6 Free Incognito Web Browsers That Are Completely Private

Using a tracker-free web browser makes for a much safer online experience. Luckily, it's easy to get started with your privacy-first browser.

Here are the best private browsers that are (almost) completely anonymous.

1. Tor Browser

 

The Tor network has a simple goal: Browse the web anonymously. It is the best private web browser available and the best browser for accessing the dark web. The network aims to protect users' location, browsing history, personal data, and online messages from any people or bots analyzing network traffic.

To access the Tor network, you need to use the Tor Browser. This browser is so secure that the US Navy uses it for intelligence gathering. Tor is also used by law enforcement agencies to access websites without leaving a government IP address in the website's logs. The browser is available for all major operating systems, such as Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux.

Advantage

1. Strong privacy and anonymity features.
2. Multi-layer encryption for enhanced security.
3. Ability to access dark web and blocked websites.

Disadvantages

1. Browsing speed is slower due to multiple relays.
2. Potential compatibility issues with certain websites.

2. Epic Browser

 

Epic Browser doesn't use a dedicated onion network, but it instantly disables many of the most common ways your privacy is compromised while surfing the web. The browser automatically clears all Flash and Silverlight databases, preferences, pepper data, and cookies when you close your session.

Epic Browser will also protect you from newer scams and malware, such as fingerprint scanning, cryptocurrency mining, ultrasonic signals, etc. The browser is available for all major operating systems.

Advantage

1. Powerful security features, including ad and tracking blocking.
2. Encrypted proxies for added anonymity.
3. User-friendly interface for seamless browsing experience.

Disadvantages

1. Limited support for extensions compared to mainstream browsers.
2. Smaller user base, potentially leading to less comprehensive support.

1. Download Epic Browser for | | (Free)

3. SRWare Iron Browser

If you're a Google Chrome user, SRWare Iron will be familiar; the browser is based on the open-source Chromium project, so many of the on-screen images look very similar.

The main difference between Chrome and SRWare Iron is data protection. Critics have criticized Chrome for its reliance on 'unique user IDs'; every time you start a session, Google is alerted to your data usage. SRWare eliminates the use of IDs, along with other privacy concerns with Chrome, such as search suggestions. This makes SRWare Iron a great privacy browser.

Advantage

1. Remove privacy-invading features found in Google Chrome.
2. Bringing a familiar browsing experience to Chrome users.
3. Support for Chrome extensions and apps.

Disadvantages

1. Relies on Chromium updates for security patches.
2. Potential data collection of third-party extensions.

 

1. Download SRWare Iron for | (Free)

4. Comodo Dragon Browser

Comodo can't match Tor Browser, but it has some built-in tools that make browsing more secure.

Like SRWare Iron, it's based on Chromium, so it should be an easy transition for many people. It comes in two versions - one that looks like Chrome and one that looks like Firefox. Pick whichever you're more familiar with!

Advantage

1. Uses Comodo security technology for enhanced protection.
2. Emphasize SSL certificate verification for secure browsing.
3. Supports Chrome extensions and apps.

Disadvantages

1. Limited customization options compared to some other browsers.

1. Download Comodo Dragon Browser for (Free)

5. Brave Browser

Brave Browser is one of the best browsers with a simple interface. It stands out for its focus on both privacy and speed. Brave blocks unwanted ads and trackers by default, reducing the amount of data that websites collect about users. The browser also offers features like HTTPS Everywhere and script blocking for added privacy and security.

 

Advantage

1. Block ads and trackers by default for improved privacy.
2. Improved security and privacy features, such as HTTPS Everywhere.
3. Brave Rewards program to earn crypto.

Disadvantages

1. Controversial approach to advertising and revenue generation.
2. Smaller user base than mainstream browsers.

6. DuckDuckGo

DuckDuckGo has cemented its reputation as one of the go-to browsers for privacy-conscious people, as it comes packed with security features.

The browser blocks third-party cookies, tracking ads, and pop-ups that request cookies, and uses a privacy-friendly search engine to find content on the web. It also offers a dedicated email forwarding service that automatically blocks email trackers. Like other browsers, DuckDuckGo has its pros and cons.

Advantage

1. Security features are set by default.
2. User friendly interface.
3. Includes email tracker blocking service.

Disadvantages

1. No extensions supported.
2. There has been an agreement with Microsoft in the past not to block the company's trackers.

With the growing concern about online privacy, it's surprisingly difficult to find a truly free incognito browser that focuses on user anonymity and security as its primary features. These six recommendations are some of the best private browsers. Each browser has its own advantages and potential disadvantages, and the final choice depends on individual preferences and needs.