Maxthon review

A basic web browser that’s compatible with every operating system. Read our Maxthon review to find out more.

Maxthon Review
(Image: © Maxthon)

Top Ten Reviews Verdict

Maxthon isn't the fastest browser on the market, but it's a good choice if you're a fan of Internet Explorer's layout.

Pros

  • +

    Your browser settings sync across all the devices you use Maxthon on.

Cons

  • -

    It doesn't automatically install updates.

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Maxthon is a basic web browser, but it still makes the cut for our best web browsers list. However, it includes standard features found in popular browsers like Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome – for example, tabbed browsing and bookmarks. In addition, Maxthon has tools and features that set it apart from other web browsers.

Your browser settings sync across all the devices you use Maxthon on. You can also drag and drop images, links and text from webpages into chat, text and email messages to send to your contacts. The browser auto fills URLs for sites you previously visited when you start typing them into the navigation bar. It also auto fills forms online with personal information you’ve entered before. However, if you prefer Maxthon not save your personal information, you can choose to have the browser delete it after you enter it from the security settings.

Maxthon’s default security settings aren’t strong enough to protect you from malware or phishing schemes. While the browser warned us of several dangerous sites and blocked us from accessing them, we were still able to visit several phishing sites that were disguised to look like legitimate sites for PayPal and Facebook. It also allowed several malware files, including Trojans and ransomware, to download and infect our test computers. We strongly suggest adjusting Maxthon’s security settings and installing a third-party antivirus software that can stop these threats before they hit your system. Maxthon also has parental controls.

This browser is based on Internet Explorer, so if you’re accustomed to Explorer’s layout, you’ll have no problem finding your way around. All the buttons are clearly labeled, and you can fully customize the browser to be as simple or complex as you want. Most of us have upgraded to Microsoft Edge now, though.

Maxthon doesn’t take very long to install. Also, while it is starts up slower and takes longer to load pages than some of the programs we reviewed, it has fast click-through speeds when you navigate between sites and pages on individual websites. The browser also has antifreeze technology. This means if a page is having trouble connecting and loading, you can open another tab and continue working without worrying that the entire browser will freeze up. Maxthon doesn’t update automatically, though – you have to manually install updates.

The developer’s website has a FAQs page, and there are additional help options on the browser bar. You can read the tip of the day, look through the user guide or search for information about a specific topic in the help database. If you have further questions, you can also contact Maxthon by email.

Maxthon isn’t the fastest or securest web browser we tested, but it has the basic features most people need. It also includes a few unique features. For example, you can drag and drop images and content into chat, text and email messages to quickly share info with your contacts.

Nicole Johnston

Nicole writes for multiple Future Publishing brands covering topics from antivirus to kitchen appliances to SAS. She has over 15 years of research and writing experience, including eight years of testing and reviewing consumer products. Nicole earned bachelor’s degrees in both English and Political Science with a focus on empirical research. In her spare time, Nicole serves as a member of several school councils and volunteers for a local arts board.