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Pale Moon

Version 34.1.0  ·  Updated: April 2, 2026
Free WindowsLinux ★ 4.7 (776 ratings)

Firefox-based browser with XUL support and optimized Goanna engine for faster performance.

A. Lynch
A. Lynch
Software Analyst
LinkedIn ↗

Pale Moon — Key Facts

Latest Version
34.1.0
License
Free
Platforms
Windows, Linux
Category
Browsers
Price
Free to download
Official Site
www.palemoon.org
User Rating
★ 4.7 / 5 (776 ratings)

Pale Moon Screenshots

About Pale Moon

Pale Moon is a customized browser built on Firefox technology since 2009. Unlike modern Firefox versions, it uses the Goanna engine—a specialized fork of Gecko developed specifically for this project. The engine incorporates years of optimization work that boosts speed and efficiency. This approach gives users a familiar browsing foundation with meaningful performance improvements. You can download Pale Moon for Windows or Linux depending on your system.

What makes Pale Moon different? The browser maintains support for XUL extensions and NPAPI plugins—features Firefox removed years ago. Starting with version 28, Pale Moon switched to the UXP (Unified XUL Platform), which ensures compatibility with older add-ons that won't work elsewhere. The project is based on Firefox 68 ESR, providing stability without sacrificing customization options. This focus on legacy support attracts users who value extension flexibility over cutting-edge web standards.

The interface and functionality differ significantly from Firefox. Pale Moon preserves the classic browser layout and includes older features that power users appreciate. The design philosophy prioritizes simplicity and control rather than modern UI trends. If you prefer straightforward navigation and dislike constant interface redesigns, this browser delivers exactly what you're looking for. Browse our browser category to compare other options, or explore free software alternatives to mainstream choices.

Who should try Pale Moon? Users who need XUL extension support, prefer traditional interfaces, or want better performance on older systems benefit most. The pale moon free download works well for anyone tired of bloated mainstream browsers. With consistent updates and a dedicated developer community, it remains a reliable choice for those seeking alternatives to conventional solutions.

Pale Moon is a free browsers available for Windows, Linux. Browse more free software or portable programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pale Moon completely free to download and use?
Yes. Pale Moon is entirely free software with no paid features, ads, or limitations. The project started in 2009 and remains free to this day. Simply download and install on Windows or Linux systems without any registration required or subscriptions needed.
Why does Pale Moon support XUL extensions when Firefox doesn't?
Pale Moon uses the UXP platform instead of Firefox's modern WebExtensions system. This custom platform preserves XUL compatibility, allowing older add-ons to function properly. Firefox removed XUL support to improve security and performance, but Pale Moon prioritizes extension flexibility for users who need legacy plugins.
How does the Goanna engine improve browsing speed?
Goanna is a specialized fork of Mozilla's Gecko engine optimized specifically for Pale Moon. Developers incorporated performance improvements accumulated over years of refinement. The engine handles rendering and JavaScript execution more efficiently than standard Gecko, resulting in faster page loading and smoother responsiveness on various systems.
What browsers offer similar features to Pale Moon?
Users seeking alternatives might consider Firefox ESR for extended support, or other lightweight browsers emphasizing classic interfaces. However, few browsers match Pale Moon's combination of XUL support and optimized performance. Each option serves different priorities—Pale Moon stands out specifically for legacy extension compatibility and simplified design philosophy.
A. Lynch
Reviewed by A. Lynch
Software Analyst · PowerHypnosis Free App Hub
A. Lynch is a software analyst and writer covering free and open-source software for Windows, Mac and Linux. He has been reviewing software tools since 2010.
View LinkedIn profile ↗
Program Details
Version34.1.0
LicenseFree
PlatformsWindows, Linux
Developerwww.palemoon.org
UpdatedApril 2, 2026
CategoryBrowsers
User Rating
4.7
776 ratings
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