The Mac version of Microsoft Edge does not include Microsoft's browsing protection feature called SmartScreen. To provide similar protection, they have bundled their Microsoft Defender Browser.
- Edge Browser For Mac Download
- Download Microsoft Edge Browser For Mac
- Edge Browser For Macbook
- Edge Web Browser For Mac
Microsoft Edge is the only browser with built-in tools to help you save time and money when shopping online. Microsoft Edge is the only browser with built-in tools to help you save time and money when shopping online. Microsoft Edge has built-in features designed to give you more control over your. Install Virtual Machine for Mac OS X to Run Microsoft Edge Browser To use Microsoft Edge on an Apple computer running Mac OS X, a virtual machine software is needed. Macintoshes are usually equipped with high-end hardware, therefore such programs don't really cause a strain on the system. There are two downloads before the actual process begins.
17 January 2020
Switching web browser is often overlooked by Mac users as Safari comes pre-loaded.
But in this day and age, where privacy and security are so highly valued, choosing a browser geared towards keeping your personal data safe and secure is as important as having antivirus software installed.
So, which is the most private browser for Mac? The most secure? Most customizable?
Let's find out.
In this article, you'll learn:
- The 7 most secure browsers for Mac, as chosen by MacUpdate community
- The key characteristics of a modern web browser
- The most common online threats
- How to browse safely
The 7 Best Browsers for Mac, as Voted by the MacUpdate Community
Fast, feature-laden and customizable, Vivaldi for Mac is a terrific web browser.
It's laser-focused on providing a unique user experience, so much so that during the initial setup process, you have the opportunity to decide the theme, layout, tab and address bar placement, and so much more.
But it's not just a pretty face. It boasts a range of privacy and security measures to keep your data from prying eyes. When you browse in a Private Window, cookies and temporary files aren't stored by Vivaldi, while the browser's own privacy policy is as transparent as it gets.
And when you're syncing browser data between devices, everything is sent using end-to-end encryption for further peace of mind.
Pros:
- Can run Chrome extensions
- An excellent bookmarks system
- Built-in page capture
Cons:
- No built-in adblocker
- Does not offer automatic translation
- Vivaldi is built on the same browser engine as Chrome, meaning it shares a number of the same security concerns. Given that Chrome is so popular, many of the hacks that will work on Chrome can also be applied to Vivaldi
Like Vivaldi, Opera is another popular alternative to Chrome.
It's also built on Google's Chromium browser engine and shares a number of key characteristics with Google's browser. The user experience is very similar, and Opera is just as quick, light, and easy-to-use.
Where Opera differs is the built-in features. It values user experience, privacy and security right out of the box, with its own ad blocker, free VPN, crypto wallet, unit converter, and more.
It prioritises speed and performance while making sure you remain safe as you browse. Opera's secure browser protects you from fraud and malware and minimises online tracking.
Pros:
- Built-in unlimited VPN service
- Built-in 'Stash' feature for saving web pages to read later
- Fast and reliable, with a sleek design
Cons:
- Not always compatible with older websites
- The 'baked-in' security features are a great starting point, but not as comprehensive as dedicated, paid-for antivirus software
Chrome is everywhere, so it's little wonder that it stands alone as the most popular browser on the planet.
At last count, it took 64.3% of the worldwide browser market share, making it four times as popular as Safari.
And there are a few good reasons why it's so commonly used. The feature set is robust, with options geared towards productivity, security, and convenience, while its built-in tools help you answer questions faster and more accurately.
It's also the gold standard when it comes to syncing. Simply log into your Google account and have all of your preferences, bookmarks and data at your fingertips, from Macbook to iPhone to iPad.
Pros:
- Built-in password manager, auto-translator and adblocker
- Syncs preferences and bookmarks across a number of devices
- Alert to phishing schemes, ransomware, and other malicious software
Cons:
- Larger file size when compared with other browsers
- Often slows down when navigating between web pages
Apple's default browser may not have the popularity of Chrome, or indeed the speed, but that doesn't mean Safari isn't worth considering.
If you're a fully-fledged Apple fan, you'll appreciate the level of integration with macOS and iCloud, with the ability to sync across all of your devices. And thanks to some Mac-specific optimizations, you'll also enjoy a far greater battery life when compared to some other, CPU-hungry browsers.
Safari has been built to maintain your privacy, keep you secure, and make sure your browsing habits remain your business and no-one else's.
Features include: intelligent tracking prevention; fingerprinting defence; protection from harmful sites; and private browsing. There's even DuckDuckGo (a search engine that does not track its users) built-in for a handy Google alternative.
Pros:
- Securely stores passwords, usernames, and credit card numbers
- Optimized for Mac
- Guards against malicious code and malware by sandboxing websites
Cons:
- Not nearly as customizable as other browsers
Firefox was, for the longest time, everyone's go-to second choice web browser. But credit must go to Mozilla for taking such huge steps in recent times to transform Firefox into the quintessential modern browser.
Bursting with features, Firefox covers all the bases, from data synchronisation to ad tracker blocking, password management and balanced memory usage.
It's also one of the most transparent organisations around, and fiercely protective of its user data, too.
Pros:
- Limited data collection
- Customizable user experience - choose from thousands of themes
- Uses 1.77x less memory than Chrome
Cons:
- Difficult to reach the support team, although knowledge base is comprehensive
Brave by name, brave by nature. This web browser has taken the unusual step in blocking ads by default, which makes everything super fast (3x to 6x faster, according to Brave's head-to-head test with Chrome).
It also makes switching browser a cinch thanks to its import option. During the welcome stage, you can import all of your settings and bookmarks from your old browser, so you can pick up from where you left off.
Secure browsing is prioritized, with phishing and malware consistently blocked, and dodgy plugins disabled from the outset.
And then there's the cherry on top: There's absolutely no user tracking; Brave's servers don't see or store your browsing data.
Pros: 6 questions for joe boxer founder nick graham jr.
- Your privacy and security is non-negotiable. HTTPS is everywhere, and ‘no tracking' comes asstandard.
- Faster and less intrusive than other browsers.
- Provides an alternative ad network, allowing you to support the content creators and websitesyou love.
Cons:
- Built on the Chromium browser engine, exposing it to some of the same security threats as Chrome.
- Some MacUpdate users report issues of compatibility with certain websites.
And the Winner Is..
Given that online privacy is such a hot button topic, it's little surprise that the Tor Browser has come out on top.
This particular browser serves one purpose: to connect users to Tor (short for The Onion Router). Tor is a software and open network designed to make tracking someone's browsing habits extremely difficult by routing traffic through a number of anonymous servers.
Essentially, it wraps your data in layers of encryption, like the layers of an onion.
Although Tor has a reputation for providing access to the dark web, there are a number of legitimate reasons why you might use it.
Journalists and activists have been known to use Tor to avoid detection while researching stories or spreading their message, while it also allows citizens of countries with repressive regimes to get around strict censorship laws.
Pros:
- Protects against tracking, surveillance and censorship
- Secures traffic against insecure wireless networks and ISPs
- Option to block scripts and automatically clear cookies
Cons:
- It can be very slow, but that's the trade-off with bouncing your traffic across various servers to avoid tracking
- It's also not the best option for streaming
So, What Do You Need from a Modern Web Browser?
While speed and performance are important considerations when choosing a web browser for Mac, there are a few others that rank much higher. Namely, compatibility & usability, and security.
Compatibility & Usability
Safari comes pre-installed on your Mac, but you might find that there are certain websites, forms, or services that just don't work as intended on Apple's browser.
Sometimes developers test more extensively on competing browsers, and so, for the best experience, you may have to switch.
Likewise, if you are required to use a particular browser in work, and you need to work from home, using the same browser on your personal computer will allow you to sync your work history and bookmarks.
Security
Every time you log onto the internet, the most significant security risk you'll face is your web browser of choice. After all, it's the gateway to the web.
Its primary function is to download and execute code from the Internet, and if the necessary security measures are lacking, harmful software could make its way onto your device.
Edge Browser For Mac Download
We'll cover safe browsing techniques later in the article (and look at the safest browser for Mac), but the best thing you can do when browsing online is to be mindful of misleading links and requests to download and install software. More often than not, this will result in malware infection.
And if you're using a web browser that's renowned for its web extensions (such as Chrome or Firefox) take extra care when enabling them.
Scrutinize the permissions you're being asked to grant, and if something doesn't appear right (like a spellchecker asking for camera access), disable and uninstall the extension.
Privacy vs. Security - What's the Difference?
Privacy and security are often lumped together when discussing the benefits of web browsers. But while they are related - and do overlap in certain areas - they aren't the same thing.
So, before we get to our reviews of the best browsers for Mac, let's quickly clarify the difference:
- Privacy refers to your right to control your personal information and determine how it's used.
- Security, meanwhile, refers to how your personal information is protected.
Think of privacy like the shutters on your windows. You can control how much or how little the outside world gets to see of the inside of your home.
Message matecustomers text and im you from your site. And that makes security the lock on your door, preventing the outside world from gaining access to your home.
Common Online Threats
It has never been more important to select the right browser where online security is concerned.
Let's talk numbers.
- 64% of small businesses have experienced web-based attacks
- 92% of malware is delivered by email
- Every 39 seconds (on average, 2,244 times a day) there's a hacker attack according to a University of Maryland study
Here are some of the most common online threats that you need to know about:
- Pharming. Hackers find real websites that have had their security compromised and inject malicious scripts into the code. These scripts are then used to redirect users to a malicious version of the website, where they can unwittingly enter personal information.
- Phishing. Fake websites, emails, and text messages created to look like they're from legitimate companies. They're used by criminals to steal sensitive personal and financial information and for identity theft. Otherwise known as 'spoofing'.
- Ransomware. Malware that takes your computer or your files hostage, demanding payment in order to release the restriction. Ransomware commonly arrives via phishing emails containing malicious attachments and website pop-ups.
- Trojan Horses. Malicious programs that are embedded in or disguised as real, legitimate software. Once downloaded, it will install itself and run automatically.
- Spyware. Software that collects personal information without your knowledge. Spyware or adware will typically arrive via ‘free' downloads and can be automatically installed with or without your consent. Often very difficult to remove.
How to Browse Safely in 2020
Download Microsoft Edge Browser For Mac
You can take steps to protect yourself from the threats outlined above by doing the following:
- Don't save login details in the browser. Instead, use a password manager, or choose a browser with an in-built password management feature (like Chrome).
- Delete the browser cache. This allows you to remove any trace of sensitive information from your browser, such as online banking credentials. Some browsers will do this automatically when closing a window or tab, while others require manual intervention.
- Browse in private/incognito mode. Recommended when using a public computer. This will prevent the browser from saving personal information.
- Disable cookies to stop tracking. Note: This may impact the functionality of certain websites.
- Look out for pop-ups, ads and redirects. Especially ones claiming that your device is infected. Clicking on those links will almost guarantee malware infection, so they're best ignored. If you're concerned, download a reputable antivirus software, and choose a web browser that combats malware and blocks ads as standard.
- Use a VPN. A Virtual Private Network will shield you from being tracked online. Your browsing is anonymized, keeping you safe and your privacy intact.
In Summary
Like most Mac-related decisions, selecting your web browser will come down to personal preference.
Do you value the ability to customise the look and layout? Vivaldi and Firefox are great options.
Do you want faster, ad-free browsing? Then it's Brave for you.
Does privacy and security matter? Try Tor.
Or is it all about syncing data across multiple devices? You can't go wrong with Safari or Chrome.
Whichever you choose, just remember, a web browser is only one part of staying secure online. For further protection, check out our list of Mac antivirus software to keep you safe while you surf.
Mac users might be wondering, 'What is Microsoft Edge?' In a nutshell, it's a modern web browser designed to replace Internet Explorer, which has been the default browser on Windows machines since 1995. Released alongside Windows 10, Microsoft Edge is made to compete with other highly popular alternatives such as Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome.
Initially, Microsoft was hoping that the native integration with Windows search and Cortana, a voice-activated assistant, would give the Microsoft Edge browser an advantage over the competition. But the company quickly understood that lacking cross-platform support was a big hindrance — so they updated the underlying code to allow Microsoft Edge to work with other operating systems.
Garritan Instant Orchestra is a revolutionary sound library that reinvents the way orchestral music is created by simplifying and streamlining the process. It is designed to create full cinematic orchestrations from just a few lines of music. With pre-packaged combinations and mash-ups, mood-based presets, and orchestral effects, you can evoke any emotion–instantly. Garritan instant orchestra.
Boost your browser with Setapp
Speed up your browsing, hide specific pages, or remove any traces of your browsing history. Every scenario covered with Setapp.
Is Microsoft Edge Available For Mac?
The first announcement that hinted at the possibility of Microsoft Edge running on macOS was its move to a Chromium-powered code engine. Finally, in 2019, Microsoft did release an early version of Microsoft Edge browser for Mac called Canary, which is a project name for the beta. The Canary version of Microsoft Edge is currently only accessible through the Microsoft Edge Insider program, which grants early access to new updates and betas before they roll out to market.
Releasing the Edge Microsoft beta was a timely announcement for users who had recently switched from Windows to Mac, or used both Windows and Mac in their daily lives and didn't want to keep switching browsers.
Generally speaking, users do prefer to use one web browser across all their devices due to the similar user experience (e.g. having common features and buttons in the same place) as well as the possibility of syncing their history, bookmarks, and preferences. And while competing browsers had been enjoying those perks for years, Microsoft lost some of that momentum with their late transition from Internet Explorer to Edge for Mac.
How is Microsoft Edge for Mac different?
Microsoft used to be very particular about protecting their proprietary design language and exclusive Windows support. But the modern user demands a more natural crossover between devices and operating systems — Microsoft Edge included.
To make the move to macOS as seamless as possible, Microsoft had to make some changes and updates to suit the Mac environment. Most notably, the interface now more closely matches the global macOS design. For example, Microsoft Edge browser for Mac has updated fonts, navigation bars, and menus to mimic other Mac apps. Mac users will also enjoy trackpad gestures and hotkeys that feel right at home. Microsoft has even added preliminary support for Touch Bar and aims to include more contextual actions in the future.
Web developers will be grateful for the IE mode in Microsoft Edge for Mac, which replicates older Internet Explorer environments to help with testing and viewing dated websites that aren't designed for modern web browsers.
Windows users will be happy to see that the Collections feature has made the jump. Collections is similar to bookmarking, but lets you save text, images, websites, and more into one place via a simple drag-and-drop. Later, your saved material can be shared with others in just a few clicks — fantastic for collaborating quickly with colleagues, family, and friends.
As Microsoft Edge is currently in its early stages on Mac, its development team is actively asking for feedback from users to help shape the product roadmap.
How to download Microsoft Edge for Mac
If you're looking for the Microsoft Edge for Mac download — let's get started! First, you'll need to be running macOS 10.12 (Sierra) or above, which you can check by clicking on your Apple menu and then About This Mac. If you're up to date, here's what to do next:
Open the Microsoft Edge Insider Channels website. Note that Microsoft Edge is still in beta and might be buggy.
Under the Canary Channel, click Download. Ensure that beneath the download button, it says macOS — if not, you'll need to click the dropdown arrow and select it.
Accept the license terms
When the Edge browser for Mac download has finished, open the download package
Click Continue ➙ Install
Enter your password ➙ Install Software
Once the installation is finished, it will ask if you want to delete the installation files. Click on 'Move to Trash'.
Open Microsoft Edge by finding it in your Dock or Applications folder
To enjoy the best cross-device experience after completing your Microsoft Edge download for Mac, consider logging in to your Microsoft account from the Edge browser. To do this, open Microsoft Edge, then click on the profile icon next to the URL bar and click Sign In.
More better apps for your Mac
If you're accustomed to using Microsoft Edge and happy that it's moving to Mac, you might also wonder about other Microsoft apps. But Microsoft is yet to release their full suite of Mac software. Thankfully though there are some amazing alternatives that readily fill the gaps without breaking the bank. In fact, you can get all the apps you need for Mac with a single subscription service called Setapp, which grants you access to more than 150 apps.
Get a perfect alternative for MS tools on Mac
Download an all-in-one collection of apps that can replace every Microsoft tool you've ever used. The chances are you'll love them even more.
But before you even start installing new apps, you might want to clean up and optimize your Mac for best performance using CleanMyMac X — a lightweight tool made to improve, secure, and maintain your Mac in top shape in just in a few clicks.
Launch CleanMyMac X
Navigate to System Junk ➙ Scan
When the scan is done, Review Details and Clean everything you don't need
Repeat the process once a month or so to keep your system running smoothly
Looking for something similar to Microsoft Word? Try Ulysses, a writing and Markdown editor for Mac that favors a beautiful, simple interface to allow you room to do your best work. The app also lets you set a word count goal to hit every day to motivate you to write more.
Working across devices? Ulysses synchronizes your documents and work in progress across them all using a cloud-based data storage system, so you can pick up where you left off.
Firefox was, for the longest time, everyone's go-to second choice web browser. But credit must go to Mozilla for taking such huge steps in recent times to transform Firefox into the quintessential modern browser.
Bursting with features, Firefox covers all the bases, from data synchronisation to ad tracker blocking, password management and balanced memory usage.
It's also one of the most transparent organisations around, and fiercely protective of its user data, too.
Pros:
- Limited data collection
- Customizable user experience - choose from thousands of themes
- Uses 1.77x less memory than Chrome
Cons:
- Difficult to reach the support team, although knowledge base is comprehensive
Brave by name, brave by nature. This web browser has taken the unusual step in blocking ads by default, which makes everything super fast (3x to 6x faster, according to Brave's head-to-head test with Chrome).
It also makes switching browser a cinch thanks to its import option. During the welcome stage, you can import all of your settings and bookmarks from your old browser, so you can pick up from where you left off.
Secure browsing is prioritized, with phishing and malware consistently blocked, and dodgy plugins disabled from the outset.
And then there's the cherry on top: There's absolutely no user tracking; Brave's servers don't see or store your browsing data.
Pros: 6 questions for joe boxer founder nick graham jr.
- Your privacy and security is non-negotiable. HTTPS is everywhere, and ‘no tracking' comes asstandard.
- Faster and less intrusive than other browsers.
- Provides an alternative ad network, allowing you to support the content creators and websitesyou love.
Cons:
- Built on the Chromium browser engine, exposing it to some of the same security threats as Chrome.
- Some MacUpdate users report issues of compatibility with certain websites.
And the Winner Is..
Given that online privacy is such a hot button topic, it's little surprise that the Tor Browser has come out on top.
This particular browser serves one purpose: to connect users to Tor (short for The Onion Router). Tor is a software and open network designed to make tracking someone's browsing habits extremely difficult by routing traffic through a number of anonymous servers.
Essentially, it wraps your data in layers of encryption, like the layers of an onion.
Although Tor has a reputation for providing access to the dark web, there are a number of legitimate reasons why you might use it.
Journalists and activists have been known to use Tor to avoid detection while researching stories or spreading their message, while it also allows citizens of countries with repressive regimes to get around strict censorship laws.
Pros:
- Protects against tracking, surveillance and censorship
- Secures traffic against insecure wireless networks and ISPs
- Option to block scripts and automatically clear cookies
Cons:
- It can be very slow, but that's the trade-off with bouncing your traffic across various servers to avoid tracking
- It's also not the best option for streaming
So, What Do You Need from a Modern Web Browser?
While speed and performance are important considerations when choosing a web browser for Mac, there are a few others that rank much higher. Namely, compatibility & usability, and security.
Compatibility & Usability
Safari comes pre-installed on your Mac, but you might find that there are certain websites, forms, or services that just don't work as intended on Apple's browser.
Sometimes developers test more extensively on competing browsers, and so, for the best experience, you may have to switch.
Likewise, if you are required to use a particular browser in work, and you need to work from home, using the same browser on your personal computer will allow you to sync your work history and bookmarks.
Security
Every time you log onto the internet, the most significant security risk you'll face is your web browser of choice. After all, it's the gateway to the web.
Its primary function is to download and execute code from the Internet, and if the necessary security measures are lacking, harmful software could make its way onto your device.
Edge Browser For Mac Download
We'll cover safe browsing techniques later in the article (and look at the safest browser for Mac), but the best thing you can do when browsing online is to be mindful of misleading links and requests to download and install software. More often than not, this will result in malware infection.
And if you're using a web browser that's renowned for its web extensions (such as Chrome or Firefox) take extra care when enabling them.
Scrutinize the permissions you're being asked to grant, and if something doesn't appear right (like a spellchecker asking for camera access), disable and uninstall the extension.
Privacy vs. Security - What's the Difference?
Privacy and security are often lumped together when discussing the benefits of web browsers. But while they are related - and do overlap in certain areas - they aren't the same thing.
So, before we get to our reviews of the best browsers for Mac, let's quickly clarify the difference:
- Privacy refers to your right to control your personal information and determine how it's used.
- Security, meanwhile, refers to how your personal information is protected.
Think of privacy like the shutters on your windows. You can control how much or how little the outside world gets to see of the inside of your home.
Message matecustomers text and im you from your site. And that makes security the lock on your door, preventing the outside world from gaining access to your home.
Common Online Threats
It has never been more important to select the right browser where online security is concerned.
Let's talk numbers.
- 64% of small businesses have experienced web-based attacks
- 92% of malware is delivered by email
- Every 39 seconds (on average, 2,244 times a day) there's a hacker attack according to a University of Maryland study
Here are some of the most common online threats that you need to know about:
- Pharming. Hackers find real websites that have had their security compromised and inject malicious scripts into the code. These scripts are then used to redirect users to a malicious version of the website, where they can unwittingly enter personal information.
- Phishing. Fake websites, emails, and text messages created to look like they're from legitimate companies. They're used by criminals to steal sensitive personal and financial information and for identity theft. Otherwise known as 'spoofing'.
- Ransomware. Malware that takes your computer or your files hostage, demanding payment in order to release the restriction. Ransomware commonly arrives via phishing emails containing malicious attachments and website pop-ups.
- Trojan Horses. Malicious programs that are embedded in or disguised as real, legitimate software. Once downloaded, it will install itself and run automatically.
- Spyware. Software that collects personal information without your knowledge. Spyware or adware will typically arrive via ‘free' downloads and can be automatically installed with or without your consent. Often very difficult to remove.
How to Browse Safely in 2020
Download Microsoft Edge Browser For Mac
You can take steps to protect yourself from the threats outlined above by doing the following:
- Don't save login details in the browser. Instead, use a password manager, or choose a browser with an in-built password management feature (like Chrome).
- Delete the browser cache. This allows you to remove any trace of sensitive information from your browser, such as online banking credentials. Some browsers will do this automatically when closing a window or tab, while others require manual intervention.
- Browse in private/incognito mode. Recommended when using a public computer. This will prevent the browser from saving personal information.
- Disable cookies to stop tracking. Note: This may impact the functionality of certain websites.
- Look out for pop-ups, ads and redirects. Especially ones claiming that your device is infected. Clicking on those links will almost guarantee malware infection, so they're best ignored. If you're concerned, download a reputable antivirus software, and choose a web browser that combats malware and blocks ads as standard.
- Use a VPN. A Virtual Private Network will shield you from being tracked online. Your browsing is anonymized, keeping you safe and your privacy intact.
In Summary
Like most Mac-related decisions, selecting your web browser will come down to personal preference.
Do you value the ability to customise the look and layout? Vivaldi and Firefox are great options.
Do you want faster, ad-free browsing? Then it's Brave for you.
Does privacy and security matter? Try Tor.
Or is it all about syncing data across multiple devices? You can't go wrong with Safari or Chrome.
Whichever you choose, just remember, a web browser is only one part of staying secure online. For further protection, check out our list of Mac antivirus software to keep you safe while you surf.
Mac users might be wondering, 'What is Microsoft Edge?' In a nutshell, it's a modern web browser designed to replace Internet Explorer, which has been the default browser on Windows machines since 1995. Released alongside Windows 10, Microsoft Edge is made to compete with other highly popular alternatives such as Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome.
Initially, Microsoft was hoping that the native integration with Windows search and Cortana, a voice-activated assistant, would give the Microsoft Edge browser an advantage over the competition. But the company quickly understood that lacking cross-platform support was a big hindrance — so they updated the underlying code to allow Microsoft Edge to work with other operating systems.
Garritan Instant Orchestra is a revolutionary sound library that reinvents the way orchestral music is created by simplifying and streamlining the process. It is designed to create full cinematic orchestrations from just a few lines of music. With pre-packaged combinations and mash-ups, mood-based presets, and orchestral effects, you can evoke any emotion–instantly. Garritan instant orchestra.
Boost your browser with Setapp
Speed up your browsing, hide specific pages, or remove any traces of your browsing history. Every scenario covered with Setapp.
Is Microsoft Edge Available For Mac?
The first announcement that hinted at the possibility of Microsoft Edge running on macOS was its move to a Chromium-powered code engine. Finally, in 2019, Microsoft did release an early version of Microsoft Edge browser for Mac called Canary, which is a project name for the beta. The Canary version of Microsoft Edge is currently only accessible through the Microsoft Edge Insider program, which grants early access to new updates and betas before they roll out to market.
Releasing the Edge Microsoft beta was a timely announcement for users who had recently switched from Windows to Mac, or used both Windows and Mac in their daily lives and didn't want to keep switching browsers.
Generally speaking, users do prefer to use one web browser across all their devices due to the similar user experience (e.g. having common features and buttons in the same place) as well as the possibility of syncing their history, bookmarks, and preferences. And while competing browsers had been enjoying those perks for years, Microsoft lost some of that momentum with their late transition from Internet Explorer to Edge for Mac.
How is Microsoft Edge for Mac different?
Microsoft used to be very particular about protecting their proprietary design language and exclusive Windows support. But the modern user demands a more natural crossover between devices and operating systems — Microsoft Edge included.
To make the move to macOS as seamless as possible, Microsoft had to make some changes and updates to suit the Mac environment. Most notably, the interface now more closely matches the global macOS design. For example, Microsoft Edge browser for Mac has updated fonts, navigation bars, and menus to mimic other Mac apps. Mac users will also enjoy trackpad gestures and hotkeys that feel right at home. Microsoft has even added preliminary support for Touch Bar and aims to include more contextual actions in the future.
Web developers will be grateful for the IE mode in Microsoft Edge for Mac, which replicates older Internet Explorer environments to help with testing and viewing dated websites that aren't designed for modern web browsers.
Windows users will be happy to see that the Collections feature has made the jump. Collections is similar to bookmarking, but lets you save text, images, websites, and more into one place via a simple drag-and-drop. Later, your saved material can be shared with others in just a few clicks — fantastic for collaborating quickly with colleagues, family, and friends.
As Microsoft Edge is currently in its early stages on Mac, its development team is actively asking for feedback from users to help shape the product roadmap.
How to download Microsoft Edge for Mac
If you're looking for the Microsoft Edge for Mac download — let's get started! First, you'll need to be running macOS 10.12 (Sierra) or above, which you can check by clicking on your Apple menu and then About This Mac. If you're up to date, here's what to do next:
Open the Microsoft Edge Insider Channels website. Note that Microsoft Edge is still in beta and might be buggy.
Under the Canary Channel, click Download. Ensure that beneath the download button, it says macOS — if not, you'll need to click the dropdown arrow and select it.
Accept the license terms
When the Edge browser for Mac download has finished, open the download package
Click Continue ➙ Install
Enter your password ➙ Install Software
Once the installation is finished, it will ask if you want to delete the installation files. Click on 'Move to Trash'.
Open Microsoft Edge by finding it in your Dock or Applications folder
To enjoy the best cross-device experience after completing your Microsoft Edge download for Mac, consider logging in to your Microsoft account from the Edge browser. To do this, open Microsoft Edge, then click on the profile icon next to the URL bar and click Sign In.
More better apps for your Mac
If you're accustomed to using Microsoft Edge and happy that it's moving to Mac, you might also wonder about other Microsoft apps. But Microsoft is yet to release their full suite of Mac software. Thankfully though there are some amazing alternatives that readily fill the gaps without breaking the bank. In fact, you can get all the apps you need for Mac with a single subscription service called Setapp, which grants you access to more than 150 apps.
Get a perfect alternative for MS tools on Mac
Download an all-in-one collection of apps that can replace every Microsoft tool you've ever used. The chances are you'll love them even more.
But before you even start installing new apps, you might want to clean up and optimize your Mac for best performance using CleanMyMac X — a lightweight tool made to improve, secure, and maintain your Mac in top shape in just in a few clicks.
Launch CleanMyMac X
Navigate to System Junk ➙ Scan
When the scan is done, Review Details and Clean everything you don't need
Repeat the process once a month or so to keep your system running smoothly
Looking for something similar to Microsoft Word? Try Ulysses, a writing and Markdown editor for Mac that favors a beautiful, simple interface to allow you room to do your best work. The app also lets you set a word count goal to hit every day to motivate you to write more.
Working across devices? Ulysses synchronizes your documents and work in progress across them all using a cloud-based data storage system, so you can pick up where you left off.
If you find yourself accidentally deleting files, experiencing data corruption, or being unable to access folders on your USB devices then you might want to try a high-quality file recovery tool.
Disk Drill is a simple application designed to do just that, and do it well. When you need to get a deleted file back, simply open the app, find the hard drive where the file was located in, and click Recover. A magical algorithm will take it from there.
Finally, as all of us come across PDFs every day now, a good PDF editor is a must. Try PDFpen, which rivals the best on the market for a fraction of the price. Featuring OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology, PDFpen lets you convert PDFs to text and make edits and updates without a hitch. It also comes packed with every PDF editing feature you'll ever need, including the ability to merge PDFs, sign forms, draw shapes, and redact personal information.
Best of all, CleanMyMac X, Ulysses, Disk Drill, and PDFpen are all available for a free 7-day trial with Setapp, a platform that gives you access to more than 150 Mac apps that cover everything from editing photos to keeping tabs on cooking recipes. So if you just install Microsoft Edge and Setapp — you Mac environment would be fully complete in minutes.
Edge Browser For Macbook
Meantime, prepare for all the awesome things you can do with Setapp.
Read onSign Up
Edge Web Browser For Mac
