Helium Browser

Name: Helium Browser
Brand: Helium Browser

Minimal, ungoogled Chromium browser with ad blocking built in by default

softwareDesktop Browsersprivacy browserchromiumad blocking

Visit Website

Our Verdict

Best for

Chrome users who want the same extension ecosystem minus Google tracking and bloat

Skip if

You need a mature, stable release or built-in sync across devices

What is Helium Browser?

Helium is an open-source, Chromium-based desktop browser built by imput that strips out Google services and telemetry while keeping full compatibility with Chrome extensions. Ad, tracker, and cookie-banner blocking are on by default using community filter lists, so users get uBlock-style protection without any setup.

SpecificationsAI-estimated

deploymentDesktop App

open source✅ Yes

api available❌ No

support optionsGitHub issues, community support

key integrationsChrome Web Store extensions

Key Features of Helium Browser

Blocks ads, trackers, cookie banners, and fingerprinting scripts by default with no configuration required.

Strips out Google account, sync, and telemetry integrations found in stock Chromium.

Supports the full Chrome Web Store extension catalog, including Manifest V2 extensions, with anonymized install requests.

Offers compact, vertical, and frameless window layouts for different workflows.

Includes bang-style shortcuts to jump directly to a site instead of running a search.

Hibernates inactive tabs automatically to reduce memory and CPU usage.

Enforces HTTPS connections and ships automatic background updates.

Is funded by user sponsorship rather than advertising or data sale.

Use Cases for Helium Browser

Everyday private browsing

Replace Chrome with a Chromium-compatible browser that blocks ads and trackers without extra setup.

Avoiding Google telemetry

Use a Chromium base with Google integrations and background reporting removed.

Running Chrome extensions privately

Keep access to the full Chrome extension ecosystem while installs are anonymized.

Lightweight browsing on older hardware

Use tab hibernation and a lean build to reduce resource usage.

Pros & Cons of Helium Browser

Pros

Ad and tracker blocking enabled out of the box
No Google services or telemetry baked in
Full compatibility with Chrome extensions
Completely free, crowdfunded development

Cons

Still in beta with occasional rough edges
No built-in password manager or sync yet
No mobile version available

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Helium based on Chromium?

Yes, it is built on an ungoogled-Chromium base that removes most upstream Google integrations while keeping web compatibility.

Does Helium block ads by default?

Yes, ad, tracker, and cookie-banner blocking are enabled out of the box using community filter lists.

Can I install Chrome extensions?

Yes, Helium supports the Chrome Web Store, including Manifest V2 extensions, with anonymized requests.

Is Helium free?

Yes, it is completely free and funded through user sponsorship, with no premium tier.

Pricing Overview

View full pricing →

Free

Detailed plans are not listed. Visit the official website for pricing information.

Reviews & Ratings0.0

Write a Review See all reviews →

No reviews yet. Be the first to write one!

Top Alternatives & Similar Software

View all alternatives & similar software→

Epic Privacy Browser

AI-suggested

Epic Privacy Browser is a Chromium‑derived web browser focused on privacy and security. It automatically blocks ads, trackers, fingerprinting scripts, cryptomining, and even ultrasonic signaling without requiring extensions. The browser routes traffic through an encrypted proxy, enforces HTTPS, and deletes cookies and history on exit, making it a solid choice for users who want a hassle‑free, private browsing experience.

Compare with Helium Browser