mozilla Firefox
- Microsoft Edge vs Brave Browser
- Microsoft Edge vs Opera
- Microsoft Edge vs Vivaldi
- Microsoft Edge vs Safari
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Also Ranked In
Microsoft Edge is ranked in 6 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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