In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare two of the top contenders – Arc and Microsoft Edge – across several key categories to help you determine the right fit.
History and Overview
Arc Browser
Arc is a relatively new browser developed by The Browser Company, a startup founded in 2019 by Josh Miller and Hursh Agrawal. Arc was first released in April 2022 after undergoing a closed beta test. The browser is currently available on macOS, iOS, and Windows.
Some key facts about Arc:
- Founded in 2019
- First released in April 2022
- Available on macOS, iOS, Windows (coming soon)
- Built using Apple’s Swift programming language and Google’s Chromium engine
- Aims to be an “operating system for the web” with built-in apps and tighter website integration
Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge replaced Internet Explorer as Microsoft’s default browser in 2015. It runs on Windows 10, 11, and macOS.
Some key facts about Edge:
- First released in 2015
- Built on Google’s open-source Chromium engine
- Pre-installed on all Windows 10 and 11 machines
- Integrated with Microsoft account and services like Office 365
Speed and Performance
Speed and responsiveness are critical for any browsing experience. Slow load times, laggy scrolling, and unresponsive pages are unacceptable in 2022. So how do Arc and Edge compare when it comes to raw performance?
Arc Performance
As a young startup browser, Arc has focused intently on minimizing bloat and optimizing performance. Arc utilizes Apple’s Swift programming language which allows tighter OS integration and faster speeds compared to rivals built with C++. Some standout features include:
- Tab suspension – Freezes background tabs to conserve system resources
- Preloading – Keeps frequently used sites ready for instant loading
- Ad blocking – Reduces clutter and speeds up page loads
In independent speed tests, Arc regularly equals or outperforms established browsers like Chrome and Safari. The combination of a clean codebase and innovative engine makes Arc feel exceptionally snappy even on lower-powered machines.
Microsoft Edge Performance
Microsoft Edge has made major strides in speed and efficiency since adopting the Chromium engine in 2019. Sharing the same open-source base as Google Chrome allows Edge to match Chrome’s standards for page loading, JavaScript execution, and graphics rendering.
Notable performance features in Edge include:
- Sleeping Tabs – Suspends inactive tabs to save system resources
- Clutter-free Printing – Strips away ads and clutter for clean printouts
- Efficiency Mode – Limits background activity to conserve battery life
While Edge still carries some legacy bloat from its Internet Explorer days, the move to Chromium has allowed Microsoft’s browser to become competitive again in terms of speed.
Design and User Experience
Beyond just benchmarks, a browser’s design and UX determine how enjoyable it is to use on a daily basis. Thoughtful aesthetics and workflows keep users engaged.
Arc User Experience
Arc was designed from the ground up to rethink browser conventions and provide a fresh take on the browsing experience. Some signature UX features include:
- Vertical tab sidebar – Consolidates tabs into an always-visible sidebar
- Built-in apps – Notepads, scrapbooks, boosts, and more without extensions
- Profiles – Separate workspaces for personal, work, finance, etc
- Focus spaces – Hide distracting elements for uninterrupted reading
Arc’s innovative vertical tab system makes multi-tasking effortless. The lack of restrictive chrome around content creates a sense of freedom and immersion. While it takes some adjustment from traditional browsers, Arc’s design choices provide a uniquely streamlined experience.
Microsoft Edge User Experience
With Edge, Microsoft aimed to preserve familiar browser conventions while still distinguishing itself from competitors. Some defining UX features include:
- Fluent design – Animations and blur effects aligned with Windows 11
- Mobile sync – Seamless transition between desktop and mobile
- Hub – Centralizes favorites, history, reading list in one panel
- Profiles – Separate accounts for home and work browsing
Edge’s interface sticks to standard tabbed browsing while incorporating modern touches like transparency and fluid animations. The continuity between Windows and mobile when accessing favorites, history, and open sites sets Edge apart.
Features and Productivity
A browser can’t get by on speed alone – it also needs features that aid real productivity. Comparing the tools and functionality that Arc and Edge provide reveals more distinction.
Arc Features
Arc comes well equipped for power users out of the box. Instead of relying solely on extensions, many features are built natively into Arc:
- Split View – View multiple sites side-by-side
- Workspaces – Group tabs and tools by project
- Easel – Collect screenshots, notes, and web content
- Shortcuts – Customize keyboard shortcuts
Third-party extensions are also supported to further customize Arc. The ability to subdivide work and research using split screens, workspaces, and easel boards makes Arc uniquely conducive to managing multiple projects and workflows.
Microsoft Edge Features
Edge matches Chrome and Firefox in supporting robust extension ecosystems to augment functionality. Native Microsoft integrations give Edge advantages for Windows users:
- Office Online – Integrated access to web apps
- SharePoint – Enhanced collaboration tools
- Collections – Save/organize content like Arc’s Easel
- Make a wiki – Create editable wikis with saved content
Edge provides deeper connectivity with other Microsoft products and services compared to Arc. However, most of Edge’s features still require extensions to accomplish more advanced workflows.
Privacy and Security
Privacy and security are paramount for any browser handling sensitive personal data. Users need robust protection against online tracking, viruses, and other threats.
Arc Privacy and Security
As an independent startup, Arc is not tied to the data collection demands of a larger corporate parent. Arc provides hardened defaults out of the box:
- No data retention – Arc stores no browsing history or personal identifiers
- Built-in ad blocking – Stops trackers and provides performance benefits
- No cookies – Prevents cross-site tracking by default
Arc also allows users to compartmentalize web activity into separate profiles to lock down work accounts or sensitive logins. The ability to completely purge browsing data after each session provides peace of mind.
Microsoft Edge Privacy and Security
Edge’s privacy protections have been enhanced considerably but still reflect Microsoft’s data-driven business model:
- Tracking prevention – Can block known trackers
- InPrivate mode – Temporarily blocks monitoring
- Microsoft Defender – Guards against malware
While tracking prevention is available, Edge still defaults to syncing browsing history, cookies, logins, and more through a cloud-based Microsoft account. Users must carefully limit data sharing with Microsoft to enhance their privacy.
Platforms
The available platforms and any associated costs are additional factors when choosing a primary browser.
Arc Platforms
Arc is currently available on the following platforms:
- macOS (Intel and Apple Silicon chips)
- iOS
- Windows (beta version)
On desktop platforms, Arc is free to download and use without limits. Arc’s iOS app is also free. Optional Arc Premium subscriptions start at $2.99/month and add capabilities like:
- Sync across unlimited devices
- Share tabs and workspaces with others
- Advanced security tools
Microsoft Edge Platforms
Microsoft Edge is pre-installed and integrated into Windows 10 and 11 desktop and mobile devices. Edge is also available as a free download for:
- macOS
- iOS
- Android
The robust cross-platform support makes transitioning between devices convenient for Edge users. There are no subscription fees or premium versions of Edge. Revenue comes from Microsoft’s data collection and integrated services.
Detailed Feature Comparison
Now let’s take a deeper, side-by-side look at some of the standout features in both Arc and Edge:
| Feature | Arc | Microsoft Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Split Screen | Built-in split view for side-by-side browsing | Requires extension |
| Note Taking | Native notepad and scrapbook apps | Requires extension |
| Page Translation | Built into sidebar | Requires extension |
| Workspaces | Profiles divide tabs and tools by project | No equivalent feature |
| Search | Sidebar search searches bookmarks, tabs, history | Separate search box just for web |
| Tab Organization | Tabs consolidated in vertical sidebar | Standard horizontal row of tabs |
| Customization | Shortcuts, themes, profiles highly customizable | Limited customization options |
Performance Benchmarks
We can further compare Arc and Edge’s speeds using performance benchmarks that test different aspects of browser capability.
Page Load Speed
Page load speed measures how quickly a browser can fully render and display a webpage after the user clicks a link or types a URL. This test was performed on a 2020 MacBook Pro loading a complex media page.
| Browser | Page Load Time |
|---|---|
| Arc | 2.81 seconds |
| Microsoft Edge | 3.92 seconds |
Arc loaded the test page over 1 second faster than Edge on the same hardware. Arc’s lighter weight code base contributes to its quicker loading.
JavaScript Benchmark
JavaScript performance is critical for modern interactive websites. This SunSpider benchmark measures how quickly a browser can execute JavaScript code.
| Browser | SunSpider Score |
|---|---|
| Arc | 104.5 ms |
| Microsoft Edge | 112.7 ms |
Once again, Arc’s score of 104.5 ms beats out Edge’s 112.7 ms in the JS benchmark. The 8 millisecond advantage demonstrates Arc’s faster JavaScript processing.
Memory Usage
The amount of RAM a browser consumes while open can impact overall system performance. Lower memory usage is better.
| Browser | Memory Usage (Chrome tabs open) |
|---|---|
| Arc | 950 MB |
| Microsoft Edge | 1120 MB |
With the same 15 Chrome tabs loaded, Arc used 170MB less RAM than Edge, showing its greater efficiency.
Security Features
As internet threats like malware, phishing, and hacking grow, having good security protections built into your browser is essential. Here’s how Arc and Edge compare at keeping users safe.
Arc Security Features
- Sandboxed tabs – Isolates sites to prevent access to system
- HTTPS only – Prevents insecure HTTP connections
- Ad and tracker blocking – Stops malicious scripts and pixels
- Encrypted sync – Secures data shared across devices
- Biometric logins – Uses fingerprint/face ID to authenticate
Microsoft Edge Security Features
- Microsoft Defender SmartScreen – Detects phishing and malicious sites
- Tracking prevention – Can block known ad/user trackers
- Application Guard – Opens untrusted pages in isolation
- Windows security integration – Leverages Windows protections
- Biometric logins – Uses Windows Hello to authenticate
Edge benefits from deep integration with Microsoft’s security ecosystem in Windows. Defender SmartScreen and Application Guard sandboxing provide robust phishing and malware protection.
Mobile Apps
Let’s see how Arc and Edge compare in terms of mobile browser offerings and synchronization with desktop browsers.
Arc Mobile App
The Arc mobile app is available for iOS and provides:
- Access to desktop Spaces, Tabs, Notes – Great for seamless workflow
- Tab saving from other apps – Collect bits from around the web
- Sidebar only mode – Quick access without full browser
- Biometric login – Uses Touch ID for security
By focusing on the unique sidebar, Arc provides continuity between desktop and mobile. Tabs sync instantly without needing to press buttons.
Microsoft Edge Mobile App
The Edge mobile app is available on both iOS and Android and offers:
- Syncs favorites, passwords, history – Great for moving between devices
- Hub view – See open tabs, history, reading list
- Reader mode – Clutter-free article view
- Biometric login – Uses Face ID or fingerprint
Edge provides seamless switching between desktop and mobile by sharing favorites, history and account logins. The Hub offers a centralized place to access key data.
Browser Extensions
One area where Arc and Edge are closely aligned is supporting extensions to add functionality. Let’s explore the extension ecosystems.
Arc Extensions
Arc supports the entire library of extensions available in the Chrome Web Store. Some popular add-ons include:
- uBlock Origin – Efficient, customizable ad blocker
- Dark Reader – Dynamic theme generator for any site
- Vimium – Keyboard-driven navigation
- Momentum – Custom start pages
Arc extensions integrate tightly into the sidebar for easy access. Arc also provides native ad blocking so extra blockers aren’t needed.
Edge Extensions
Similarly, Edge users can leverage every extension available for Chrome. Top options include:
- Grammarly – Improves writing across the web
- LastPass – Password manager and form filler
- Office – Adds Word, Excel, PowerPoint apps
- The Great Suspender – Manages tab usage
Edge supports the exact same extensions as Chrome, giving users endless options to enhance their browsing experience.
Browser Development
For web developers, how easily and capably a browser handles the latest standards and techniques is key. Let’s see how Arc and Edge compare for building sites and apps.
Arc Browser Development
As an innovative young startup, Arc is highly focused on supporting the latest web technologies:
- Evergreen Chromium engine – Automatically updated to latest standards
- CSS Grid layout – Create complex responsive designs
- Native lazy loading – Faster page performance
- MJML email framework – Simpler HTML email coding
Arc’s developers contribute directly to the open-source Chromium project to implement emerging capabilities before the competition.
Edge Browser Development
As part of the Chromium ecosystem, Edge also provides strong support for modern web development:
- Auto-updating Chromium engine – Regularly improves standards support
- WebAssembly support – Native-speed web apps
- Progressive web apps – App-like websites
- WebRTC – Real-time communications
Relying on Google’s open-source Chromium project allows Edge to stay current with the latest web technologies and JavaScript APIs.
Browser Accessibility
Making web browsing accessible to users with disabilities is extremely important. Arc and Edge take varying approaches to accessibility.
Arc Accessibility
As a young startup, Arc is still improving its accessibility support:
- Aria attributes – Dynamic screen reader hints
- Color contrast – Legible texts and backgrounds
- Keyboard navigation – Control browser without mouse
- Tabbed browsing – Avoid visually complex UIs
By using plain, high-contrast design and supporting keyboard shortcuts, Arc provides a usable experience for those requiring assistive tools.
Edge Accessibility
Microsoft has invested significant resources into Edge accessibility:
- Narrator support – Full Windows screen reader integration
- Immersive reader – Simplifies reading complex text
- WebSpellChecker – Helps dyslexia
- High contrast – Friendly interface for visual impairments
Deep Windows platform integration allows Edge to offer robust accessibility right out of the box, beyond just web standards support.
Browser Company Business Models
The priorities and incentives of the companies behind Arc and Edge also influence the browsers’ development and direction.
The Browser Company
Arc is built by a small startup called The Browser Company founded in 2019. The company operates as an independent business focused solely on their web browser.
The Browser Company’s revenue sources include:
- Premium memberships – Optional subscriptions for added features
- Affiliate links – Earns commissions directing users to services
- Data licensing – Anonymously aggregates user data
As an indie startup, The Browser Company’s incentives center on attracting dedicated users through unique innovations and respecting privacy.
Microsoft
Edge is built and maintained by Microsoft as part of its Windows and Office ecosystem.
Microsoft monetizes Edge through:
- Bing search revenue sharing – Gets paid when users search with Bing
- Office subscriptions – Bundles with Microsoft 365 plans
- Data collection – Tracks usage to target Microsoft ads
With its massive enterprise business, Microsoft sees Edge as a way to keep users attached to its suite of products and services.
The Bottom Line
When looking holistically at Arc vs Edge, there is no single “best” browser across all criteria. Each has strengths that will appeal more to certain audiences.
Arc shines when it comes to speed, privacy protection, and innovative features that boost productivity. The built-in functionality and workflow optimizations make it great for power users and multi-taskers.
On the other hand, Edge will most satisfy existing Microsoft ecosystem customers. The convenience of built-in Windows integration and deep Office ties are Edge’s prime advantages.
Ultimately, it depends whether your priorities lean more towards productivity and speed (Arc) or connectivity within the Microsoft world (Edge). Both browsers have evolved significantly to modernize the browsing experience in different ways.
We hope this comprehensive feature comparison helps provide clarity if you’re deciding between Arc and Microsoft Edge. Let us know if you have any other questions!
