Thorium Browser
Thorium Browser: A free, open-source Chromium browser with optimized builds and familiar Chrome compatibility. Ranked #55 of 145 in Web Browsers by our editors (4.2/10); pricing: Free plan; best for users wanting optimized open-source Chromium.
At a glance
- Editor score4.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forUsers wanting optimized open-source Chromium
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Browser engineChromium
- Facts checked19 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Chromium compatibility with Chrome Web Store extensions
- CPU-specific builds and compiler optimizations
- Privacy defaults including Do Not Track and Global Privacy Control
Where it doesn't
- Feature availability varies across platforms and builds
- Google Sync is restricted on Android
- Its verified feature set is narrower than mainstream browsers
Our verdict on Thorium Browser
Thorium Browser is an open-source Chromium fork for people who want familiar Chromium-based browsing with optimized builds and additional browser patches. It supports web, Windows, macOS, Linux and Android, with separate project repositories for several platforms and special builds. Its audience includes users who value open-source software, Chrome Web Store compatibility and platform-specific performance options over the broader feature coverage of mainstream browsers.
Thorium’s most distinctive area is its build and media approach. The project provides CPU-specific SSE3, SSE4, AVX and AVX2 builds, alongside compiler and link-time optimizations. Selected platforms add HEVC/H.265, Widevine and other codec support, while JPEG XL is enabled by default. Documented interface options include the classic Chrome interface and download shelf, with parallel downloading also included in the project’s changes. These choices make Thorium a focused option for users who want Chromium compatibility with additional performance, format and interface considerations.
Privacy and ecosystem fit are also central to the product. Do Not Track and Global Privacy Control are enabled by default, while Google Sync is available in supported builds and Chrome Web Store compatibility preserves access to Chromium-compatible extensions. Sync availability varies by platform, and Android has restrictions connected to Google account and synchronization limitations. Users who want an open-source Chromium browser with optimized builds, familiar extensions and privacy-oriented defaults should consider Thorium. Those seeking the widest verified feature set or identical behavior across every supported platform may prefer a more mainstream browser.
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Thorium Browser pricing
Thorium Browser fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Both |
| Browser engine | Chromium |
| Built-in ad blocking | Not verified |
| Tracking protection | Not verified |
| Extension support | Chrome_store |
| Cross-device sync | Yes |
| Open source | Yes |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android |
| Integrations | 2 integrations: Google Sync, Chrome Web Store |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | github.com |
| Facts checked | 19 Sep 2026 |
Thorium Browser integrations
Thorium Browser lists 2 integrations on its own site.
- Google Sync
- Chrome Web Store
Alternatives to Thorium Browser
- Google ChromeA complete free browser with broad platform coverage, sync, extensions, and built-in security.9.3
- Microsoft EdgeA free, cross-platform browser suited to Microsoft users who want broad compatibility.9.2
- Mozilla FirefoxA mature, privacy-focused browser for everyday browsing across desktop and mobile.9.1
See all Thorium Browser alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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