To access the Internet, you need a browser. With the right browser, you can easily surf through various websites and complete different tasks.
There are quite a number of browsers for you to choose from, and identifying the most ideal for your needs may seem quite the challenge.
But with the right information about the options available, your choices should be made much easier.
A look at two of the most popular web browsers, Opera GX and Brave, should be all it takes to determine the most suitable one for you.
What is Opera GX?
Opera GX is a web browser that was launched in 2019. It is a counterpart to the original Opera Mini web browser but with the distinction of being ideal for gaming.
The browser was developed and is managed by Kunlun Tech Limited, a Chinese company.
This particular browser is compatible with both Windows and macOS systems. Opera GX is also available for the Android and iPhone operating systems.
Anyone can download this particular web browser free of charge. The process of installation is pretty straightforward too.
A beneficial feature of this browser is that once you install it on your computer and mobile device, you can link the two devices thanks to the file-sharing Flow feature.
With this feature, you can share files on multiple devices and even retrieve gaming history and bookmarks.
Opera GX places a lot of emphasis on gaming optimization and that is why it has specific features for limiting system resources to ensure the best gaming performance.
What is Brave?
Brave is a web browser that was launched in 2016 and was developed by a company known as Brave Software. This is an open-source software meaning it can be modified and redistributed free of charge.
Brave is built around the Chromium engine and places a lot of emphasis on privacy. This browser allows you to visit different websites without having your data collected and a unique profile generated.
The browser is compatible with different operating systems including Linux, Windows, and macOS. It is also available on the Android and iOS platforms.
A unique feature of this browser is that it allows you to sync devices and share data thanks to its peer-to-peer connections. If you choose to sync devices, you don’t even have to sign up or sign in. All you have to do is generate a sync code and you are good to go.
Getting Started
Opera GX
The Opera GX web browser is available for download from the main website opera.com/gx. Once you navigate to this site, identify the file that is compatible with your device and initiate an automatic download.
This process should only take a few seconds (maybe minutes) depending on the speed of your internet. The installation wizard will then prompt you to click on various permissions before the process completes.
Once installed, you can launch the Opera GX without restarting your computer or mobile device. Immediately you’ll realize that this browser has a sleek but simple user interface making it easy for anyone to navigate to different sections.
On the home page, you have the option to navigate to the settings sections and then start customizing the web browser to suit your preferences. There are plenty of color themes you can choose from with one of the most popular being the dual color mode.
You can also set Opera GX to the Force Dark Mode, which consequently turns all websites you visit into a dark mode theme. This can help relieve your eyes from strain often caused by bright light.
Individuals can customize this browser with unique sounds and effects to give it a modern feel. There are plenty of wallpapers and images to set in the background too.
With this particular browser, you can also import bookmarks and browsing history from any of your previous browsers. While you have the option of signing up for an Opera account, you can also use this browser without necessarily having to sign up.
Also Read: Opera GX vs Firefox
Brave
To get the Brave browser, all you have to do is visit the site Brave.com. On the site, you’ll notice a download button right at the top. Click it to initiate an automatic download process.
Once the executable file is downloaded, the installation wizard will launch a prompt you should click through to start the installation process.
The process of downloading and installing Brave on your device takes anything from a few seconds to minutes depending on the speed of your internet connection. Like Opera GX, Brave has also integrated an import feature.
That means you can easily import your bookmarks and browsing history from an old browser within a few seconds. You can also switch to the dark mode theme and customize Brave to get an appearance you love.
However, Brave is not as customizable as Opera GX. It does not support the incorporation of effects or sounds.
Check Out: Brave vs Safari
Verdict
The process of downloading and installing both Brave and Opera GX is almost similar. The period of time it takes to complete this process is also a match.
When it comes to customization, Opera GX is definitely one of the best browsers to opt for. It allows you to use a blend of effects, sounds, and themes to create an amazing and personalized browsing experience.
Both browsers are free to download and let you start enjoying the surfing experience without having to sign up.
Privacy and Security
Opera GX
When it comes to browsing privacy, it is difficult to determine how much privacy you can enjoy on Opera GX. That is because it was developed and managed by a Chinese company.
China is known to have sophisticated technology that allows them to spy on just about anyone using state-of-the-art software tools. The browser comes with built-in VPN software to help you browse anonymously.
However, it is still difficult to verify if the VPN is 100% foolproof. Some people claim the VPN can even leak your IP address. Additionally, this browser boasts of having a built-in tracker blocker.
The tracker-blocker ensures that your information cannot be collected and used to create a unique profile for the purposes of targeted marketing.
Another cool feature you’ll find in this browser is a built-in ad-blocker. Once you enable this feature, you can visit any website without having to worry about pop-up ads that may cause distraction.
There is also the Opera GX Cleaner, which makes it easy for you to clear data from your browser and enhance performance.
Also Read: Opera GX vs Chrome
Brave
Brave is one of the browsers that are built- around a privacy theme. It is, therefore, designed to safeguard user privacy by blocking any tracking activities.
Even if you run hundreds of searches on this browser, your information is not collected. With this web browser, you can be sure that cookies, cross-site trackers, and fingerprinting activities are blocked.
Brave also features a built-in ad-blocker to ensure that you do not get distracted by annoying pop-up ads. The creators of this browser even go out of their way to ensure that users enjoy protection against bounce tracking.
It is worth pointing out that Brave presents users with certain adverts that you can watch and earn a specific commission. You can then spend the commission in the form of donations to any site you choose.
Additionally, Brave utilizes anonymized network routing to protect the safety and privacy of all users. Finally, Brave has a firewall that is built to protect your device from viruses and malware that may otherwise cause harm.
Explore: Best Brave Alternatives
Verdict
Both web browsers have excellent features when it comes to privacy and security. The fact that they offer built-in ad-blockers means that there is less stuff on different web pages and that facilitates faster loading speeds.
However, Brave comes out as a more reliable option for individuals that wish to protect their privacy and block all sorts of adverts from popping up on their home pages.
Opera GX on the other hand may claim to offer the best in privacy and security, but chances are that some sort of spying can still go on in the background.
News, Social Networks, and Entertainment
Opera GX
Staying connected with loved ones and business contacts has become an integral element in everyday life. Opera GX developers seem to be aware of this fact which is why they have integrated a variety of social networks into the browser.
Facebook Messenger, Telegram, WhatsApp, Twitter, Instagram, and Vkontakte are some of the social add-ons you get to enjoy when using this particular browser.
These networks are integrated right into the browser sidebar so you can navigate from one to the other without interrupting your active tabs.
Discord is one of the most popular gaming networks in the world. With Discord, you can keep in touch with teams, chat with friends, and learn more about the latest games available.
This browser also features Twitch, which gives you access to a variety of live streams to keep you both informed and entertained. While on Twitch, you can quickly learn about updates on your favorite channels, thanks to its push notification feature.
Another impressive feature under this category is the Opera GX Player. With this player, you can access a variety of podcasts and music tracks.
You can even connect all your music services to the player and switch from one to another seamlessly.
The browser also includes the GX Corner, which is a page that provides avid gamers with some of the latest news and updates regarding prices, deals, trends, and more.
The Opera GX browser also features a video pop-out setting that allows you to detach videos from their source pages. This means you can navigate from one page to another while your videos float on top of other windows.
Brave
Brave is among the few web browsers that allow users to make free video calls. This is quite helpful considering people need to keep in touch with loved ones and professional contacts.
If you are using Brave on an iOS device, you get to create a playlist right within the browser. The playlist can be in any media format including videos and audio tracks.
Brave playlists can work even when you are offline. Another exceptional feature of this web browser is that it allows you to customize your news feed.
This ensures that you stay informed depending on the type of news you like. For instance, you can customize your feed to prioritize sports or gaming news.
Unlike Opera GX, the Brave browser has not integrated any social networks. It is up to you to find the original sites and surf through them as you wish.
Verdict
When it comes to news, social networking, and entertainment, Opera GX comes out on top.
Not only do you get a myriad of social networks, but you also enjoy customizable options with regard to the news you get.
Opera GX makes navigating from one tab or window to another easy, thanks to its Fast Action Button. This button is available on mobile devices and provides haptic feedback which is excellent when you are on the go.
Brave on the other hand offers pretty basic features under this category and there is, therefore, nothing unique to distinguish it from other browsers.
Gaming Optimization
Opera GX
Playing your favorite games online can be one of the most thrilling experiences. However, a lot of web browsers are not optimized for gaming purposes.
Opera GX is one of the few web browsers that are designed with gaming in mind. The GX Control feature is specifically included to help users control their system resources.
With this feature, users can monitor CPU, RAM, and network usage. They also get to control how each of the programs on their system can use resources.
For instance, users can limit the amount of RAM a particular game or program uses at a given time. This limiting capability ensures that other programs have enough resources for optimal performance.
Gamers often limit CPU and RAM usage when playing their favorite games on this website and this ensures they enjoy top-notch graphics and sound production.
Resource management also helps in efficient energy consumption which is why you can enjoy your favorite games for longer without worrying about running out of battery power.
This web browser also incorporates a Hot Tabs Killer feature, which allows users to monitor how each tab utilizes system resources. In case you notice a tab that is hogging resources, you can kill it instantly and free up system resources for optimal performance.
Brave
Brave features built-in ad-blockers and anti-tracking systems that ensure your browser is free of clutter. This effectively ensures that programs, including games, can load fast.
This particular website also supports NFT games, which is a plus for individuals that enjoy these types of games. Another impressive aspect of using Brave while gaming is that it is built to consume 38% less battery power.
This can be beneficial because you get to enjoy longer gaming sessions before you have to plug your laptop into a power source.
Check Out: Brave vs Edge
Verdict
When it comes to gaming, Opera GX is without a doubt one of the best options for you to choose from. The browser’s main strength is the fact that it allows you to control system resources that are essential to seamless gaming experiences.
With Opera GX, you also get access to gaming news, the latest gaming releases, and deals. The browser also incorporated Discord, which is one of the largest gaming networks in the world.
While you can enjoy playing certain games on the Brave browser, the truth is that the experience is not as exciting as what you get on Opera GX.
Brave does not have any special features that make it stand out as an ideal gaming browser.
Explore: Brave vs Chrome
Internet Search Features
Opera GX
Opera GX is built with a minimalist interface to ensure fewer distractions. It features a search bar right at the top of the home page.
When you download this browser, you’ll realize that its default search engine is Google Search. However, you are free to change that to any other search engine you prefer.
Keep in mind that you can either enable or disable the ad-blocker on this browser. If you want to get search results without pop-up ads, make sure to enable the ad-blocker.
Nevertheless, some websites do not allow you to gain access to their content until you disable your ad-blocker.
Brave
This browser also features a minimalist interface, which is always a welcome aspect. The Brave search bar is located right at the top of the home page.
With this search bar, you’ll realize that Brave is the default search engine. However, you can also change it to any other you prefer.
The DuckDuckGo search engine is one of the options you may want to consider because of its high level of privacy and security. With this web browser, you can use keyboard shortcuts to quickly switch from one search engine to another.
Explore: Best Browsers For Samsung Smart TV
Verdict
When it comes to search features, both Opera GX and Brave are excellent. They allow users to set their default engines based on preference and ensure you enjoy some level of privacy regardless of what you pick.
The search bars are located right at the top of the homepage which makes it easy for anyone to navigate and find stuff quickly. Search bars also allow users to filter results according to various parameters.
Other Unique Features
Opera GX
Once you have installed the Opera GX browser on your device, you will get access to both the Opera Store and Chrome Store. On these two platforms, you can download and install thousands of add-ons to help make your online activities better.
This browser also features a built-in news reader that lets you add any news sources and read them within the browser. There is also the Pinboard feature that lets you collect and save various media from almost any website.
Pinboards are designed to be visually appealing and stack alongside each other in an organized manner. This makes it possible for you to compare deals, set reminders, and share content or findings with your friends or colleagues.
The Opera GX browser offers thousands of color themes you can choose from. This includes high-definition wallpapers that you can set as your desktop background to enhance your gaming experience.
Also Read: Brave vs DuckDuckGo
Brave
One of the things that make Brave stand out as a unique web browser is that it allows users to support their favorite websites with Brave Rewards. With this feature, users earn a specific commission when they view ads within the browser.
Once users accumulate a significant amount of commission, they can use it to tip their favorite creators or contribute a percentage to their favorite websites. Individuals can even set disbursements to run automatically.
Individuals with creative talents in almost any field can also sign up to become verified content creators and start earning from the said commissions. Another important feature to note is that Brave supports Chrome Store.
That means users can easily access the platform and install compatible extensions to make their surfing experience even better. Brave also allows users to customize web tabs by adding unique wallpapers to act as a background.
Verdict
Both Opera GX and Brave offer a range of unique features to make your online experience safe and convenient. Both web browsers are compatible with a variety of add-ons and plugins for exceptional performance.
Brave is unique because it has set up a reward system where content creators can earn from their work while audiences show appreciation in kind.
Opera GX vs Brave: Similarities and Differences
Similarities
- Both are free to download and install
- Both offer built-in ad-blockers
- Both support add-ons and plugins
- Both have a simple interface
- Both allow users to set default search engines
Differences
- Opera GX incorporates specific features for an exceptional gaming experience
- Opera GX offers an extensive list of social and entertainment features
- Opera GX does not have a light mode
- Brave has a unique reward program to encourage creators
- Brave has exceptional privacy and security features that stand out from other browsers
Opera GX vs Brave: Pros and Cons
Opera GX
Pros
- Integrated social networks
- Has built-in player
- Resource limiter enhances gaming performance
- Comes with a free VPN
- Features built-in ad-blocker
Cons
- Slow on systems with RAM of below 2GB
- Not ideal for general internet browsing
- Susceptible to spying by Chinese authorities
Brave
Pros
- Offers exceptional privacy
- Built-in ad-blocker
- Has a brilliant firewall
- Loads almost three times faster than most browsers
- Rewards content creators
Cons
- Not the most ideal for an exceptional gaming experience
- Does not have a reader view option
- Does not support cloud syncing
Explore: Fastest Browsers For Android
Conclusion
Opera GX is an excellent web browser for anyone that wants to take their gaming experience to the next level. This browser incorporates an array of features that make it stand out when it comes to entertainment value.
Brave on the other hand is the ideal pick for anyone that values their privacy and security while on the internet.
