For years, I treated Microsoft Edge the same way many Windows users do I opened it once to download Chrome and rarely thought about it again. Like many people, I assumed Edge was simply Microsoft’s default browser, not something I would actually choose to use every day. Chrome handled everything I needed, and I never felt a strong reason to switch.
But over the past few years, Microsoft has invested heavily in Edge, added new features, AI tools, performance improvements, and deeper integration with Windows 11. As a result, I started hearing more people say that Edge had become a genuinely good browser. That made me curious.
So, I decided to give Microsoft Edge another chance and use it as my primary browser for a while. I wanted to see whether it could compete with Chrome, whether its AI features were actually useful, and if it offered any real advantages for Windows users. The results surprised me.
In this article, I’ll share my experience using Microsoft Edge in 2026, what I liked, what I didn’t, and whether I think it’s finally worth using as your everyday browser.
What Is Microsoft Edge?
Microsoft Edge is a free web browser developed by Microsoft and comes pre-installed on Windows 11 and Windows 10. Since its transition to the Chromium engine in 2020, Edge has evolved into a modern browser that offers excellent website compatibility, strong performance, and support for Chrome extensions.
Like Google Chrome, Edge is built on Chromium, which means it works with virtually all modern websites and feels familiar to anyone switching from Chrome. You can also import your bookmarks, passwords, browsing history, and other settings in just a few clicks.
Microsoft has also added several features that help Edge stand out from other Chromium-based browsers, including built-in AI through Copilot, vertical tabs, Collections, sleeping tabs, efficiency mode, and productivity tools designed specifically for Windows users.
Today, Microsoft Edge is available not only on Windows but also on macOS, Linux, Android, and iPhone, and allows users to sync bookmarks, passwords, and browsing data across multiple devices.
Why I Decided to Give Edge Another Chance
For a long time, I didn’t think much about Microsoft Edge. Chrome had become my default browser, and since Edge came pre-installed with Windows, I assumed there wasn’t much reason to use it instead.
That changed when Microsoft started adding features that Chrome didn’t offer, particularly its AI integration, performance improvements, and productivity tools. I also noticed more people recommending Edge as one of the best browsers for Windows 11, which made me curious to see if it had genuinely improved.
Rather than relying on online opinions, I decided to test it myself. I used Edge for everyday browsing, research, streaming videos, online shopping, and work to see whether it could replace Chrome as my primary browser.
After spending time with it, I realized Edge had evolved into much more than just Microsoft’s default browser. Several features genuinely improved my browsing experience, while a few others weren’t as useful as I expected. Here’s what stood out the most.
1. Edge Feels Like the Browser Windows 11 Was Built For
One of the biggest things I noticed after using Edge again was how well it integrates with Windows 11. Since Microsoft develops both the operating system and the browser, many features work together seamlessly without requiring any additional setup.
Signing in with my Microsoft account automatically synced my bookmarks, passwords, browsing history, favorites, and settings across devices. Everything was ready within minutes, making it easy to continue browsing whether I was using my desktop, laptop, or phone.
I also found that Edge works naturally with many Windows features. Whether opening PDF files, sharing content, using Windows Search, or accessing Microsoft services like OneDrive and Microsoft 365, the experience felt smooth and consistent.
Unlike Chrome, which is designed to work best with Google’s ecosystem, Edge feels like it belongs on Windows. It doesn’t just run on the operating system, it complements it.
If you already use Windows 11 every day, Microsoft Edge offers an experience that’s difficult to match with third-party browsers. While this alone may not convince everyone to switch, it’s one of the strongest reasons to give Edge another look.
2. The Built-In AI Features Are Actually Useful
When Microsoft first started promoting AI in Edge, I assumed it was more of a marketing feature than something I’d actually use. After spending time with the browser, my opinion changed.
The biggest advantage is that Copilot is built directly into Edge. Instead of opening a new tab and navigating to an AI website, I could access it from the sidebar whenever I needed help.
I found it useful for a variety of everyday tasks. While reading long articles, I could ask Copilot to explain a topic in simpler terms or summarize key points. When researching products, it helped me compare features and answer follow-up questions without interrupting my workflow. It was also handy for drafting emails, brainstorming ideas, and getting quick answers while browsing.
Another thing I liked is that the AI assistant feels integrated into the browsing experience rather than being a separate tool. Whether I was researching, writing, or learning something new, having AI available with a single click saved time.
Of course, not everyone needs built-in AI. If you already prefer using ChatGPT, Gemini, or another AI assistant in a separate tab, you may not use Copilot very often. However, for users who want AI assistance readily available while they browse, Edge offers one of the most convenient implementations I’ve used.
For me, this was one of the features that genuinely made Microsoft Edge stand out from other Chromium-based browsers.
3. Performance Is Better Than Many People Expect
Before using Edge again, I assumed its performance would be similar to Chrome since both browsers are based on Chromium. While that’s true to an extent, Microsoft has added several optimizations that make Edge feel well-suited for Windows devices.
Browsing felt fast and responsive during everyday use. Websites loaded quickly, videos streamed smoothly, and I didn’t experience any noticeable issues while working with multiple tabs open.
Edge also includes features like Startup Boost, which helps the browser launch faster, and Sleeping Tabs, which automatically puts inactive tabs to sleep to reduce memory and CPU usage. If you tend to keep dozens of tabs open, this can help improve overall system performance and extend battery life on laptops.
Another useful feature is Efficiency Mode, which reduces resource usage when your device is running on battery or under heavy load. While I didn’t notice dramatic performance gains, it’s a thoughtful addition that helps the browser use system resources more efficiently.
The difference compared to Chrome isn’t night and day, but Edge no longer feels like a slower alternative. In fact, it performs exceptionally well and offers several built-in optimizations that Windows users can benefit from without installing any extra tools.
If performance is one of the reasons you’ve avoided Edge in the past, it’s worth giving the browser another chance.
4. Chrome Users Will Feel Right at Home
One of the biggest surprises was how little I had to adjust after switching from Chrome. Since Microsoft Edge is built on Chromium, the overall browsing experience feels instantly familiar.
Importing my bookmarks, saved passwords, browsing history, and other settings took just a few minutes. I didn’t have to start from scratch or reorganize everything again.
Edge also supports most Chrome extensions, so I was able to continue using many of the tools I rely on every day. Whether it’s a password manager, grammar checker, note-taking extension, or productivity tool, chances are it will work in Edge just as it does in Chrome.
The interface is also easy to navigate. Tabs, menus, settings, and browsing controls are laid out in a familiar way, making the transition feel natural even if you’ve been using Chrome for years.
What I appreciated most was that Edge didn’t ask me to sacrifice compatibility in exchange for new features. I could keep the browsing experience I was already comfortable with while taking advantage of Edge’s built-in AI tools, Windows integration, and performance optimizations.
If you’ve been avoiding Edge because you think switching will be difficult, you’ll probably find the transition much easier than you expect.
5. Built-In Features That Reduce the Need for Extensions
Another reason I came to appreciate Microsoft Edge is the number of useful features it includes out of the box. Instead of relying on multiple extensions, many everyday tools are already built into the browser.
One feature I found particularly useful is Collections, which lets you save and organize web pages, images, and notes while researching a topic. Whether you’re planning a trip, comparing products, or gathering information for a project, Collections makes it easy to keep everything in one place.
I also liked Split Screen, which allows you to view two websites side by side in a single browser window. It’s especially helpful when comparing products, referencing one document while writing another, or multitasking without constantly switching tabs.
For users who work with PDF files, Edge includes a capable built-in PDF reader that supports highlighting, annotations, and basic editing. There’s also Read Aloud, which can read web pages and documents using natural-sounding voices—useful for long articles or improving accessibility.
Another handy tool is Web Capture, which lets you take screenshots of an entire webpage or just a selected area without installing an additional extension.
None of these features is revolutionary on its own, but together they make Microsoft Edge feel like a complete browser. The more I used it, the less I found myself searching for extensions to add functionality that was already built in.
Microsoft Edge vs Google Chrome: Which Browser Is Better in 2026?
After using both browsers extensively, I don’t think there’s a clear winner for everyone. Both Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome are fast, reliable, and capable of handling everything from everyday browsing to demanding web applications.
The better choice depends on what matters most to you.
| Feature | Microsoft Edge | Google Chrome |
|---|---|---|
| AI Features | Excellent (Built-in Copilot) | Good (Gemini integration) |
| Windows 11 Integration | Excellent | Good |
| Chrome Extensions | Supported | Supported |
| Built-in Productivity Tools | Excellent | Good |
| Performance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Google Services | Good | Excellent |
| Privacy | Good | Good |
If you spend most of your time using Windows 11 and Microsoft services, Edge has a noticeable advantage. Features like Copilot, Collections, Split Screen, Sleeping Tabs, and its tight integration with Windows create a more complete out-of-the-box experience.
Chrome still remains an excellent browser, particularly for users who rely heavily on Google’s ecosystem, including Gmail, Google Drive, Google Docs, and other Google services. It also has the largest browser market share and an extensive extension ecosystem.
For me, the biggest surprise was how much Edge has matured. It no longer feels like a browser that’s only useful for downloading Chrome. Instead, it has become a polished, feature-rich browser that deserves to be considered alongside the very best options available today.
Are There Any Downsides to Microsoft Edge?
While Microsoft Edge impressed me in many areas, it isn’t without its flaws.
The biggest drawback is that Microsoft sometimes promotes its own services a little too aggressively. You’ll occasionally see prompts encouraging you to use Bing as your default search engine, sign in with a Microsoft account, or try other Microsoft features. Although these suggestions can usually be dismissed or disabled, they may feel intrusive to some users.
Another downside is that Edge includes many built-in features. While tools like Copilot, Collections, Split Screen, and the PDF reader are genuinely useful, other features may never be used by the average person. As a result, the browser can feel a bit cluttered compared to Chrome’s simpler interface.
If you’re deeply invested in Google’s ecosystem, Chrome may still offer a more seamless experience with services like Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Workspace. Although these services work perfectly in Edge, they naturally integrate best with Google’s own browser.
That said, none of these issues were significant enough to stop me from using Edge. Most of them are minor annoyances rather than deal-breakers, and the browser’s strengths in performance, AI features, and Windows integration more than make up for them.
Final Verdict: Why I’ll Keep Using Microsoft Edge
Going into this test, I expected Microsoft Edge to be a little more than the browser I used to download Chrome. After spending time with it, I realized just how much it has improved.
Edge is fast, reliable, and fully compatible with modern websites and Chrome extensions. More importantly, it offers several features that genuinely enhance the browsing experience, including built-in AI through Copilot, useful productivity tools, and deep integration with Windows 11.
Is it perfect? No. Microsoft could do a better job of reducing promotional prompts, and some users may find the large number of built-in features unnecessary. If you’re heavily invested in Google’s ecosystem, Chrome may still be the better fit.
However, if you’re a Windows user looking for a browser that combines excellent performance, practical AI features, and useful built-in tools, Microsoft Edge deserves far more credit than it often receives.
For me, the biggest surprise wasn’t that Edge had improved—it was just how easy it was to keep using it. After giving Microsoft Edge another chance, I can confidently say it’s no longer just the browser you use to download Chrome.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your needs. Both browsers offer excellent performance and support modern websites. However, Microsoft Edge stands out with built-in AI features, Windows 11 integration, and productivity tools such as Collections, Split Screen, and an advanced PDF reader. Chrome remains a great choice for users who rely heavily on Google’s ecosystem.
Yes. Microsoft Edge is a secure browser that receives regular security updates and includes features such as Microsoft Defender SmartScreen to help protect users from phishing websites, malicious downloads, and other online threats.
Yes. Since Edge is built on Chromium, it supports most Chrome extensions. You can install extensions from both the Microsoft Edge Add-ons store and the Chrome Web Store.
In everyday browsing, both browsers perform very well. Microsoft Edge also includes features like Startup Boost, Sleeping Tabs, and Efficiency Mode, which can help improve performance and reduce resource usage, especially on Windows laptops.
If you use Windows 11 or Windows 10 and want better integration with the operating system, built-in AI features, and useful productivity tools without sacrificing compatibility, Microsoft Edge is definitely worth trying.
Looking for other browser options? You may also want to read my reviews of Brave Browser and Firefox to see how they compare with Microsoft Edge in terms of privacy, speed, AI features, and everyday usability.
