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Originally Posted On: https://www.alwaysvpn.com/insights/is-duckduckgo-really-safer-than-google

Although Google Chrome is one of the most popular internet browsers on the market, privacy-focused users are starting to shift their attention toward DuckDuckGo. Today, we’re going to walk you through the key differences between the two browsers and if it’s worth it for you to make the switch. Remember that no internet browser is perfect at protecting every aspect of your privacy online, which is why a secure VPN is an excellent addition to any browser you choose. We’re here to teach you how to make the most of your privacy by choosing a safe browser.

What is DuckDuckGo?

DuckDuckGo is a private internet browser that focuses on encrypting your browsing habits and eliminating tracking. In other words, DuckDuckGo doesn’t collect or share any of your personal information. While DuckDuckGo started as a private mobile browser, it’s extended its services into a desktop application and Chrome extension.

Because DuckDuckGo doesn’t track your online activity, it monetizes by offering private ads placed onto its search engine. The ads are based on what you are searching for rather than your overall browsing habits. For example, if you search for pizza on DuckDuckGo’s search engine, any ads that show up will only be about pizza. DuckDuckGo’s Chrome extension, if you go that route, guarantees a world-class tracker blocker, solid encryption, and a private search engine wrapped into one service.

Pros

• Doesn’t store any of your information, including your IP address
• Ease of use across all services
• Less targeted ads

Cons

• Visible ads in the search engine results pages
• Doesn’t protect against viruses, malware, ransomware, or unsafe sites

What is Google Chrome?

Google Chrome is Google’s browser that seamlessly integrates its email and cloud services into one platform. Unlike DuckDuckGo, Google Chrome focuses on personalization over anonymity. Chrome, in other words, doesn’t guarantee total privacy but does give you the option to customize your security preferences and overall browsing experience. Plus, Google has a ton of excellent built-in features such as Maps, Google Calendar, Google Docs, and so much more.

Pros

• Displays unique content catered to your preferences
• Convenient built-in features
• Integrates seamlessly into Google’s other products

Cons

• Remembers your search history
• Not a genuinely private browser, even in incognito mode

So, Which Browser is Better?

Is DuckDuckGo safe compared to Google? There isn’t necessarily a one size fits all answer to this question; each browser suits a different purpose, and the better choice will depend on your needs. Google comes with much more convenience, while DuckDuckGo comes with more privacy features. However, with the magnitude of Google’s popularity, it’s nearly impossible to avoid this tech giant while you’re online. Let’s be honest; there’s no way you can tell us you’ve never done a Google search before.

Luckily, DuckDuckGo has a Chrome extension that helps cover most of the security gaps that may concern you. So, to answer that burning question, DuckDuckGo is a safer browser than Google Chrome when it comes to privacy. Keep in mind that DuckDuckGo doesn’t protect against other threats such as unwanted data collection and cyberattacks, which is why using a VPN is essential in helping you stay protected while surfing the web.

Fill the Gaps with a VPN

Without a VPN, there’s no guarantee that your browser of choice is encrypting all of your data. This lack of encryption gives cybercriminals access to your internet traffic and IP address. Even if you use a secure web browser, in other words, your internet service provider (ISP) can still track your information and share it with third parties. Plus, if you’re browsing on a public network, anyone, including hackers, can access your personal information.

VPN services like NordVPN encrypt your IP address, so you can surf the internet on any network or browser with peace of mind. It also provides WebRTC and IP leak protection, which prevents your traffic from being exposed. Therefore, you can browse comfortably, knowing third parties cannot track your location or try to steal your data.