Obscure Web browsers collected

Polina Polishchuk, CNET Download intern June 22, 2010

Whether you are creating your own gaming Web site or simply checking out the latest Buzz Out Loud, trying to choose one of the dozens of Web browsers out there can be a massive waste of time. Among the big five of Firefox, Internet Explorer, Chrome, Safari, and Opera, there are still more than a dozen second-tier Web browsers that are trying to make a splash in cyberspace. These obscure browsers got a break in 2009 when the European Union settled the Internet Explorer antitrust case with Microsoft. As part of the settlement, Windows PCs sold in Europe now offer a choice screen of 12 browsers.

The lesser-known browsers on the second page of the choice screen include Maxthon 2, SlimBrowser, and Flock. Though resembling Internet Explorer, Maxthon and SlimBrowser offer unique features that IE lacks. This includes high customization and advanced bookmarking options. SlimBrowser also boasts advanced translating options as well as auto form-filling. Maxthon, which is currently testing a new beta, supports drag-and-drop capabilities and split view between two Web pages.

Flock appeals to social-networking enthusiasts by integrating social platforms together under one roof. The new Chromium-based beta, Flock 3, makes sharing with all of your online friends easier than ever.

Aside from these, CNET Download.com editors gave high ratings to other notable second-tier browsers such as the security-centric Comodo Dragon and Double Vision.

Double Vision lets users watch videos while they work. With an adjustable transparency, videos and other Web pages stay in the background of the other programs being used.

Comodo Dragon is a Chrome remix created by popular firewall software developer, Comodo. Aesthetically identical to Google Chrome, this fast-loading browser stirs in extra security and unlike Google, leaves out data mining.

Compare these browsers and find the right one for you.