Opera is a Chromium-based web browser known for its rich built-in features, strong focus on privacy, and unique offerings like a free VPN, ad blocker, messenger integration, and workspaces. Unlike most browsers, Opera provides a complete experience out of the box—no need for a bunch of third-party extensions to get started.
It’s especially popular among users who want more control, speed, and productivity without compromising on user experience.
🚀 Why Choose Opera?
- Free built-in VPN – no subscriptions or installations required
- Ad and tracker blocker – faster, cleaner browsing experience
- Social media sidebars – access WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram directly
- Workspaces – organize tabs into visual groups
- Battery saver, video pop-out, and snapshot tool
- Chromium-based, so it supports Chrome extensions
Opera also offers Opera GX, a gaming-focused version with CPU/RAM/network limiters and Twitch/Discord integrations.
💻 How to Install Opera
🔗 Download Opera
👉 https://www.opera.com/download
🪟 Windows Installation
- Download the
.exe installer from the official site.
- Run the file and follow the on-screen setup.
- You can import bookmarks and settings from your old browser.
- Launch Opera via Start menu or desktop shortcut.
🍏 macOS Installation
- Download the
.dmg file.
- Drag Opera to your Applications folder.
- Open it from Launchpad or Spotlight.
- Approve security prompts if required.
🐧 Linux Installation
Ubuntu/Debian:
bash
wget -qO- https://deb.opera.com/archive.key | sudo apt-key add -
sudo add-apt-repository 'deb https://deb.opera.com/opera-stable/ stable non-free'
sudo apt update
sudo apt install opera-stable
Fedora:
bash
sudo dnf install https://download1.operacdn.com/pub/opera/desktop/stable/linux/opera-stable_current_x86_64.rpm
🔍 Key Features of Opera
🔒 1. Built-in VPN
- One-click free VPN with unlimited usage.
- Routes traffic through secure servers for better privacy and anonymity.
- Great for bypassing geo-blocks or unsafe networks.
🧹 2. Ad Blocker & Tracker Blocker
- Native ad-blocking for faster page loads.
- Also blocks crypto-mining scripts and trackers.
🗂️ 3. Workspaces and Tab Management
- Group tabs by context (e.g., work, personal, research).
- Use keyboard shortcuts or sidebar to switch quickly.
- Built-in Search Tabs and Tab Island feature for visual grouping.
🖼️ 4. Pop-Out Video Player
- Watch YouTube, Netflix, or other video streams in a floating window while you work.
📱 5. Sidebar Integration
- Quick access to WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, Messenger, and more.
- Built-in music player with Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music integration.
🔋 6. Battery Saver Mode
- Great for laptops – reduces activity in background tabs to extend battery life.
🧭 7. Snapshot Tool
- Capture and annotate parts of a webpage for easy sharing.
🎮 Opera GX – Gaming Browser (Optional)
- CPU, RAM, and Network Bandwidth limiter
- GX Corner for game news and deals
- Twitch, Discord, and Razer Chroma support
- Gaming aesthetics and sound effects
👉 https://www.opera.com/gx
🔌 Extensions and Compatibility
- Built on Chromium, so it fully supports the Chrome Web Store.
- Use all your favorite extensions, including password managers, note tools, and productivity enhancers.
- Opera Add-ons store also offers exclusive tools tailored to Opera’s unique features.
🌐 Sync Across Devices
- Create an Opera account to sync bookmarks, tabs, passwords, and settings.
- Seamless integration with Opera for Android and iOS.
- Use My Flow to send links, files, and notes between devices instantly.
🧠 Productivity Tips
- Use Workspaces to separate tabs by project or purpose.
- Enable Scroll-to-Top by clicking the active tab.
- Customize the start page with widgets and background themes.
- Use the Crypto Wallet to manage Ethereum-based assets.
🆚 Opera vs Chrome vs Edge vs Brave
FeatureOperaChromeEdgeBraveBuilt-in VPNYesNoNoNoBuilt-in Ad BlockerYesNoYes (light)YesMessaging SidebarYesNoNoNoTab WorkspacesYesNoLimitedNoChrome ExtensionsYesYesYesYesGaming BrowserYes (Opera GX)NoNoNo
✅ Final Thoughts
Opera has evolved into one of the most full-featured browsers on the market. Whether you’re a casual user who wants a sleek, fast browser, or a multitasker who needs advanced tab management and a built-in VPN, Opera delivers a versatile, powerful, and user-focused experience.
With productivity features like Workspaces, messaging sidebars, and privacy tools, Opera stands out as a top choice in 2025 for anyone looking to move beyond Chrome or Edge.