Side by side
Iridium Browser vs Kristall
Both stand on web browsers. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
Choose Iridium if you want a free, open-source desktop browser with privacy-focused changes and public source code. Look elsewhere if you need mobile availability, automatic browser updates, Google sign-in out of the box, or Widevine-dependent media services.
Visit Iridium Browser
Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
Kristall focuses on small-internet browsing with customizable reading and TLS options. The absence of a stable build and its deliberately limited web support are important considerations.
Visit KristallThe facts
| Iridium Browser | Kristall | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Iridium Browser | Not published |
| Website | iridiumbrowser.de | kristall.random-projects.net |
| On web browsers | #45 of 154 | #41 of 154 |
Iridium Browser: what it does well
- Free and open source.
- Available for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Blocks automatic transmission of partial queries, keywords, and metrics by default.
- Offers source code through a public Git repository.
- Qwant is the default, and users can choose another search engine.
What to know first
- No Android, iOS, or other mobile versions.
- Browser updates must be downloaded and installed manually.
- Some extensions may not work, and extension updates are manual.
- Widevine-dependent services will not work.
Kristall: what it does well
- Supports Gemini, Gopher, HTTP, and Finger
- Offers light and dark themes
- Includes searchable history and favourites
- Supports TLS and client certificates
- Free and open source
What to know first
- No stable release build currently available
- Does not support CSS, JavaScript, or WASM
- Unsigned macOS nightly download
- Windows may need a legacy redistributable
Alternatives to Iridium Browser Alternatives to Kristall The whole list