Here's why I understand the criticism, but still use Chrome

The numbers don't lie, and it's safe to say that Google Chrome is the world's most popular web browser despite its criticism. It gets flak for its advertisements, data collection policies, and resource usage, but still commands around 66 percent of the market. Safari is its nearest rival at around 18 percent, with others like Firefox battling it out for scraps at the table.

I'm in the same boat as countless users worldwide, using Chrome as my go-to browser, despite having numerous alternatives available. Testing browsers, such as Brave and Opera GX, is part of my job, and I admit that many are excellent, offering innovative features and enhanced security. However, I still find them lacking in certain areas and always end up back on Chrome for these reasons.

5 Speed and stability

No freezing or crashes

I spend most of my day browsing, and Chrome offers the speed and stability I need to have numerous tabs and web-based apps open simultaneously. I trust the browser to perform as expected daily, with no unwanted surprises if there's an update or my system settings change.

Google may display ads, but it still opens most webpages instantly. I experience consistent performance across all my devices, which makes it a joy to use when I'm on the go. The reason for its stability is the open-source Chromium backbone, which is continually updated to meet the latest standards and security features. Chromium's legendary stability is the reason it serves as the foundation for rival browsers, such as Edge, Opera, and Brave, which are all competing for a share of Chrome's market.

4 Extensions

I usually have a handful of handy extensions installed at any given time to check my work for errors and other functions. Chrome and its Chromium backbone support the widest range of extensions compared to other platforms, making it the go-to choice for customization and other tools.

It can be argued that other Chromium-based browsers, like Microsoft Edge, can access the same extensions. This is only partly true. These browsers are compatible with most Chrome extensions, but not all, and some may have compatibility issues. Many Chromium-based browsers direct me to the Chrome Web Store to download extensions. I might as well access the same extensions directly from the Chrome browser because I'm assured of compatibility.

3 Google Ecosystem

An efficient comfort zone

I use an Android phone and Google Workspace, so it makes sense to have a browser that works across my devices. I’m firmly entrenched in the Google ecosystem, and no other browser offers the same level of integration across all my platforms. These days, I take it for granted that my Google Docs and Sheets are available to me on the go, and I can't do without them for work.

I love being able to access the same search history, bookmarks, and favorites across my devices. I often start watching a YouTube video on my phone and finish from where I left off hours later on my PC. Sure, I can set up other browsers like this, but none work so seamlessly, and they require more effort to set up correctly.

2 No performance issues

Reasonable RAM use considering performance

One of Chrome's biggest criticisms is its heavy RAM usage. This may be true, but it's the price I'm willing to pay for running multiple tabs and switching between them instantly. For me, the main requirement is smooth performance, and Chrome always delivers. It helps that my laptop has decent specs, and the 32GB of RAM is sufficient for running Chrome and my other productivity apps without issue.

It's the same as my Samsung Galaxy S24. I test different apps daily and have never encountered any performance issues with Chrome, regardless of the number of open tabs I have. That said, I understand that browser performance varies by device, and some laptops and phones may encounter issues depending on their hardware specs. I'll admit that users who experience stuttering, freezing, and other Chrome issues due to insufficient memory are probably better off with lighter alternatives.

1 It just works

No surprises

Apple receives numerous complaints about its high pricing and walled-off ecosystem, but remains a market leader because its products are user-friendly and work. It's the same with Chrome. I continue using it because it works well and everything is where I expect it to be. I appreciate the minimalist style and can navigate the browser with ease and minimal effort..

I enjoy the clean design and can effortlessly switch between the multiple profiles I've created for myself and my clients. My five Chrome profiles have unique themes to differentiate them, so I don't get mixed up. Each has custom shortcuts to a unique CMS, Slack channels, and other apps required to handle unique workloads. I've tried many excellent alternatives with innovative features, fewer ads, and enhanced privacy. I still return to Chrome because of its all-around capabilities and unrivaled integration with the Google ecosystem.

Should you use Google Chrome?

Statistically, most of us are already using Google Chrome, and it's usually enthusiasts and security-conscious people who use alternatives. There are no wrong or right choices when it comes to browsers. You should choose one that provides the best user experience and meets your other criteria. I prefer Chrome because it's boring and safe, but I still enjoy trying alternatives like DuckDuckGo or Vivaldi to see what they offer.