Our verdict: SRWare Iron is Chrome without several of the features that send data to Google. It looks and works almost exactly like Chrome, so switching is painless. The changes are limited compared with privacy browsers that block trackers and ads by default, and the project gives little detail about its update schedule.
About SRWare Iron
SRWare Iron is made by the German company SRWare and built from the Chromium source. It offers the same interface and features as Chrome, including extensions, but removes functions that privacy specialists criticize.
According to SRWare, Iron has no installation ID, does not send address-bar input to Google for suggestions, does not use Google's alternate error pages or error reporting, and leaves out RLZ tracking and the background Google home page request after launch. Builds are offered for Windows, macOS, Linux and Android.
What it does well
- No installation ID. Does not generate the unique install number that Chrome sends to Google.
- No Google suggestions. Address-bar typing is not sent to Google to generate suggestions.
- No RLZ tracking. Leaves out the Chrome function that reports when and where it was downloaded.
- No error reporting. Crash details and mistyped addresses are not sent to Google's servers.
- Chrome compatibility. Same Blink engine, interface and extension support as Chrome.
Who it is for
Good fit
Chrome users who want the same browser with fewer connections to Google.
Look elsewhere
People who want built-in ad and tracker blocking or a browser with open, documented release notes.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Familiar Chrome interface
- Removes several Google data connections
- Supports Chrome extensions
- Installer, MSI and portable builds
Cons
- No built-in ad or tracker blocking
- Few public release notes or details about the update schedule
How to install SRWare Iron
The direct link is the 64-bit Windows installer for Windows 10 and 11; SRWare also offers an MSI, a portable build and a separate version for Windows 7 and 8. Add an ad blocker from the extension store yourself, because Iron does not block ads by default.
Questions about SRWare Iron
Is SRWare Iron free?
Yes. SRWare Iron is free to download and use.
What is the difference between Iron and Chrome?
Iron removes Chrome's installation ID, RLZ tracking, Google suggestions, alternate error pages and error reporting.
Can I use Chrome extensions in Iron?
Yes. Iron is built from Chromium and supports Chrome extensions.
