Maxthon MX6 Browser

by | Jan 13, 2026 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

Executive Summary

Maxthon MX6, released in November 2020 and built on the Chromium open-source kernel, represents the browser’s evolution into blockchain-enabled territory. This sixth-generation browser promises enhanced security, cloud synchronization, and cutting-edge Web3 capabilities. However, persistent privacy concerns from past security incidents cast a long shadow over its innovative features, requiring careful evaluation before adoption.

Overall Rating: 6.8/10

Feature Analysis

Core Features Evolution from MX5 to MX6

1. PassKeeper (Password Management) PassKeeper has evolved to help users remember passwords securely across all platforms, with the ability to auto-generate random complicated passwords when registering on websites. The system maintains AES256 encryption and cloud synchronization capabilities introduced in earlier versions.

Current Strengths:

  • Automatic password generation at signup
  • Customizable password complexity including special characters (improved from MX5)
  • Cross-platform cloud synchronization
  • Integration with Maxthon Passport system
  • Zero additional cost

Remaining Limitations:

  • Requires complete trust in Maxthon’s encryption implementation
  • Limited third-party security audits
  • Password vault accessibility tied to Maxthon ecosystem

2. Maxnote (Enhanced Content Saving) Previously called Infobox, the feature was upgraded to “Maxnote” allowing users to collect everything, read anywhere, and record anytime. The note-taking tool enables users to make notes easily while browsing the web and collect any content with one tap.

Enhanced Capabilities:

  • Web page annotations and screenshots
  • Text selections with highlighting
  • Cloud storage with cross-device sync
  • Integration with mobile apps (iOS and Android)
  • Filtering and search functionality

Use Cases:

  • Research compilation and academic work
  • Content curation for professionals
  • Quick reference materials accessible anywhere
  • Collaborative note sharing

3. UUMail Evolution The shadow email service from MX5 continues in MX6, though with less marketing emphasis as the browser pivoted toward blockchain features. The disposable email forwarding system remains functional but has been overshadowed by newer capabilities.

Revolutionary Addition: Blockchain Integration

Web3 and Blockchain Features MX6 separately develops a blockchain module with three main features: Vbox (a blockchain identity manager), NBdomain (a new blockchain domain system), and Vpoint wallet (an instant payment interface for BSV apps).

VBox – Blockchain Identity Manager:

  • Create and manage cryptographically secure identities
  • Decentralized identity verification
  • Enhanced privacy for online transactions
  • Protection against traditional identity theft

NBdomain Support: Maxthon supports blockchain-based domain names (NBdomain), enabling users to access decentralized websites and blockchain domains without traditional DNS systems.

Built-in Cryptocurrency Wallet: MX6 includes a native cryptocurrency wallet that allows users to store, send, and receive digital currencies directly within the browser without additional extensions.

Web3 Compatibility: The browser provides native support for Web3 protocols, making it easier to interact with decentralized applications (dApps) and blockchain-based services.

Assessment: These blockchain features position Maxthon as a pioneer in Web3 browsing, but they also introduce complexity. Users unfamiliar with cryptocurrency may find these features confusing, while crypto enthusiasts will appreciate the integrated approach that eliminates the need for extensions like MetaMask.

Performance Features

Chromium Foundation: MX6 deployed the Chromium85 engine, bringing significant improvements in stability and performance, tab grouping features for efficient management, and global media controls for audio and video sources.

Enhanced Capabilities:

  • Improved page rendering speed
  • Better JavaScript performance
  • Enhanced compatibility with modern web standards
  • Support for Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)

Resource Management: The browser’s tab sleeping feature automatically suspends inactive tabs, reducing CPU usage and memory consumption, allowing users to maintain more tabs without system degradation.

Additional Built-in Tools:

Maxthon integrates anti-IP address tracking, ad-blocking, and a free VPN provided by Bright Data for secure browsing.

Split-Screen Mode: View two websites simultaneously for efficient multitasking and comparison work.

Resource Sniffer: Discover URLs of and download pictures, videos, music and other file types from the currently opened webpage.

Night Mode and Reader Mode: Reduce eye strain during extended browsing sessions with blue light reduction and distraction-free reading.

Mouse Gestures: Intuitive navigation controls with simple movements for faster browsing.

Screen Capture Tools: Snap shot areas of the screen with Snap screen or entire web pages with Snap page.

Cybersecurity Assessment

Current Security Posture (2024-2025)

Positive Security Features:

Maxthon employs encryption for data stored in the cloud, protecting bookmarks, passwords, and browsing history from unauthorized access. The password manager uses encryption to store login credentials securely, reducing the risk of password theft.

Built-in security features help identify and warn users about potentially dangerous websites and phishing attempts, with all data synchronized across devices transmitted using secure protocols to prevent interception.

Privacy Controls:

  • Incognito Mode that does not save browsing history
  • Do Not Track functionality
  • Ad and tracker blocking
  • Anti-phishing protection
  • Data cleaning upon browser exit

VPN Service: Free VPN provided by Bright Data ensures secure browsing with robust anti-IP tracking features. However, questions remain about VPN logging policies and Chinese government regulations affecting VPN services.

Browsing Experience & User Friendliness

Performance Metrics

Speed and Responsiveness: Based on the Chromium85 engine and subsequent updates, MX6 delivers competitive performance:

  • Page load speeds comparable to Chrome and Edge
  • Efficient memory management with tab sleeping
  • Smooth scrolling and responsive interface
  • Effective ad-blocking contributes to faster page rendering

Resource Efficiency: The tab sleeping feature and optimized resource management help maintain system performance even with multiple tabs open, addressing a common complaint about modern browsers.

User Interface

Design Philosophy: The browser’s interface reflects modern design principles while maintaining simplicity. The UI has matured significantly from MX5’s rough edges, though some users still report occasional spelling errors and translation issues.

Interface Elements:

  • Clean, uncluttered browsing area
  • Customizable toolbar and sidebar
  • Tab grouping for organization
  • Split-screen functionality
  • Intuitive bookmark management

Customization: Maxthon’s user interface is clean, modern, and highly customizable, with the homepage personalizable with favorite sites and the ability to switch between search engines directly from the address bar.

Ease of Use

For Casual Users (Rating: 7/10) MX6 has improved accessibility from MX5. Basic browsing is straightforward, with common features easily discoverable. The built-in tools reduce the need for extensions, simplifying the experience. However, blockchain features may confuse non-technical users.

For Power Users (Rating: 8/10) Advanced users benefit from developer tools, split-screen mode, resource sniffer, and extensive customization. The integrated note-taking and password management eliminate the need for multiple services. Blockchain integration appeals to crypto-enthusiasts and Web3 developers.

For Web3 Enthusiasts (Rating: 8.5/10) Early adoption of blockchain technology gives Maxthon an edge in the Web3 space, with integrated wallet eliminating the need for third-party extensions like MetaMask for basic cryptocurrency operations.

Cross-Platform Experience

Device Synchronization: Maxthon offers seamless cross-platform synchronization as a versatile chromium-based browser, suitable for Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows. The Maxthon Passport system enables consistent experiences across all devices.

Mobile Experience: Recent iOS and Android updates have improved note synchronization, home screen customization, and overall stability. Users can access the full feature set on mobile devices, though some report the Android version lacks the polish of the desktop version.

Documentation and Support

Improvement from MX5: While MX5 suffered from poor documentation, MX6 has moderately improved help resources. However, users still rely heavily on community forums rather than comprehensive official documentation.

Available Resources:

  • Community forums
  • Help center with FAQs
  • Email support
  • Bug reporting system
  • YouTube tutorials

Browser Benefits Analysis

What MX6 Does Better

  1. Integrated Blockchain Capabilities: World’s first blockchain-enabled browser to help users surf the blockchain world, positioning ahead of competitors in Web3 adoption.
  2. Comprehensive Built-in Tools: Password management, note-taking, ad-blocking, VPN, and resource sniffer eliminate the need for multiple extensions.
  3. Cross-Device Synchronization: The browser’s synchronization features help minimize context switching by maintaining consistent browsing environments across devices.
  4. Free Premium Features: Tools that typically cost money elsewhere (password manager, VPN, advanced note-taking) are included at no charge.
  5. Resource Management: Tab sleeping and memory optimization allow for more efficient multitasking.
  6. Split-Screen Browsing: Native support for viewing multiple sites simultaneously enhances productivity.
  7. Content Saving Flexibility: Maxnote’s multiple capture methods exceed standard browser offerings.

Where MX6 Falls Short

  1. Trust Deficit: The 2016 privacy scandal where information was shared through an insecure HTTP connection creates persistent credibility concerns.
  2. Extension Library: The most significant drawback is the small library of third-party extensions compared to Chrome or Firefox, limiting customization options.
  3. Security Update Cadence: Less frequent updates and security patches compared to mainstream browsers.
  4. Market Share: Minimal user base means slower bug fixes and limited community support compared to major browsers.
  5. Privacy Policy: There is no clear way to know if data is being shared through an insecure HTTP connection.
  6. Blockchain Complexity: Cryptocurrency features may confuse mainstream users and attract unwanted attention from hackers.
  7. Chinese Origins: Many distrust Maxthon because of its Chinese origins and questions about whether government-approved VPN services are truly anonymous.

Competitive Positioning

vs. Chrome: Chrome offers superior extension ecosystem, proven security track record, and Google’s infrastructure. MX6 counters with integrated blockchain, built-in VPN, and comprehensive tools without extensions. Security-conscious users favor Chrome; Web3 enthusiasts may prefer MX6’s native capabilities.

vs. Firefox: Firefox provides open-source transparency, superior privacy controls, and robust customization through extensions. MX6 offers more out-of-box functionality but lacks Firefox’s community trust and privacy commitment. Privacy advocates strongly favor Firefox.

vs. Brave: Brave directly competes with MX6 on privacy and blockchain features, offering cryptocurrency rewards, strong ad-blocking, and excellent privacy protection. Brave’s clean track record and growing user base give it decisive advantages over MX6’s trust issues.

vs. Edge: Microsoft Edge combines Chromium compatibility with Microsoft’s resources and enterprise security. MX6’s blockchain features are unique, but Edge’s backing, stability, and trustworthiness make it the safer choice for most users.

vs. Opera: Opera offers similar built-in VPN and integrated features. Both browsers compete for users seeking all-in-one solutions. Opera’s longer track record and larger user base provide advantages, though MX6’s blockchain features differentiate it for Web3 users.

Target Audience

Potentially Suitable For:

  • Web3 developers and blockchain enthusiasts seeking integrated crypto tools
  • Multi-device users requiring seamless synchronization
  • Users frustrated with extension management who prefer integrated tools
  • Content researchers needing robust note-taking while browsing
  • Cryptocurrency traders wanting integrated wallet functionality
  • Developers interested in NBdomain and decentralized web technologies
  • Secondary browser for specific use cases (crypto, note-taking)

Definitely NOT Suitable For:

  • Privacy-conscious users prioritizing data protection
  • Anyone handling sensitive financial or personal information
  • Business or enterprise environments requiring compliance
  • Users uncomfortable with Chinese-origin software
  • Those requiring extensive extension ecosystems
  • Anyone needing guaranteed security for professional work
  • Users in regulated industries (finance, healthcare, legal)

Borderline Cases – Proceed with Caution:

  • Casual users willing to accept security trade-offs for convenience
  • Cryptocurrency hobbyists for non-critical transactions
  • Students using for research and note-taking (non-sensitive materials)
  • Developers testing Web3 applications in development environments

MX6 vs MX5: Key Improvements

Major Enhancements

  1. Chromium Foundation: With the official release of Version 6.1.0.2000 Maxthon moved to a Chromium base, but still supports dual Trident and Blink rendering engines.
  2. Blockchain Integration: Complete Web3 ecosystem absent in MX5.
  3. Performance: Significant stability and speed improvements through Chromium85 engine.
  4. Tab Management: Tab Groups feature supported to make tab management more efficient.
  5. Media Controls: Global media controls help control all audio and video sources in current tabs.
  6. Feature Refinement: Infobox evolved into more capable Maxnote system.
  7. Special Character Support: PassKeeper now generates passwords with special characters.

Persistent Issues

  1. Security Trust: The 2016 breach shadow remains despite company claims of fixes.
  2. Privacy Concerns: Data collection practices still raise questions.
  3. Market Position: Still marginalized with minimal market share.
  4. Extension Ecosystem: Remains significantly smaller than competitors.
  5. Documentation: Though improved, still lags behind major browsers.

Final Verdict

Maxthon MX6 represents an ambitious attempt to pioneer blockchain-enabled browsing while maintaining the productivity features that defined earlier versions. MX6 occupies a unique position in the browser market as a feature-rich alternative that prioritizes cross-device workflow over raw performance or security.

The Innovation Story

The browser successfully delivers on several fronts: integrated blockchain capabilities position it ahead of competitors in Web3 adoption, comprehensive built-in tools eliminate extension overhead, and cross-platform synchronization works seamlessly. For users exploring decentralized web technologies or requiring robust note-taking integrated with browsing, MX6 offers genuine value.

The Trust Problem

However, the elephant in the room remains impossible to ignore. The 2016 incident where sensitive information was transmitted through insecure HTTP connections even for users who opted out of data collection programs fundamentally undermines confidence. While Maxthon claims these issues were resolved, the lack of independent security audits and continued data collection practices documented in their privacy policy maintain reasonable skepticism.

The Bottom Line

For Cryptocurrency Enthusiasts: MX6’s integrated blockchain features provide genuine convenience and functionality worth considering for non-critical crypto activities.

For Privacy-Conscious Users: Look elsewhere. Chrome, Firefox, Brave, or even Edge offer better-documented security practices and clearer privacy commitments.

For Productivity Users: If you can accept the security trade-offs, MX6’s integrated tools and synchronization may improve your workflow. However, using Chrome or Firefox with appropriate extensions provides similar functionality with better security assurance.

For Enterprise/Professional Use: Not recommended. The trust deficit and limited security audit trail make MX6 unsuitable for professional environments handling sensitive data.

Recommendation Tiers

Red Light (Avoid): Anyone handling financial data, sensitive personal information, business documents, healthcare records, or legal materials.

Yellow Light (Proceed with Caution): Web3 developers, cryptocurrency hobbyists, students doing non-sensitive research, or users seeking a secondary browser for specific use cases.

Green Light (Consider): Users specifically interested in blockchain browsing who understand and accept the security trade-offs, or those using it exclusively for non-sensitive Web3 applications.

Alternative Solutions

For users attracted to MX6’s features but concerned about security:

  • Blockchain/Web3: Use Brave browser with MetaMask extension
  • Password Management: Use Bitwarden, 1Password, or LastPass with any major browser
  • Note-Taking: Use OneNote, Notion, or Evernote web clipper extensions
  • VPN: Use dedicated VPN services like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or ProtonVPN
  • Ad Blocking: Install uBlock Origin on Firefox or Chrome
  • Cross-Device Sync: All major browsers now offer this natively

Rating Breakdown

  • Features & Innovation: 8.5/10 (Blockchain integration and comprehensive tools)
  • Cybersecurity: 4/10 (Improved from MX5 but trust issues persist)
  • Browsing Performance: 8/10 (Solid Chromium-based performance)
  • User Friendliness: 7.5/10 (Better than MX5, some complexity remains)
  • Privacy Protection: 4.5/10 (Features exist but practices raise concerns)
  • Cross-Platform Experience: 8/10 (Excellent synchronization)
  • Extension Ecosystem: 5/10 (Limited compared to major browsers)
  • Overall Value: 6.8/10 (Features can’t fully overcome trust deficit)

Final Recommendation: ⚠️ Use with Caution – MX6 offers innovative blockchain features and productivity tools, but persistent security concerns limit its suitability to non-critical use cases. Suitable for Web3 exploration and secondary browser scenarios, but not recommended for sensitive data or as a primary browser for most users.

Conclusion

MX6 delivers a balanced, feature-complete browser that warrants serious consideration. Its progression from the problematic MX5 release reflects substantive remediation and maturation, particularly through integrated Web3 capabilities and streamlined feature design.
By Web3 integration is meant the native support for blockchain functions, including built‑in wallet management and decentralized identity (DID) workflows, thereby reducing reliance on third‑party extensions and consolidating security surfaces. This consolidation enables more coherent key management and on‑chain interaction within a single, continuously updated client.

For users actively engaging in decentralized applications and willing to apply compartmentalization and threat‑model alignment, MX6 offers a forward‑looking implementation of blockchain‑enabled browsing with meaningful, but manageable, caveats.