Is Opera GX Safe?

Opera GX isn’t just another browser,  it’s a gamer-centric platform built for high performance, complete with CPU/RAM limiters, Twitch and Discord integrations, and a slick neon aesthetic. 

Although its features win over streamers and tech-savvy users, is Opera GX safe in terms of privacy and data protection?

With growing concerns over digital surveillance and data exploitation, you must know the safety of your browser. In this blog, we’ll break down Opera GX’s security architecture, privacy policies, third-party tracking behavior, and compare it with privacy-first browsers like Brave and Firefox.

Is Opera GX Safe to Use?

From a technical standpoint, Opera GX is safe to use in terms of standard web protection. It’s built on the Chromium engine, which means it receives the same core security patches as Chrome. It includes:

• Built-in ad blocker to eliminate trackers and malicious ads.
• Free VPN to mask IP addresses (though not recommended for sensitive tasks).
• HTTPS upgrades to ensure encrypted communication.
• Anti-cryptojacking protection against malicious mining scripts.
  

Opera GX checks all the boxes for surface-level security. But when we dig deeper into how it handles your data, especially in comparison with privacy-first browsers, it gets questionable.

What Are the Privacy Concerns With Opera GX?

Despite its sleek interface and gamer-focused features, Opera GX raises legitimate concerns among privacy-conscious users, such as

1. Opera’s Data Collection Policy

Opera GX, like the regular Opera browser, has a privacy policy that allows for the collection of:

• IP addresses
• Location data (based on IP or WiFi)
• Device information
• Feature usage logs (e.g., GX Control, integrations)
• “Crash reports” and diagnostics (which may contain identifiable data)

Although this is fairly stand. 

2. Ownership by a Chinese Consortium

Opera is owned by Beijing Kunlun Tech, a Chinese tech firm that acquired Opera Software in 2016. Although Opera Software remains based in Norway and claims to adhere to EU privacy regulations, the ownership has led to increased scrutiny regarding data sovereignty.

Chinese ownership doesn't automatically imply surveillance, but given China’s history of data regulations and lack of transparency, might raise eyebrows.

3. Built-in VPN: Not Truly Private

Opera GX's free VPN is better described as an encrypted proxy but not a privacy manager, as

• It only routes browser traffic, not system-wide.
• Opera’s policy admits that some logs (e.g., usage metrics) may be collected.
• The VPN provider is not independently audited.

If you’re serious about online anonymity, a no-logs premium VPN like PureVPN offers far more transparency and encryption assurance.

Key Privacy Features of Opera GX

Opera GX vs. Other Browsers

Let’s compare Opera GX with major browsers in terms of privacy, transparency, and data practices.

1. Brave

While Opera GX offers aesthetic appeal and gamer-centric features, Brave focuses on eliminating online surveillance, blocking intrusive ads, and minimizing data exposure. If your priority is digital privacy over design, Brave may offer a more trustworthy alternative.

Verdict: Winner for privacy.

2. Mozilla Firefox

Unlike Opera GX, which is owned by a Chinese consortium and lacks full transparency, Firefox maintains open-source credibility and advanced customization. For users seeking a browser that balances usability, performance, and privacy control, Firefox presents a more trustworthy and flexible choice.

3. Google Chrome

Google Chrome dominates the browser market, but it comes at the cost of user privacy. While Opera GX has its concerns, mainly related to data handling and ownership, Chrome is questioned for Google’s advertising. Although it offers excellent performance and regular security updates, Chrome is not ideal if you are a privacy-first browsing user.

4. Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge has come a long way since the days of Internet Explorer, now built on Chromium with better speed, compatibility, and frequent updates. However, when it comes to privacy, Edge, like Opera GX, has raised eyebrows. While it offers better security defaults than Opera GX, it still doesn’t match the standards set by privacy-first browsers like Brave or Firefox.

Who Should Use Opera GX?

Opera GX may not be the best choice for privacy maximalists, but it is ideal for:

• Gamers who want CPU/RAM control while streaming
  
• People who enjoy in-browser integrations like Twitch, Discord
  
• People not overly concerned with data tracking
  
• People who want a stylish and functional alternative to Chrome

Not Ideal For:

• Journalists, activists, or whistleblowers
  
• Privacy-focused professionals
  
• People looking for open-source browsers
  
• People needing a fully anonymous browsing experience

How to Make Opera GX More Private

If you still want to use Opera GX, here’s how to enhance your privacy:

1. Disable Telemetry

Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Advanced and turn off all diagnostic reports.

2. Use a VPN

Instead of Opera’s built-in VPN, install a reliable VPN like PureVPN that supports full device encryption and help you stay safe.

3. Enable Secure DNS

Manually configure DNS over HTTPS (DoH) or DNS over TLS (DoT) for safer lookups.

4. Use Extensions

Add privacy plugins or use PureVPN to block trackers and manage your privacy and data handling better.

5. Avoid Account Syncing

Avoid syncing data through Opera accounts unless absolutely necessary.

Wrap Up

Using Opera GX, proceed with caution. It is secure enough for most people, if you are drawn to its gamer-focused design and features. But its closed-source nature, vague VPN policies, and Chinese ownership make it less than ideal for anyone concerned with privacy and surveillance.

If you’re a gamer looking for performance and aesthetics, Opera GX is a solid option, just don’t expect hardcore privacy.