Waterfox Portable

2021.04.2 Firefox alternative browser for Windows

Sven Sorensen

Nimble, privacy-focused web browser with portable features for on-the-go browsing.

Free and open source Internet browsing software download, reviewed by Sven Sørensen
Firefox-based Internet browser optimized and compiled to help users take full advantage of their fast - Screenshot of Waterfox Portable
Fast and customizable browser - Screenshot of Waterfox Portable
User interface - Screenshot of Waterfox Portable
Waterfox Portable screenshot
Waterfox Portable screenshot
Waterfox Portable screenshot
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A web browser that's based on Mozilla Firefox offering speedy x64 executable with additional, user-requested features.

Waterfox is an open-source web browser based on Firefox that's been specifically optimized for speed and privacy. It's a great choice for those who want to use the Firefox engine but don't need all the extra features of the standard version. With its fast and secure browsing, Waterfox is a great alternative to the popular browsers out there.

The browser is essentially Mozilla Firefox's code compiled as a 64-bit application for Windows.

This portable version includes support for all of Firefox's features including plug-ins, extensions and everything else you expect Firefox to do. Visually, the only different layout feature you might notice is the blue logo.

As a portable application, installation of Waterfox Portable is not required meaning it can be executed from most locations including USB thumb drives, memory sticks and other forms of portable mass storage media.

In terms of speed, we noticed that running Waterfox Portable on a 64-bit system just makes your browsing experience faster. Loading web pages, JavaScript-intensive applications and even videos with this 64-bit browser just seemed much faster. In terms of issues you might have with Firefox, they will probably just be replicated by Waterfox.

Waterfox follows the release schedule of the main Firefox releases a few days behind, but having that extra bit of speed on a 64-bit system is worth the short delay.

Overall, we highly recommend using Waterfox Portable as an alternative to Firefox if you have a 64-bit system and you're a fan of Firefox.

Features of Waterfox Portable

  • Built-in tracking protection: Block unwanted trackers and protect your privacy while browsing the web.
  • Compatibility with Firefox extensions: Access a vast library of Firefox extensions, expanding the functionality of your browser to suit your needs.
  • Customization options: Tailor your browsing experience with a range of customization options, including themes, extensions and advanced settings.
  • Custom search engines: Add and customize search engines to suit your preferences and search the web more efficiently.
  • Developer tools: Explore and debug web pages with a comprehensive set of developer tools for web development and troubleshooting.
  • Enhanced privacy and security: Enjoy a browser built with privacy and security in mind, offering protection against online threats and tracking.
  • High performance: Experience fast and smooth browsing with optimized performance, allowing you to navigate the web with speed.
  • Multi-platform support: Access Waterfox on multiple platforms, allowing you to sync your bookmarks, history and settings across devices.
  • Open-source development: Contribute to the browser's development and benefit from the collaborative efforts of the open-source community.
  • Password manager: Keep your passwords secure and easily manage them with the built-in password manager.
  • Reader view: Enjoy distraction-free reading with a built-in reader view that removes ads and unnecessary clutter from web pages.
  • Smooth scrolling: Enjoy a seamless scrolling experience, making it effortless to browse through lengthy articles and web pages.
  • Tab management: Organize and manage your tabs efficiently with features like tab grouping, pinning and session saving.
  • User-friendly interface: Navigate the browser effortlessly with an intuitive interface that makes it easy to find and access your favorite features.
  • Web compatibility: Access websites and web applications without compatibility issues, ensuring a seamless browsing experience.

Compatibility and License

Waterfox Portable is free software made available under the Mozilla Public Licence for the Windows operating system from web browsers. With this type of license, users are permitted to freely download, modify and distribute it without any real restrictions.

What version of Windows can Waterfox Portable run on?

Waterfox Portable can be used on a computer running Windows 11 or Windows 10. Previous versions of the OS shouldn't be a problem with Windows 8 and Windows 7 having been tested. It's only available as a 64-bit download.


Filed under:
  1. Waterfox Portable Download
  2. Free Web Browsers
  3. Open source and GPL software
  4. Portable Software
  5. Internet Browsing Software
  6. 64-bit downloads
Waterfox Portable has been picked by our editors as very good.
Waterfox Portable has been tested for viruses and malware.
We have tested Waterfox Portable 2021.04.2 against malware with several different programs. We certify that this program is clean of viruses, malware and trojans.