The default browsing experience on Mac is intuitive and serves its purpose for many users. However, Safari really shines when a few different add-ons are installed. You can disable ads, manage multiple passwords, instantly translate webpages to other languages, and so much more with just a few clicks.
To take your internet browser to the next level, be sure to download the following extensions on your Mac.
Ghostery
For a satisfying browsing experience, you must insulate yourself from overzealous and malicious ads. Ghostery lite is the perfect free solution to blocking unwanted ad banners and video clips. A great benefit of the extension is the ability to add custom settings and whitelist certain websites. Both features allow you to view ads on websites that deserve revenue and do not abuse the system.
1Password
Another thing you should do early on is to organize your various passwords in one convenient location. The 1Password extension allows you to access the same functionality as the traditional app directly from your browser. View your password vault and quickly fill out forms with information stored in your account. The automated information is paired with the websites you use for seamless integration across the web. After a 30-day trial, you do need to subscribe to one of the payment plans. Considering how much time 1Password saves, the few bucks a month will be worth it for most heavy Mac users.
Mate: Universal Tab Translator
Every once in a while, you come across some interesting content in a language you do not understand. The Mate extension is the easiest way to translate entire web pages to your native tongue. All you need to do is double or right-click on any text you wish to translate. For longer passages, you can even translate your entire clipboard with the Alt+Shift+T keyboard shortcut. The add-on supports 103 different languages and will pronounce words to further enhance your learning.
Stop the Madness
The Safari user interface has many unique quirks and features that do not play well with all websites. To restore full functionality on troublesome websites, try installing Stop the Madness. This extension re-enables classic features like opening links in new tabs and command-key shortcuts. The slick default scrolling speed is also restored on websites that attempt to throttle your performance. Interestingly enough, the app can also disable certain annoying user interface features on various websites. Most notably, warnings asking you to stay on the page can be removed entirely.
Honey
Honey is a popular browsing extension for shoppers who love to save money. Once installed, the app will automatically scan the internet for the best deals on items you are about to purchase. Add an item to your cart and Honey will begin to search for coupon codes. Apply the best one and you are all set to make the purchase. Honey ensures you save the most you can on any given day of the transaction.
Ebates Rakuten Cash Back
Rakuten has been giving generous rebates on thousands of products available online. This handy extension makes it easy to browse your favorite stores for cash-back offers. If your favorite retailer does not offer a product or rebate opportunity, Rakuten will automatically search for a deal on the same product from another shop. When multiple shops have offers on the same product, comparing them is incredibly simple.
Turn Off the Lights
When watching videos, the rest of the webpage can be too bright or distracting. This extension fixes that issue by dimming the entire window except for the video player. The dimming is toggled by clicking the lightbulb icon on the Safari toolbar. The add-on supports all the most popular video platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch.
A more productive Mac experience
Now that your Safari browser is turbocharged, you can be more productive and enjoy a better browsing experience. Mac’s default browser is designed to be fast, secure, and easy to sync across multiple Apple devices. However, it’s important to keep Safari updated if you want to get the most out of the features. Check out our guide to updating Safari in four easy steps.
