Chromium is an open source browser project that Google Chrome builds on. Google states that Chrome is the Chromium project built, packaged and distributed by Google. On Linux the two differ in codecs, crash reporting, sandbox defaults and profile folders. Distributions package Chromium so behavior depends on the distribution.
You see both Chrome and Chromium in a download list and wonder which one to install. Both look alike but packaging differs.
This guide follows the Chromium project documentation and the Linux comparison that the project publishes.
What is the Chromium Browser?
Chromium project documentation describes the project as an open source browser project that aims for a safer and more stable way to use the web. Its site hosts design documents, architecture overviews and testing information for people who work with the source code. See the Chromium project home.
How is Chromium Related to Google Chrome?
Chromium documentation states that Google Chrome is the Chromium open source project built, packaged and distributed by Google. See Chromium and Google Chrome compared.
What are the Differences Between Chromium and Chrome on Linux?
| Area | Google Chrome | Chromium |
|---|---|---|
| H.264 video and AAC audio | Included | Not included |
| Crash reports | Sent only if you enable them | Never sent |
| User metrics | Sent only if you enable them | Never sent |
| Sandbox | Always on | Varies by distribution |
| Packaging | Single deb or rpm package | Set by the distribution |
| Profile folder | ~/.config/google-chrome | ~/.config/chromium |
| Cache folder | ~/.cache/google-chrome | ~/.cache/chromium |
| Release testing | Tested before release to users | Set by the distribution |
Both browsers share codecs like VP8, VP9 and AV1 video plus MP3, Opus and FLAC audio. Table rows compare Linux only because the project document compares that platform.
Which Browser should You Install?
- Select Chrome when you need H.264 video and AAC audio or a package tested by the Chrome team.
- Choose Chromium when you want the open source build that your distribution packages and maintains.
- Check the sandbox in Chromium by opening about:sandbox.
For a Windows download problem in Chrome see what a CRDOWNLOAD file is. For other software cleanup see how to uninstall stubborn programs in Windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chromium?
Chromium is the open source browser project that Google Chrome builds on.
Is Chromium the Same as Chrome?
No. Google Chrome is Chromium built, packaged and distributed by Google with differences in codecs and reporting.
Does Chromium Play H.264 Video?
Not on Linux builds from the Chromium project. Project documentation lists H.264 and AAC as not included.
Does Chromium Send Crash Reports to Google?
No. Chromium project documentation states that Chromium never sends crash reports or user metrics.
Where does Chromium Store Its Profile on Linux?
In ~/.config/chromium. Chrome uses ~/.config/google-chrome.
Key Takeaways
- Chromium is the open source project and Chrome is the Google build of it.
- Chrome includes H.264 and AAC while Chromium does not on Linux.
- Chromium never sends crash reports or user metrics.
- Sandbox and packaging in Chromium vary by distribution.
- Project comparison applies to Linux only.
Sources and References
The comparison follows the Chromium project documentation and applies to Linux only.
- Chromium project home www.chromium.org
- Chromium vs Google Chrome (Chromium source docs) chromium.googlesource.com