Best browser for older, slower computers
- Uses less memory than other browsers
- Loads quickly on slow connections and older computers
- Improved customization
- Not compatible with some popular sites
- Doesn't support Netflix "Watch Instantly" feature
Sleek and quick like Chrome and customizable like Firefox, Opera has had fans among the experts for years, although the computer browser has never gained a larger popular base. It's the best choice for older, slower computers, as Opera requires less memory and takes advantage of caching so it often runs when other browsers might crash. On the downside, Opera doesn't work with some popular sites and isn't compatible with the Watch Instantly feature on Netflix that allows users to stream movies and TV shows online.
Reviews concur that Opera 11 belongs in the top five, but doesn't have all the advantages of Firefox and Chrome. Nathan Alderman at Macworld likes Opera for its speed and compliance with web standards. CNET has a rundown of Opera's features with some critique.
Our Sources
1. CNET
Opera 11 get 5 out of 5 stars from CNET editors, and Seth Rosenblatt calls it "one of the best browsers available." He notes that this version is more streamlined, and somewhat resembles Chrome. He likes that extensions that add features and enhance security are now available.
Review: Opera, Seth Rosenblatt, Dec. 16, 2010
2. Macworld
This single-product of review of Opera 11 for Mac compares it against competitors using benchmark tests. Cons include the browser's incompatibility with Netflix Watch Instantly. The reviewer likes its responsive interface and stackable tabs.
Review: Opera Software Opera 11 for Mac, Nathan Alderman, Feb. 2, 2011
3. Technolicious.com
In a very brief analysis, Jaimin Rajani explains why Opera 11 is the best browser for people with older computers or slow connections.
Review: Opera - The Best Web Browser for Slow Internet Connections, Jaimin Rajani, April 15, 2011
Web Browsers Runners Up:
2 picks by top review sites.
2 picks by top review sites.
1 pick by top review sites.
1 pick by top review sites.
1 pick by top review sites.
Best Reviewed
Web Browsers
- Best browser overall Firefox 5 *Est. $0
- Fast, secure browsing and search Google Chrome 12 *Est. $0
- Best browser for older, slower computers Opera 11 *Est. $0
- Social networking browser RockMelt *Est. $0
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