Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to Arc · 🛠️ dev tools
Arc vs Helium
Chromium-based desktop browser with default ad and tracker blocking, no analytics, native !bangs, split view, and full MV2 extension support. Here is how Helium ($0/mo open source) stacks up against Arc ($25/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Helium is a verified Open Source-licensed open-source replacement for Arc. Switching from Arc ($25/mo) saves $300/yr per solo seat, or $1,500/yr for a 5-person team. Deployment: Runs on Local.
The catch: Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
Helium
$0.00/mo · Open Source
Arc vs Helium Specifications
facts verified 2026-11-07
| Dimension | Arc (Paid) | Helium (Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $25 / mo | $0 / mo |
| 1-Year Cost (1 seat) | $300 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $300) |
| 1-Year Cost (5 seats) | $1,500 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $1,500) |
| 1-Year Cost (10 seats) | $3,000 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $3,000) |
| Source & License | Proprietary SaaS | open source Open Source |
| Where It Runs | Vendor Cloud | Local (on your machine) |
| Platforms | Web / Cloud | desktopcross-platformone-click install |
| GitHub Stars | — | ★ 22.4k (active nov 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from Arc to Helium
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
How to deploy Helium
Clone https://github.com/imputnet/helium or deploy with Docker Compose
What it takes to run
Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
Where your data lives
All application data lives locally on your own machine.
Why fork Helium instead of vibe-coding a Arc clone?
Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for Arc or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 8 battle-tested open-source alternatives like Ladybird.
Arc vs Helium FAQ
Is Helium a good free alternative to Arc?+
Yes. Helium is a verified open-source (Open Source) replacement for Arc. Chromium-based desktop browser with default ad and tracker blocking, no analytics, native !bangs, split view, and full MV2 extension support.
What is the catch when switching from Arc to Helium?+
Community-driven open source project without dedicated enterprise SLAs.
How much do you save switching from Arc to Helium?+
Arc costs $25/mo ($300/yr) per seat, whereas Helium is $0/mo. Switching saves $300/yr for a solo user, $1,500/yr for a 5-person team, and $3,000/yr for a 10-person team.
How do I install or self-host Helium instead of Arc?+
Install: Clone https://github.com/imputnet/helium or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup: Download the native package or installer for your operating system.
