When you think of searching the web, chances are Google immediately comes to mind. It’s the undisputed leader in the search engine world, handling over 90% of global searches. But just because it’s the most popular doesn’t mean it’s the best option—or the only one! I encourage you to look at the other options and see what you are missing.
The internet is huge, and so are your choices when it comes to search engines. By exploring alternatives, you can enjoy features that align better with your values—whether it’s improved privacy, reduced environmental impact, or unique customization options. Using alternative search engines can also help diversify the market, encouraging innovation and reducing over-reliance on Google’s dominance.
I am a big advocate of trying other providers besides Google. They have massive control over the market, which will hold back progress.
Not sure where to start? You can explore a variety of search engines with detailed insights using the Search Engine Map. It’s an excellent resource for finding the perfect match for your browsing needs. I recently stumbled on this website and think it’s a great resource.
Quick Comparison of Features
| Search Engine | Independent Index | Privacy-Focused | Ad-Free |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brave Search | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| DuckDuckGo | ✘ (Bing) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Ecosia | ✘ (Bing) | ✘ | ✔ |
| Kagi | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Startpage | ✘ (Google) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Mojeek | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Swisscows | ✘ (Bing) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Bing | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Yep | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Detailed Descriptions
Brave Search
Best For: Privacy and independence.
Brave Search is an independent engine that doesn’t solely rely on Google or Bing. It’s entirely privacy-focused, free of tracking, and pairs seamlessly with the Brave browser. While its index is still growing, it covers most searches well and transparently lets you know when it uses external sources.
DuckDuckGo
Best For: Easy privacy protection.
DuckDuckGo is a straightforward option for those looking to switch from Google without sacrificing usability. It offers privacy-focused searches, helpful shortcuts, and easy accessibility across devices, but it relies on Bing for its results. While I would love for Duckduckgo to have its index, it’s still a great option.
Ecosia
Best For: Supporting environmental sustainability.
Ecosia turns your searches into tree-planting initiatives. By using Bing’s results and ad revenue, it has planted over 150 million trees worldwide. It’s less private than some other options but perfect for eco-conscious users. I think the premise is cool, but I am slightly afraid of whether they follow through on their promises.
Kagi
Best For: Advanced features and customization.
Kagi is a premium, ad-free search engine designed for users who value powerful filtering and customization. It’s ideal for professionals and researchers but requires a subscription to access its unique tools. I like the customizations you can add to the search engine, such as not showing results from Pinterest and the idea that you pay for the service. By providing money, you know how the company generates its profits.
Startpage
Best For: Privacy with Google-like results.
Startpage acts as a privacy shield, allowing you to use Google’s search index without being tracked. It’s great for users who want Google-quality results with anonymity, although it’s slower and lacks personalized features.
Mojeek
Best For: Independence and unbiased results.
Mojeek is built from the ground up with its index, offering unbiased and privacy-focused results. While its smaller index limits it for niche searches, it’s perfect for general queries and those avoiding big tech. I am hopeful that the search results will continue to improve.
Swisscows
Best For: Family-safe searches.
Swisscows automatically blocks explicit content, making it ideal for families. Based in Switzerland, it benefits from strong privacy laws but uses Bing’s results, which limits its scope.
Bing
Best For: Integration with Microsoft products.
Bing is a solid search engine with strong visual search capabilities, rewards programs, and tight integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem. It has been pusing its AI search. However, it tracks user data like Google.
Yep
Best For: Revenue sharing and privacy.
Yep is a unique search engine created by Ahrefs, where 90% of ad revenue is shared directly with content creators. This revenue-sharing model makes it stand out, encouraging the growth of quality content across the internet. Yep is also privacy-focused, ensuring no user tracking or profiling, which makes it a clean and ethical option for search.
Key Features: Revenue sharing with creators, privacy-focused, ad-free browsing.
Limitations: Relatively new, so its index is smaller than established engines like Google or Bing.
Final Thoughts
The search engine you use is your gateway to the internet, and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in how you browse, what you support, and the level of privacy you enjoy. Whether you’re drawn to Brave Search for its independence, Ecosia for its environmental mission, or Yep for its support of creators, there’s a search engine out there that aligns with your values and priorities.
Back then, most people used a portal to access the internet, but now, search engines have replaced that experience. Edge web browser still pushes content when you open a web browser, and Brave is similar, but Chrome now pushes a minimalist search appearance.
Exploring alternatives also helps reduce dependency on Google’s dominance, encouraging diversity and innovation in the search engine space. If you’re unsure where to start, consider trying out a few of the options listed above for a week or two each. You might find that switching is easier—and more rewarding—than you thought.
Have you tried any of these search engines, or do you use one not listed here? Share your experience in the comments below and help others discover new ways to browse the web. Together, we can create a more open and equitable internet!
If you want more alternative products, check out Proton instead of Google or Mastodon instead of X.