Microsoft Edge Chromium: A Comprehensive Analysis and Comparison with Google Chrome

Microsoft has rolled out the new Chromium-based version of its Edge browser as part of the Windows 10 June 2020 update. This latest iteration of Edge has made significant strides, outperforming its predecessor and even rivaling one of the most widely used browsers: Google Chrome. This article delves into the performance, features, and user experience differences between these two browsers, providing a comprehensive analysis for tech enthusiasts and professionals.

Leapfrogging Chrome: Capabilities and Features

The new Chromium-based Microsoft Edge has taken giant strides in terms of capabilities and features, quickly catching up to and in some cases surpassing Chrome. One of the most notable improvements is the seamless extension compatibility. Many users have experienced that the Edge browser is able to automatically install most of their existing Chrome extensions, which is a significant convenience. For instance, the CrxMouse Chrome Gestures extension, which is widely popular for enhancing user interaction, was easily installed and integrated into the new Edge browser.

User Feedback and Experiences

User feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many pointing out that the performance of Edge is at least as good as Chrome. However, there are a few areas where Edge falls short:

Extension Customization: Some users, particularly those accustomed to Firefox's functionality, struggle to replicate the experience. Specifically, users report difficulty in moving the icons for their extensions from the web address bar to another location, similar to Firefox's Overflow Menu. Search Engine Invoking Feature: One of the most appreciated features in Chrome, which allows users to define shortcuts for their favorite search engines (e.g., "gn" for Google News or "im" for IMDB), is missing in Edge. This feature, which significantly improves productivity, is a standout in Chrome but is yet to be replicated in Edge.

Under the Hood: Chromium and V8

Under the hood, Microsoft’s Edge is now built on the same foundation as Chrome, specifically leveraging Chromium and V8. Chromium is the browser shell, and V8 is the JavaScript engine that powers most of the web applications. This shift to Chromium is not an isolated event; other notable browsers such as Opera and Brave also use the same tech stack. Additionally, Electron, a project that allows developers to create desktop applications using web technologies, is also built on these components.

The decision by Microsoft to adopt Chromium is a strategic move, as it brings Edge in line with other major browsers in terms of performance and feature-set. The only major browsers that remain standalone are Firefox and Safari, which have chosen to differentiate themselves with unique security features and another tech stack.

Performance Parity: A Key Differentiator

The performance differences between Edge and Chrome are negligible. Both browsers leverage the same core technology, which means that their speed and efficiency are largely comparable. This parity in performance is a significant factor for users who value consistent and reliable browsing experiences.

Overall, the new Chromium-based Microsoft Edge offers a compelling alternative to Chrome. While there are minor differences in terms of feature customization and search engine invoking, the performance and compatibility of Edge make it a worthy contender for tech enthusiasts. For those looking for a seamless browsing experience with the same features and speed as Chrome, the new Edge browser is definitely worth considering.

Key Takeaways:

The new Chromium-based Microsoft Edge has leapfrogged Chrome in terms of capabilities and features. Both Edge and Chrome now share the same performance with negligible differences. Microsoft’s Edge can automatically install many Chrome extensions, making it easier for users to transition. While Edge is lacking in a few customization features, the performance benefits make it a strong contender for users who value speed and reliability.

Related Keywords:

Microsoft Edge Chromium, Google Chrome, browser performance