Do you ever get annoyed when several open browsers cause your computer to run slowly? It’s not just you. Every time I change browsers, it feels like my PC becomes sluggish.
So I performed some research to locate the browser that consumes the least RAM while still being a good choice for web browsing.
I have to admit that compiling all of the data wasn’t that simple, but after many hours of study, I was able to answer the question “What browser consumes the least RAM?”
However, you must take into account that different browsers utilise varying amounts of RAM to accommodate their diverse user bases. It goes without saying that some browsers use less memory than others, making them ideal for systems with lower processing power or those are older.
So let’s look at it briefly.
A Few Points To Bear In Mind
There are a few aspects you need to take into account when trying to choose a browser that doesn’t consume an excessive amount of RAM. The first is whether you prefer a resource-intensive but feature-rich browser or one that is lightweight.
What kind of devices you intend to use the browser with comes second. You can get away with running a resource-hungry browser like Google Chrome if your computer is powerful.
But you should stick to something lightweight if you’re using an outdated computer or a mobile device.
Finally, it’s crucial to remember that based on the websites you have open, different browsers will use varying amounts of RAM.
Therefore, if you discover that one browser is using more RAM than the other, it may simply be due to the websites you currently have open in each browser.
Which Browser Utilizes the Fewest RAM?
After said all of that, let’s look at some of the top RAM-efficient lightweight browsers.
Chrome Browser
Opera is one of the best available lightweight browsers. The RAM consumption % of this browser is substantially lower than that of other browsers, and it still offers a tonne of capabilities. It has a long history of being quick and effective.
Because Opera is based on Chromium, it shares a lot of features with Chrome. A built-in VPN and a data-saving mode that reduces the size of photos and videos on websites are just two of its distinctive features.
Opera is undoubtedly worth looking at if you’re searching for a feature-rich, lightweight browser.
Opera Browser
Vivaldi is another excellent choice for a resource-constrained browser. The co-founder of Opera built this browser, and the two share a lot of genetic traits.
Even when compared to other lightweight browsers, Vivaldi is a feature-rich browser.
Browser Slimjet
Slimjet is a fantastic alternative when it comes to lightweight browsers. Because it is built on the open-source Chromium project, this browser is quite similar to Google Chrome. Slimjet, however, is intended to be lightweight and quick, unlike Chrome.
Along with these capabilities, Slimjet also includes an ad blocker, a snapshot tool, and a form filler, giving users a more comprehensive browsing experience.
Opus GX (Special Gamer Edition)
Opera GX is another entry on the list that is lightweight. It’s a unique rendition of the opera.
a browser made exclusively with gamers in mind.
You can make sure that your games have access to enough resources at all times by using tools like CPU and RAM consumption limiters, which are included.
It is a terrific option for gamers who want to keep in touch with their pals while playing because it also has an integrated Twitch viewer and Discord compatibility.
Windows Edge
Microsoft Edge is the very last but not least. Based on the open-source Chromium project, this is Microsoft’s newest browser. That indicates that it is very comparable to Google Chrome, including how it uses RAM.
However, Microsoft Edge is made to use RAM more effectively, and it also has a variety of features that give users a more comprehensive surfing experience.
For instance, Edge includes a built-in ad blocker, note-taking features, and support for viewing PDFs.
Google Chrome
When it comes to browsers that utilise less RAM, Firefox isn’t a bad choice either. When it comes to memory utilisation, it sometimes even outperforms Opera.
The most recent version of Firefox uses 30% less RAM than it did a few years ago as a result of Mozilla’s efforts to make the browser more memory-efficient.
Browser Brave
Even though Brave isn’t the most widely used browser, it’s undoubtedly one of the most effective. This is so that Brave can function as a fast, lightweight browser without sacrificing features.
A number of privacy-focused features, including an integrated ad blocker and built-in Tor support, are included with Brave.
It’s also one of the few browsers that includes a simple cryptocurrency wallet right out of the box, making it simple to give tips or make small payments without the need to download any more software.
Flame Browser
Lastly, there is Torch Browser. This browser, which is also based on the Chromium project, is mainly concerned with improving the video streaming experience.
Popular streaming websites like YouTube, Netflix, and Pandora are built into Torch Browser. Additionally, it includes a built-in torrent client that makes it simple to download and distribute data.
The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Low-Resource Browsers
Let’s talk about some of the benefits and drawbacks of using some of the top low-resource browsers now that we’ve looked at some of them.
- Because they consume less RAM, your computer will operate more efficiently.
- Naturally, they tend to be lighter and faster; after all, who doesn’t enjoy a quick online experience?
- They frequently include built-in functionality, such as ad-blockers and privacy-focused features, that other browsers do not.
- They might not have all the features that some of the more well-known browsers do.
- Some consumers might not find them to have all the bells and whistles they desire.
- They might not work with every website and web-based programme.
Final Conclusion
What Browser Utilizes the Least RAM, then? It all depends on what you require. I’d suggest Brave or Torch if you’re looking for a quick, lightweight browser that doesn’t skimp on features.
I would choose Opera GX or Microsoft Edge if you’re searching for a more feature-rich browser that consumes less RAM.
Any of the choices on this list should work for you if all you need is a simple, lightweight browser. Just keep in mind that each of the aforementioned options has its own advantages, so you must analyse your options and choose wisely based on your requirements.
Do you have a go-to resource-conserving browser? Tell us in the comments section below!
Until next time, happy browsing!