Compare Brave Browser VPN and Grok: Which App is the Best?
Brave Browser VPN is a privacy-focused browser with 100M+ downloads and 4.7/5 rating, offering built-in ad blocking, VPN, and AI assistant, though it has faced some recent performance issues and battery drain concerns. | Grok is xAI's AI assistant that combines real-time information access with a witty personality, offering text generation, image creation, and seamless X platform integration. | |
| Key Features A summary of the most important features offered by each app. |
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| Our Rating Prod Apps's expert review score for each app, based on hands-on testing and research. | 7.7 Winner in this category | 7.3 |
| Total users Total active users across all major browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari. | 0 | 0 |
| Total ratings Total number of user ratings received across all supported browsers. | 0 | 0 |
| Average rating Average user rating across all browsers, calculated from available store ratings. | — ⭐ | — ⭐ |
| Entry Level Price The minimum price required to start using the app. "Free" means a free tier is available. | Free | Free |
| Android User rating and stats for the app on Android browser. |  Downloads | Downloads |
| iOS User rating and stats for the app on iOS browser. |  | |
| Features Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Features' aspect of each app. | 8.5 Brave Browser VPN offers an impressive set of features that justify its privacy-focused positioning. The browser includes built-in ad blocking, VPN functionality, AI assistant (Brave Leo), and comprehensive privacy protection. The service also includes advanced features like tracking protection, HTTPS Everywhere, and script blocking, making it more than just a basic browser. What sets Brave Browser VPN apart is its comprehensive privacy and security features, including built-in ad blocking, VPN functionality, and AI assistant. The browser also includes advanced features like tracking protection, HTTPS Everywhere, and script blocking, making it more than just a basic browser. However, the browser lacks some advanced features found in dedicated browsers, such as extensive extension support and some cutting-edge browsing features. The browser also doesn't offer some advanced features like advanced tab management or specialized browsing modes that some competitors provide. Compared to other privacy-focused browsers like Firefox or dedicated VPNs like Proton VPN, Brave Browser VPN offers good features, but the performance issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives. The browser provides good value for users who need comprehensive privacy features. Winner in this category | 8.0 Grok's feature set is impressive and comprehensive. The real-time information access is what really sets it apart - you can ask about current events and get up-to-the-minute answers that other AI assistants simply can't provide. The multimodal capabilities are particularly strong, with image generation that produces striking visuals and the ability to analyze uploaded images providing valuable insights. The integration with X platform is seamless and adds significant value for users already invested in that ecosystem. Grok's personality features, including its witty responses and rebellious tone, make interactions more engaging than typical AI assistants. Key Features:
However, we noticed that some advanced features are locked behind the X Premium+ subscription, which may limit accessibility for casual users. |
| Performance Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Performance' aspect of each app. | 6.0 Brave Browser VPN's performance is inconsistent, with good speeds when working but frequent crashes and battery drain that significantly impact usability. The browser offers decent browsing speeds and privacy protection, but the frequent performance problems and battery drain make it difficult to use reliably. The browser works well for basic browsing when functioning properly, but many users report browser crashes and the need to restart the browser multiple times. The performance issues are particularly concerning given the privacy-focused positioning. The browser's performance issues are particularly concerning given the privacy-focused positioning. Users expect reliability and performance from a privacy-focused browser, but Brave Browser VPN's performance problems make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives that offer similar features with better performance. Compared to other privacy-focused browsers like Firefox or dedicated VPNs like Proton VPN, Brave Browser VPN's performance is below average. The performance issues make it difficult to justify the privacy-focused positioning, and users might find better value with alternatives that offer similar features with better reliability. | 8.0 The extension performs seamlessly, allowing you to interact with Grok without any lag or interruptions. The app handles text generation efficiently, and the image generation feature produces results quickly while maintaining good quality. The integration with X platform works smoothly, with minimal latency when accessing real-time information. Performance Highlights:
We did notice occasional performance variations, particularly during peak usage times, but these were infrequent and didn't significantly impact the user experience. The app maintains good stability across different devices and network conditions. The multimodal features, including image analysis and generation, perform consistently well, though some users have reported occasional delays with complex requests. Overall, the performance meets expectations for a modern AI assistant application. Winner in this category |
| Design Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Design' aspect of each app. | 8.0 Brave Browser VPN's interface strikes a good balance between functionality and user-friendliness. The main screen provides quick access to browsing controls, privacy settings, and key features. The interface is clean and modern, with good attention to detail and user experience. The browser's design is intuitive and well-organized, with clear navigation between different features. The privacy status is clearly displayed, and the settings menu is well-structured. The interface doesn't overwhelm users with complex options while still providing access to advanced features. The interface is generally user-friendly and provides good visual feedback about privacy status and browser performance. The design reflects the privacy-focused positioning of the browser, making it easy for users to manage their browsing experience. Compared to other privacy-focused browsers like Firefox or dedicated VPNs like Proton VPN, Brave Browser VPN's design is competitive and well-polished. The interface is functional and professional, with good attention to detail and user experience. Winner in this category | 7.0 The design is clean and functional, following modern mobile app conventions. The interface is intuitive with a familiar chat-based layout that users will find immediately recognizable. The dark theme with X's signature styling creates a cohesive brand experience that feels premium and polished. The app's visual hierarchy is well-structured, making it easy to distinguish between different types of content - text responses, generated images, and interface elements. Design Highlights:
However, we found that the design could benefit from more customization options and that the interface occasionally feels somewhat basic compared to more feature-rich competitors. The minimalist approach works well for the core functionality but may leave power users wanting more advanced interface options. |
| Value for Money Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Value for Money' aspect of each app. | 7.5 Brave Browser VPN's value proposition is mixed, with excellent privacy features but questionable reliability for the price. The browser offers competitive pricing compared to other privacy-focused browsers, with the ability to get comprehensive privacy features for free being a significant advantage. The browser's pricing is competitive with other privacy-focused browsers, and the built-in ad blocking makes it particularly attractive for users who want a comprehensive privacy solution. The comprehensive features and privacy protection add value beyond basic browsing functionality. However, the browser's value is impacted by recent performance issues and battery drain concerns. Many users report browser crashes and the need to restart the browser multiple times. The performance issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives. Compared to other privacy-focused browsers like Firefox or dedicated VPNs like Proton VPN, Brave Browser VPN offers good features but at a similar cost. The performance issues make it difficult to recommend over free alternatives that offer similar performance with fewer limitations. Winner in this category | 6.0 Grok's value proposition is somewhat mixed. The requirement for X Premium+ subscription ($16/month) creates a significant barrier to entry, especially when compared to free alternatives like ChatGPT or other AI assistants. However, for users already invested in the X ecosystem, Grok provides unique value through its real-time information access and distinctive personality. Value Breakdown:
The premium features, including advanced image generation and priority access, do offer tangible benefits, but the cost may be prohibitive for casual users. We found that the value is most apparent for power users who can leverage the real-time information capabilities and advanced features regularly. For occasional users or those primarily interested in basic AI assistance, the subscription requirement may not justify the cost compared to free alternatives. |
| Ease of Use Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Ease of Use' aspect of each app. | 7.0 Brave Browser VPN is generally easy to use for basic browsing functionality, with a simple interface that requires no technical knowledge. The browser's design is intuitive, and most users can get started quickly without any setup or configuration. The browser offers built-in ad blocking and privacy protection, making it accessible to users of all technical levels. The browser doesn't require complex configuration, and the browsing process is straightforward. The browser works well for most use cases and provides good performance when functioning properly. However, the browser's ease of use is compromised by recent performance issues and battery drain concerns. Many users report browser crashes and the need to restart the browser multiple times. The browser can be slow to load, and some users experience issues with tab management and background playback not working reliably. Compared to other privacy-focused browsers like Firefox or dedicated VPNs like Proton VPN, Brave Browser VPN's ease of use is similar but not significantly better. The performance issues can be frustrating for users who expect reliability from a privacy-focused browser. | 8.0 Grok is remarkably easy to use, especially for users already familiar with chat-based AI interfaces. The onboarding process is straightforward, and the app's core functionality is immediately accessible. The chat interface is intuitive, with clear input areas and well-organized response layouts. We particularly loved how the app handles different types of interactions - text conversations, image generation, and image analysis - all through a unified interface that doesn't overwhelm users. The integration with X platform is seamless, making it easy for existing X users to access Grok. What Makes It Easy:
However, we did notice that some advanced features might not be immediately discoverable for new users, and the subscription requirement could be clearer during the initial setup process. Winner in this category |
| Security & Privacy Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Security & Privacy' aspect of each app. | 9.0 Brave Browser VPN takes security and privacy seriously, with comprehensive privacy protection and built-in ad blocking. The browser includes tracking protection, HTTPS Everywhere, script blocking, and cookie blocking. The browser also includes advanced features like AI assistant (Brave Leo) and VPN functionality for enhanced privacy protection. The browser's privacy features are comprehensive for a privacy-focused solution, with built-in ad blocking and tracking protection. The browser also includes advanced features like HTTPS Everywhere and script blocking for enhanced security and privacy protection. However, Brave Browser VPN has faced some privacy concerns in the past, particularly around its data collection practices and browser reliability. While the company has maintained its privacy commitments, some users remain concerned about the browser's data practices and connection stability. Compared to other privacy-focused browsers like Firefox or dedicated VPNs like Proton VPN, Brave Browser VPN's privacy practices are excellent. The browser provides comprehensive protection for most users, but those with high privacy requirements might want to consider alternatives with more advanced privacy features. Winner in this category | 7.0 Grok's security and privacy practices are generally solid, with xAI implementing standard industry practices for data protection. The app requires appropriate permissions and follows modern security protocols for user authentication and data transmission. However, we noted some concerns about data sharing practices, particularly regarding the integration with X platform and potential data usage for training purposes. Security & Privacy Features:
Users should be aware that conversations and interactions may be used to improve the AI model, which is common practice but worth noting for privacy-conscious users. The app does provide basic privacy controls, but we found the privacy policy could be more transparent about specific data usage and retention policies. Overall, the security measures appear adequate for typical use cases, though users with high privacy requirements may want to review the detailed privacy terms. |
| Conclusion A summary of our findings and final thoughts for each app. | Brave Browser VPN is a privacy-focused browser that offers excellent ad blocking and built-in VPN functionality, but its value proposition is compromised by recent performance issues and battery drain concerns. The browser provides comprehensive privacy features and ad blocking capabilities, but the performance problems and bugs make it difficult to recommend over more stable alternatives.
For users who prioritize privacy and are willing to work within the browser's limitations, Brave Browser VPN offers a solid feature set with excellent ad blocking when working properly. However, those seeking specialized browsing functionality or experiencing performance issues might find better value with alternatives like Proton VPN that offer similar features with better performance.
Ultimately, Brave Browser VPN's privacy-focused approach and ad blocking capabilities make it a good choice for users seeking comprehensive privacy, but the performance stability issues and battery drain problems make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives like Aloha Browser VPN that offer similar features with better performance. | Grok stands out as a unique AI assistant with its real-time information access and distinctive personality. While the requirement for X Premium+ subscription may be a barrier for some users, those who invest in the platform will find a powerful AI tool that combines humor, intelligence, and current awareness in an engaging package. |
| Our Recommendation | ||
