Waterfox review
Waterfox offers open-source browsing with detailed privacy controls at no cost.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Waterfox is a free, open-source web browser from BrowserWorks Ltd, based on Mozilla Firefox and the Gecko engine. It is designed for people who want detailed privacy controls alongside everyday browsing features. Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, it combines ad and tracker blocking with Enhanced Tracking Protection, private tabs, password storage, profiles, tab customization, and local website translation.
Privacy is the browser's clearest focus. Enhanced Tracking Protection provides Standard, Strict, and Custom modes, while private tabs keep separate browsing data. Waterfox also includes Oblivious HTTP private DNS, and its browser builds have telemetry and data collection disabled. These controls give privacy-conscious users more ways to manage browsing behavior without requiring a paid plan. Tree tabs and customizable tab layouts add flexibility for people who organize many open pages.
The Free plan costs $0 USD as a one-time price and requires no premium tier or payment. Mozilla Sync can synchronize bookmarks, passwords, history, tabs, and preferences through a Mozilla account, while Mozilla Add-ons supports the browser's extension ecosystem. Sync uses Mozilla's Sync service, and Waterfox states that it is not affiliated with Mozilla. Choose Waterfox if open-source software, privacy controls, cross-device synchronization, and interface customization are priorities. It is less suitable for buyers specifically seeking paid plan options or built-in AI features.
Waterfox pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Advanced tracking protection with Standard, Strict, and Custom modes
- Open source with built-in ad and tracker blocking
- Syncs bookmarks, passwords, history, tabs, and preferences
- Where it doesn't
- No premium tier or payment options are offered
- Synchronization depends on a Mozilla account and Mozilla Sync
- No AI features are included
Waterfox fact sheet, pricing and score →
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