What is a Web3 browser?
A Web3 browser is similar to existing browsers like Chrome and Firefox in it's usage. However, the difference lies in the feature set.
The best Web3 browsers have a keen focus on making navigation in Web3 a lot easier for users through the creation of features including...
- Built in Web3 wallets
- Web3 token incentivization
- Sometimes come with their own VPN
They're basically built to interact with Web3 dApps more natively.
And thanks to the focus on Privacy in Web3, a lot of them have a strong focus on user privacy.
Functionally, you'll have a similar experience to a more traditional browser, only with the added benefits of it being Web3 native and more privacy focused.
What does a Web3 browser do?
A good Web3 browser will do everything a traditional browser like Chrome will do.
You're able to search the web, stream video, listen to music, go on social media and so much more. Exactly what you'd expect with any browser.
However, these browsers often have better safety and privacy features.
By having crypto wallets built into their browser, you're less likely to fall for a fake extension that then drains your wallet.
You'll also find that the privacy functions of these browser sis far superior to other browsers who often collect data without your knowledge.
What are the benefits of using a Web3 browser?
There's a hugely steep learning curve to Web3.
Between different crypto wallets, chains, and tokens it's hard for a newbie to effectively onboard into the industry.
Especially when everything is so disconnected.
New users have to use Chrome to download something like Metamask, only to then add the right chain when trying to sync to a new dApp. Never mind having to keep their various seed phrases safe and secure.
Web3 browsers are working to make this onboarding more simple and seamless for new users through the introduction of built in elements and features that remove the complexity.
In addition, there's a huge amount of work being done to keep you and your browsing information secure.
Check out the below image from Brave - one of the most popularWeb3 browsers.

You'll notice that they put huge emphasis on the privacy of their users making sure that online actions and behavioural data is kept where it's meant to be - with the user.
Basically, as with anything that's custom built for an issue, it'll be better than something that's later retrofitted to fit a specific need.
Web3 browsers are built from the ground up for Web3.
How do you use a Web3 browser?
Web3 browsers work as any Web 2.0 browser does.
If you're looking at using it to interact more seamlessly with dApps, then they work as any Web 2.0 browser would with an extension like MetaMask.
Thew only difference is you don't need MetaMask as it all comes in one package.
Do I need a Web3 compatible browser to use dApps?
No. You don't need a Web3 browser to interact with dApps.
However, you will need a Web3 wallet as many of them are synced and logged in to via the wallet.
The only benefit of using a Web3 browser is that they often have a wallet built in so your sign in process is a lot smoother.