4 Firefox alternatives without AI features for Windows 11

Firefox is adding AI features, and for users who want to avoid AI entirely on Windows 11, Waterfox, Zen, LibreWolf, and Vivaldi offer fast, private, and customizable alternatives that do not integrate AI.

As Firefox prepares to integrate AI features into its browser, many users are approaching the change with caution. Anthony Enzor-DeMeo, Mozilla’s CEO, recently confirmed that AI is coming to Firefox, but emphasized that user control will remain central. In response to public concerns (especially after Google forced AI features into Chrome), Enzor-DeMeo and Jake Archibald, Mozilla’s Web Developer Relations Lead, assured users that Firefox will include an “AI kill switch,” allowing users to completely disable all AI features by early 2026.

For Windows 11 users who prefer to avoid AI entirely, whether due to privacy, performance, or simplicity, there are still some alternatives. Waterfox, Zen, LibreWolf, and Vivaldi offer fast, customizable, and privacy-focused browsing experiences without AI integration. These browsers give users full control over their browsing environment, making them ideal for anyone seeking a lean, distraction-free alternative to Firefox.

In this guide, I’ll highlight four browsers that you can switch to from Mozilla Firefox on Windows 11.

Important: These browsers are built on either Firefox or Chromium code. Depending on the implementation, the company behind each browser may remove or disable AI features, since they rely on the underlying open-source project as the foundation for their builds.

Mozilla Firefox alternatives without AI for Windows 11

This list includes four Firefox alternatives, but they’re not ranked in any order.

Waterfox

Waterfox is one of the oldest and most trusted Firefox alternatives, designed for users who value privacy, speed, and full control. Unlike mainstream browsers, Waterfox has deliberately chosen not to integrate AI, ensuring a leaner browsing experience without distractions. It maintains compatibility with most Firefox extensions while stripping out unnecessary telemetry and data collection.

To install Waterfox on Windows 11 using Command Prompt or PowerShell, run winget install Waterfox.Waterfox command.

You can also download it directly from the official Waterfox website.

The browser’s design emphasizes simplicity and performance. It offers classic tab management, customizable themes, and advanced privacy options, including tracker blocking and fingerprinting protection. Its focus on user choice and minimal interference makes it a strong alternative to Firefox for anyone seeking a traditional browsing experience.

Waterfox strips out AI bits from Firefox and disables them where possible.

Zen Browser

Zen is a lightweight and privacy-focused browser built for users who want a distraction-free web experience. It is an excellent alternative to Firefox, particularly for those concerned about AI features creeping into mainstream browsers. Zen avoids AI entirely while providing fast page loads and low memory usage.

To install Zen on Windows 11 using Command Prompt or PowerShell, run winget install Zen-Team.Zen-Browser command.

You can also download it directly from the official Zen Browser website.

This browser stands out with its minimalist design and intuitive interface. It includes features like built-in ad blocking, customizable privacy settings, and easy bookmark management. Its low-resource footprint makes it ideal for older devices or users who prefer a snappy, no-nonsense browsing experience.

Zen is based on Firefox code but does not include or enable AI by default and plans to keep it that way.

LibreWolf

LibreWolf is a community-driven fork of Mozilla Firefox that emphasizes privacy, security, and user autonomy. It removes telemetry, tracking, and other Firefox bloat, and it has no AI features, making it a perfect choice for those who want full control over their browsing experience.

To install LibreWolf on Windows 11 using Command Prompt or PowerShell, run winget install LibreWolf.LibreWolf command.

You can also download it directly from the official LibreWolf website.

LibreWolf differentiates itself through enhanced security defaults, strict privacy settings, and regular updates from a dedicated open-source community. It also supports Firefox extensions, giving users flexibility while maintaining a clean, AI-free environment. Its focus on transparency and user empowerment makes it particularly appealing to open-source advocates.

LibreWolf is also based on Firefox code and actively removes AI features, with no plans to reintroduce them.

Vivaldi

Vivaldi is a highly customizable, privacy‑focused Chromium‑based web browser built for users who demand control and flexibility without unnecessary AI distractions. Unlike mainstream browsers that increasingly integrate generative AI by default, Vivaldi has committed to keeping generative AI out of its core browsing experience, prioritizing user choice and privacy.

To install Vivaldi on Windows 11 using Command Prompt or PowerShell, run winget install Vivaldi.Vivaldi command.

You can also download it directly from the official Vivaldi website.

Vivaldi’s design philosophy centers on giving users control over every aspect of their browsing experience. It features an extensive set of built‑in tools—such as advanced tab management with tiling and stacking, a flexible sidebar with web panels, an integrated mail client and calendar, a private feed reader, and customizable quick commands (that reduce the need for extensions and bloat).

Unlike many alternatives, Vivaldi lets you shape the browser around your workflow. You can reposition interface elements, configure keyboard and mouse gestures, build command chains for multi‑step tasks, and fine‑tune privacy protections, including ad and tracker blocking. Privacy is a core part of the browser’s philosophy. Vivaldi does not profile users or sell data, and puts privacy controls front and center.

While the browser’s extensive feature set distinguishes it from minimalist alternatives such as Zen or LibreWolf, it still delivers a browsing environment free of AI defaults. Its deep customization makes it especially appealing to power users who want more from their browser without sacrificing performance, control, or privacy.

Vivaldi is Chromium-based but chooses not to include native AI components in its core browser.

What web browser do you prefer to switch from Firefox on Windows 11 or another operating system? Let me know in the comments.