Arc Browser Overview: Should You Use It?

Table of contents

Arc Browser Overview: Should You Use It?

Arc Browser is designed to simplify web browsing by combining productivity tools and innovative features. Built on Chromium, it offers vertical tabs, customizable workspaces, and AI-powered tools to help users manage projects, reduce clutter, and enhance multitasking. With a focus on privacy, Arc disables unnecessary Google services and includes built-in ad blocking. While it uses less RAM than Chrome (about 40% less), it offers cross-platform compatibility and advanced tools like Split View, Air Traffic Control, and Little Arc for quick tasks. However, its unique interface may feel overwhelming for some users.

Key Features:

Vertical Tabs & Spaces: Organize tabs into isolated environments for work or personal use.
AI Tools: Features like Ask on Page and tab renaming simplify workflows.
Privacy-Focused: Built-in ad blocking and minimal data collection.
Performance: Uses less RAM than Chrome but more than Safari.
Cross-Platform Sync: Available on macOS, Windows, and iOS.

Quick Comparison:

Feature	Arc Browser	Chrome	Safari
RAM Usage (macOS ARM)	4,853 MB	8,194 MB	2,714 MB
Speedometer Score	41.32	45.27	42.17
Built-in Ad Blocking	Yes	No	Yes
Extension Support	Chrome Web Store	Chrome Web Store	Safari Extensions
Battery Efficiency	Moderate	Low	High

Arc is ideal for professionals managing multiple projects and users seeking a more organized browsing experience. If you prefer simplicity or prioritize battery life, Safari or Chrome might be better options. For automation enthusiasts, platforms like Latenode can enhance Arc's functionality by integrating it with other productivity tools.

Complete Arc Browser Tutorial – Full Review and Setup in 20 Min

Arc Browser

Core Features of Arc Browser

Arc Browser reimagines how users interact with the web, focusing on simplifying tab management and enhancing multitasking.

Vertical Tab Management and Spaces

Arc replaces the traditional horizontal tab bar with a sleek vertical sidebar, offering a fresh approach to organizing tabs and Spaces - dedicated sessions with independent bookmarks and shared favorites, perfect for managing multiple projects ^[6]. The sidebar can be pinned for constant access or hidden to maximize screen space ^[6].

This vertical orientation is particularly effective for users juggling several projects, providing a clearer and more efficient way to manage tabs compared to horizontal layouts ^[7]^[8]. While Microsoft Edge also supports vertical tabs, Arc's implementation stands out for its usability ^[8].

The Spaces feature offers isolated environments, each with its own set of bookmarks and tabs, while still sharing your favorite links across all Spaces ^[5]^[6]. This setup is ideal for keeping work and personal browsing separate without sacrificing convenience.

Arc also incorporates smart tools to enhance productivity. Users can rename tabs, making pinned tabs easier to identify, especially for ongoing tasks ^[6]. Additionally, you can designate up to 12 favorites, accessible instantly using Cmd + # shortcuts ^[6].

Another standout feature is Air Traffic Control, which automates tab behavior. This allows you to set rules for specific URLs to open in designated Spaces. For instance, Slack links can automatically open in a work Space, while personal emails stay confined to a personal Space ^[6].

Next, let’s explore how Arc's Split View takes multitasking to the next level by consolidating multiple sources into a single window.

Split View and Multitasking

Arc's Split View enables users to display multiple tabs within one window, arranged either horizontally or vertically. This eliminates the need to constantly switch between tabs, saving time and keeping workflows seamless ^[9].

This feature is especially useful for tasks requiring side-by-side comparisons or cross-referencing. Users can save specific Split View setups as tabs in the sidebar, making it easy to revisit complex arrangements ^[9]. For example, one user working on a Wiki article transitioned from managing several browser windows across desktops to using a single Arc window with Split View, streamlining their workflow ^[10]. Another user reported saving over 30 minutes daily by reducing the friction of context switching ^[10].

Next, discover how Little Arc simplifies quick research and temporary tasks.

Little Arc for Quick Research

Little Arc is a lightweight, no-frills window designed for quick tasks. It opens external links using Command-Option-N and allows seamless integration with your main workspace by using Command-O (to return to the most recent Space) or Command-Option-O (to select a specific Space) ^[11]^[13].

Little Arc is built for speed and simplicity, providing essential functionality without the full feature set of the main Arc browser ^[12]. For instance, links clicked from apps like Slack or iMessage automatically open in Little Arc ^[11].

To keep things tidy, Little Arc auto-archives its sessions every six hours by default, ensuring that your workspace remains uncluttered while still preserving important content. You can access archived sessions by pressing CMD+T, typing "View Archive", and filtering for Little Arc sessions ^[11].

Unlike Arc's Peek feature, which is fixed to a single screen, Little Arc windows can be moved between displays or virtual desktops. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for keeping reference material visible while working in other applications ^[12].

These features collectively make Arc Browser a robust tool for managing workflows, multitasking, and quick research.

What Makes Arc Browser Different?

Arc Browser distinguishes itself with its smart automation, focus on privacy, and an intuitive navigation experience.

AI-Powered Workflow Tools

Arc Max integrates artificial intelligence into your browsing experience, offering tools that simplify everyday tasks. The Browser Company explains their approach:

"Let Arc do more for you with Max, so you can do less. Boost your browsing with AI and spend time on the things that matter - on or off screen" ^[14].

These AI features, powered by OpenAI's GPT-3.5 and Anthropic's models, can be toggled on or off based on your preferences ^[15]^[16]. To access Arc Max, press Command-T and type "Arc Max", or go to Settings (Command-Comma on macOS) and select MAX ^[14]^[16].

One standout feature is Ask on Page, which allows you to press Command-F on any webpage to ask questions and receive AI-generated answers ^[14]. Another, 5-second Previews (macOS only), provides quick summaries of webpages when you hover over links while holding Shift. This feature works seamlessly on sites like Google, DuckDuckGo, and Twitter ^[14].

Tidy Downloads uses AI to rename files for better organization. For instance, a file named "gu2004.pdf" could automatically be renamed to "Adaptable Design CIRP Annals.pdf", making it easier to find later ^[15]. Similarly, Tidy Tab Titles condenses pinned tab names for improved clarity ^[14].

The ChatGPT integration in the Command Bar enables instant queries with Command-Option-G (macOS only), while Instant Links opens the top search result immediately when you press Shift and Enter after typing a search query ^[14].

In addition to these AI tools, Arc prioritizes protecting your personal data.

Privacy and Built-In Ad Blocking

Arc stands out by prioritizing user privacy, distancing itself from browsers tied to large tech companies. As The Browser Company puts it:

"We love the internet and it's important for our members to feel safe while exploring. That's why we built a browser to make the internet better, while keeping your data to yourself" ^[17].

Built on Chromium, Arc disables certain Google services and comes pre-installed with uBlock Origin for ad-blocking, giving users immediate control without needing extra extensions ^[17].

The browser regularly updates its Chromium version within 48 hours of new releases or security fixes, ensuring users benefit from the latest protections ^[17]. Arc uses GCP Firebase for authentication and data storage, with all stored data encrypted ^[17].

Arc collects minimal telemetry data, focusing only on internal actions and crashes to improve the browser. It explicitly avoids tracking personally identifiable information, browsing history, URLs, or user-generated content ^[17]. Unlike browsers that depend on advertising revenue, Arc does not sell user data ^[17]. Additionally, the team is developing native ad-blocking and tracking prevention tools to further enhance privacy ^[18].

This strong commitment to privacy complements Arc's streamlined navigation tools.

Arc's Command Bar simplifies navigation by consolidating tasks into a single, searchable interface (Command-T on macOS, Control-T on Windows) ^[22]. This design is particularly familiar to Mac users, resembling a system-wide search tool.

The Command Bar acts as a central hub for opening new tabs, revisiting existing ones, managing extensions, and quickly accessing recently closed pages ^[20]. It also provides shortcuts to split view options, browser settings, and organization tools, reducing the need to navigate through menus ^[19].

With the Command Bar, users can search for specific browser commands or settings directly, eliminating the hassle of memorizing complex menu structures ^[21]. This streamlined approach makes routine tasks faster and less mentally taxing, appealing to those who favor keyboard shortcuts for efficiency.

Arc Browser vs. Standard Browsers

Arc distinguishes itself through its approach to resource management and cross-platform performance, offering a unique alternative to browsers like Chrome and Safari.

Arc vs. Chrome: Resource Management

Chrome

Arc and Chrome may share the same Chromium foundation, but their resource usage varies significantly. According to tests, "As a Chromium-based browser, Arc shares Chrome's notorious memory consumption" ^[23]. However, macOS ARM benchmarks reveal that Arc uses about 4,853 MB of RAM compared to Chrome's hefty 8,194 MB - a reduction of approximately 40% ^[24]. Another independent analysis found that Chrome consumes nearly twice as much memory as Arc when idle in the background ^[25].

Performance metrics further illustrate the contrast. In Speedometer 3.1 testing on macOS ARM, Chrome scored 45.27, slightly ahead of Arc's 41.32 ^[24]. While Chrome might edge out Arc in raw speed, Arc compensates with features like automatic tab archiving, which helps manage memory by relocating inactive tabs to a separate section. This efficiency proves particularly useful for users who tend to keep numerous tabs open. Both browsers also support Chrome Web Store extensions, allowing users to maintain their workflows while benefiting from Arc's reduced memory usage.

Next, let's see how Arc stacks up against Safari in synchronization and developer tools.

Arc vs. Safari: Synchronization and Developer Tools

Safari

Safari excels in battery efficiency and seamless integration with Apple devices, but Arc offers more flexibility across platforms. Tests from BrowseRating show that Safari uses just 2,714 MB of RAM on macOS ARM, significantly less than Arc's 4,853 MB ^[24]. Battery life is another area where Safari shines. As Efficient App notes,

"If maximizing your laptop battery life is your sole criteria for a browser, then that's the one area that Safari excels" ^[1].

This focus on battery efficiency has even led some users to return to Safari after trying Arc, citing concerns over higher energy consumption ^[3].

However, Safari's advantages are closely tied to the Apple ecosystem, with features like keychain sharing and Handoff limited to Apple devices. Arc, on the other hand, delivers a consistent experience on both macOS and Windows, making it a more versatile choice for cross-platform users. Built natively in Swift, Arc also emphasizes performance and personalization. Its Spaces feature, which allows users to group tabs by custom names, icons, and themes, offers a level of customization that surpasses Safari's simpler tab grouping options.

Feature	Arc Browser	Chrome	Safari
RAM Usage (macOS ARM)	4,853 MB	8,194 MB	2,714 MB
Speedometer 3.1 Score	41.32	45.27	42.17
Cross-Platform Sync	Yes	Yes	Apple devices only
Built-in Ad Blocking	Yes	No	Yes
Extension Support	Chrome Web Store	Chrome Web Store	Safari Extensions
Battery Efficiency	Moderate	Low	High

While Safari is the go-to for users prioritizing battery life and seamless Apple integration, Arc stands out for its productivity tools and compatibility across platforms, appealing to those seeking a more customizable and flexible browsing experience.

Getting Started with Arc Browser

Arc Browser is available for macOS, Windows, and iOS ^[26]. Setting it up is quick and straightforward, with the migration of your existing browsing data usually taking just a few minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you download, install, and transfer your data.

Downloading and Installing Arc Browser

To get started, visit arc.net to download the browser. The website automatically detects your operating system and provides the correct installer ^[28]. For Windows users, make sure your system is running Windows 10 19H1 or later, as this is required to support Arc's features ^[26]. Interestingly, Arc is the first Windows app built using Swift ^[4].

Once the installer is downloaded, follow the standard installation process for your operating system. The setup is secure and does not require sensitive credentials like device passwords ^[28]. Built on Chromium, Arc supports all Chrome extensions ^[4], combining familiar functionality with a focus on productivity and privacy ^[4].

Migrating Data from Other Browsers

Switching to Arc is made easy with its data migration feature, which allows you to import bookmarks, passwords, browsing history, and extensions from popular browsers like Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Brave, Edge, Opera, Opera GX, and Vivaldi ^[29]. This ensures your transition to Arc’s clean and efficient interface is smooth.

The migration process varies slightly depending on your operating system. On macOS, go to the Mac Menu Bar, select Arc > Import from Another Browser. On Windows, this option is found under the Arc menu ^[29]. From there, choose your current browser and select the types of data you want to import ^[29]. Imported bookmarks appear as pinned tabs in Arc’s sidebar, instead of the traditional bookmarks bar ^[29]. If you’re coming from Chrome and already have bookmarks, new ones will be added to an "Other bookmarks" folder at the end of the bookmarks bar ^[30].

Arc also uses an account-based system to sync your data across devices ^[27]. By setting up your account during installation, you ensure that all imported data is accessible wherever you use Arc.

The entire migration process is quick, usually taking just a few minutes. Once complete, your familiar bookmarks, saved passwords, and browsing history will be ready to use within Arc’s streamlined interface.

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Arc Browser for Business and Automation

Arc Browser isn't just about enhancing personal browsing; it's a game-changer for business productivity and workflow management. With support for over 25 integrations as of 2024 and compatibility with automation platforms, Arc reshapes how teams handle their digital workspaces, streamlining collaboration and efficiency ^[32].

Tab and Workflow Automation

Arc's Spaces feature provides tailored work environments that help teams stay organized and focused. Each Space operates as a unique browsing setup, complete with its own pinned tabs, bookmarks, and visual themes ^[6]. For instance, a marketing team could create Spaces for individual clients, organizing essential resources like the client’s website, social media platforms, and project management tools. Similarly, engineering teams might use Spaces to separate workflows for development, staging, and production environments, ensuring clarity and reducing distractions.

Adding to this, the Air Traffic Control feature allows users to define rules for URLs to open in specific Spaces ^[6]. For example, all Jira links can be directed to open in a dedicated Work Space, ensuring project management tools are always accessed in the right context.

Integrations with Productivity Apps

Arc integrates seamlessly with popular business tools like Gmail, Google Calendar, and Notion ^[32]. These integrations function within Arc’s Spaces, allowing teams to create focused environments tailored to specific projects or workflows.

Additionally, Arc works with AI-powered tools such as Linfo.ai, Aboard, and timeOS ^[32]. These integrations bring features like contextual assistance, automated scheduling, and intelligent content management directly into your workspace, enhancing productivity and simplifying complex tasks.

Third-Party Automation Options

Arc goes beyond native integrations by supporting third-party automation platforms, opening up endless possibilities for custom workflows. Platforms like Latenode enable Arc to connect with over 300 apps, creating streamlined processes across multiple business systems.

For example, a content marketing team could design an automation flow where research data gathered in Arc is transferred to Google Sheets, transformed into content briefs in Notion, and shared with the team via Slack. This type of workflow - Arc Browser → Google Sheets → Notion → Slack - saves time and reduces manual effort, allowing teams to focus on more strategic tasks.

Arc's combination of intuitive features and integration capabilities equips business users with the tools to create organized digital workspaces, minimize context switching, and maintain focus across teams.

Performance and Security Features

Arc Browser combines impressive speed with strong security measures, offering users a well-rounded browsing experience that prioritizes both performance and protection. Let’s take a closer look at how Arc achieves this balance through efficient resource management and advanced privacy safeguards.

Resource Usage and Speed

Arc Browser sets itself apart with its efficient handling of system resources. Built on the Chromium framework and developed natively in Apple’s Swift language for macOS ^[2], Arc delivers smooth performance while keeping energy consumption low. In 2023 energy efficiency benchmarks, Safari demonstrated up to 5x better energy efficiency than Chrome in some tests, with Arc’s energy usage closely matching Firefox and outperforming other Blink-based browsers ^[33].

When it comes to speed, Arc also holds its own. Performance tests using Speedometer 3.1 revealed Arc scoring 41.3, which, while slightly behind Microsoft Edge (46.6) and Google Chrome (45.3), still outpaced Firefox (38.7) and came close to Safari (42.2) ^[24]. Its Swift-based design further enhances responsiveness on macOS, making it a strong choice for users seeking a fast and efficient browser.

Privacy and Tracker Blocking

Arc doesn’t just focus on speed - it also takes privacy seriously. The browser minimizes background data transmissions, ensuring both privacy and performance are optimized. Arc’s data collection is kept to a minimum and is fully transparent. It does not log sensitive information such as URLs, bookmarks, browsing history, or search terms ^[17]. Additionally, when third-party analytics tools are used, no personally identifiable information is shared, and all logs are encrypted during transmission and stored for only 30 days ^[17].

On the security front, Arc stays ahead of potential threats by adopting the latest Chromium updates within 48 hours of release. The browser also partners with Latacora for regular security reviews and training ^[17]. For example, a recent update to Chromium 136.0.7103.114 addressed 16 security vulnerabilities, including five classified as high-risk ^[35]. Other protective features include safe browsing warnings for malicious sites and files (enabled by default on Windows), encrypted user data storage via GCP Firebase, and a Bug Bounty Program to encourage researchers to report vulnerabilities ^[34]^[35].

Should You Use Arc Browser?

Arc Browser offers a fresh take on web browsing, designed to cater to a variety of workflows. Deciding whether it’s the right choice for you comes down to how well its features fit into your daily routine.

Is Arc Right for Your Workflow?

With its modern features and business-oriented integrations, Arc stands out as a browser tailored for those managing multiple projects. Its organized tabs and workspaces help users keep everything in order. As Jack Wallen, Contributing Writer, remarked:

"When I first started using Arc, my initial reaction was, 'This is how a browser should work!'" ^[36].

Power users and professionals will also appreciate Arc's built-in AI tools, which are designed to improve efficiency, along with its ad-blocking and privacy protections that eliminate the need for additional extensions.

That said, Arc isn’t for everyone. Its unique interface can feel overwhelming at first. Josh Miller, CEO of The Browser Company, noted:

"It was just too complicated for them, it was intimidating" ^[37].

If you’re someone who prefers a straightforward, no-frills browsing experience, sticking with your current browser might be the better option.

Arc might be a good fit if you:

Handle multiple projects and need better organization
Value enhanced privacy without relying on extra extensions
Like to customize your workspace
Struggle with traditional tab management systems

You might want to stick with your current browser if you:

Prefer a familiar and simple interface
Only use basic browsing features
Don’t want to spend time learning new tools
Need a highly stable browser for critical tasks

Final Thoughts on Arc Browser's Impact

Arc Browser goes beyond traditional browsing by focusing on user-centric design and productivity. Its growth has been impressive, with over 200,000 Windows users and a fourfold increase in daily active users ^[37]. Unlike Chrome, which relies heavily on an advertising-driven business model, Arc prioritizes a cleaner, more streamlined browsing experience.

Currently, The Browser Company has paused new feature development for Arc to focus on Dia, a simpler browser ^[31]. Even so, the existing version of Arc already showcases how browsers can evolve, moving past basic tab management to offer a more intuitive experience. Whether Arc remains a tool for power users or gains mainstream appeal, its influence is already evident as competitors adopt similar features.

Arc also opens doors for automation enthusiasts. Its modern architecture allows for seamless integration with platforms like Latenode, enabling users to connect browser actions with productivity apps and AI tools. This creates an efficient, automated workflow that enhances both personal and professional use.

While Chrome dominates the market with a 65% share ^[37], Arc proves there’s still room for fresh ideas in the browser space. The real question isn’t whether Arc is flawless, but whether its innovative approach aligns with how you work and navigate the web.

FAQs

How does the Arc Browser boost productivity compared to traditional web browsers?

The Arc Browser takes a fresh approach to improving productivity by transforming how users handle tabs and organize their workspaces. Departing from the conventional horizontal tab bar, it opts for a vertical tab bar and introduces "Spaces" - a feature that lets users group tabs based on projects or specific contexts. This design minimizes clutter and helps users stay focused on the task at hand.

Additional features include pinned tabs for quick access to frequently visited sites and built-in tools for managing and revisiting tabs without overwhelming the workspace. These thoughtful additions streamline web navigation, making it easier to stay organized and work efficiently.

What privacy features does the Arc Browser provide to safeguard your data?

Arc Browser: Privacy at the Forefront

Arc Browser puts a strong emphasis on protecting your privacy with features specifically crafted to keep your data safe. Unlike many browsers, Arc avoids tracking your browsing history or online activity, ensuring that your digital habits remain personal. Furthermore, it doesn’t sell your data to third parties, maintaining a commitment to your confidentiality.

To bolster security, Arc comes equipped with built-in tools such as ad blockers, tracking prevention, and cookie management. These features allow you to take greater control of your browsing experience, minimizing unwanted intrusions and enhancing your online privacy.

Is Arc Browser a good choice for users who prefer simplicity and ease of use?

Arc Browser introduces a fresh approach to web browsing, offering a sleek interface and a range of advanced features. However, it might not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer a simple, straightforward browsing experience or feel less comfortable navigating new technology.

Although Arc provides onboarding to help users get started, its design leans toward individuals who enjoy experimenting with and personalizing their tools. For those who value ease of use over customization, Arc’s unique setup might feel a bit overwhelming. If a minimalist, no-nonsense browser is what you’re after, Arc may not be the ideal choice.