Microsoft Edge has evolved dramatically since its debut with Windows 10 as Project Spartan, powered by the EdgeHTML engine. It struggled with limited extensions and compatibility issues on popular sites. Now, rebuilt on Chromium, the new Edge delivers superior performance, vast extension support, and seamless integration across Windows and macOS. As a browser expert with years of hands-on testing, I've compiled these 11 proven tips to help you unlock its full potential.
Download Microsoft Edge for Windows and macOS
Starting fresh doesn't have to mean losing your data. Edge makes it easy to transfer bookmarks, history, passwords, and more from Chrome, Firefox, or others. Head to Settings > Profiles > Import browser data, select your source browser and profile, then choose what to import—favorites, passwords, tabs, extensions, and beyond. This is my go-to first step for a smooth switch.
Edge's Chromium foundation means full compatibility with Chrome extensions. Browse the Chrome Web Store directly in Edge, install your favorites, and enhance productivity or security effortlessly—no compromises.
Match your system's aesthetic with Edge's light or dark themes. Go to Settings > Appearance > Theme, and select default, light, or dark. It's a game-changer for late-night browsing, and I eagerly await auto-switching in future updates.
Edge's default homepage features Bing search, quick sites, dynamic backgrounds, and news. Personalize it via the settings gear: choose Focused (minimalist), Inspirational (wallpapers), Informational (news feed), or Custom to suit your workflow.
Refine Microsoft News to your interests directly from the homepage. Tap Customize > My interests, add topics you love, and remove the rest for a curated experience rivaling Google News.
Spot a story worth revisiting? Click the three-dot menu under any headline and select Save for later. Access your collection via Customize > Saved stories—perfect for busy schedules.
Ditch Bing for Google or others: Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Address bar settings. Set your choice, and optionally configure On startup to open a specific page like google.com.
Declutter any page with the reading icon in the address bar. Adjust font size, style, background, or even enable text-to-speech for immersive reading minus ads and sidebars.
Keep essentials always ready: right-click a tab > Pin. They'll dock to the left, auto-loading on startup. I rely on this daily for efficiency.
Edge's Collections is a smart bookmarking tool for research. Click the Collections icon, start a new one, name it, and add pages, notes, or images. Incredibly handy for projects.
Edge balances tracking prevention by default. Amp it up to Strict in Settings > Privacy, search, and services, or dial back to Basic—your control, your data.
Chromium Edge stands tall with features like Reading View and Collections as my top picks. What's yours? Share in the comments. For Mac setup tips, check our dedicated guide below.
