Firefox forks are browsers built on Mozilla's Firefox code, usually with different privacy defaults or new features. They give you Firefox's non-Chromium Gecko engine while fixing the things people dislike about stock Firefox. In 2026 the field is strong, and this guide compares the best Firefox forks so you can pick the right one.
Reviewed by the Get ZEN editorial team, last updated July 2026. We test browsers on Windows, macOS, and Linux and verify feature claims against each project's official documentation before publishing.
Why Use a Firefox Fork Instead of Firefox?
You use a Firefox fork when you want Firefox's engine but better defaults out of the box. Forks typically remove telemetry, harden privacy settings, or add power-user features like vertical tabs and workspaces that stock Firefox lacks. You keep full Firefox extension support and the same security engine, so you lose very little.
Best Firefox Forks Compared
| Fork | Best for | Standout feature | Telemetry | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LibreWolf | Privacy purists | Hardened settings, uBlock Origin preinstalled | None | Very active |
| Zen Browser | Power users who want Arc-style UI | Workspaces, Split View, Zen Mods | None | Very active |
| Waterfox | People who want Firefox, minus telemetry | Familiar feel, Android version | None | Active |
| Floorp | Customization tinkerers | Multiple UI modes, workspaces | Minimal | Active |
| Mullvad Browser | Anti-fingerprinting | Tor-grade privacy without the Tor network | None | Active |
| Pale Moon | Legacy sites and old add-ons | Goanna engine, classic UI | None | Niche, slower |
LibreWolf: The Privacy Pick
LibreWolf is the best Firefox fork for privacy. It ships with hardened settings, no telemetry, and uBlock Origin already installed. It tracks the latest stable Firefox closely, so security fixes arrive fast. The trade-off is convenience: its strict defaults can break sign-ins and need per-site tweaks.
Zen: The Feature Pick
Zen Browser is the best Firefox fork for people who want a modern, Arc-inspired interface. Vertical tabs, Workspaces, and Split View make it ideal for juggling many tabs. It is desktop-only and has no built-in ad blocker, though you can add one. Read our full Zen Browser review for the details.
Which Firefox Fork Is Right for You?
Choose LibreWolf for the hardest privacy on desktop. Choose Zen for workspaces and a beautiful UI. Choose Waterfox if you want near-stock Firefox without telemetry and a phone version. Choose Mullvad Browser to resist fingerprinting. Choose Pale Moon only for old sites and legacy extensions. All of them keep you off Chromium — see the full engine landscape in our non-Chromium browsers guide.