Top 10 Google Alternative Search Engines to Try in 2023
There is no doubt that Google is the most popular and dominating search engine in most popular parts of the world. When we talk about search engines, we instantly think of Google. But did you notice there are a lot of other alternative search engines out there with so much to offer?
In a world where information is considered power, Google stands as an undefeated search engine for the last 24 years. According to recent studies, Google has an 81.37% share of the market for Desktop search in the United States.
In the graph below of Worldwide Search Engine Market Share, you can see Google’s dominance (it is the most accessed website on the internet with 83.9 billion visits every month).
The main reason that people use an alternative search engine is increased privacy concerns. As we know Google keeps track of user data and shares it with its own services and third-party companies.
Table of Content:
- Top 10 Google Alternative Search Engines
- Bing
- Yahoo
- DuckDuckGo
- StartPage
- Qwant
- Ecosia
- Swisscows
- Search Encrypt
- Gibiru
- Ekoru
Top 10 Google Alternative Search Engines
In this article, we’ll be discussing the Top 10 Google alternative search engines to try in 2023.
1. Bing
Website: Bing
Bing is one of the giants in the search engine owned and operated by Microsoft, it’s the second most popular search engine after Google. It currently holds 8.23% of the worldwide desktop search market share.
Bing was launched back in 2009 as a rebranded version of Microsoft’s earlier search engines, MSN Search, Windows Live Search and Live Search.
Bing has a Monthly search volume of 500 million in the United States and 1.3 billion Global Unique Visitors Every Month.
Microsoft Bing offers several unique features that set it apart from Google. However, its current AI integration in the search engine makes Bing more special than Google. While Google is still trying to launch its AI (BARD), Bing has already integrated with ChatGPT 4 which gives them the upper hand in the game.
One example is Bing’s collaboration with ChatGPT 4, an advanced AI language model developed by OpenAI. This integration in the search gives Bing an edge over Google.
Features:
- AI Integration in the Search Engine: AI Integration in Bing Search Engine gives users personalized results and direct answers to user queries.
Microsoft’s AI-powered Bing is also considered better than Google by some users due to its huge, user-friendly search box and detailed responses. - Video search: Bing’s video search allows users to search for videos on the internet, and provides filters for refining results based on length, resolution, and other criteria. In the Video Results, they include ratings and reviews, as well as the cast and even where you can watch the movie, which gives an effortless experience for a user, whereas Google doesn’t provide effective Video Results. Bing is the leading search engine when it comes to Video search.
- Image search: Bing’s image search allows users to search for images using keywords, and provides filters for refining results based on size, colour, layout, and more. Bing image search is much more advanced than Google’s, and it has object-detection intelligence within the image search function. You can also save searches as ‘collections,’ making it easier to come back to your search at a later time. Bing is the leading search engine when it comes to image search.
- Rewards program: Bing’s rewards program allows users to earn points for their searches and redeem them for gift cards or donations to charity.
Drawbacks:
Bing’s search results may not be as accurate or relevant as Google’s, and it may not be as widely used as Google’s.
- Limited search results
- Less popular than Google
- Less integration with other services
- Advertising-heavy
2. Yahoo
Website: Yahoo
Yahoo is another popular search engine giant that still provides accurate results. It was one of the most used search engines in the past but now only holds 2.44% of the worldwide desktop search market share. It is the third-largest search engine in the world.
Yahoo was founded by Jerry Yang and David Filo back in January 1994 and the company officially start on March 2nd, 1995. Yahoo has a monthly search volume of 450 million in the US and approximately.
Features:
- Customizable News Feed: Yahoo provides a customizable news feed that allows users to personalize their news preferences and select the types of stories and updates they want to see.
- Finance Section: Yahoo offers a dedicated finance section that provides users with financial information, stock market updates, and tools for tracking investments.
- Integration with Yahoo Services: Yahoo integrates with other services, such as Yahoo Mail and Yahoo Answers, offering a seamless user experience across multiple platforms.
- Email Service: Yahoo provides an email service, allowing users to create and manage their email accounts.
Drawbacks:
- Less Accurate Search Results
- Security Concerns
- Limited Innovation
- Lack of Mobile Optimization
Yahoo’s search results may not be as accurate or relevant as those provided by Google. Additionally, Yahoo is not as widely used as Google.
Despite these drawbacks, Yahoo continues to serve as a top alternative search engine for users seeking a different search experience.
Overall, Yahoo remains a recognizable name in the search engine landscape, offering a range of services and features that cater to users’ needs.
3. DuckDuckGo
Website: DuckDuckGo
DuckDuckGo Search Engine has gained huge popularity but still holds 0.54% of global search engine traffic.
DuckDuckGo is a privacy-focused search engine and one of the best search engines when it comes to private browsing. It’s a perfect choice for those who wish to keep their browsing private.
It does not track your personal information or search history, which makes it a great option for those who value privacy. In addition, DuckDuckGo uses its own web crawler (named as DuckDuckBot) to provide search results, which means that you won’t get the same results as you would on Google.
Know More: What is DuckDuckGo Search Engine
DuckDuckGo vs. Other Search Engines
| Features | DuckDuckGo | |
| Privacy-focused | Yes | No |
| Anonymous searching | Yes | No |
| Search history retention | None | Yes |
| Personalized tracking | No | Yes |
| Encrypted connections | Yes | Yes |
| Minimal advertising | Yes | No |
Features:
- Privacy Protection: DuckDuckGo is built around the idea of preserving user privacy. It doesn’t track or store any personal information, ensuring that your search history remains private.
- Anonymous Searching: DuckDuckGo allows users to search the web without revealing their identity. It prevents search engines from tracking and profiling users, making searches truly anonymous.
- Smarter Search Results: DuckDuckGo allows users to customize their search experience. You can adjust settings for preferences such as the appearance of search results, regional settings, and the use of SafeSearch filters.
- Bangs Feature: DuckDuckGo’s “bangs” feature enables users to search directly on specific websites. By typing an exclamation mark followed by a shortcut for a particular site, you can perform targeted searches within that website.
- Instant Answers: DuckDuckGo integrates with numerous sources to provide instant answers to queries. These can include definitions, calculations, conversions, and other relevant information directly in the search results.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Search Result Depth: DuckDuckGo’s search features and options are not as extensive as Google’s. Advanced search operators, such as date-range searches or specific file-type searches, are not as robust in DuckDuckGo.
- Less Localization: DuckDuckGo does not provide as localized search results as Google, especially when it comes to location-specific queries or services like Google Maps.
- Lack of Personalized Results: DuckDuckGo prioritizes privacy by not storing user data or personalizing search results based on individual preferences. However, this means that search results may not be tailored to your specific interests or location.
4. StartPage
Website: StartPage
StartPage is also a search engine that prioritizes privacy. It acts as an intermediary between the user and other search engines, providing anonymous search results while shielding personal information from third parties.
StartPage delivers unbiased and private search results, making it an excellent alternative to Google.
StartPage vs. Other Search Engines
| Features | StartPage | |
| Privacy-focused | Yes | No |
| Anonymous searching | Yes | No |
| Search history retention | None | Yes |
| Personalized tracking | No | Yes |
| Encrypted connections | Yes | Yes |
| Filter bubble avoidance | Yes | No |
Features:
- Privacy Protection: StartPage does not track or store user data, ensuring that your search history remains private.
- Anonymous Searching: It prevents search engines from identifying you by acting as an intermediary, making your searches truly anonymous.
- Unbiased Results: StartPage delivers search results without personalized tracking, promoting a fair and unbiased searching experience.
- Enhanced Security: By using encrypted connections, StartPage protects your searches from eavesdropping and data interception.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Search Results: StartPage acts as an intermediary between the user and other search engines, which means it may not provide as extensive search results
- Lack of Personalization: StartPage’s commitment to privacy and anonymity means that it doesn’t personalize search results based on user preferences or search history.
- Dependency on Other Search Engines: StartPage relies on other search engines, such as Google, for its search results.
- Limited Additional Services: Unlike some other search engines that offer a wide range of additional services, such as email, cloud storage, or productivity tools, StartPage focuses solely on providing private and secure search.
5. Qwant
Website: Qwant
Qwant is a search engine that is based in France. Qwant is a privacy-oriented search engine that prioritizes user anonymity and data security, protecting user privacy and ensuring secure web browsing.
It uses its own web crawler to provide users with accurate and relevant results.
It also offers a separate search engine for children called “Qwant Junior”, which provides a kid-friendly search experience.
Qwant vs. Other Search Engines
|
Features |
Qwant |
|
| Privacy-oriented |
Yes |
No |
| Anonymous searching |
Yes |
No |
| Search history retention |
None |
Yes |
| Personalized tracking |
No |
Yes |
| Encrypted connections |
Yes |
Yes |
| Filter bubble avoidance |
Yes |
No |
Features:
When you choose Qwant as your search engine, you can enjoy the following features:
- Enhanced Privacy: Qwant does not track or store your personal information, ensuring that your searches remain private and your data is protected.
- Neutral and Unbiased Results: Qwant delivers search results without personalized tracking, avoiding the creation of filter bubbles and promoting a fair and unbiased web browsing experience.
- Secure Web Browsing: Qwant uses encrypted connections (HTTPS) by default, protecting your searches from potential eavesdropping and data interception.
- No Behavioral Profiling: Unlike other search engines, Qwant does not create user profiles or engage in behavioural profiling, preserving your anonymity online.
- Focus on Privacy: Qwant’s commitment to privacy extends to its partnerships, as it ensures that search results are free from any tracking or profiling elements.
Drawbacks:
- Lack of Search Result Personalization
- Smaller Search Index
- Limited Language Support
- Advertisements and Revenue Model
- User Interface and Search Experience
6. Ecosia
Website: Ecosia
Ecosia is a search engine dedicated to sustainability and reforestation. It is an eco-friendly search engine that uses its profits to fund tree-planting projects worldwide, aiming to combat deforestation, restore ecosystems, and promote a greener planet. It works with Bing to deliver search results and display ads alongside them.
Ecosia emphasizes transparency and provides regular reports on the number of trees planted with the revenue generated.
When you search on Ecosia, the search ads displayed generate revenue. Ecosia uses a large portion of this revenue to finance tree-planting projects in various regions globally. With each search, you actively participate in reforestation efforts.
Ecosia vs. Other Search Engines
| Features | Ecosia | |
| Tree-Planting | Yes | No |
| Environmental Impact | Positive | Limited |
| Revenue Distribution | Trees and projects | Profits |
| Privacy Protection | Yes | Concerns |
| Search Results Quality | Comparable | Comprehensive |
| Customization Options | Limited | Extensive |
| Advertisements | Present | Present |
| Mobile App Available | Yes | Yes |
Features:
- Tree Planting: With every search you make, Ecosia uses the generated ad revenue to plant trees, contributing to reforestation efforts worldwide.
- Combatting Climate Change: Trees play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas. Ecosia’s tree-planting initiatives help to mitigate climate change.
- Environmental Preservation: Reforestation helps to restore ecosystems, protect biodiversity, prevent soil erosion, and support local communities.
- Privacy Protection: Ecosia respects user privacy and does not sell personal data to advertisers.
Drawbacks:
- Search Result Accuracy: Ecosia’s search results may not be as comprehensive or accurate as those of established search engines like Google or Bing. This can occasionally lead to less relevant search results.
- Limited Customization Options: Ecosia has fewer customization options compared to other search engines. Users may have fewer preferences to personalize their search experience.
- Smaller Market Share: Ecosia has a smaller market share compared to major search engines. As a result, it may not have the same level of support, resources, or partnerships as its larger counterparts.
7. Swisscows
Website: Swisscows
Swisscows is also known as “The Swiss Privacy Search Engine,” which prioritizes privacy, security, and family-friendly searching. It stands out as a more privacy-focused search engine that ensures secure and anonymous web browsing.
With a strong focus on privacy, Swisscows takes a proactive approach to protecting user data. Unlike traditional search engines that collect and store personal information, Swisscows operates on a strict no-tracking policy. This means that your search queries and browsing activities remain confidential, keeping your online presence shielded from prying eyes.
Swisscows vs. Other Search Engines
| Features | Swisscows | DuckDuckGo | |
| Privacy-focused | Yes | No | Yes |
| Anonymous searching | Yes | No | Yes |
| Search history retention | None | Yes | None |
| Personalized tracking | No | Yes | No |
| Encrypted connections | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Family-friendly filtering | Yes | No | Yes |
| Local search capabilities | Limited | Extensive | Limited |
| Additional services | Few | Extensive | Few |
| Advanced search features | Limited | Extensive | Limited |
| Language support | Multiple languages | Multiple languages | Multiple languages |
Features:
- Privacy Protection: Swisscows prioritizes user privacy by not storing any personally identifiable information or search history.
- Anonymous Search: Your search queries remain anonymous, preventing any tracking or profiling of your online activities.
- Unbiased Results: Swisscows provides unbiased search results, free from personalized filters or targeted advertisements.
- Secure Web Browsing: The search engine utilizes encrypted connections to protect your searches from unauthorized access and interception.
- Family-Friendly Content: Swisscows employs strict filters to ensure the exclusion of explicit or inappropriate content from search results.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Search Results: Compared to popular search engines like Google, Swisscows may have a smaller index of web pages. This could result in occasional limitations in search results and may require alternative search engines for more specific or niche queries.
- Localization Challenges: Swisscows may have limited localization features, making it less effective for location-specific searches compared to search engines that offer extensive local search capabilities.
- Less Advanced Search Features: Swisscows may not offer the same level of advanced search features and customization options as some other search engines. Users who require complex search operations or specialized search tools may find Swisscows less suitable for their needs.
- Limited Language Support: While Swisscows supports multiple languages, its search results may not be as comprehensive or accurate in certain languages compared to dominant search engines that have extensive language coverage.
8. Search Encrypt
Website: Search Encrypt
Search Encrypt is a privacy-focused search engine that uses encryption to protect your search queries. It does not track personal information or search history, and it automatically deletes your search history after 15 minutes of inactivity.
Search Encrypt vs. Other Search Engines
| Features | Search Encrypt | |
| Privacy-focused | Yes | No |
| Encrypted searches | Yes | No |
| Search history retention | Limited | Yes |
| Personalized tracking | No | Yes |
| HTTPS connections | Yes | Yes |
| Unbiased search results | Yes | No |
Features:
- Enhanced Privacy: Search Encrypt encrypts your search terms and browsing activity, making it difficult for anyone to track or intercept your personal information.
- Protection against Tracking: It prevents search engines and websites from collecting and storing your search history or using it for targeted advertising.
- Automatic Expiration: Search Encrypt automatically removes your search history from their servers after a certain period, further enhancing your privacy.
- Unbiased Results: Search Encrypt delivers unbiased search results by avoiding personalized filters and ensuring a fair searching experience.
- Secure Connection: It uses encrypted connections (HTTPS) to protect your searches from eavesdropping and unauthorized access.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Search Results: Compared to popular search engines like Google, Search Encrypt may have a smaller index of web pages. This can result in fewer search results, especially for more niche or specific queries.
- Lack of Personalized Features: Search Encrypt focuses on privacy, which means it does not offer personalized search features or tailored recommendations based on your search history. This can be a disadvantage for users who prefer personalized search results.
- Less Advanced Search Functionality: Search Encrypt may not provide the same level of advanced search options and filters as some other search engines. Users who rely on complex search operations or specialized search tools may find Search Encrypt less suitable for their needs.
- Limited Localization Support: Search Encrypt may not have extensive localization features compared to search engines that offer more robust local search capabilities. This can be a limitation for users who require location-specific search results.
9. Gibiru
Website: Gibiru
Gibiru emphasizes user privacy and free speech. It claims to provide uncensored private search and unpersonalized search results. Gibiru aims to offer an alternative search experience without the filtering and bias often associated with mainstream search engines.
Gibiru vs. Traditional Search Engines
| Features | Gibiru | |
| Privacy-focused | Yes | No |
| Uncensored search results | Yes | No |
| Search history retention | None | Yes |
| Personalized tracking | No | Yes |
| Encrypted connections | Yes | Yes |
| Filter bubble avoidance | Yes | No |
Features:
- Uncensored Search Results: Gibiru ensures that search results are not filtered or censored, allowing users to access a wide range of information.
- Privacy Protection: Gibiru does not track or store user data, respecting your online privacy.
- Anonymous Searching: By acting as an intermediary, Gibiru prevents search engines from directly identifying and tracking users.
- Enhanced Security: Gibiru uses encrypted connections to protect your searches from interception and eavesdropping.
- Unbiased Information: Gibiru aims to provide unbiased search results by avoiding personalized filtering or tailored content.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Search Results: Gibiru may not have the same extensive index as popular search engines like Google or Bing. As a result, you may occasionally encounter a narrower range of search results, especially for more niche or specific queries.
- Less Advanced Features: Compared to mainstream search engines, Gibiru may have fewer advanced features and functionalities. This could include things like personalized recommendations, integrated services, or specialized search options.
- Limited Language Support: Gibiru may have limited language support compared to major search engines that cover a wide range of languages. If you primarily search in less commonly spoken languages, you may experience difficulties finding relevant results.
- Lack of Localized Search Results: Gibiru may not provide localized search results tailored to specific regions or countries as comprehensively as larger search engines. This could impact the relevance and accuracy of search results for location-specific queries.
- Potential Advertisements: While Gibiru aims to deliver uncensored search results, it may still display advertisements alongside the search results. These ads could potentially compromise the user experience or privacy, depending on their content and tracking practices.
10. Ekoru
Website: Ekoru
Ekoru is an innovative search engine that focuses on environmental conservation. It combines the power of internet searching with sustainable technology to minimize its carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future.
Ekoru utilizes a clean and energy-efficient infrastructure to deliver search results. It leverages renewable energy from hydroelectric power to offset its carbon emissions. Ekoru also ensures user privacy and data protection throughout the search process.
Ekoru vs. Traditional Search Engines
| Features | Ekoru | |
| Eco-friendly infrastructure | Yes | No |
| Renewable energy use | Yes | No |
| Carbon offsetting initiatives | Yes | No |
| Data privacy and protection | Yes | Varies |
| Revenue sharing with charities | Yes | No |
Features:
- Environmental Impact: Every search conducted on Ekoru helps fund initiatives focused on cleaning oceans and protecting wildlife.
- Reliable Search Results: Ekoru provides accurate and relevant search results from trusted sources, ensuring a high-quality search experience.
- Sustainable Technology: Ekoru’s commitment to using renewable energy reduces its carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable internet ecosystem.
- Data Privacy: Ekoru prioritizes user privacy and does not collect or store personally identifiable information.
- Supporting Environmental Organizations: Ekoru donates 60% of its revenue to environmental charities, making a tangible difference in conservation efforts.
Drawbacks:
- Limited Search Results: One of the drawbacks of using Ekoru is its limited search result coverage compared to traditional search engines.
- Less Developed Features: Ekoru, being a relatively new and specialized search engine, may have fewer features and functionalities compared to more established and comprehensive search engines.
- Potential Performance Differences: Due to its eco-friendly infrastructure and commitment to sustainability, Ekoru’s performance may vary compared to traditional search engines.
- Limited Localization Support: Ekoru’s availability may be limited to specific regions or countries.
Conclusion:
While Google dominates the worldwide search engine market, there are several other alternatives that offer unique features. Each Alternative search engines offer a wide range of benefits, including a better search experience and higher levels of privacy.
We have listed the top 10 Google alternatives based on various factors and considerations. We did an in-depth comparison test of the Search Engine and listed the best 10 out of all. It can vary depending on individual requirements and needs. Explore these options and discover a world beyond Google’s dominance.
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