Tech
Top 10 Browsers For Different Users in 2024
Published
4 months agoon
As we become more connected to the internet day by day, web browsers remain a crucial gateway to the internet. As our needs and expectations grow, so do the features and functionalities of these browsers. But are using the right one? What does the right one mean?
Here’s a look at the top 10 web browsers in 2024 for mobile and PC, evaluated based on performance, security, and user experience.
1. Google Chrome
Google Chrome continues to dominate the browser market with its sleek design, fast performance, and seamless integration with Google services.
Pros:
- Speed: Known for its rapid load times and efficient performance.
- Extensions: Extensive library of extensions and plugins.
- Sync: Easy synchronization across devices with a Google account.
Cons:
- Resource Intensive: Can consume significant memory and CPU resources.
- Privacy Concerns: Google’s data collection practices can be a concern for privacy-conscious users.
2. Mozilla Firefox
Mozilla Firefox is a strong contender, offering robust privacy features and extensive customization options. It blocks third-party cookies and executes quickly by fetching the data you want from the websites.
Pros:
- Privacy: Strong emphasis on user privacy with features like Enhanced Tracking Protection.
- Customization: Highly customizable with themes and add-ons.
- Performance: Improved speed and resource management with the Quantum engine.
Cons:
- Extensions: Some extensions may not be as well-developed as those for Chrome.
- Compatibility: Occasionally faces compatibility issues with certain websites
3. Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge, now based on the Chromium engine, offers a balanced mix of performance, security, and features. Edge uses a lot of security tools, like SmartScreen anti-phishing tools. This company uses phishing detection technology to detect phishing sites.
Pros:
- Speed: Fast and efficient, thanks to the Chromium engine.
- Features: Integrated with Windows 10 and 11, offering features like Collections and vertical tabs.
- Security: Regular updates and strong security features.
Cons:
- Extensions: The extension library is smaller compared to Chrome.
- Privacy: Microsoft’s data collection practices can be concerning.
4. Arc Browser
Arc is a free web browser that’s currently available for Windows 11, macOS, and iPhone. A Windows 10 version and an Android app are on the way. It was developed by The Browser Company, a startup located in New York.
Pros
- Fast Lightweight architecture for fast load times and smooth performance.
- Split screen mode Can be productive on a single monitor.
- Well-designed Clean interface and is customizable.
- Fluid Feels integrated with the operating system.
- Keyboard shortcuts Over 70 keyboard shortcuts can be set.
- Spaces Create different spaces to organize related tabs and theme each space.
Cons
- Stability may experience crashes, bugs, or performance issues.
- Features Some notable features are missing, like AI features and syncing across devices.
- Mobile Doesn’t have a fully-fledged mobile app.
5. Safari browser
Apple’s Safari browser is optimized for macOS and iOS, providing excellent performance and battery efficiency.
Pros:
- Performance: Fast and efficient, especially on Apple devices.
- Battery Life: Optimized to use less power, extending battery life on MacBooks.
- Privacy: Strong privacy features, including Intelligent Tracking Prevention.
Cons:
- Compatibility: Limited to Apple devices.
- Extensions: Smaller extension library compared to other browsers.
6. Opera
Opera is known for its innovative features and built-in tools, making it a popular choice for power users. A speed-dial option is available, which you can use to access the often-visited pages.
Pros:
- Built-in Tools: Includes a free VPN, ad blocker, and battery saver.
- Customization: Highly customizable with themes and extensions.
- Speed Dial: Convenient homepage with quick access to favourite sites.
Cons:
- Extensions: The extension library is smaller compared to Chrome.
- Market Share: Less popular, leading to occasional compatibility issues.
7. Brave
Brave focuses on privacy and speed, offering a unique approach to browsing with built-in ad-blocking and cryptocurrency integration.
Pros:
- Privacy: Blocks ads and trackers by default.
- Speed: Fast performance due to reduced ad load.
- Rewards: Earn cryptocurrency (BAT) to view privacy-respecting ads.
Cons:
- New User Experience: This can be confusing for new users due to its unique model.
- Compatibility: Some sites may not function properly due to aggressive ad-blocking.
8. Tor Browser
The Tor Browser is designed for anonymous browsing, and routing traffic through the Tor network to protect user privacy. Whenever you try to access any site, the traffic should go through many servers on the secured Tor server network.
Pros:
- Anonymity: Provides strong anonymity by routing traffic through multiple servers.
- Privacy: Blocks trackers and fingerprinting.
- Accessibility: Accesses .onion sites on the dark web.
Cons:
- Speed: Slower due to the Tor network’s routing.
- Usability: This may require additional knowledge to use effectively.
9. Vivaldi
Vivaldi is a highly customizable browser aimed at power users, offering extensive control over its interface and functionality. The browser is integrated with an ad blocker and translator to translate into 108 languages.
Pros:
- Customization: Unparalleled customization options for the interface and browsing experience.
- Features: Includes built-in tools like notes, screen capture, and a mail client.
- Privacy: Strong privacy features and no tracking.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: Steep learning curve for new users.
- Speed: Slightly slower than some other browsers due to its feature set.
10. DuckDuckGo Browser
DuckDuckGo is an American software company that offers some products intended to help people protect their online privacy. The flagship product is a search engine that has been praised by privacy advocates. Subsequent products include extensions for all major web browsers and a custom DuckDuckGo web browser.
Pros
- Privacy DuckDuckGo doesn’t track your location or sell your information to third parties. It also uses encrypted searches and protection against tracking networks.
- Features DuckDuckGo has unique features like the “! bang” feature, which lets you search directly on other websites using a shortcut in the search bar. It also offers instant answers and pure search results.
- Open source Some of DuckDuckGo’s components are open source.
Cons
- Slower performance DuckDuckGo’s privacy-focused features can make it slower than other search engines.
- Limited index DuckDuckGo has a smaller index of websites than Google.
- Fewer advanced features DuckDuckGo doesn’t offer as many advanced features as Google.
- Less personalization DuckDuckGo doesn’t personalize search results based on your search history.
- Malware protection DuckDuckGo can’t guarantee complete protection against malware-ridden websites or content.
- IP addresses DuckDuckGo doesn’t hide IP addresses, but it also doesn’t associate your IP address with your searches. Your ISP may still be able to track your searches.
Selecting the appropriate browser hinges on individual needs and preferences. Whether speed, privacy, customization, or extra features are your priority, there is a browser available that can fulfil your criteria. Stay informed about updates and new features to ensure you’re getting the best browsing experience possible.
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Spotify, the worldwide music streaming giant, has unexpectedly raised its subscription prices in Kenya. This change impacts all subscription levels, ranging from the economical Premium Mini to the extensive Family plan.
Spotify has just announced that it will raise the prices across all its subscription tiers in Kenya. This increase reflects how much one will have to pay to access premium features of the music streaming platform, with a new price change that applies to several user plans. This move is part of a wider trend within the streaming industry, where globally, these platforms inflate their prices in response to inflation and increased operational costs. Beginning today, users in Kenya will pay more to listen to their favorite music streaming services as Spotify continues to add more features and music to the platform.
The prices in Kenya have risen by 13.3 percent to 40.8 percent depending on the particular subscription. The wide range shows that some plans only have a moderate adjustment, while others see substantial rises. That is to say, many users are likely reviewing their current subscriptions or their more financially apt tiers. Specific reasons for these particular percentage increases have not been discussed, but this shows the platform’s intention: keeping profitability with competitive services.
Amongst the lot of subscription options, Premium Mini received the highest increase in percentage terms. The plan, previously the most affordable that gave access to Spotify’s premium features for either a day or a week, is now one of the relatively dearer options compared to other tiers. This steep increase may particularly affect users who rely on short-term premium access for occasional use and encourage them to either upgrade to longer-term plans or switch to other streaming platforms.
Here’s a comprehensive look at how Spotify’s prices have changed for Kenyan subscribers:
Plan | Old Price | New Price | Increase | Percentage Increase |
---|---|---|---|---|
Premium Mini (1 week) | KES 49 | KES 69 | KES 20 | 40.8% |
Premium Individual (monthly) | KES 299 | KES 339 | KES 40 | 13.4% |
Premium Student (monthly) | KES 149 | KES 169 | KES 20 | 13.4% |
Premium Duo (monthly) | KES 389 | KES 439 | KES 50 | 12.9% |
Premium Family (monthly) | KES 479 | KES 549 | KES 70 | 14.6% |
- Premium Mini:The most economical choice experienced the largest percentage rise, at 40.8%. Such a substantial increase could affect users who depend on weekly subscriptions and are mindful of their budgets.
- Premium Individual and Student: Both plans saw a 13.4% increase. Although the absolute increase for students is smaller, the percentage rise is the same as that of the individual plan.
- Premium Duo:This couples’ plan experienced the smallest percentage increase at 12.9%, potentially rendering it a more appealing option for couples aiming to save.
- Premium Family: The price of the most expensive plan rose by 14.6%, potentially impacting households dependent on shared accounts.
For individuals seeking to optimize value, the Duo and Family plans may provide greater cost-effectiveness for those who are eligible. Students are advised to keep their verification current to maintain access to reduced rates.
Tech
Infinix’s Hot Launch; The All New Hot 50 Series is Here
Published
2 months agoon
September 27, 2024Over the last couple of months, Infinix has been making waves in the smartphone market, and their recent attempt at solidifying this move looks set to serve Kenyan consumers as the smartphone manufacturer launches their latest series of budget-friendly gadgets, and oh are they something.
The newly launched budget phone is the Infinix Hot 50i with functional elements users on a tight budget will find quite appealing. The budget-friendly market is where real competition exists if you ask me. Here’s whats on paper so far.
Infinix Hot 50i
The Infinix Hot 50i, part of the same Hot 50 series, brings its own set of features, which is powered by the MediaTek Helio G81, which is paired with 4GB of RAM.
However, this RAM can be expanded to 8GB, providing users with more flexibility depending on their usage requirements. This model offers similar performance in day-to-day tasks but at a more affordable price point.
Infinix Hot 50i Specs
- Display: A large 6.7-inch IPS display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels and 120Hz refresh rate.
- Processor: Powered by the MediaTek Helio G81 processor, for smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
- RAM and Storage: Available in configurations of 4GB or 6GB RAM, which can be virtually extended up to 8GB. The device also boasts a generous internal storage capacity of 256GB.
- Camera System: 48MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera for selfies.
- Battery Life: 5000mAh battery that supports 18W fast charging.
- Audio: Dual DTS speakers designed to enhance sound quality, making it ideal for music lovers and media consumers.
- Operating System: Runs on XOS based on Android 14, providing a user-friendly interface with various customization options.
- Additional Features: A side-mounted fingerprint sensor for security, a USB Type-C charging port, and TÜV’s 48-month performance certification for long-term reliability.
Infinix Hot 50i Pricing
The Hot 50i is available in the Kenyan market at a price of KES 13,699, making it an attractive option for those looking for an affordable, yet capable smartphone.
The phone comes three attractive color options: Sleek Black, Sage Green, and Titanium Grey.
It will be widely available in retail stores after September 30th. Stay tuned to watch us review these units and give you a hands-on review of whether this should be your next phone or why not.
Tech
New WhatsApp Feature Lets You Mention Contacts In Status Updates
Published
3 months agoon
September 19, 2024WhatsApp has recently added a new feature to its Status updates, allowing users to tag contacts directly.
Currently available on Android for users with beta version 2.24.20.3 or higher, this update introduces a @ button that lets you mention specific contacts in your Status.
Once tagged, they receive both a notification and a message, ensuring they won’t miss your update. Tagged contacts can also reshare your Status, but only they will see their mention, preserving privacy.
Unlike Instagram, WhatsApp keeps the identity of the original Status creator hidden when tagged contacts reshare it. One key thing to note is that if you’ve blocked someone from viewing your Status, they can still see it if tagged using this feature.
This update, along with WhatsApp’s other hidden features, aims to make interactions more personal and dynamic on the platform.
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