All categories

Maxthon 

Free Safari-based web browser offering syncing contents across devices.
5 
Latest version:
No Other Versions
Collect

Maxthon is a Safari-based web browser. Actually, it uses two engines. In this respect, the browser can smartly switch from Webkit (Safari) to Trident for better compatibility. Its interface does not make it any different from many other tools of its type: it is quite minimalistic and supports browsing various pages simultaneously on different tabs. Likewise, it supports changing skins to your like.

Just like many other browsers, Maxthon supports automatically completing a URL you have previously visited. Similarly, it offers to complete form fields (Magic Fill). Moreover, it helps you store your credentials for many sites so that you do not need to remember them. Still, you can stop the browser from collecting data via Settings if you feel that compromises your privacy.

One of the best features of this app is its multiple syncing possibilities. In this regard, the browser lets you connect to Maxthon Password, which allows synchronizing browser settings across devices, including bookmarks and tabs. What is more, you can use it to share web content or download them directly to your cloud account. Another favorite feature is a resource sniffer, which supports snapping the whole page or just a region. Yet, there are many more capabilities you can add via plug-ins, and there is a huge library to choose from.

Maxthon also has its drawbacks. For instance, it does not seem to provide strong security for it has been reported as being unable to detect some phishing sites and malware. Moreover, automatically setting itself as your default browser feels quite obtrusive.

All in all, Maxthon is a modern fast web browser offering unique syncing features. Good news is this product is available at no cost. Regrettably, the way it is distributed is rather confusing. For instance, the developer’s site allows downloading version 4.1.3.5000, which does not work on recent macOS editions. In turn, Mac Store distributes version 5.1.60.000 (reviewed here), which is also somewhat behind the current version for Windows (5.3.8.2000).

Review summary

Pros

  • Fast and stable
  • Dual-engine
  • Syncs contents in the cloud
  • Supports multiple plug-ins
  • Autocompletes URLs and form fields
  • Built-in password management
  • Captures the whole page or just a region

Cons

  • Not strong security against phishing and malware
  • Sets itself as your default browser

Comments

Suggestions

Shiira
Shiira
Free

Web browser written in Cocoa. It uses the KHTML rendering engine provided by Apple's Web Kit.

iCab
iCab
Free

Browse the web without worrying unauthorized users will track your moves.

WebKit
WebKit
Free

WebKit is an open source web browser engine used by Safari.

Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge
Free

Browse the web and enjoy more privacy, more productivity and more speed.

Monochrome
Monochrome
Free

Monochrome is a modern browser that brings mobile web apps to your desktop.

CLIQZ
CLIQZ
Free

A fork of Firefox oriented to protect your online privacy.

Download
Free