Tor Browser review
A free, open-source browser built for anonymity, censorship resistance, and onion access.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Tor Browser is a free, open-source web browser based on Firefox that routes browsing through the Tor network. It is designed for people who want to reduce tracking, surveillance, fingerprinting, and censorship exposure, including journalists, activists, researchers, and privacy-conscious users. The browser is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, with desktop and mobile deployment options.
Its strongest case is the depth of its privacy and anonymity features. Tor network routing uses multi-layer encryption, while website isolation limits third-party tracking and automatic clearing removes cookies and browsing history when sessions end. Fingerprinting resistance, HTTPS-Only mode, and the built-in NoScript add-on add further controls over scripts and connections. Standard, Safer, and Safest security levels let users adjust protection, while onion service access, bridges, and Connection Assist address censorship and access to Tor-based sites.
Tor Browser is deliberately focused rather than broad. It covers major desktop platforms and Android, but it has no official iOS version; the Tor Project recommends Onion Browser for iOS. The vendor also strongly discourages installing additional browser extensions, which keeps the browser's privacy model more controlled but limits customization. Community support and documentation are the listed support channels. Choose Tor Browser when anonymity, censorship resistance, and privacy controls matter more than a broader platform footprint or a general-purpose browsing experience. Users who need iOS support should consider Onion Browser instead.
Tor Browser pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Tor routing, multi-layer encryption, and fingerprinting resistance
- Free access to onion services, bridges, and Connection Assist
- Website isolation, NoScript, and configurable security levels
- Where it doesn't
- No official iOS version
- Additional browser extensions are strongly discouraged
- Tor routing can make everyday browsing less convenient
Tor Browser fact sheet, pricing and score →
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