Suchmaschinen6 min read
European Search Engines: The Best Alternatives to Google
EU Alternativen Team·
The Problem with Google Search
Google's search engine is free – but you pay with your data. Google creates detailed user profiles and uses search queries for personalized advertising.
European Search Engines Compared
Qwant (France)
Qwant is the most well-known European search engine and has its own index. No tracking, no filter bubble.
Highlights:
- Own search algorithm
- Maps integration
- Junior mode for children
- Officially recommended in France
Ecosia (Germany)
Ecosia is a German search engine that plants trees with advertising revenue. Technically, Ecosia is based on Bing.
Highlights:
- Climate-friendly: plant trees with every search
- Transparent finances
- No profiling
Startpage (Netherlands)
Startpage delivers Google results without tracking – a kind of proxy for Google.
Highlights:
- Google result quality without Google tracking
- Anonymous View for protected browsing
- EU data protection
Brave Search (US/EU Servers)
Brave Search has its own independent index and operates servers in Europe.
Which Search Engine for Whom?
- Best results: Startpage (Google quality)
- Fully European: Qwant
- Ecological: Ecosia
- Most independent index: Brave Search
Conclusion
Switching to a European search engine is the simplest measure for more digital sovereignty. Ecosia and Qwant are a full-fledged Google alternative for most users.