Our verdict: NAVER Whale makes the most sense for people who already use NAVER services: logging in with a NAVER ID syncs bookmarks, history, passwords and tabs, and quick search shows results in a sidebar. Outside Korea its built-in services are less useful, and basic usage data goes to NAVER.
About NAVER Whale
Whale is the web browser of NAVER Corporation, the company behind Korea's largest search portal. It combines the address and search bar, lets you change the default search engine, and adds NAVER features such as quick search, which shows results for selected text in a sidebar, automatic page translation and a Scrapbook for logged-in users.
Logging in with a NAVER ID is optional. When you do, Whale syncs bookmarks, history, open tabs, autofill data and passwords between desktop and mobile, and lets you see or delete the synced data on NAVER's servers. According to NAVER's privacy whitepaper, basic information such as the IP address and browser version is always sent to NAVER to provide the service. The browser also has an optional ad-blocking function and its own extension store.
What it does well
- Quick search sidebar. Select text on a page and see search results in the sidebar without leaving the tab.
- Auto-translation. Translates foreign-language pages automatically, with a list of sites managed in settings.
- NAVER ID sync. Syncs bookmarks, history, open tabs, autofill and passwords between Whale on PC and mobile.
- Ad blocking. Includes a function that blocks deceptive or intrusive ads, which you can turn off.
- Whale Store. Installs extensions and themes from NAVER's own Whale Store.
Who it is for
Good fit
NAVER users and Korean speakers who want NAVER search, translation and sync built into the browser.
Look elsewhere
People who do not use NAVER services or who want a browser that sends no data to its developer.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free, with no account required
- Quick search and translation built in
- Sync between PC and mobile with a NAVER ID
- Optional built-in ad blocking
Cons
- Many built-in services are aimed at Korean users
- Sends basic usage information such as IP address and browser version to NAVER
- Sync and Scrapbook need a NAVER account
How to install NAVER Whale
The button downloads the official online installer from NAVER's server; an offline x64 installer is also linked on the download page. Install it, then decide whether to log in with a NAVER ID; you can use the browser without an account. On public or shared PCs use the Public PC option in settings or log out after use.
Questions about NAVER Whale
Is NAVER Whale free?
Yes. NAVER provides Whale and the Whale Store for free under its terms of use.
Do I need a NAVER account to use Whale?
No. Logging in with a NAVER ID is optional and only needed for sync, Scrapbook and some cloud features.
Can I change the search engine in Whale?
Yes. The default search engine can be changed in Whale settings at any time.
