Ubuntu is known for its speed and simplicity, but a heavy browser can slow it down and ruin your workflow. In 2025, lightweight browsers are the perfect match for Ubuntu, offering fast performance and low resource usage. I’ve tested and ranked the 8 best lightweight browsers for Ubuntu that deliver speed, security, and smooth browsing without draining your system. Whether you’re coding, streaming, or just surfing the web, these browsers will keep up with your needs. Ready to make your Ubuntu experience even better? Let’s explore the top lightweight browsers for Ubuntu in 2025 and enjoy faster, hassle-free browsing!
1. Firefox
Firefox strikes an effective balance between features and performance on Ubuntu. It renders web pages swiftly while supporting robust customization through add-ons. Firefox also provides stringent privacy protections out of the box.
2. Falkon
Previously known as Qupzilla, Falkon prioritizes speed and simplicity, rendering pages with lower overhead. It natively supports the KDE Plasma desktop but runs well on Unity and GNOME too. The extensions framework encourages personalization.
3. Midori
As a free, open-source browser, Midori delivers swift browsing on Ubuntu with a small memory footprint. It utilizes the lightweight WebKitGTK engine to enhance performance on desktop or low powered devices.
Check out these Firefox Alternatives for Ubuntu
4. Brave
Brave leverages Chromium’s web compatibility and speed while stripping out resource-intensive ads and trackers. Browsing feels swift as unnecessary page elements are removed. Privacy protections are another highlight.
5. NetSurf
NetSurf draws praise as a speedy browser available across platforms including Ubuntu. Its interface stays out of the way, loading pages smoothly while allowing users to enable features like JavaScript as needed.
6. Surf
In line with suckless.org principles, Surf creates a streamlined webkit browser leveraging components on the Ubuntu system. The singular focus on web page rendering contributes to both speed and lower resource usage.
Check out these Best Browsers for Raspberry Pi
7. Epiphany (GNOME Web)
Epiphany, also known as GNOME Web, offers a pared back browsing experience as the default on the GNOME desktop environment. Tight integration with Ubuntu’s system theme keeps resource demands lower.
8. Luakit
Luakit is a highly customizable browser based on the WebKit engine designed for power users wanting to tweak configurations. The keyboard driven interface and lack of visual clutter reinforce the lightweight feel.
With criteria spanning efficiency, speed and functionality, Ubuntu supports selecting a trimmed-down browser aligned with your priorities as a Linux user across devices.
