Side by side
LibreWolf vs Waterfox
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
LibreWolf offers a privacy-focused Firefox variant across desktop platforms, with protective defaults and no telemetry according to the project. Users should be prepared to manage updates manually and use another password manager.
Visit LibreWolf
Free plan Open source AndroidExtensionLinux+2
Waterfox offers a free browser with built-in blocking, private-tab handling, and encrypted DNS. Users who want its separate Private Search service pay $5 a month.
Visit WaterfoxThe facts
| LibreWolf | Waterfox | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, Extension, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Waterfox Private Search: $5 a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Waterfox |
| Website | librewolf.net | waterfox.com |
| On web browsers | #8 of 154 | #4 of 154 |
LibreWolf: what it does well
- Free and open source for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Includes uBlock Origin and strict Tracking Protection.
- Deletes cookies and site data on close.
- Disables telemetry and enables HTTPS-only mode.
- Updates usually arrive within three days of Firefox stable releases.
What to know first
- No Android version is being developed currently.
- Does not update automatically.
- Built-in password manager is disabled.
- DRM playback is disabled by default.
Waterfox: what it does well
- Blocks ads, trackers, pop-ups, and overlays by default on desktop.
- Private-tab data clears when the last private tab closes.
- Users can change or disable the default DNS setup.
- Sync data is end-to-end encrypted.
- No premium tier or payment is required for the browser.
What to know first
- Chrome-only extensions do not transfer automatically.
- Sync requires signing in with a Mozilla account.
- Waterfox Private Search costs $5 a month.
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