Buzz
For years, Safari was the default iPhone browser, but with Apple unlocking some significant speed improvements in Safari starting with iOS 8, other browsers like Chrome have become viable alternatives. So, is it time to make the switch?
The Competitors
While there are several browser options on iOS, most of them, such as the privacy-first Brave, the gesture-friendly Dolphin, or the performance-focused Opera Mini, cater to specific needs rather than offering a full-fledged everyday browsing experience. For general use, Chrome and Safari are the leaders. Here's a quick comparison of their features:
Safari: The go-to browser on iPhone for many years, Safari remains reliable and efficient. It covers all the essentials like private browsing, bookmarks, and, since iOS 9, ad-blocking. Fully integrated with iOS, Safari allows you to search for something in Spotlight and open it in the browser. By default, most apps also open links in Safari.
Chrome: Chrome's initial version on iOS was slower than its desktop counterpart, but thanks to improvements, it's now just as fast. Aside from standard browser features, Chrome brings some unique Google-focused tools, including a built-in QR scanner, Google Now support, and a translation tool. Chrome also employs a minimalist design, hiding its interface to place all controls at the top, which may appeal to those who prefer a cleaner look compared to Safari's bottom navigation bar.
The best browser for you depends on your personal preferences, but also on the other apps you regularly use. Let's explore the situations where Chrome might be a better fit than Safari, and where the opposite is true.
Chrome's Voice Search is Exceptionally Effective
If voice search is your preferred method of finding things online, Chrome is the way to go. Google has integrated its voice assistant into Chrome on iOS, and it performs impressively well. A long press on the Chrome icon allows you to search before even launching the app, and once inside, the voice search icon is always within reach.
More importantly, the accuracy of Chrome’s voice search is remarkable, delivering precise results almost every time. It might seem like a small feature, but for those who struggle with typing on a small mobile keyboard, having an almost dictation-like function is incredibly useful.
In comparison, Safari relies on the built-in dictation button in iOS, but it's not tailored specifically for voice search and doesn't perform as well. You can also use Siri for searching, but it lacks the fluidity and efficiency of Chrome's voice search feature.
Chrome Works Seamlessly with All Google Apps, Safari Works with Everything Else
A while ago, Apple introduced the 'deep linking' feature, allowing apps to work together. Though it doesn't replace the default app system like on Android, it enables developers to configure links from Gmail to open in Chrome instead of Safari. As you'd expect, Google has taken full advantage of this feature.
If you're a heavy Google user across services like Drive, Gmail, and Maps, you can set it up so those apps interact seamlessly with Chrome. For example, tapping on a map link in Chrome opens Google Maps, or tapping an email link opens Gmail. For anyone deeply invested in Google, this setup works wonderfully, making it easy to avoid Safari.
However, if you’re not deeply embedded in Google’s ecosystem, things become less appealing. Safari still serves as the default browser, meaning that links from text messages, Apple Mail, or Spotlight search results will open in Safari. While apps like Spark and Airmail allow you to choose which browser to use, not all apps provide this option, so you’re likely to use Safari now and then. Unless you’re fully committed to Google, Safari might be the better choice to avoid constantly switching between browsers.
Both Sync Effortlessly with Their Desktop Versions
One final, major reason to choose one browser over another is the syncing feature. Both Safari and Chrome sync with their desktop versions, which means your tabs, history, and bookmarks sync seamlessly from your phone to your computer. If syncing is important to you, you'll want to use the browser you prefer on your desktop as well.
For me personally, syncing always seemed like a great feature, but it’s something I never actually use, so it doesn’t matter as much as I initially thought. If you’re like me and don’t take advantage of this feature, don’t let the idea of syncing sway your decision on which browser to use.
Safari’s Reading List is Handy, but Chrome Has One Coming Soon
A feature that often gets overlooked in Safari is its Reading List. It’s similar to Instapaper, allowing you to save articles to read later. It’s perfect if you do a lot of reading on your phone and don’t need something as advanced as Pocket or Instapaper.
Currently, Chrome doesn’t have this feature, but it’s rumored to be coming soon. Until we know exactly how it will function, Safari is the better option for now. However, Chrome users can always turn to third-party apps like Pocket or Instapaper in the meantime.
Safari can block ads and trackers effectively, making it a top choice for privacy-conscious users.
If you're someone who prefers blocking ads or third-party trackers using an ad blocker, Safari is your obvious go-to browser.
iOS 9 introduced 'content blockers' that only work in Safari, unlike Chrome, which lacks such plugins. These blockers are not limited to ads; they also block cookies, unwanted page elements, certain URLs, and comments. For anyone wanting to control these elements, Safari is the browser of choice.
The conclusion: Chrome is ideal if you're heavily invested in Google's ecosystem, but for most users, Safari offers the best experience.
Choosing the right browser is a personal decision based on factors like interface preference and features. Some users are drawn to Chrome’s sleek, minimal design, while others appreciate Safari's seamless integration with Apple devices. Both browsers are fast and feature-rich, so there's no clear reason to favor one over the other.
A notable distinction arises if you're a frequent user of Google products. Chrome seamlessly integrates with Google's suite of apps, making it feel as though you're not even using an iPhone. If this is the case for you, stick with Chrome, and you’ll be satisfied. And if you find apps that deep-link to Chrome, you can easily act as though Safari isn't even a factor.
For those not bound by Google's ecosystem, Safari is the way to go. It has evolved considerably and functions flawlessly. Is it a bit dull? Sure. But honestly, how thrilling do you want your browser to be?
