Brave is an increasingly popular web browser that caters to privacy-conscious users. However, there are a few more options that could act as replacements to Brave. Avast Secure Browser is one of the newest options available that focus on privacy and security. Could it be an alternative to Brave?

So, which should you choose between these two? Is Avast Secure better than Brave, considering Avast has developed it?

Brave vs. Avast: User Interface

avast brave user interface

While the browsers are based on Chromium, some user interface (UI) tweaks have been made to both of them, so you will find some key differences.

Avast Secure Browser closely resembles the look of Google Chrome, but Brave looks a bit different. If you are looking for a privacy-focused browser that looks very similar to Chrome, then Avast Secure can be a good pick.

However, if you want a refreshing experience that aims to provide something different, Brave proves to be an excellent choice.

Both offer the same level of tweaks in terms of UI customizations, with basic theme changes and tab management options. If you want better customization, you might want to try Vivaldi instead.

Security Features on Brave and Avast

avast-secure-security

Considering both the browsers focus on security and privacy, it is essential you know the differences in terms of features.

Avast Secure gives you an in-built VPN integration, a dedicated security center to toggle available options, its own adblocker, and other essential privacy features you would expect in a browser.

The VPN is a paid-for feature in Avast Secure, which you can opt for with an Avast Secure Pro subscription. It offers a seven-day trial but you need to pay to unlock the VPN; that's unlike Opera browser, where you get a free in-built VPN service.

A separate “Security & Privacy Center” is a nice touch that makes it easy to toggle and customize the settings needed for a private browsing experience. The Avast adblocker is also an effective extension included by default.

When it comes to Brave, you do not get an in-built VPN. You can instead choose to explore some of the fastest VPNs available if you are interested in using a VPN when browsing the web.

brave security

However, Brave offers Tor integration that could prove to be better than using a VPN at times.

Unlike Avast, Brave does not offer an easy-to-tweak security menu; you will have to head to the settings and navigate the security menu to change the options as needed. But you get a similar level of control to block trackers and ads using the Brave shield.

Brave further offers advanced controls like setting a WebRTC IP handling policy, enabling/disabling Google push messaging service, and a safety check option. Brave is also known to introduce some industry-first privacy features.

So, if you want more privacy-focused features without an integrated VPN, Brave is a no-brainer. However, if you prefer to use Avast antivirus products and are eager to try out the paid VPN, Avast offers a seamless, secure browsing experience.

How Often Are Brave and Avast Updated?brave version

It is vital to have the latest browser powering your web experience to ensure that it is secure against every known malicious attack and exploit.

Brave does this exceptionally well because it constantly pushes an update as soon as a new Chromium update is available.

avast secure browser

However, Avast Secure browser might be a little late to the party, considering it ran an older version of Chromium when we tested it. As a daily driver, it should not be a big issue. But, in terms of security, it is always best to have the latest and greatest available.

Related: Best Chromium Browser Alternatives Better Than Chrome

IPFS Protocol Supportipfs brave

IPFS is a relatively new decentralized protocol that lets you bypass censorship and share resources. Technically, it enables you to utilize a peer-to-peer network that cannot be affected by any restrictions by ISPs and your government.

Considering that you value privacy, decentralized technology is one of the most effective ways to take back control. Brave is one of the first few browsers that support this protocol.

Avast Secure did not include support for it and had no plans for it at the time of writing. However, you can add the IPFS companion extension if this is a priority for you.

Performance

Avast Secure offers plenty of tweaks to optimize the performance and manage inactive tabs to save battery or resources. For instance, you can choose never to suspend tabs when offline.

However, animations and the overall snappy experience may not be the best you've seen in a browser.

In the case of Brave, it does not offer many controls for performance but has been optimized exceptionally well to perform better than most other web browsers. Brave is the ideal choice as a secure browser in terms of responsiveness and fast performance.

Cross-Platform Support

Brave offers support for Windows, Linux, and macOS (Intel and ARM). In comparison, Avast Secure is only available for Windows and macOS (Intel platform).

So, depending on your platform, you can choose to go with anything you prefer.

Which Is the Best Private Web Browser?

Both Brave and Avast offer a set of balanced security and privacy-focused features. Brave gets the edge with faster performance, updates, IPFS support, and out-of-the-box privacy features. However, if you do not mind a slight delay in updates while using Avast’s VPN service, Avast Secure can be a decent pick.

And don't forget: if you are already using Avast security tools on your computer, Avast Secure is a good choice.

You cannot go wrong with either of them. Avast Secure is an interesting choice, and Brave is a top-notch option for a private web experience.