Choosing the right browser can have a huge effect on how you experience the internet, and if it's been several years since you last tried a new one, you might be shocked by the impact it can have.

Speed and privacy are two of the biggest considerations that will guide you when you're choosing a browser; some demand more of your system resources while others are relatively lightweight, and some offer full suites of security tools to protect your identity online, while others allow cookies and ads to run unhindered.

It's a very close-run thing, but we believe that Firefox is the best browser you can download today. It's not without its flaws, but developer Mozilla has committed to supporting its users' privacy and developing tools to stop third parties from tracking you around the web.

The newly released Chromium-based Edge comes a close second. It supports all the same browser extensions as Google Chrome, but is noticeably less RAM-hungry, allowing for faster performance.

These are far from the only options though, and there are lots of reasons to look beyond the biggest names to more niche browsers. Read on for our complete guide, and discover the best browser for you.

1. Mozilla Firefox

The best browser for power users and privacy protection

2. Microsoft Edge

A genuinely great browser from the former browser best browser for bad guys

3. Google Chrome

It’s the world’s favourite, best browser, but it can be a memory-muncher

4. Opera

A classy browser that’s particularly good for collecting content

5. Vivaldi

Build your own browser with unique docking and tab-stacking