Can I use both Microsoft Edge and Brave?

Technically you can install both, but they serve similar purposes so most users pick one. Try both (they're easy to install via Homebrew) and see which fits your workflow better.

Is Microsoft Edge or Brave free?

Microsoft Edge is free to use, and Brave is free and open source.

How do I install Microsoft Edge or Brave on Mac?

Use Homebrew: "brew install --cask microsoft-edge" for Microsoft Edge, or "brew install --cask brave-browser" for Brave.

TL;DR

Microsoft Edge vs Brave: For most Mac users in 2026, Brave is the better choice for Browsers because it is free and open source, so you can inspect, self-host, and trust the code. Both install with a single Homebrew command, so the switching cost is low. Choose Microsoft Edge instead if browser support is your priority.

PublishedJanuary 1, 2026•UpdatedJuly 9, 2026

Which is better: Microsoft Edge or Brave?

Brave is the top pick for most Mac users looking at Browsers — it is free and open-source and installs in one Homebrew command. Microsoft Edge is the stronger choice if you prefer its specific feature set. Both are worth trying.

Microsoft Edge vs Brave

Which is the better Browsers for Mac in 2026?

We compared Microsoft Edge and Brave across 6 key factors including price, open-source status, and community adoption. Read our full breakdown below.

Microsoft Edge

Multi-platform web browser

Free

Brave

Privacy-focused browser with built-in ad blocking

FreeOpen Source

Visual Comparison

Brave

Our Verdict

For most Mac users in 2026, Brave is the better choice for Browsers because it is free and open source, so you can inspect, self-host, and trust the code. Both install with a single Homebrew command, so the switching cost is low. Choose Microsoft Edge instead if browser support is your priority.

Feature Comparison

Feature comparison between Microsoft Edge and Brave
Feature	Microsoft Edge	Brave
Price	Free	Free
Open Source	No	Yes
Replaces	—	—
Best for	browser, chromium, microsoft	browser, privacy, crypto
Install	brew install --cask microsoft-edge	brew install --cask brave-browser
Category	Web Browsers	Web Browsers