Apps and tools for a calm, enjoyable life

Opera Browser

Free

Opera Browser comes with a built-in ad blocker that enhances your web experience by increasing speed and reducing data consumption. It also includes a free VPN and other security features.

Our take

Integrated ad blocker with extra privacy tools.

Alright, so Opera Browser is kind of like the underdog in the browser world, right? It doesn't get the same spotlight as Chrome or Firefox, but it's got a few tricks up its sleeve. The first thing that stands out is its built-in VPN. This is a game-changer for privacy buffs who don’t want to mess around with third-party VPNs. It’s not the fastest on the block, but it’s free and does the job if you just want a bit more privacy on public Wi-Fi. It's not a full-on replacement for a paid VPN, but it’s a solid bonus feature.

Now, the user interface feels pretty slick and modern. It’s got this sidebar that lets you pin your favorite apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger, which is kind of sweet if you’re into multitasking without having a billion tabs open. But let's be real, not everyone needs their sidebar filled with apps. It can feel a bit cluttered if you like to keep things minimal. That said, it’s all about personal preference — some will love the convenience, others might find it a bit much.

Another thing worth mentioning is the ad blocker that’s built-in. It's not as robust as some extensions you could download separately, but it’s good at giving you a cleaner browsing experience without too much hassle. If you’re tired of ads popping up everywhere but don’t want to deal with extra downloads, this could be a win for you. Just keep in mind, it might not catch every single ad out there, so your mileage may vary.

Performance-wise, Opera feels snappy, and it doesn’t hog resources like some other browsers. It's based on Chromium, so it’s got a similar backbone to Chrome but without the heavy baggage. That said, it might not play nice with every single extension you’re used to if you’re coming from Chrome. Think of it as a browser that’s efficient but might not have every bell and whistle you’ve gotten used to elsewhere.

Overall, Opera Browser is a solid choice if you’re looking for something a bit different from the usual suspects. It’s got some cool features that make it stand out, especially if privacy and multitasking are high on your list. But, like any tool, it’s not perfect. You might run into a few quirks or wish it had more extension support. Still, for a browser that’s trying to carve out its own niche, it’s definitely worth a look if you’re curious about alternatives.