Google Chrome: The mini review (with screenshots)
Written on September 2nd 2008, filed under Reviews, Web standards with 0 comments.
Just got my hands on a copy of Google Chrome and immediately took it for a spin. I was amazed at the small download size (less then 500kb) but then again it may download stuff for the installer.
Here’s what I noticed first: the interface is very similar to IE8, which was a surprise considering they announced it as a completely new interpretation of a web browser. OK, the tabs are on top but that’s not really a new interpretation.
Like IE8 Chrome highlights certain parts of the URL to indicate what domain you’re on and whether or not you’re using a secure connection. Adding a tab’s very easy to spot, the way you switch them around feels a little mac’esque. Remembering passwords has that trusted Firefox feel to it, also note the FF secure feel the address bar gives you.
The whole thing feels lightning fast, it runs through Gmail and Analytics like a breeze. Website Optimizer (runs a little slow on Firefox) loads instantly.
What's really cool though is the autocomplete in the addressbar. This shows you popular sites and search queries, plus recently visited sites, as you type. They used their technology and data to improve Firefox' awesomebar a bit.
Seems like they took some of the CSS3 support out of Webkit though, text-shadow’s gone and box-shadow is poorly implemented. So does it stand up to the dreaded Acid 2 test? Well, not exactly because our little guy seems to be blindfolded. Didn’t anyone give them the memo? Even IE8 passes the test (with some help). In case you’re a standardista: it scores 77 out of 100 on the acid 3 test.
All in all, Google Chrome is an OK browser. It’s not the revolutionary browser promised by the comic book, but it’s not bad either. I’ll play around with it some more but for now I guess I feel a little bit let down…
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