The Chromium browser is a fully functional open-source browser on its own and supplies the vast majority of code for the Google Chrome browser. The two browsers have always had some differences, as indicated by their names: chromium is the metal used to make chrome plating. The Chromium code is widely used by others to create their own browsers. Many vendors use the code in a similar manner as Google, while others simply build it as-is and release browsers with the Chromium name.

The Chromium browser utilises a minimalist user interface, in comparison to Google Chrome, because Google wanted its browser to "feel lightweight (cognitively and physically) and fast".