Vivaldi is a unique web browser. It’s highly customizable, fast, safe, and privacy-friendly.
The browser’s engine is built on Chromium. However, it’s more similar to Opera than to Google Chrome, which makes sense when you learn that this project is the brainchild of Jon Stephenson von Tetzchner, who used to be Opera’s CEO.
Vivaldi is a great browser if you are an intensive multitasker. And it has so many built-in tools that you’ll never want to install an extension again. Also, it’s among the fastest and more reliable browsers on mobile devices.
But is it safe?
Join us as we have a look at Vivaldi. We explore its performance, security, and other features, besides comparing it with the popular web browser Google Chrome. Vivaldi differs from every web browser, and this article will explain why.
The Vivaldi web browser: An introduction
Vivaldi came to life as Tatsuki Tomita, and Tetzchner came together to start their new project in 2016.
The two founders knew each other from their time at Opera Software. So they had the idea to create a browser that would give the user total control over the browsing experience. That’s why Vivaldi’s is so highly customizable. There’s almost nothing you can’t change to suit your taste. Tab positions, gestures, themes, you name it. Vivaldi lets you fiddle with it until you’re happy with the result.
Also, the browser includes so many built-in tools that you will not need any Chrome extensions again. This makes Vivaldi faster because it remains light and efficient without sacrificing performance.
And what are those built-in tools, we hear you ask? Ad blocker, pop-blocker, calendar, translator, mail client, screen capture, notes, contact manager, and so much more!
The concern for user privacy is at the heart of the Vivaldi project. By default, it doesn’t track or store your browsing history. In addition, its sync feature is encrypted end-to-end so that nobody can intercept your data.
There was only a desktop version until 2019, but things changed later. And now, you can enjoy Vivaldi’s browsing prowess in Linux, macOS, Windows, and Android devices.
Why pick Vivaldi?
Most users prefer Vivaldi for two reasons: better performance and increased privacy.
1. Distinctive features
The browser has a range of useful features for a wide variety of users. For example, it has a built-in notes feature, a screen capture tool, and a reader mode for easier reading lengthy articles.
2. Better online privacy
Vivaldi doesn’t track your browsing history. That is already a significant difference with Google Chrome, which is known to keep close track of all that information, as all Google services. Instead of tracking your history, Vivaldi blocks trackers, pop-ups, and ads automatically. So it protects you from unwanted trackers.
Vivaldi lets you disable all third-party cookies. In addition, your browsing history and downloads are stored on your device and secured with encryption, so Vivaldi (the corporation) can’t access them.