Via Browser

A full browser in ~5 MB.

System WebView proprietary Android

A remarkably tiny Android browser built on the system WebView: ad blocking, userscripts, and deep settings in an app smaller than most icons.

Engine
System WebView
License
Proprietary
Runs on
Android
Top marks
Light on resources
Updated
September 2026

Why it shines

  • Absurdly small and fast
  • Ad blocking and userscript support
  • Highly configurable

Worth knowing

  • Closed source
  • Read the privacy policy and settings carefully

Origins

Via Browser belongs to The borrowers — descended from System WebView.

Scorecard

  • Tracking protection1/3
  • Fingerprinting resistance0/3
  • Anonymity0/3
  • Built-in ad blocking2/3
  • Customization2/3
  • Keyboard control0/3
  • Built-in tools0/3
  • Minimal interface2/3
  • Fresh design0/3
  • Classic interface0/3
  • Light on resources3/3
  • Raw speed0/3
  • Battery efficiency0/3
  • Extension ecosystem0/3
  • Cross-device sync0/3
  • Site compatibility2/3
  • Low maintenance2/3
  • Open source0/3
  • Independence0/3
  • Built-in AI0/3
  • Gaming features0/3
  • Dev tooling0/3

0–3 on each of the 22 criteria the quiz and the guides rank by. How we score.

Alternatives to Via Browser

DuckDuckGo Browser

Privacy for people who don't want settings.

System WebView open source

Is it the right one for you? The quiz will tell you.

Take the quiz → Visit Via Browser