As of May 2024, Google Chrome leads the pack with a 65.12% market share. Safari trails behind with 18.17%, followed by Microsoft Edge at 5.21%. Firefox, Samsung Internet, and Opera follow with smaller percentages1. Chrome and Safari together dominate over 83% of the global browser market1. The other browsers have much smaller shares2. Knowing which browsers are most popular is key for web developers, marketers, and businesses. It helps them improve their online presence and give users the best experience.
| Browser | Market Share | Flag |
|---|---|---|
| Chrome | 62.06% | ๐ |
| Safari | 13.30% | ๐งญ |
| Edge | 11.23% | ๐ต |
| Firefox | 6.69% | ๐ฆ |
| Opera | 4.54% | ๐ด |
| 360 Safe | 0.58% | ๐ข |
| Yandex | 0.39% | ๐ด |
| Internet Explorer | 0.37% | ๐ต |
Key Takeaways
- Google Chrome is the undisputed leader in the global browser market with a 65.12% share.
- Safari is the second most popular browser, holding 18.17% of the market.
- Microsoft Edge, Firefox, Samsung Internet, and Opera have much smaller market shares.
- Chrome and Safari together account for over 83% of the global browser market.
- Understanding the browser landscape is crucial for optimizing online presence and user experience.
Introduction to Web Browsers
Definition and Purpose of Web Browsers
Web browsers are software that connect users with the internet. They help get and show web pages and run web apps3. These tools are key for accessing and using online content and resources.
Brief History of Web Browser Evolution
The story of web browsers started in the early 1990s with Mosaic, Netscape Navigator, and Internet Explorer4. These browsers have grown to have more features, work better, and support the growing web5. Today, big names like Google, Apple, and Microsoft keep making new browsers to meet user needs.
Most Popular Desktop Browsers (2023)
Source: Net Applications, StatCounter, NetMarketShare, Wikimedia, W3Counter, Georgia Tech.
.
“The web browser has become the most widely used software application of all time… It is the dominant user interface of our time – the Graphical User Interface (GUI) of the Internet age.”
– Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web
Measuring Browser Usage and Market Share
Figuring out how often people use web browsers and their market share is tricky. Factors affecting browser usage statistics include things like user agent spoofing and the use of browser blockers6. Also, how data is collected, like through unique visitor tracking, can change the numbers6.
Companies like StatCounter and NetMarketShare use different ways to track browser usage. This leads to different numbers on who’s using what browser6. How often these numbers are updated also varies, from every month to once a year6. Knowing who uses which browser is key for web developers and businesses. It helps them make their websites better and plan their marketing6.
| Browser | Global Market Share | Mobile Market Share | Desktop Market Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | 62.85% | 64.52% | 61.94% |
| Safari | 28.13% | N/A | 13.44% |
| Microsoft Edge | 3.55% | 3.52% | 4.62% |
| Mozilla Firefox | 3.06% | 2.75% | 4.63% |
| Samsung Internet | 1.65% | 3.73% | 0.35% |
How reliable browser market share data is depends on who collects it and how6. A browser’s popularity can change fast, affected by new releases and user choices6. With more people using mobile devices, browsers on these devices are getting more popular6. This means web developers need to make sure their sites work well on different browsers for a good user experience6.
“The future of browser market share is likely to be influenced by technological advancements and changes in user behavior.”6
The Most Popular Web Browsers in the World
Many browsers lead the global market, with Google Chrome, Apple Safari, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Samsung Internet, and Opera at the top7. These browsers are used by most people around the world. Their popularity changes based on where people live and what devices they use.
Google Chrome leads the browser market8. It’s fast, has lots of features, and works well with many extensions7. Apple’s Safari is also popular, especially with Mac users in the U.S8..
Microsoft Edge is getting more popular, offering a fast and secure way to browse the web7. It has special features like privacy tools and saving websites as apps7. Mozilla Firefox is known for its security and letting users customize their browser, even if it’s not the fastest7.
Samsung Internet is big on mobile devices, and Opera is known for its proxy, security, and easy-to-use design7. These browsers meet the needs of certain users, making the web more diverse.
What makes these browsers popular includes what users like, how well they work with devices, and regional differences8. Knowing the good and bad of each browser helps users pick the best one for their needs and how they use the internet.
| Browser | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | Speedy performance, extensive features, wide extension compatibility | Potential privacy concerns due to data collection |
| Apple Safari | Clean privacy report, solid extension support, tab previews on Mac | Limited platform availability (primarily for Mac users) |
| Microsoft Edge | Fast, robust privacy tools, ability to save sites as apps | Relatively new player in the browser market |
| Mozilla Firefox | Strong focus on security and customization | May be slightly slower than competitors |
| Opera | Built-in proxy, great security features, user-friendly interface | Smaller market share compared to mainstream browsers |
In conclusion, a few top browsers lead the web, each with unique features for different users’ needs789.
Google Chrome: The Undisputed Leader
Google Chrome is the top web browser globally, with a 58.96% market share across all platforms10. It leads with a 65.12% share as of May 2024, making it the go-to browser for most internet users worldwide11.
Chrome’s Market Share Dominance
Chrome is available on desktop, mobile, and tablets, making it widely used10. On mobile, it has a 64.52% share, with Safari at 25.19% and Samsung Internet at 4.58%10. On desktop, Chrome leads with 61.94%, leaving Safari and Edge behind10. It also tops the tablet market with a 50.42% share, ahead of Safari and Android10.
Features and Benefits of Chrome
Chrome’s popularity comes from its speed, wide range of plugins, and integration with Google services10. Its security features, customization options, and syncing across devices make it a favorite10.
Chrome stays ahead in the evolving browser market with its rich features and large user base11. For marketers and website owners, optimizing for Chrome is key to a great user experience and leveraging its market lead11.
| Browser | Market Share |
|---|---|
| Google Chrome | 65.12% |
| Safari | 15.39% |
| Microsoft Edge | 6.63% |
| Mozilla Firefox | 3.97% |
| Samsung Internet | 2.75% |
“Chrome’s continued dominance is highlighted in the report, emphasizing the need for marketers to ensure their websites are optimized for Chrome.”11
Apple Safari: A Strong Contender
Apple’s Safari browser is a top choice worldwide, with 18.17% of the market as of May 202412. It comes standard on Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Its strong link with iOS and macOS, plus its focus on privacy and security, makes it a favorite among Apple fans13.
Safari is known for saving battery life on Mac laptops12 and has strong anti-tracking features and a clean reading mode12. Google Chrome leads the market, offering easy syncing across devices and a wide range of extensions12.
In 2021, Safari was used by about 19% of the world, ranking second to Chrome13. It was nearly 85% of the choice for U.S. Apple iOS users in October 202013. Over 60% of Mac users chose Safari in 202113.
Safari might not offer as many custom options as Vivaldi, but it’s still a top choice for Apple fans14. The tech world is always changing, and Safari is set to keep being a big player.
| Browser | Global Market Share | Mobile/Tablet Market Share | US Market Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | 65%14 | N/A | N/A |
| Apple Safari | 19%13 | 19.37% (Dec 2020)13 | 85% (iOS users, Oct 2020)13 |
| Mozilla Firefox | 3.55%14 | N/A | N/A |
| Microsoft Edge | 4.5%14 | N/A | N/A |
The safari browser from Apple is a big name in the browser world, especially for Apple device users. It focuses on privacy, security, and works well with Apple’s devices. This keeps Safari a strong choice, even when compared to the leading google chrome browser13.
“Safari’s usage share among U.S. Apple iOS users was estimated to be nearly 85% as of October 2020.”13
Microsoft Edge: The Revamped Browser
Microsoft Edge has changed a lot since it replaced Internet Explorer. It now focuses on being fast, working well with different websites, and using Chromium’s open-source tech. This has helped Edge grow in popularity worldwide15.
By May 2024, Microsoft Edge will be the third most used browser globally, after Chrome and Safari15. Its rise is thanks to new features like privacy tools and working well with Microsoft products15.
Edge’s Rise and Market Share
Edge first came out in 2015 with Windows 10 and Xbox One. Since then, it has changed a lot16. By February 2023, it was the third most popular browser, after Chrome and Safari16. In the U.S., it’s used by 14% of people, just behind Safari’s 16%16.
By September 2022, 11% of PCs worldwide used Edge16. Its updates and new features have made it more popular1516.
Microsoft is making Edge better for desktop users, not mobile15. Its good points, like better privacy and working well with Microsoft products, might challenge Chrome’s top spot15.
Mozilla Firefox: The Veteran Open-Source Browser
Mozilla Firefox is a well-known open-source browser. It holds a 2.82% share in the global market as of May 202417. It has seen a decline but still attracts users who value privacy and customization. Firefox sticks to open-source values and supports internet standards well.
It’s also compatible across different platforms and has a wide range of add-ons. This keeps its user base strong.
Recently, Firefox was downloaded over 3 million times, with about 200,000 downloads daily17. The Mozilla site got over 300 million page views this year. By mid-month, it welcomed around 10 million visitors17. This shows Firefox is gaining popularity.
But, some users have faced issues with Firefox. They’ve reported delays, trouble with heavy sites, and long startup times18. These problems have made some think about switching to Chrome or Bing18.
Despite these problems, Mozilla gets help from big names like AOL and IBM17. Almost 4,000 people donate about $10,000 monthly to support Mozilla17. This shows Firefox has a dedicated community ready to help improve it.
In summary, Mozilla Firefox keeps a small but significant market share17. It faces challenges but its focus on privacy and community support keeps it appealing. Firefox remains a good choice for those looking for an alternative to the top browsers.
Samsung Internet and Opera: Niche Players
While big names like Google Chrome, Apple Safari, and Microsoft Edge lead the market, others like Samsung Internet and Opera have their own spots. They offer special features for certain users19.
Samsung Internet’s Presence on Mobile Devices
Samsung Internet is big with a 2.48% global share, mainly used by Samsung device owners19. It’s made for Samsung phones and tablets, giving users a smooth experience20. In the UK, it’s even more popular, with a 3.42% share, beating Firefox and Opera20.
It’s clear Samsung Internet is a hit with mobile users, especially on Samsung devices, with a 4.48% global mobile share21.
Opera, with a 2.74% global share, focuses on privacy, security, and saving data19. It’s not as big as Samsung Internet, but Opera has a strong group of users who value these features20.
| Browser | Global Market Share | UK Market Share | Mobile Market Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | 64.73%20 | 51.56%20 | 64.93%21 |
| Apple Safari | 18.56%20 | 31.19%20 | 24.71%21 |
| Microsoft Edge | 4.97%20 | 8.23%20 | 4.97%21 |
| Mozilla Firefox | 3.36%20 | 3.04%20 | 3.36%21 |
| Opera | 2.86%20 | 1.25%20 | 2.86%21 |
| Samsung Internet | 2.59%20 | 3.42%20 | 4.48%21 |
Even though big browsers lead, Samsung Internet and Opera show how niche browsers can meet specific user needs. They add variety to the web browsing world19.
Regional Variations in Browser Popularity
Looking at global browser market share gives us a big picture, but it hides big differences in what people use in different places22. When we look closer, we see unique trends in each country. These trends are influenced by things like what devices people use, their cultural background, and the browsers made in their area.
Browser Market Share in the United States
In the U.S., Google Chrome and Apple Safari are the top browsers, making up 84.18% of all use22. Chrome is the leader with 52.08%, and Safari is second with 32.10%23.
Browser Market Share in China
China shows a different story, with Chrome leading at 46.56%23. Safari is next at 13.48%, and Microsoft Edge has 10.84%23.
Browser Market Share in Japan
In Japan, Chrome is the top choice with 56.48% of the market23. Safari and Microsoft Edge follow with 23.01% and 13.31% respectively23.
These differences in what people use as their browsers come from many things. This includes how well a browser works with devices, what users are used to, and if there are browsers made in their country222324.
| Country | Chrome | Safari | Edge | Other Browsers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 52.08% | 32.10% | 10% | 5.82% |
| China | 46.56% | 13.48% | 10.84% | 29.12% |
| Japan | 56.48% | 23.01% | 13.31% | 7.20% |
The Most Popular Web Browsers in the World
Many browsers lead the global market, with Google Chrome, Apple Safari, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Samsung Internet, and Opera at the top2. Chrome leads with a 65.12% share, followed by Safari with 18.17%, and Edge with 5.21%2. Other browsers have smaller but important shares, meeting specific user needs.
As of May 2024, Chrome was the top desktop browser with 64.87% share, followed by Edge at 13.14%, Safari at 8.79%, Firefox at 6.64%, Opera at 3.23%, and others at 3.33%2. On mobile, Chrome was at 63.57% in October 2021, with Safari at 25.61%2.
Chrome has always been the top browser, while Safari has a steady presence25. Firefox has faced competition, with its market share changing over time25.
| Browser | Market Share (2024) | Usage Share (October 2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Google Chrome | 64.87% | 65.12% |
| Apple Safari | 8.79% | 18.17% |
| Microsoft Edge | 13.14% | 5.21% |
| Mozilla Firefox | 6.64% | 4.93% |
| Samsung Internet | N/A | 2.67% |
| Opera | 3.23% | 2.09% |
| Others | 3.33% | 6.81% |
The data shows Chrome is the top browser, followed by Safari, Edge, Firefox, and others225. This reflects changing user preferences and tech advancements in web browsing.
“The browser wars are not over; they’ve just changed form.” – Graeme Philipson, technology analyst
The battle among top web browsers in the world is ongoing225. Each browser aims to improve its features and market share to meet user needs worldwide.
Factors Influencing Browser Choice
Choosing a web browser is shaped by many things. This includes what users like and how well the browser works with their devices26. People pick browsers that meet their needs and fit their style27.
User Preferences and Habits
What users know and like about a browser matters a lot. They look for speed, reliability, and features they want27. Google Chrome is popular because it’s fast, easy to use, and has lots of tools28.
Device Compatibility and Performance
How well a browser works with a device and its performance matters too27. Browsers like Safari work great with Apple products, and Microsoft Edge fits well with Microsoft services28.
When setting up a device, users get to choose from many browsers26. Most people who pick a browser then stick with it, showing how important it is to give users options26.
Where browsers are placed on choice screens affects how often they are picked26. People prefer seeing the choice screen right when setting up their device, not after26.
In short, what users like, how well a browser works with their devices, and how choice screens are set up all influence browser choices262728.
Conclusion
The web browser market is always changing, with a few big names leading the way. Google Chrome is the top browser, with 65.12% of the market29. Apple’s Safari and Microsoft’s Edge follow, but they have smaller shares. Still, these three browsers are used by most people around the world29.
Knowing about the browser market helps businesses and web developers make better choices. They need to focus on speed, security, and user experience30. Mobile use, new tech like AR and VR, and voice-activated features are also changing browsers31.
The battle among browsers will get fiercer as technology advances. Staying up-to-date with browser trends is key for businesses and users. This helps them stay ahead in the digital world.
FAQ
What is the most popular web browser in the world?
Google Chrome leads the pack with a 65.12% market share as of May 2024.
What is the second most popular web browser in the world?
Safari comes in second with an 18.17% market share as of May 2024.
What is the third most popular web browser in the world?
Microsoft Edge ranks third with a 5.21% market share as of May 2024.
What is the global market share of the top web browsers?
The top browsers include Google Chrome (65.12%), Safari (18.17%), Microsoft Edge (5.21%), Firefox (2.82%), Samsung Internet (2.66%), and Opera (2.54%).
How does browser usage vary across different regions?
Browser usage varies widely across regions. In the U.S., Chrome and Safari together have an 84.18% share. In China, Chrome leads with a 46.56% share.
What factors influence a user’s choice of web browser?
Users choose browsers based on their preferences, device compatibility, performance, and the features they need or want.
Source Links
- Web Browser Market Share In 2024: 85+ Browser Usage Statistics – https://backlinko.com/browser-market-share
- Usage share of web browsers – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usage_share_of_web_browsers
- Most Popular Web Browsers in 2024 [Jun ’24 Update] | Oberlo – https://www.oberlo.com/statistics/browser-market-share
- Web browser – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_browser
- Understanding Browser Market Share: Which browsers to test on in 2024 | BrowserStack – https://www.browserstack.com/guide/understanding-browser-market-share
- How Browser Market Share is Calculated โ SitePoint – https://www.sitepoint.com/how-browser-market-share-is-calculated/
- Best web browser of 2024 – https://www.techradar.com/best/browser
- Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera, or Safari: Which Browser Is Best for 2024? – https://www.pcmag.com/picks/chrome-edge-firefox-opera-or-safari-which-browser-is-best
- The Best Web Browsers of 2024 – https://www.highspeedinternet.com/resources/best-web-browsers
- Browser Usage Statistics by Year, Device and Country (2024) – https://wpshout.com/browser-usage-statistics/
- Chrome maintains its dominant position with a significant market share – https://ppc.land/chrome-maintains-its-dominant-position-with-a-significant-market-share/
- Top 10 Best Browsers for Mac in 2024 (Free + Paid) – https://elephas.app/blog/best-browsers-mac
- Apple Safari Statistics: Latest Data & Summary – WiFiTalents – https://wifitalents.com/statistic/apple-safari/
- Chrome vs. Safari: Best Browser for iPhone and Mac | ExpressVPN Blog – https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/chrome-vs-safari-best-browser-for-iphone-and-mac/
- Microsoftโs Edge browser is now more popular than ever โ but why? – https://www.techradar.com/computing/edge/microsofts-edge-browser-is-now-more-popular-than-ever-but-why
- Microsoft Edge – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_Edge
- home of mozilla, firefox, thunderbird, and camino – https://www-archive.mozilla.org/mf-first-anniversary.html
- Firefox has become garbage – https://discourse.mozilla.org/t/firefox-has-become-garbage/90369
- Top 10 Internet Browsers: Most Popular Web Browsers Reviewed – https://technumero.com/most-popular-web-browsers/
- Most Popular Web Browsers in 2023: A Look at the UK Market – https://www.avasam.com/most-popular-web-browsers-in-2023-a-look-at-the-uk-market/
- Business of Web Browsers: Market Leaders and Strategies – https://blog.bogozi.com/web-browser-business-insights/
- Web Browser Popularity Analysis for QA – https://medium.com/@max.kombarov/web-browser-popularity-analysis-for-qa-30a1ac4946ba
- 24 Amazing Browser Usage Statistics [2024 Figures] – SpringEngage – https://springengage.com/browser-usage-statistics/
- The most popular mobile browsers – https://deviceatlas.com/blog/the-most-popular-mobile-browsers
- W3Schools.com – https://www.w3schools.com/browsers/
- Deciding for ourselves: 98% of people want a browser choice screen, Mozilla study finds | The Mozilla Blog – https://blog.mozilla.org/en/mozilla/browser-choice-screen-study/
- PDF – https://www.seu.ac.lk/jisit/publication/v5n2/JISIT-5205.pdf
- ๐๐ฅ๐จ๐๐๐ฅ ๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฐ๐ฌ๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ซ๐ค๐๐ญ ๐๐ข๐ณ๐, ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ฌ, ๐๐๐ฌ๐ญ๐ซ๐๐ข๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ, ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐ – – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/global-market-research-gmr-7046489122441494528
- Usage Share of Web Browsers – https://gloriathemes.com/usage-share-of-web-browsers/
- Web Browsers and Their Impact on Internet Experience – https://shape.host/resources/web-browsers-and-their-impact-on-internet-experience
- Surfing the Web: Understanding Web Browsers and the Internet | Institute of Data – https://www.institutedata.com/us/blog/web-browsers-and-the-internet/