Chrome vs Chromium: Core Difference

When it comes to web browsers, Google Chrome and Chromium are often mentioned together. While they share many similarities, there are key differences between the two. Let’s break them down.

What is Google Chrome?

Google Chrome is a closed-source, fully developed web browser built by Google. It includes all the latest features, such as:

Auto-updates: Chrome is automatically updated by Google.
Proprietary features: Chrome includes proprietary elements like Google Sync, PDF viewer, and Flash player.

How do I Download Chrome?

Downloading the Google Chrome browser is quick and easy. Follow these steps to install it on your device:

Go to Google Chrome’s download page.
The site will automatically detect your operating system so you click ‘Download Chrome’.
After downloading the file, execute it and follow the on-site instructions.

What is Chromium?

Chromium is an open-source web browser project that serves as the foundation for Chrome. It’s developed by the Chromium Project and offers the basic browser functionality found in Chrome, but lacks proprietary features like:

No automatic updates.
No built-in Flash player.
No native media codecs (e.g., MP3 or H.264).

How do I Download Chromium?

Unlike Google Chrome, there isn’t a standalone installer for the Chromium browser with automatic updates. Instead, it must be manually downloaded from the official repository or other sources.

Visit the official page to download Chromium.
Select Windows, macOS, or Linux
Extract or install as per your OS.

Difference Between Chrome and Chromium

Key differences between Google Chrome vs Chromium are compared in the following table.

Features	Chrome	Chromium
Types	Proprietary browser	Open-Source browser
Purpose	General use, secure, user-friendly	Development, testing, and customization
Source Code	A closed source with proprietary features	Fully open-source and customizable
Automatic Updated	Yes	No
Built-in Features	PDF viewer, Flash, Google services	Limited features
Security	Regular patches & Safe Browsing	Security depends on manual updates
Privacy & Collection	Sends usage data	No built-in tracking
Extension Support	Chrome Web Store	Chrome Web Store
Browser Automation	Limited support	Supports Selenium, Puppeteer

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Chrome vs Chromium: Which one is better for you?

It can be quite challenging to decide whether you should stick with feature-full Chrome or use open-source Chromium. Here is a comparison that you may find helpful:

Windows and macOS Users

Chromium is not as good as Chrome since it does not regularly make stable versions and lacks core applications.

Still unsure which browser suits your needs? Discover the key differences in performance, security, and features to find out which one is best for you. Read more- Chrome vs Chromium