Privacy comparison · 2026
Brave vs Firefox
Brave and Firefox are often weighed against each other. This side-by-side compares how each protects you by default, whether the code can be inspected, who runs it, and how to pick the more private option.
Side by side
| Brave | Firefox | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Web browser | Web browser |
| Default protection | Tracker + ad blocking on by default | Enhanced Tracking Protection on by default |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Operator | Brave Software | Mozilla |
| Jurisdiction | United States | United States (Mozilla) |
| Cost | Free | Free |
Brave
Brave is built on the open-source Chromium engine and ships with tracker and ad blocking (Brave Shields) switched on by default. It supports Chrome extensions and adds optional features like a private window with Tor.
Privacy strengths
- ✓Blocks trackers and ads out of the box — no configuration needed
- ✓Open source and Chromium-based, so most sites and extensions just work
- ✓Optional private window with Tor for extra anonymity
Caveats
- !Includes an opt-in ads/rewards programme some users prefer to disable
- !Chromium base means it inherits Google’s engine decisions
Firefox
Firefox uses Mozilla’s own Gecko engine rather than Chromium and enables Enhanced Tracking Protection (blocking many third-party trackers and cookies) by default. It is fully open source and backed by a non-profit-owned organisation.
Privacy strengths
- ✓Independent Gecko engine — not built on Google’s Chromium
- ✓Enhanced Tracking Protection blocks many trackers by default
- ✓Fully open source with strong extension and customisation support
Caveats
- !The strictest tracker-blocking mode can occasionally break sites
- !Some Chrome-only extensions are not available
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Brave and Firefox?
Brave: Brave is a Chromium-based web browser that blocks trackers and ads by default while keeping compatibility with Chrome extensions. Firefox: Firefox is an open-source web browser from Mozilla with Enhanced Tracking Protection enabled by default.
Which is more private by default, Brave or Firefox?
Brave — Tracker + ad blocking on by default. Firefox — Enhanced Tracking Protection on by default. Choose based on which default matches how you use it.
Are Brave and Firefox open source?
Brave: yes, open source. Firefox: yes, open source.
Does Brave block trackers by default?
Yes. Brave Shields block third-party trackers and ads by default on every site, without needing to install a separate extension.
Is Firefox good for privacy?
Firefox enables Enhanced Tracking Protection by default, is open source and uses its own engine, making it a strong mainstream choice for privacy — and it can be hardened further in settings.
Whichever you choose, block trackers everywhere
GeraGuard is a free Chrome extension that blocks trackers on every site and alerts you to data breaches. Install in 30 seconds.
Add GeraGuard to ChromeRelated comparisons