CNET Editors' review
ThunderBrowse is a Mozilla Thunderbird plug-in that gives you a feature you didn't know you were missing. Once you get it, though, it's all over--e-mailing without it is so much slower.
By integrating Web surfing directly into the e-mail client, ThunderBrowse cuts down on the time it takes to open a link from an e-mail in your Web browser. The plug-in adds a simple URL bar to the e-mail preview pane, with Forward, Back, Refresh, and Go buttons. Clicking on a link embedded in an e-mail now opens it up in the preview pane. Tabs are now supported, and ThunderBrowse can open a new window via a customizable hot key for speedy lightweight browsing on the fly.
It's got a reasonable number of customizable features, too. The option to open in your preferred browser is accessible either from the context menu or the middle mouse button. It automatically detects whether your default is Firefox or Internet Explorer, and you can set it to ask before opening the browser. You can also point it directly to an alternate browser, if you want, and a History-clearing button in the options menu.
ThunderBrowse is definitely for lightweight browsing. JavaScript and embedded video support can be added with the CS Lite plug-in for Thunderbird, but even without them ThunderBrowse is one of the best extensions around for Mozilla's open-source e-mail manager.
Publisher's Description
From GS Networks:
ThunderBrowse Thunderbird extension adds a URL bar to the Thunderbird interface, thus allowing you to be able to view Web sites without having to open browsers. ThunderBrowse is a unobtrusive because it doesn't require you to add any more buttons to your toolbar, as it adds to the message preview pane, without taking up much space.
What's new in this version: Version 3.8 adds support for Thunderbird 5, fixes the auto suggest bugs and plugin and settings window bugs.
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All versions:
3.5 starsout of 15 votes
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Current version:
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"not compatible with Thunderbird v.303"
Version: ThunderBrowse 3.2.2.1
Pros
none- apparently pushing an outdated version
Cons
doesn't work with the browser it's made for.
Summary
don't push product unless it's ready. What a waste of time!!!
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"Not compatible with Firefox 3.0.3."
Version: ThunderBrowse 3.2.2
Pros
Not compatible with Firefox 3.0.3.
Cons
Not compatible with Firefox 3.0.3.
Summary
Not compatible with Firefox 3.0.3.
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"Want something better? Try SeaMonkey..."
Version: ThunderBrowse 3.2.1.8
Pros
I agree with much of the review. The extension is very novel for those who don't feel the need to switch between their browser of choice and Thunderbird - although I don't see why people would be thrilled about this in the long-term and continue to use it.
Cons
It's fun to tinker, but honestly, it's just reinventing the wheel. SeaMonkey mysteriously comes to mind, the prodigal software of Mozilla's loins, who has been thrown out of the loop. If you want an integrated solution - that is, after you have had your fun - I urge you to give SeaMonkey a try. Or, if you feel that your very adventurous, throw Opera on and have it go. Or go back to the Firefox/Thunderbird combo. And, I might be wrong, but I remember searching for extensions and coming across one which gives you the integrated feel that we all truly yearn for (or don't).
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"Nice piece of software."
Version: ThunderBrowse 3.2.1.8
Pros
It is convenient not having to open browser to check out some web content. If I want to interact with the web page I can open link in my browser.
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"It just makes life that little bit easier."
Version: ThunderBrowse 3.2.1.8
Pros
Does what it says: links in emails can be opened within Thunderbird rather than in a separate browser. Links open immediately in Thunderbird rather than there being a delay.
Cons
1. Default when downloading it from Firefox is that the latter tries to install it as a Firefox add-on (doh!). There is a workaround: right-click and select "save link as". NB you'll need to manually add it to your Thunderbird extensions folder.
2. Some of the settings do not appear to work.
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"not compatible?"
Version: ThunderBrowse 3.2.1.8
Cons
I would love to try it, but it won't download. I try to catch a glimpse of a rectangle on my screen - I think it says Thunderbrowse is incompatible with Firefox 3 but it leaves too quick for me to find out. Would be nice to get at least a reason why I can't download it.
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"very handy"
Version: ThunderBrowse 3.2.1.8
Pros
nice to have thunderbird as a browser also
Cons
more controls and better interface would help.
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"Download with IE not FF"
Version: ThunderBrowse 3.2.1.8
Pros
Download with Internet Explorer not Firefox as FF reads ThunderBrowse as a FF install not a TBird. Installed without a hich for me (after trying FF). Great 3rd party addon, small, there when you need it. I will make a purchase at ********** from the link as support. It's a Win-Win, so go-go it's one of the best.
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"Response to "Not Compatible with Firefox 3.0""
Version: ThunderBrowse 3.2.1.8
Pros
It is not compatible with Firefox because it is not a Firefox extension. It's for Thunderbird. It needs to be saved to the disk and then installed. Just clicking the link with Firefox tries to install it into Firefox.
I don't know how I did without this feature. Great work.
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"Amazing"
Version: ThunderBrowse 3.2.1.8
Pros
Install it in Thunderbird not in FF
download it for example on your desktop.
Then open Thunderbird extra - add ons - install and go to the location wher you put ThunderBrowse 3.2.1.7
Click on the download and on open.
thats all.
greetings from the Netherlands
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