- Price: Free
- Website: www.opera.com
- Version we tested: 10
- Good points: Highest score for ease of use. Integrates email, chat, BitTorrent downloads and widgets. Supports themes/skins. Mobile versions available.
- But: No privacy mode.
Opera, particularly the latest version, is more of an internet suite than just a browser. Its tools perform a wide range of tasks besides browsing, including email, managing contacts, chatting on IRC clients, downloading files via BitTorrent, and reading Web feeds. It also has its own widgets - small web applications that start from within Opera.
Opera has historically been a trailblazer, leading the way with features that are now common on modern browsers including tabbed browsing, speed dial (web page previews for navigation) and mobile browsing. It is widely cross-platform and even has versions for the Nintendo DS and Wii game consoles. Two unique features are mouse gestures and voice control.
Version 10.10 was released after we had finished testing, but is notable as it has several major improvements. These include Opera Unite, a platform for developers to include programs within the browser such as a web server, file and photo sharing, chat room hosting, and streaming media.
See the test results for more details of Opera's performance and features.
Read what our members have to say close
To save money on essentials and make buying decisions easy, you can't go past Consumer. We're proud to have over 65,000 members all enjoying our independent information online or in Consumer magazine.
Here's what some of them say...
"Just wanted to let you know that I find your site excellent! Easy to find my way around, everything at my fingertips - just a click away.
I only took out a 3 month membership as I wasn't sure but it is actually really easy to use and if I want it on paper I can print the
reports. Thanks again".
Denise Watkinson - Waitakere
"My mother (74) got a renewal letter from her insurance company for her car insurance, wanting $570. After reading
your article on car insurance, I contacted one of the companies you recommended, who quoted her $318 for the same
level of cover. I just wanted to stay thank you very much for your article, as it has saved my mother a substantial amount of money".
Adrian Lane - Kapiti Coast
"I've been a member to the magazine since 1997 and enjoy reading it a lot. I've found lots of helpful information on different issues...
Thank you for being so helpful".
Peter Kovalenko - Porirua
"I have been a member of the Consumer NZ for 20 or more years and have enjoyed much reliable advice.
I turn to their tests before making significant purchases".
Lyndal Print – Auckland
Join Consumer now and make your decisions easy on a huge range of products and services
- Over 500 reports, plus interactive tools and calculators
- Independent advice from NZ's trusted source of information
- Join over 65,000 members who help us get all NZers a fairer deal
from just $28
Previous: Internet Explorer
