Our verdict: Arc rethinks the browser window with a vertical sidebar, Spaces for separate parts of your life and built-in split view. It is pleasant to use, but it now receives only Chromium updates, no new features, and needs an account. The developer itself points new users to its newer browser, Dia.
About Arc
Arc is made by The Browser Company of New York and runs on Chromium, so Chrome extensions work. Instead of a tab strip it keeps tabs in a sidebar, separated into Spaces and Profiles for work, study or hobbies, with pinned tabs and folders.
Arc for Windows is in maintenance mode: the release notes show weekly or near-weekly updates that move it to newer Chromium versions with security fixes, but no new features. The company now develops Dia and recommends it for active security patches and enterprise protection. Arc for desktop requires an Arc account.
What it does well
- Sidebar tabs. Tabs, pinned sites and folders live in a vertical sidebar instead of a tab strip.
- Spaces and Profiles. Separate sets of tabs and logins for work, study and personal browsing in one window.
- Split View. Shows several pages side by side in one window.
- Themes. Each Space can have its own color theme.
- Arc Sync. Syncs Spaces, pinned tabs and folders between devices through an Arc account.
Who it is for
Good fit
People who keep many tabs open and like a sidebar layout with separate Spaces for different tasks.
Look elsewhere
Users who want a browser that still gets new features, or who do not want to create an account.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Clean sidebar layout for many tabs
- Spaces keep work and personal browsing apart
- Chrome extensions work
- Regular Chromium security updates
Cons
- Maintenance mode: no new features
- Account required to use the desktop app
- Takes time to get used to if you prefer classic tabs
How to install Arc
The direct link downloads a small installer that fetches and installs Arc. On first launch you must sign in or create an Arc account, then you can import bookmarks, passwords, history and extensions from your current browser. Updates are checked automatically and via the Arc menu.
Questions about Arc
Is Arc free?
Yes. Arc is free to download and use.
Is Arc still updated?
Yes, but only with Chromium and security updates. The Browser Company now focuses on its newer browser, Dia.
Do I need an account for Arc?
Yes. Arc for Windows and macOS requires an Arc account, which is also used for sync.
