Is Opera GX Better Than Chrome? Everything you need to know

With so many browsers available today, choosing the right one can be a challenge, especially when each claims to offer unique features. For years, Google Chrome has been the dominant choice for many users due to its speed, simplicity, and the vast ecosystem it’s built around. However, a relatively new browser, Opera GX, is quickly gaining attention, especially among gamers. Billed as the world’s first browser tailored for gamers, Opera GX promises enhanced performance, resource control, and integrated gaming features.

So, is Opera GX better than Chrome? This article breaks down both browsers, comparing them in key areas such as performance, resource management, features, and user experience. Whether you’re a gamer, an everyday user, or someone focused on privacy, this guide will help you determine which browser best suits your needs.

Table of Contents

1. Performance: Speed and Efficiency

One of the first things people notice about a browser is how fast and efficient it feels, especially when opening multiple tabs or handling large websites. Here’s how Opera GX and Google Chrome stack up against each other in this department:

Opera GX: Known for its gaming-centric design, Opera GX includes tools specifically created to optimize performance. It offers a CPU and RAM limiter, allowing users to control how much of their system’s resources the browser uses. This feature is especially handy for gamers who want to maximize game performance while keeping a browser open. By setting limits, Opera GX ensures your gaming sessions run smoothly without the browser hogging too many resources.
Google Chrome: Google Chrome is often praised for its fast browsing experience, particularly when it comes to rendering web pages. However, Chrome has earned a reputation for being a resource-heavy browser, particularly when running multiple tabs. Recent updates have introduced tab freezing features to help improve performance by reducing the impact of inactive tabs, but Chrome is still known for its relatively high RAM consumption compared to other browsers.

Conclusion: For users focused on performance, especially those who want to control how much CPU and RAM a browser uses, Opera GX has the edge. However, Chrome remains one of the fastest browsers when it comes to page load times and general browsing efficiency.

2. Resource Management: RAM and CPU Usage

In today’s multitasking world, it’s common to have multiple tabs open, often running resource-intensive applications such as media streaming, video calls, and even online games. Efficient resource management becomes crucial, and this is an area where Opera GX has made a name for itself.

Opera GX: One of its most unique features is the GX Control panel, which lets users limit how much of their system’s CPU and RAM the browser can use. This is particularly beneficial for users running high-performance tasks like gaming or video editing, as it ensures the browser won’t interfere with their primary activity. Users can set custom limits to allocate system resources according to their needs, ensuring that their games or other tasks have more available memory and processing power.
Google Chrome: Chrome, despite being one of the most popular browsers, has long been criticized for its high memory usage. This is especially noticeable when using many extensions or having multiple tabs open. However, Google has been working on improvements. Recent updates include tab grouping and tab freezing, which automatically reduces resource consumption from inactive tabs, making Chrome a bit more efficient for heavy users.

Conclusion: If resource management is a priority for you, especially if you’re a gamer or someone who frequently uses memory-intensive applications, Opera GX offers better control and customization. For general use, Chrome has made strides in optimizing memory usage but still consumes more resources compared to Opera GX.

3. Unique Features and Customizability

Both Opera GX and Google Chrome come with an array of features, but their focus is quite different. Opera GX offers more gaming-related customization, while Chrome sticks to simplicity and function.

Opera GX: The standout feature of Opera GX is its focus on gaming. The GX Corner provides users with game deals, news, and upcoming release information directly in the browser. Furthermore, built-in Twitch and Discord integration allows users to stay connected to their gaming communities without needing extra extensions. Another unique feature is the customizable themes and sound effects that give users the ability to personalize their browsing experience with colors and even background sounds, adding a fun element to daily browsing.
Google Chrome: While Chrome may not have the same gaming focus, it shines in its simplicity and access to an enormous range of extensions through the Chrome Web Store. From productivity tools to media plugins, Chrome’s ecosystem is unmatched. It also offers users the ability to customize themes and backgrounds, though it doesn’t offer the same immersive experience that Opera GX provides with its sound effects and deeper customization options.

Comparison Summary: Opera GX clearly leads in terms of customizability for gamers and those who want more control over their browsing environment. Google Chrome, while more minimalistic, remains unbeatable in terms of the variety of extensions available for different tasks.

4. Privacy and Security

When choosing a browser, privacy and security are always top concerns. Both Opera GX and Google Chrome offer strong privacy and security features, but they approach it in different ways.

Opera GX: Opera GX comes with a built-in ad-blocker and VPN. The VPN, in particular, is a standout feature, offering users enhanced privacy by allowing them to browse anonymously without the need for third-party extensions. Opera also includes tracker blocking, which prevents advertisers and websites from collecting user data as they browse.
Google Chrome: Google Chrome has strong built-in security features, such as sandboxing (which isolates web pages) and phishing protection. However, many privacy-conscious users criticize Chrome for its data collection policies. While Chrome provides excellent security, it’s closely tied to Google’s advertising ecosystem, raising concerns about data tracking and user profiling.

Conclusion: If privacy is your main concern, Opera GX’s built-in VPN and tracker blocking provide better out-of-the-box privacy than Chrome. Google Chrome, while secure, may not appeal to users who are worried about data privacy.

5. User Experience: Interface and Usability

Both browsers prioritize different types of user experience, depending on the audience they’re catering to. Let’s dive into how Opera GX and Google Chrome compare in terms of interface design and usability:

Opera GX: Opera GX’s interface is visually striking and modern, designed with a gamer aesthetic in mind. It comes with dark themes, neon colors, and animations that appeal to gamers. One key feature is the sidebar on the left-hand side, which gives quick access to things like Twitch, Discord, and the GX Control panel. This sidebar can be customized to include bookmarks, social media, or even media players, allowing users to streamline their workflows or gaming sessions. In addition to that, Opera GX has a feature called Speed Dial, which lets users easily access their most visited websites from the home page in a visually appealing manner.
Google Chrome: Chrome’s user interface, in contrast, is designed for simplicity. Its minimalistic approach focuses on keeping things clean and fast. The browser is lightweight and easy to use, with a single Omnibox that serves as both a search and address bar, making it intuitive for users to navigate. Chrome also integrates seamlessly with other Google services like Gmail, Drive, and Google Docs, which enhances the experience for users who rely on these services daily. However, unlike Opera GX, Chrome does not come with as many built-in features for customizing the interface.

Comparison Summary: Opera GX provides a more customizable and feature-rich experience, especially for gamers, while Chrome delivers a clean, straightforward interface that works well for those who prefer simplicity and speed.

6. Cross-Platform Compatibility and Syncing

When it comes to using browsers across multiple devices, synchronization is key. Both Opera GX and Chrome offer syncing features, but with some differences.

Opera GX: While Opera GX is available on both Windows and macOS, it has a more limited reach when it comes to cross-platform syncing. The Opera GX mobile app (for Android and iOS) is in development but not as widely used as Chrome’s mobile counterparts. However, it does allow syncing of bookmarks, settings, and browsing history between the desktop version of Opera GX and the regular Opera mobile app.
Google Chrome: Chrome excels in cross-platform compatibility. It’s available on almost every major operating system, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Syncing between devices is one of Chrome’s greatest strengths, as users can easily sync everything from passwords to bookmarks and extensions with a simple login to their Google account. This makes it highly convenient for people who use multiple devices, whether it’s a phone, tablet, or desktop.

Conclusion: If you need seamless syncing across a wide range of devices and platforms, Google Chrome is the clear winner. However, for gamers who primarily use desktop devices and are comfortable with fewer mobile options, Opera GX still offers adequate syncing features.

7. Which Browser is Better for Gaming?

Given that Opera GX is marketed as the world’s first gaming browser, this is a critical area to evaluate. For those who game regularly, the browser they use can have an impact on performance, especially when multitasking or running heavy applications.

Opera GX: Opera GX was designed with gaming in mind. The GX Control panel allows users to limit CPU, RAM, and even network bandwidth usage, which is particularly useful if you’re gaming online and want to ensure your game gets the bulk of your system’s resources. Additionally, the Twitch integration in the sidebar allows users to follow and watch streams without leaving the browser, and Discord integration ensures you can chat with friends while gaming. It also includes a hot tabs killer, a tool that helps users identify which tabs are consuming the most resources and lets them close them with a single click.
Google Chrome: While Google Chrome doesn’t have built-in gaming tools like Opera GX, it still remains a viable browser for gamers, thanks to its overall performance and compatibility with a wide range of extensions. Chrome’s performance is solid when handling web-based games, but it doesn’t offer any specialized features like CPU or RAM limiters that could help improve the gaming experience. However, users can install gaming extensions from the Chrome Web Store to enhance the browser’s gaming capabilities, though they aren’t as integrated as Opera GX’s native tools.

Verdict: For users looking for a browser tailored specifically for gaming, Opera GX is the better option, thanks to its specialized features. Chrome can still perform well for casual gaming but lacks the dedicated tools gamers might find useful.

8. Which Browser is Better for Everyday Use?

While Opera GX shines in the gaming realm, most users also want a browser that handles day-to-day tasks with ease. Let’s see how both browsers perform when it comes to everyday use like browsing, streaming, and productivity.

Opera GX: Although it’s primarily geared towards gamers, Opera GX is still a highly functional browser for everyday activities. Its built-in ad blocker, VPN, and customizable interface make it a versatile choice. However, some users might find the gaming-focused interface to be a bit much for basic tasks, and the lack of extensive cross-device syncing could be a drawback for those who work across multiple platforms.
Google Chrome: Chrome is widely regarded as one of the best browsers for everyday use, thanks to its speed, simplicity, and extension ecosystem. The integration with Google services makes it ideal for productivity, whether you’re using Google Docs, Gmail, or Google Drive. Chrome’s interface is minimal and easy to navigate, making it a popular choice for users who want a straightforward experience without a lot of extra features.

Conclusion: For everyday use, Google Chrome is better suited due to its simplicity, speed, and wide range of extensions. Opera GX can handle day-to-day browsing just fine, but its feature set and interface are more suited to gamers or users looking for specific customization options.

9. Pros and Cons of Opera GX vs. Chrome

It’s important to evaluate both browsers by highlighting their strengths and weaknesses side by side. Let’s take a look at what each browser excels at and where they fall short:

Opera GX	Google Chrome
Pros	Pros
– GX Control allows you to limit CPU and RAM usage, making it ideal for gamers and multitaskers.	– Widely available across all major platforms, with excellent cross-platform syncing.
– Built-in VPN and ad blocker, enhancing privacy and reducing the need for extensions.	– Extensive extension support from the Chrome Web Store, allowing for extensive customization and functionality.
– Twitch and Discord integration makes it perfect for gamers who want to stay connected while browsing.	– Seamless integration with Google services such as Gmail, Google Docs, and Google Drive for productivity.
– Highly customizable interface with themes and sound effects, allowing users to tailor their experience.	– Minimalist interface that is easy to use and focused on speed and efficiency.
Cons	Cons
– Limited availability on mobile platforms, especially compared to Chrome.	– High resource consumption (RAM) when handling multiple tabs, making it less efficient for heavy users.
– Primarily designed for gamers, so some features may not appeal to general users.	– Privacy concerns due to Google’s data collection and ad-tracking practices.
– Fewer extensions and third-party integrations compared to Chrome’s vast ecosystem.	– No built-in VPN or ad blocker, requiring users to rely on third-party extensions for privacy features.

Conclusion: Opera GX excels for gamers and privacy-conscious users, while Chrome offers a more versatile solution for productivity and everyday browsing with its extensive extension library and integration with Google services. The choice depends on what you value more: gaming features and privacy (Opera GX) or versatility and cross-platform synchronization (Chrome).

10. Security and Privacy: In-Depth Comparison

When it comes to security and privacy, both Opera GX and Google Chrome provide users with features to keep them safe online, but their approaches differ.

Opera GX: One of Opera GX’s standout features is its built-in VPN. This gives users an extra layer of privacy, enabling them to hide their IP address and encrypt their internet connection without the need for third-party VPN services. This feature is particularly attractive for users who are concerned about online tracking or accessing geo-restricted content. Opera GX also includes a tracker blocker and ad blocker, which not only help protect users from intrusive ads but also speed up web page load times. From a privacy standpoint, Opera GX emphasizes giving users control over who can track their online activities.
Google Chrome: Chrome is known for its strong security features, including sandboxing (which isolates web pages to prevent malware from spreading), safe browsing mode, and frequent updates to patch vulnerabilities. While Chrome offers reliable security, it has raised privacy concerns due to Google’s business model, which is heavily reliant on advertising. Chrome collects a significant amount of user data for targeted ads, and while this helps deliver more relevant content, it may not sit well with users who prioritize privacy. Chrome does not come with a built-in VPN, meaning users need to install third-party extensions to enhance privacy.

Conclusion: If privacy is your primary concern, Opera GX wins hands down with its built-in VPN and ad/tracker blockers. Google Chrome is more focused on security but may not appeal to users worried about data collection and privacy.

11. Extensions and Customization

Both Opera GX and Google Chrome offer users ways to extend the functionality of their browsers through extensions and customization options, but they differ in the depth and variety of those options.

Opera GX: While Opera GX does support extensions, it doesn’t have as large a collection as Chrome. However, most Chrome extensions are compatible with Opera GX, which is a huge plus for users who want the best of both worlds. When it comes to customization, Opera GX truly shines. It allows users to choose from a variety of themes, create custom sound effects (which can play when opening or closing tabs), and even select custom colors for the interface. These customization features make Opera GX more immersive, particularly for users who enjoy a personalized browsing experience.
Google Chrome: Chrome Web Store is a massive hub for thousands of extensions that cover everything from productivity tools to entertainment, security, and beyond. With Chrome, you can install nearly any kind of extension to meet your needs, whether it’s for ad-blocking, password management, or streaming enhancements. In terms of customization, Chrome offers fewer options. Users can change themes or add backgrounds to their home screen, but it doesn’t go as deep as Opera GX’s ability to modify sound effects or personalize the entire interface.

Comparison Summary: For users who prioritize extensions and third-party integrations, Google Chrome is the better option, thanks to its vast library of extensions in the Chrome Web Store. However, if you value visual and auditory customization, Opera GX stands out with more immersive features.

12. Gaming-Specific Features vs. General Productivity

The primary difference between Opera GX and Chrome lies in their focus: Opera GX was designed with gamers in mind, while Chrome is more generalized for productivity. Let’s take a closer look at how they serve these distinct user groups:

Opera GX: As a browser created for gamers, Opera GX includes several gaming-specific features like the GX Control panel (which lets users control CPU, RAM, and bandwidth usage), Twitch and Discord integration, and a Hot Tabs Killer feature that helps users close resource-heavy tabs quickly. These features make it a fantastic choice for gamers who multitask or stream while playing. Additionally, GX Corner provides access to gaming news, deals, and upcoming releases, making it easy for users to stay updated on their favorite games. Even when you’re not gaming, these features help make multitasking smoother by giving you control over how much of your system’s resources the browser consumes.
Google Chrome: Chrome doesn’t have built-in gaming features like Opera GX, but it remains a solid option for general productivity. Its lightweight, minimalist design and extensive extension library make it ideal for users who rely on a variety of tools to stay productive. Chrome’s integration with Google services like Docs, Drive, and Calendar makes it a top choice for professionals and students who need a streamlined browser for work or study. It’s also a popular browser for web developers due to its excellent developer tools and compatibility with a wide range of platforms.

Conclusion: For gamers and multitaskers who need control over system resources, Opera GX is the clear winner. For users focused on productivity, general web browsing, and integration with Google’s services, Google Chrome is the better choice.

13. Performance on Different Devices

A browser’s performance can vary depending on the device you use. Let’s explore how Opera GX and Google Chrome perform across desktops, laptops, and mobile devices.

Opera GX: As of now, Opera GX is primarily focused on desktop and laptop users, especially since it’s a browser tailored to gamers who typically use more powerful systems for gaming. The browser performs very well on high-performance systems, where users can take full advantage of its RAM and CPU control features. While there is a mobile version (Opera GX Mobile), it is still not as widely adopted as Chrome’s mobile presence. On mobile, the feature set is limited, and the experience, though smooth, isn’t as rich as it is on desktop.
Google Chrome: Google Chrome shines when it comes to cross-platform performance. It is available on desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones across a wide variety of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. The syncing capabilities across all devices make it a convenient browser for users who switch between multiple devices frequently. Chrome maintains solid performance regardless of whether you’re using it on a high-end desktop or a low-budget smartphone, thanks to its optimization for different platforms.

Conclusion: If you’re a user who works across multiple devices and values consistency, Google Chrome is the better choice. For desktop or laptop gamers, Opera GX offers more specialized features for enhanced performance.

14. Updates and Browser Development

Another important factor to consider is how often a browser receives updates and how actively the browser is developed. Regular updates are crucial for both security and performance enhancements.

Opera GX: Opera Software, the developer behind Opera GX, is known for releasing frequent updates to improve performance, add new features, and patch security vulnerabilities. Since its launch in 2019, Opera GX has received continuous development and improvements, especially in its gaming-focused features. The team regularly releases updates to keep the browser in line with the latest demands of the gaming community, enhancing integration with platforms like Twitch and Discord.
Google Chrome: Chrome is one of the most actively developed browsers in the world. Google releases regular updates, typically every few weeks, addressing security vulnerabilities, improving performance, and introducing new features. Chrome’s commitment to frequent updates is one of the reasons it remains a top choice for many users. The Chrome team also actively works on improving developer tools, which is why it is widely used by web developers. Updates are seamlessly rolled out in the background, ensuring that users are always running the latest version without needing to intervene manually.

Conclusion: Both browsers are actively developed, but Google Chrome benefits from the resources and infrastructure of Google, which allows for more frequent and wide-reaching updates. Opera GX is no slouch either, with continuous development focused on its niche gaming audience.

15. User Reviews and Feedback

User feedback plays a crucial role in helping potential users decide between browsers. Let’s take a look at what real users are saying about Opera GX and Google Chrome.

Opera GX: The overall feedback from users who have switched to Opera GX is largely positive, particularly from the gaming community. Users appreciate the GX Control feature, which helps reduce lag during gaming sessions. The built-in VPN and ad-blocker are also highly praised, as they offer additional privacy without needing third-party extensions. However, some users have expressed concerns about the learning curve for non-gamers and the limited mobile experience, which is a drawback for those who want a consistent experience across devices.
Google Chrome: Chrome’s widespread use has resulted in a massive amount of user feedback, and it generally maintains a strong reputation for being fast, reliable, and easy to use. Chrome users frequently praise its cross-device syncing and vast extension library, which makes it adaptable for various needs. However, users often criticize its heavy resource consumption and its impact on system performance when many tabs are open. Privacy concerns due to Google’s data tracking practices are also frequently mentioned.

Conclusion: Opera GX has a strong fan base within the gaming community, while Google Chrome remains a favorite for general users due to its versatility and ease of use. Both browsers have loyal users, but their appeal depends on the specific needs of the user.

16. Final Verdict: Which Browser is Better for You?

After a thorough comparison of both Opera GX and Google Chrome, it’s clear that the choice between the two depends on what you value most in a browser. Here’s a final breakdown:

Opera GX is the best option for:
- Gamers who want to control CPU, RAM, and network usage while multitasking.
- Users looking for built-in privacy tools, including a VPN and ad blocker.
- People who enjoy customizing their browsing experience with sound effects, themes, and personalized settings.
- Users who primarily browse on a desktop or laptop and don’t need extensive mobile or cross-device syncing.
Google Chrome is the better choice for:
- General users who need a fast, reliable browser for everyday use.
- People who rely on Google services like Gmail, Docs, and Drive for work or personal use.
- Those who frequently switch between multiple devices, including mobile phones and tablets, and need a browser that syncs effortlessly.
- Users who need access to a vast library of extensions and third-party integrations.

In summary, if you’re a gamer or someone who enjoys a high level of control over your browser’s performance and appearance, Opera GX is tailored for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize simplicity, cross-platform syncing, and a wide range of extensions, Google Chrome is a more versatile option.

17. FAQs

Is Opera GX faster than Chrome?
- Opera GX allows users to control CPU and RAM usage, which can help improve performance during resource-intensive tasks like gaming. Chrome is generally fast for everyday browsing but uses more system resources.
Can I use Opera GX for non-gaming purposes?
- Yes, Opera GX is a fully functional browser that works well for general browsing, though its gaming-specific features may not appeal to everyone.
Does Chrome have a built-in VPN like Opera GX?
- No, Chrome does not come with a built-in VPN. However, there are many VPN extensions available in the Chrome Web Store.
Which browser consumes less RAM?
- Opera GX allows users to limit RAM usage, making it more efficient for systems with limited resources. Chrome tends to consume more RAM, especially when multiple tabs are open.
Which browser is better for privacy?
- Opera GX is better for privacy with its built-in VPN and ad-blocker. Chrome, while secure, collects more user data due to its integration with Google’s advertising ecosystem.