In 2025, our digital lives are more mobile than ever. We’re constantly browsing, researching, shopping, streaming, banking, and sharing — often from more than one device. For years Google Chrome has dominated as the de facto choice for many users across Android, Mac, Windows, and iOS. But Chrome isn’t perfect. Concerns about privacy, data collection, battery use, performance on mobile, and occasional security vulnerabilities have made users look for alternatives. If you’ve ever thought “there has to be something better than Chrome,” then this article is for you.
Today, I want to introduce you to a Chrome alternative that runs on both Android and macOS — and it comes with a built-in VPN. It’s shaped my browsing experience, and I think it could transform yours too.
Why People Are Looking for a Chrome Alternative
Chrome is powerful and ubiquitous. It syncs across devices, supports extensions, and integrates deeply with Google services. But there are valid reasons why millions of users are questioning its dominance:
1. Privacy Concerns
Chrome is developed by Google — one of the largest data-driven companies on the planet. Chrome collects telemetry and usage data that is tied into Google’s broader advertising ecosystem. For privacy-minded users, this makes Chrome less appealing as a default browser choice.
2. Battery and Performance on Mobile
On Android and laptops like MacBooks, Chrome is known to be resource-hungry. It can drain battery faster and consume more RAM than many competing browsers.
3. Security Risks
While Chrome receives regular security patches, vulnerabilities are still discovered. These vulnerabilities, by virtue of Chrome’s massive market share, are high-profile targets for attackers.
4. Fragmented Experience Across Devices
Although Chrome tries to offer a consistent experience, there are features (like extension support) that are available on desktop but limited or absent on mobile. This inconsistency nudges users to find alternatives that work more uniformly across platforms.
Because of reasons like these, tech enthusiasts and average users alike are exploring other browsers. But with so many options, how do you choose one that’s truly better than Chrome — and not just a gimmick?
Enter the Browser with a Built-in VPN
The browser I found — and keep returning to — is Aloha Browser. It’s available on Android, macOS, Windows, and iOS, and its standout feature is a built-in VPN that you don’t have to install separately.
Unlike third-party VPN apps or extensions that can feel clunky or limited, Aloha’s VPN is part of the browser itself. Turn it on with a tap, and it encrypts your connection — keeping your data private from your network provider, advertisers, and even some forms of tracking.
But Aloha isn’t the only browser with VPN features; part of what makes it special is how it integrates that VPN alongside a familiar interface and powerful privacy tools.
Let’s explore exactly what it offers — and why it’s worthy of replacing Chrome.
What Makes Aloha Browser a Strong Chrome Alternative
1. Built-in VPN That Works Out of the Box
One of the biggest changes I noticed immediately when switching from Chrome was how easy it was to enable VPN protection.
On many browsers, if you want a VPN, you have to install a separate app or extension, configure it, and remember to turn it on each time. With Aloha, the VPN is right there in the toolbar — just one tap to activate.
This built-in VPN:
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Masks your real IP address
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Encrypts your browsing traffic
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Helps protect against network snooping and tracking
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Offers privacy beyond just incognito mode
The VPN is available for free in the standard version, but there’s also a premium tier that adds features like selecting specific server locations, automatically connecting to the fastest server, auto-start on launch, and device-wide VPN protection.
🔐 Why This Matters
Many people use Chrome with no VPN at all — meaning their ISP or mobile carrier can see and log much of their browsing activity. A built-in VPN is a huge upgrade in privacy, especially on public Wi-Fi networks.
2. User Interface Similar to Chrome
Switching browsers can be jarring if the layout is radically different. But Aloha borrows a lot from Chrome’s familiar interface, so the learning curve is gentle.
You’ll find familiar features like:
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A combined address/search bar
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Tab management similar to Chrome
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Quick access to bookmarks and history
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Simple settings menus
This similarity means you don’t have to relearn browsing — just enjoy better features beneath the surface.
3. Privacy Tools Turned On by Default
Chrome has incognito mode, sure — but that only stops local history from being saved. It doesn’t block trackers or prevent websites from seeing your real IP.
Aloha goes further by offering:
✔ Tracking protection
✔ HTTPS enforcement (“HTTPS lock”)
✔ Ad blocking
✔ Zero data collection policy
✔ Real-time privacy reports
This suite of privacy tools transforms your browsing experience — especially if you care about being less tracked online.
4. Security Features Beyond the VPN
Beyond the VPN, Aloha includes features that make it feel safer than Chrome:
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Private mode + VPN combo – Private tabs automatically benefit from VPN protection.
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Passcode lock for the app or private content – You can set a passcode to restrict access to the browser or selected sections like downloads and private tabs.
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HTTPS enforcement – The browser tries to connect to secure versions of websites whenever possible.
These tools help protect not just your browsing history, but your overall digital footprint.
5. Cross-Platform Availability
One reason Chrome became so popular is that it works everywhere — Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux. Aloha matches that reach.
You can use the same browser (with synced history, bookmarks, and settings if you choose) across your phone and laptop. This makes Aloha a practical Chrome alternative for everyday use.
6. Performance and Resource Use
Chrome’s heavy use of RAM is particularly noticeable on lower-end Android phones or older MacBooks.
Aloha, being more lightweight and privacy-focused, often feels faster — especially when it’s blocking trackers and ads that slow page loading. Many users also report less battery drain compared to Chrome, especially on Android.
A Closer Look at the VPN
Let’s dive deeper into the built-in VPN, since that’s what sets Aloha apart from most Chrome alternatives.
🌍 Built-in vs. Separate VPN
With many browsers, you can get VPN features only by:
📌 Installing a VPN app that runs system-wide
📌 Using a browser extension (which is limited in scope)
📌 Relying on your operating system’s VPN support
Aloha handles it all within the browser — no extra apps, profiles, or permissions needed.
🔁 Free vs. Premium VPN
The free version gives you VPN protection, but with limitations:
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You can’t choose specific server locations
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VPN connects automatically to a default location
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Traffic is protected only in the browser
The premium plan expands this:
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Choose your VPN server location
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Enable auto-connect
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Protect your entire device (not just browser traffic)
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Faster and more stable connections
For many, the free built-in option is already better than nothing — but premium unlocks real power and flexibility.
🕵️♂️ Security and Privacy
Unlike Chrome, which relies on external VPN apps or extensions, Aloha’s VPN is baked into the browser architecture. This means:
✔ Easier to use
✔ Always available with one tap
✔ Combined with tracker and ad blocking
✔ Works well on both Android and macOS
Whether you’re browsing on public Wi-Fi, your home network, or on the go, this built-in VPN stops many forms of tracking and snooping at the browser level.
How Aloha Compares to Chrome on Android
Chrome on Android is fast and syncs with your Google account — but there are some limits:
Chrome Android
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Strong integration with Google services
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Sync across devices with Google account
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Large extension ecosystem (desktop)
But Chrome lacks built-in VPN and doesn’t include advanced privacy tools by default. You have to manually add third-party extensions or apps.
Aloha Android
✔ Built-in VPN with one-tap activation
✔ Tracking protection and ad blocking
✔ Passcode lock for privacy
✔ No data collection policy
If you care about privacy and want a more secure browsing experience on mobile without juggling multiple apps, Aloha is a serious contender.
How Aloha Compares to Chrome on Mac
On macOS, Chrome remains popular but has three common downsides:
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High memory usage
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Battery drain
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Privacy limitations
Aloha on macOS brings the same strengths as Android:
✔ Built-in VPN (still in beta but improving)
✔ Privacy-first features
✔ Familiar UI
✔ Better battery and resource efficiency for many users
While Chrome can be beefier and more powerful in some technical tasks, Aloha’s streamlined design and privacy tools make it a great daily driver — especially if you browse a lot and want less data tracking.
Other Browsers with Built-in VPN
Before we conclude, it’s worth noting there are other browsers with VPN features — but they have limitations.
Opera Browser
Opera has long offered a free built-in VPN on Android and desktop that runs within the browser itself. It also includes an ad blocker and other features.
However, Opera’s VPN may not be a true network-level VPN — it can behave more like a proxy — and advanced features often require a paid upgrade.
Cake / Epic Browser
Other browsers like Cake Web Browser and Epic Private Browser also bundle VPN capabilities.
But they may lack the cross-platform consistency and polish of Aloha. Some are focused mainly on Android or niche use cases.
Real-World Use Cases
Let’s look at some scenarios where Aloha shines as a Chrome alternative.
🛡 Protecting Your Privacy on Public Wi-Fi
Whether you’re working from a cafe, airport, or hotel, public Wi-Fi is notoriously insecure. Aloha’s VPN encrypts traffic and hides your IP instantly — something Chrome cannot do without an external VPN.
🌍 Accessing Region-Restricted Content
Sometimes websites or services restrict content based on your location. With a VPN, you can access content more freely — something built-in to Aloha’s system.
🔒 Sensitive Browsing Needs
If you’re handling banking, journalism research, or any work where privacy is important, having both tracker blocking and a VPN co-located in your browser gives you extra confidence.
📱 Battery-Efficient Mobile Browsing
Chrome can drain power rapidly, especially on Android devices with older batteries. A lighter, privacy-focused browser like Aloha often uses less energy in real browsing sessions.
Tips for Switching from Chrome to Aloha
Switching browsers may seem intimidating, but here’s a smooth path:
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Export Your Bookmarks: Export from Chrome and import into Aloha.
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Sign Up or Sync: Use Aloha’s sync feature to keep things consistent across devices.
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Enable VPN: Tap the VPN icon on the toolbar to protect your connection.
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Set Privacy Defaults: Enable ad blocking and tracker protection in settings.
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Exploration Mode: Spend a few days browsing — you’ll notice the difference.
Potential Downsides to Consider
No browser is perfect, and Aloha has some limitations:
🧪 VPN Performance Can Vary
Free VPN speeds may not match premium standalone VPN services — especially under heavy load. If you depend on super-fast VPN for streaming or gaming, consider upgrading to premium or using a dedicated VPN.
🧩 Sync and Extension Support
While Aloha supports many popular features, its extension support and ecosystem aren’t as extensive as Chrome’s. For users who rely heavily on desktop extensions, this might be a trade-off.
🔄 Beta Features on Mac
Some features (like VPN on macOS) may still be in beta or require updates — meaning occasional glitches.
Conclusion: Is This Browser Better Than Chrome?
If you’re reading this because you want more privacy, better security, and built-in VPN protection — then yes, the browser I found (Aloha Browser) is a worthy Chrome alternative across Android and macOS. It delivers a familiar browsing experience while offering tools Chrome doesn’t — especially without add-ons.
Whether you’re casual user, privacy-minded professional, or mobile power user, having an integrated VPN inside the browser removes friction and gives you peace of mind every time you surf the web.
Go ahead — give it a try. You might never look at Chrome the same way again.