We often experience the Internet today as overloaded with data and therefore “heavier” than we want it to be. This is especially true for Windows users who have dozens of tabs, several web apps, downloads, and media streams running in their system. Their system gets slower, or their workflow is interrupted because of the cluttered interface. Once you think about it, the problem is not just the speed. It is about deciding on a browser that will be fast. It will also provide useful tools for the user but without the tools being so many that the user gets overwhelmed. Maxthon Browser chooses to be a simple alternative. It uses the very popular Chromium technology and has, at the same time, several built-in utilities for daily productivity.
Same engine as others, but lighter
Like other popular browsers, Maxthon features a Chromium core for the Windows version, thus guaranteeing the same level of serving issue-free webpages to its users. In fact, one can hardly find any website that does not look exactly like Chrome or Edge. Besides that, web-based applications will mostly be compatible when running on the Maxthon browser. When it comes to resource consumption, the Maxthon browser appears to be a comparatively lightweight browser during normal usage, such as streaming, working on documents, and browsing with multiple tabs open.
It is no secret that an average PC can open a web browser in no time. And so it is by and large the same with Maxthon Browser, even if you do not have a powerful PC. This makes the desktop at hand less of a problem when using the browser. On the other hand, the user gets to enjoy a neat interface that does not have unnecessary colors and elements. Things work normally as one opens new tabs and switches between pages, up to about 15–20, without any problems. It is not like this browser was invented for the purpose of shocking us. Instead, it provides a reliable environment that does not have the bloated feel, which is rarely the case with heavier ones.
Less Need for Extension
Basically, one of Maxthon’s hallmark characteristics is that it has several features that a normal user presumably would have had to add via an extension. Among the features that are natively there are ad-blocking, screenshot capturing, and note-taking, and even the download manager has been integrated directly into the interface. It is quite a relief for home and school users. They want the basic utilities and no hassle of managing different extensions and installation of add-ons.
During the day-to-day usage, the screenshot utility is extremely convenient when the user has to save a piece of information from the web for later. It is also useful when doing troubleshooting via screenshots. Compared to some browsers that come with a bare minimum interface, the ability of a download manager to show and control the different aspects of the downloads makes it a more complete tool. That being said, these handy tools are basic in their features. Users of highly specific and demanding extensions will be better off with a wider extension platform, although Maxthon can run Chrome extensions.
Cloud and Syncing Features
Maxthon features powerful cloud capabilities, such as account-based sync, which syncs bookmarks, browsing history, and settings on all your devices. Setting up your account on Windows is quite easy. Once you have synced your devices, you can be confident that the feature will work smoothly. This is an added convenience. Users who have a habit of working on a different system at the workplace and at home will appreciate it.
However, the look and feel of the cloud interface is more functional than visually attractive. In principle, the way it works is the same as the sync accounts that are there in hundreds of other apps and services. It works without the extra step of authentication each time. Although privacy-aware users will definitely want to check the privacy features available before trusting any provider with their data, there are still some privacy settings that can be used to reduce the risks. As a matter of fact, the sync feature is just enough for ordinary users. It does not have to be the main motive behind changing browsers in the first place.
Stable performance that you can rely on
When you add a bunch of tabs, stream some media, and edit a document, it can be a challenge for many browsers to remain stable. However, it isn’t a problem for Maxthon. The memory usage of Maxthon is not higher than that of some other more popular browsers under the same load. Browsers can be expected to stop working or respond more slowly if the user is a mad multi-tabber. There is nothing that learning institutions, remote working, or casual users of computers can do about it. With Maxthon, such a situation is less likely to happen.
On the other hand, nowadays, even a casual user is aware of having to expect an up-to-date and pleasant-looking interface design. Soon, one might be looking at a bigger UI change of the browser, since some of the screens, icons, or even menus have a slightly outdated look and feel compared to current trends. Performance-wise, while consistent, Maxthon does not have a significant lead over other browsers based on Chromium. The differentiation is primarily in the features it offers and its relatively lean approach, rather than raw speed.
Windows users who prefer simplicity will find a solid match
Windows users who are looking for a browser that does not come with a steep learning curve are not fussed with it getting them a lot of utilities anyway. They will find in Maxthon a kind of hybrid. Its usability will be on point for students who are managing a lot of research papers. It will also suit home users downloading music or video, and business professionals who are on the lookout for built-in utilities to rely on rather than extension-laden ones. On top of that, if you are already very comfortable with the Google or Microsoft ecosystems, then you might not find any compelling reason to change. However, the Maxthon Browser provides a low-friction and steady alternative.
It is a pretty humble crown that Maxthon is wearing, as its main virtue is being quietly reliable. Its objective is not to overhaul the browsing habits of people but to make sure that their experience is getting smoother and smoother with fewer adjustments necessary. If you are among those users who care about the day-to-day usability of a browser rather than what brand it is, then Maxthon continues to be a sensible choice for you.