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Browser shoot-out: IE 7 v Firefox 2

Robert Vamosi CNET

Published: 31 Oct 2006

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Go to section: Introduction Installation Look and community Tabbed browsing Cool new features Security and performance The winner is...

Look and community

Here's where we look at navigation, as well as overall look and feel. But the online world is rapidly becoming a community. Which browser best embodies the community aspect of the Web?

 

Internet Explorer 7

Rafe:
The two browsers both look very good. IE 7 is a bit slicker than Firefox, and it takes more chances with the interface, pushing the standard menu items off to the side. It may take users a few moments to learn where everything is, but it is a thoughtful redesign.
Score  4

Peter:
Departing from the classic look of version 6 by hiding the menu bar, IE 7 allots more space to the main browser window. The full-screen view is particularly well designed -- tabs and the address bar disappear until you hover over them, creating a true full-screen window. The tabs are clunkier than necessary.
Score  4

Elsa:
Internet Explorer's status as the browser people love to hate is unlikely to change anytime soon. IE 7's drastic redesign is likely to alienate users initially rather than wow them, even though it's now easier to find functions via graphical icons -- once you stop looking for the now-gone drop-down menus of its predecessor. IE 7 thoughtfully offers more customisation than in the past, such as the ability to add more search engines to its search field.
Score  4

Total: 12

 

Firefox 2

Rafe:
Firefox doesn't have a radical visual refresh, but it does have some new UI features, such as a 'word wheel' in the search bar. Firefox destroys IE in the extension and plug-in department. There are hundreds of tools for Firefox to enable all manner of customising. IE has extensions too, but not like Firefox.
Score  5

Peter:
Hovering over a tab in Firefox 2 now highlights it, and each tab has its own close button, which was previously possible only with add-ons. Most themes aren't yet available for Firefox, but one of my favourites, Littlefox, works OK. Selecting a new theme now prompts Firefox to ask whether you want to restart the browser to see the effects. Customisation for Firefox 2 via add-ons is a major bonus.
Score  5

Elsa:
Firefox's open-source status and myriad add-ons give it a community edge over IE 7.
Score  5

Total: 15

 

Go to section: Introduction Installation Look and community Tabbed browsing Cool new features Security and performance The winner is...

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