What is the main difference between Waterfox and Zen Browser?

Waterfox and Zen Browser are both open source tools but differ in their approach, features, and target audience. Compare their GitHub stats, technology stack, and community adoption to make the best choice.

Which is better: Waterfox or Zen Browser?

The choice between Waterfox and Zen Browser depends on your specific needs, technical requirements, and team preferences. Both are quality open source solutions with active communities.

Can I migrate from Waterfox to Zen Browser?

Migration between Waterfox and Zen Browser is possible but requires careful planning. Consider data export/import capabilities, feature parity, and potential workflow changes.

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Waterfox vs Zen Browser

Learn how Waterfox and Zen Browser differ in their key features, development activity, technology stack and community adoption, so you can decide which of these tools is best for you.

Waterfox

Firefox-based browser with built-in ad blocking, oblivious DNS, zero telemetry, tree-style tabs, and no AI features sending your data anywhere.

Visit Waterfox Read more

6,189stars+128(+2.1%)

Last 30 days

Last commit
5 days ago
Repository age
12 years
Version
6.7.0
Repository
browserworks/waterfox

Zen Browser

A Firefox-based browser offering enhanced privacy, split views, and extensive customization options for a personalized browsing experience.

Visit Zen Browser Read more

44,080stars+487(+1.1%)

Last 30 days

Last commit
12 hours ago
Repository age
2 years
Version
1.21.15
License
MPL-2.0
Repository
zen-browser/desktop

Sponsor Zen Browser onpatreon.com

Detailed Comparison

Both Waterfox and Zen Browser have their unique strengths and serve similar purposes effectively. Consider your specific needs regarding popularity, growth, activity, maturity, licensing and features when making your decision.

Zen Browser wins

Community & Popularity

Zen Browser significantly outpaces Waterfox in community adoption with 44,080 stars compared to 6,189 stars on GitHub. This 7.1x difference suggests Zen Browser has a much larger and more active community. In terms of developer contributions, Zen Browser has 1,727 forks, indicating strong developer engagement.

Waterfox wins

Growth Momentum

Waterfox is growing faster, adding 128 stars in the last 30 days (+2.1%) against adding 487 stars for Zen Browser (+1.1%). Waterfox is the smaller project of the two, so it is closing the gap rather than extending a lead.

Comparable

Development Activity

Both projects show recent activity, with Waterfox last updated 5 days ago and Zen Browser 12 hours ago.

Waterfox wins

Project Maturity

Waterfox has been in development longer, starting 12 years ago, compared to Zen Browser which began 2 years ago. This 9.6-year head start suggests Waterfox may have more mature features and established processes.

Zen Browser wins