The moment you launch your browser to surf the web, check your bank account, or visit social media, organizations start tracking you and collecting your information. Cookie notices, consent buttons that provide businesses permission to collect, share, and potentially sell your data with partners, service usage policies. All of this can lead to profiles being created based on what you do, say, or search for online.
Profiling and fingerprinting users are partly why browsers have become a battleground for user privacy. If you want to retain a level of anonymity online and keep your information out of the hands of third parties, the first step is to choose a browser that actively works to prevent you from being tracked. That's where our guide comes in. In ZDNET's latest update, we conducted a thorough editorial review and changed the rankings of our top choices to better reflect new developments. We also overhauled our FAQ section.
Also: Best VPN services 2026: Expert tested and recommended
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Brave is my top pick for the best browser for privacy, based on its ad-tracking prevention, security settings, usability, and speed, making it my top choice for a secure browser that will suit most users. However, if you're after a browser and search engine combination for private queries, you can't go wrong with DuckDuckGo. DuckDuckGo is known for its anti-tracking stance and continues to refine its browser -- software born out of the popularity of its no-logs search engine -- to match.
ZDNET experts have kept a finger on the pulse of the secure browser sphere for decades, and many of us have tried and tested different privacy-focused options over the years. Read on to find out the rest of my top picks for the best secure browsers for privacy in 2026.
ZDNET | Charlie Osborne
Brave is a Chromium-based browser that blocks ads, fingerprinting, and ad-trackers by default, and is one of my favorite browsers overall -- and my top choice if privacy, combined with user-friendliness, is paramount.
Why we like it: Brave has millions of users worldwide. The company removed Google code from its Chromium version to improve user privacy, including some account integration, background sync, and inline extensions.
Brave also has several privacy-enhancing settings, including blocking third-party ad trackers, upgrading unsecured HTTPS connections, and blocking cookies and fingerprinting. The company says that disabling invasive ads and trackers improves loading times on desktop and mobile devices.
Brave operates a "Tor mode" that provides anonymized onion network routing. The browser developer offers a VPN and firewall service that protects sessions, even outside the browser, and an AI-based search engine.
The company's business model relies on ads that pay publishers and users when users pay attention to adverts, but it isn't imposed on users. Brave is transparent about this revenue stream.
Also: 10 common dangers VPNs won't protect you from online - and how to avoid them
As of version 1.68, Brave became the first iOS browser to automatically attempt to upgrade all sites to HTTPS by default. In version 1.75 on desktop, users can add their own scriptlets to a page, which Brave says "allows for better control over [their] browsing experience." You can also block annoying elements with a tap on Android, and the Leo AI companion roadmap has been published, outlining the tool's latest developments.
Recently, Brave said its OpenClaw API has been installed around 700,000 times, and its interesting Shred feature, a way to delete website data that could be used to identify users, has now been rolled out on the Android platform.
Who it's for: Many users say the browser exceeds their expectations, although others find some functionality, such as VPN connectivity, could be improved. I enjoy using Brave, but it takes some time to get used to, especially if you're using Chrome or Edge. Still, it's one of the better secure browser options on the market.
If you don't mind a reasonable learning curve, Brave is for you.
Brave also offers a feature called "Off the Record" (OTR) for users who may be victims of intimate partner violence. The browser developer says the feature "aims to help people who need to hide their browsing behavior from others who have access to their computer or phone."
Who should look elsewhere: As Brave has recently updated its virtual private network (VPN) with more device support and server selections, it will be interesting to see if users report a more positive experience. But if VPN usage is important, you'll need to find a different browser or sign up for a standalone VPN.
Brave features: Chromium-based | Blocks third-party ad trackers | Private search | Blocks cookies | Incognito windows | Onion routing | VPN | Off the Record browsing | AI assistant | iOS HTTPS by default | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.8
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ZDNET | Charlie Osborne
One of my favorite secure browsers is the Tor Browser, a nonprofit project focused on anonymizing users and fighting censorship.
Why we like it: Its proprietary web browser disguises your IP address and activity by relaying them through a network of servers, or nodes, run by volunteers.
Bouncing your information through different relays makes tracking exceptionally difficult, which is beneficial if you don't want your internet service provider (ISP) or anyone else to spy on your online activity.
Tor can be crucial for whistleblowers, journalists, activists, and people seeking to avoid censorship. The Tor Browser is also a popular choice for accessing the deep web -- a collection of websites that are inaccessible through traditional means such as search engines, in what is known as the "clear" web.
Also: I found the most private and secure way to browse the web - and it isn't incognito mode
The Tor Browser's default search engine is DuckDuckGo, the organization behind another of my top picks, which will not log or store your search queries.
Who it's for: While it isn't a mainstream choice, the Tor Browser is well-regarded by people who don't want to be tracked online. The Tor Project updates it frequently, and the browser is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
Who should look elsewhere: Users applaud the network's uncompromising approach to privacy but report slow speeds and occasional problems with CAPTCHAs. Due to the architecture of the Tor network, page loads in the Tor browser can be slower, and some sites might not work well.
There's also a learning curve to consider, which may deter some users. Based on my experience, I would recommend that interested users read up on the Tor Network and how it operates before downloading, as its complexity can be overwhelming.
Nonetheless, the Tor browser is one of the best privacy-preserving browsers available.
The Tor Browser features: High levels of security and anonymization | Onion routing | DuckDuckGo integration | Access to websites outside the clear web | Blocks trackers and cookies | Fingerprint resistance | Google Play rating: 4.4 | App Store rating: 4.6
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DuckDuckGo
When it comes to DuckDuckGo, user privacy comes first, which includes protecting search queries, making it my top choice if you don't want your searches recorded.
Why we like it: The company, which offers a privacy-focused search engine and browser, is a vocal supporter of consumer privacy rights and now handles millions of user search queries daily.
DuckDuckGo was once only a search engine, but user demand led the developers to release a mobile-friendly browser app, followed by a desktop version. The organization's browser provides private search, website protection and blockers, web encryption, and more.
DuckDuckGo's Privacy Essentials extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge is also popular. Its reputation is built on the idea that it does not collect user data, yet it can provide the same search results as those that do.
Also: 5 great Chrome browser alternatives that put your privacy first
DuckDuckGo is experimenting with AI-assisted technologies to improve its search experience, including anonymously accessing GPT models, known as DuckDuckGo AI Chat. There are also options to filter search results or block websites from appearing in your results entirely.
So, how does it make money? DuckDuckGo shows ads but does not engage in targeted advertising. DuckDuckGo also offers Privacy Pro, a subscription for $10 per month, or $100 per year, that offers access to a VPN, online personal information removal services, and identity theft restoration.
Who it's for: If you want your search engine queries to remain private, DuckDuckGo is the best option.
Furthermore, the DuckDuckGo browser has been designed to be user-friendly, and its new refresh is a welcome change. I still like how it helps new users import their existing bookmarks and passwords, sets itself as the default, and guides users through its security practices. So it could be a good option for beginners, too.
Who should look elsewhere: If you want a browser with a wide array of security tools for overall privacy, consider Brave or another of my recommendations.
DuckDuckGo features: Mobile and desktop private browser | Does not collect user data | AI experiments: DuckDuckGo AI Chat | No search engine query trackers, private searches | Data removal and identity restoration services | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.8
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ZDNET | Charlie Osborne
Firefox is a strong choice for individual browser privacy across multiple devices if you're looking for a mainstream option.
Why we like it: One of Firefox's most important privacy features is enhanced tracking protection. Mozilla has borrowed Tor techniques to block browser fingerprinting, and Firefox's developers are constantly seeking to improve tracking-prevention features.
Also: How to protect yourself from phishing attacks in Chrome and Firefox
Firefox offers numerous options to customize the browser for enhanced privacy. It blocks social media trackers, cross-site tracking cookies, tracking in private windows, crypto miners, and fingerprinting scripts. There is also a "strict" mode that might break some sites when trackers are blocked, but you can allow enhanced tracking protection for trusted sites.
Several months ago, Mozilla said it was working on Anonym Private Audiences, a system for advertisers and platforms to "work together using first-party data to create targeted audiences" without sharing user data.
Security patches are constantly being released for Firefox, and recently, Mozilla said it is working with Anthropic to scan the browser and resolve zero-day bugs before human researchers (or criminals) spot them.
Who it's for: Firefox's default privacy settings are strong, and its tracking protection is of great benefit, so this will suit anyone who wants solid privacy in a well-known browser. You can also try out new features through Firefox Labs.
Another option for Firefox fans is Firefox Focus, a privacy-focused browser for iOS and Android that blocks trackers and includes a built-in ad blocker. The company also offers a VPN.
You can also check out a range of Firefox-based browsers with additional protection, such as Librewolf or Waterfox.
Who should look elsewhere: Users enjoy Firefox's approach to privacy, but note that it can be a resource hog. In my own testing, I find that Firefox is user-friendly and familiar, so there isn't much of a learning curve, but it can be a strain on PC resources. If you use an older PC, I'd opt for a less intensive browser.
Mozilla Firefox features: Enhanced tracking protection | Firefox Focus for mobile | Strict privacy standards | DNS queries sent to a secure resolver service | Focus on accessibility | Encrypted Client Hello | AI development | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.6
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ZDNET | Charlie Osborne
The Mullvad Browser is marketed as the "Tor Browser without the Tor network."
Why we like it: The Tor Project team built the browser, but it's distributed by Mullvad, a respected Swedish virtual private network provider.
The browser emulates the Tor network by creating a similar fingerprint for all users, improving anonymity. Furthermore, the browser comes with a private mode out of the box, blocks tracking and cookies, and prevents online services from extracting information from visitors, such as device identifiers.
Mullvad was subject to a search warrant by the National Operations Department (NOA) of the Swedish Police in 2023. Mullvad staff said that since customer data did not exist, law enforcement left with nothing. To give you another example of Mullvad's approach to user data, the company is removing PayPal subscriptions "to store less data about our customers."
Despite the trouble it must have caused Mullvad at the time, I think it's beneficial that we've seen how the company handles user data requests from law enforcement.
The Mullvad Browser is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, or as a Firefox extension. In recent news, Mullvad has opted to shift to one major feature release per year, with Alpha users gaining quicker access to features but also greater exposure to potential performance or security issues.
You can use the browser as a standalone product or combine it with Mullvad VPN. Users have generally given positive reviews, though you may find yourself signing up for the VPN to get the best setup.
Also: 5 alternative browsers that might just replace Safari on your Mac
Who it's for: Anyone who wants to pair a privacy-first browser with a VPN. I've tested the VPN, and while it doesn't offer the largest server network, speeds are good, and I trust it. The company operates a fixed access rate of €5, or about $5.87, per month.
Who should look elsewhere: Mullvad is relatively new, and so if you want a secure browser with a longer history, try out Brave. If circumventing censorship is your top priority, go for Tor.
Mullvad Browser features: Fingerprint masking approach | Removes online identifiers | Private mode enabled by default | Blocks trackers and cookies | Extension available | VPN available | Defense against AI-guided Traffic Analysis (DAITA) | Google Play rating: 4.2 | App Store rating: 4.1
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Brave is my top pick for the best browser for privacy based on its approach to user privacy, ad-tracking prevention, the wide range of privacy settings on offer, usability, and speed. That said, since no browser is perfect, you should decide which option suits you best.
Best browser for privacy | Ad tracking prevention? | Mobile support? | Onion routing? |
Brave | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Tor | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
DuckDuckGo | ✓ | ✓ | Available |
Mozilla Firefox | Available | ✓ | X |
Mullvad Browser | ✓ | X (VPN only) | Via Tor |
Choose this... | If you want... |
Brave | The best overall browser for privacy. Brave's default focus is on privacy and security, and the addition of optional Tor onion routing is a nice touch. Incognito browsing and off-the-record services are also available, making it a great all-around choice for most, and one that I use frequently. |
Tor | A system based on the onion routing network. You can access deep web websites and remain relatively anonymous. While often slow, Tor provides a level of security suitable for whistleblowers, activists, and anyone else with concerns about being tracked or spied upon. It's best for anonymity, but it is more complicated to learn and use than Brave. |
DuckDuckGo | A search engine or browser that never stores or logs your search queries. The browser extends the original search engine functionality to mobile and desktop, bringing online browsing fully under the DuckDuckGo umbrella. Private search, web protection, and a mobile app are also available. |
Mozilla Firefox | A mainstream secure browser that focuses on preventing tracking. Firefox's anti-tracking features are multi-layered and help prevent you from being profiled online. The Firefox Focus app is also worth exploring as a privacy-first mobile browsing solution. |
Mullvad Browser | To use a secure browser with a virtual private network (VPN). Mullvad is a one-stop shop, meaning you don't need to download and install additional privacy-protecting extensions. The VPN doesn't have the largest server network, but it is reliable and fast, and it offers one of the most flexible plans on the market. |
A privacy-focused, secure browser automatically erases your browsing and search history, as well as cookies. It may also limit web tracking and help hide your location.
Privacy-focused browsers may also promote virtual private network (VPN) usage and include features designed to bypass censorship blocks and keep you as anonymous as possible, such as via access to onion routing and refusing to log site visits or web searches.
Also: How to delete yourself from internet search results and hide your identity online
If you are concerned about your online privacy, you should install a privacy browser or, at the very least, install a privacy extension in your current browser.
You should consider using a secure browser if you want to reduce the amount of data collected about you online, mask your activities, and prevent your search queries from being logged. Each browser offers different features, so research which one fits your needs.
Choosing the right browser might not seem like a huge deal, but if you want to protect your privacy at the first gate to the web, consider these factors when looking for a secure browser in 2026:
While investigating the best secure browsers for privacy in 2026, we compared these browsers and extensions to determine what sets them apart and which is best for a variety of use cases.
If you are concerned about your online privacy, you should install a privacy browser or at least an extension. We have to take responsibility for our own privacy online these days. You can't rely on companies to do the job for you.
Also: 5 reasons why Zen is my new favorite browser (RIP, Opera)
A few basics: Download one of the privacy-first browsers listed above that doesn't log your queries and activities, install a VPN, and use messaging apps with end-to-end encryption.
Brave calls itself a "user-first" browser with built-in tracking protection including limits on third-party ads, tracking scripts, and user fingerprinting. It has fewer extension options than Firefox or Chrome, both of which offer more customization options. That's not to say Chrome or Firefox aren't fair choices as browsers, but it is Brave's private-focused design choices that separate them.
Browser-based fingerprinting is the collective use of different tracking techniques to track your web activity. Third parties can create a profile of you by collating datasets including cookies, search queries, browser versions, and other identifiers, timezone, and IP address. If you don't want such information in the hands of others without express permission, you should opt for a secure browser or VPN -- or a combination of both.
Private browsing sessions do not tend to mask your internet protocol (IP) address, just like how an incognito window doesn't hide your IP address if you're using Chrome. These sessions simply don't store your browser history, the information you've entered into forms, or what permissions you've given to sites you've visited.
Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Opera all use a similar form of "anonymous" web window for browsing, but they aren't truly hiding your online identity.
If you want to block your IP address from being viewed or tracked, you can download a VPN, which masks your IP address so your service provider, or anyone else, can't see what you're doing.
Also: Why I'm done with Firefox for good - and which browser I'm using instead
The Chromium project is focused on developing a privacy-first and stable browser framework. It's used by many other browser providers, including Brave. In addition, it is open source, so anyone can examine its code for privacy flaws or vulnerabilities. Google engineers launched the project.
Oversharing and posting your personal or contact information on social media. If your full name, phone number, address, or place of work is anywhere on your social media, someone can use it to wreak havoc on your personal accounts.
To prevent this, avoid using your real name online where possible, turn off location tracking, and don't post about your place of work if you can help it. All it takes is a single piece of personal information for a cybercriminal to get a hold of your entire online presence. If you're posting photos of yourself out of town on holiday, for example, you're letting people know your home is vulnerable.
Those innocent-looking name generator memes are another big issue -- the ones that have you type out your first pet's name and your childhood street name to tell you your fortune or personality type. These are answers to common password recovery questions, so by letting the world know that your pet was called Fluffy, you could be handing over all of your personal accounts to internet criminals.
No. Privacy-focused search engines, including DuckDuckGo, Startpage, and Ghostery do not log your search queries. If you're wondering how they make money, ads may be shown, but they are not necessarily targeted based on your information. Other search engines may collect information to tailor their results and show you ads.
It can be difficult to remove private information from online search engines, but depending on the nature of the information, it may be possible.
You can use a service like DeleteMe to remove generic data and online accounts, but you may also need to contact website owners directly in some circumstances. You can also send a request to Google, and the company will consider requests on a case-by-case basis.
DuckDuckGo started out as a search engine that did not log your queries or allow advertisers to track you. The search engine is still there, but it is now bolstered by a browser, a feature that fans have been requesting for years.
DuckDuckGo isn't perfect, but the company behind the service has been an advocate for consumer rights and privacy since its inception and offers one of the most private browsing experiences out there.
If you're going to stick with Chrome, enable the browser's Safe Browsing for a layer of protection against malicious websites and online threats. Open Chrome, head to Settings, Privacy & Security, the Security tab, and then Safe Browsing.
You have three options: Enhanced protection, which offers Google's highest level of protection; Standard, which protects from "known dangers;" or you can turn Safe Browsing off.
Another security setting you should consider is enabling secure connections, which will warn you if you visit a website that doesn't support secure connections.
Private browsing ensures that the logs of your website visits aren't recorded in the browser's history. This doesn't mean that it is private, safe, or kept away from advertisers and trackers. Instead, these functions are device-based and stop logs from being linked to accounts.
For example, if you are Christmas shopping, and you don't want a loved one to catch wind of their present, a private browsing session is useful. You should also enable it if you're using someone else's device.
Librewolf
Librewolf is an open source, custom version of Firefox with ad-blocking, private search functionality, and no telemetry. This browser is focused on preventing tracking and blocking fingerprinting techniques, and includes privacy-based search engine functionality.
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ZDNET | Charlie Osborne
Epic blocks ads, trackers, fingerprinting attempts, crypto mining scripts, and more. Developers say an average of at least 600 tracking attempts are blocked in a typical session. Many Chrome extensions are available, alongside a proxy.
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Vivaldi
Vivaldi is a well-respected, Chromium-based browser that blocks activity tracking and ads. It also shows you how many trackers and ads have been blocked over time. It's also great for mobile, and a recent update has improved its speed and reliability.
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If you're interested in improving your personal and device security, consider checking out our guides on the best VPNs, antivirus solutions and password managers around.
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