Dear Lifehacker,I heard that Microsoft is releasing a new web app with Windows 10.
Should I bother using it instead of Chrome or Firefox?
Or is it just Internet Explorer with a new paint job?
While the Windows defaulthas gotten better over the years, Microsoft has finallygiven up on it.
During development, the web app has been calledProject Spartan.
you’re free to try it out right now if yourerunning the Windows 10 preview.
Of course, the real question is, can it replace your existing internet tool?
Heres what we think after playing around with it.
Keep in mind, of course, that this is an unreleased beta and could improve before launch.
However, the company also isnt waiting around for other services to make their web app useful.
It also includes a reading list feature that lets you save articles for later.
If youre a dedicated Evernote or Pocket devotee, this wont mean much for you.
No one needs or likes that crap.
Edge doesnt add a ton of crap, but what it does add is useful.
Microsoft Edge is not in that boat.
Asthis HTML5 compatibility testshows, even the most current version of Internet Explorer ranks 348 out of 555.
To compare, Chrome gets a score of 523, and Firefox gets a 444.
Edge currently ranks at 390, which is actually higher than it waseven just a month ago.
Of course, its hard to be too critical just yet.
The existing beta doesnt even have the Edge name implemented yet.
Its clearly far from done.
However, the fact that its not complete also means its not bloated yet.
Chrome, for comparison, isa notorious resource hog.
Just likeFirefox was before it.
At the moment, Edges comparative dearth of features and bulk makes it pretty great at staying slim.
It might not replace a power users toolbox, but it is an excellent lightweight alternative.
For now, though, it does look promising.
