Is Using Opera GX Actually Legal? A Gamer‘s Perspective

As a passionate gamer and go-to source for the latest news and insights about gaming software, I get asked a lot if using the Opera GX web browser is legal or will get you in trouble somehow.

The clear answer is: Yes, downloading and using Opera GX is 100% legal in most countries.

However, as with any VPN service, what you do online through the browser could still violate laws if it involves illegal activity.

I‘ll provide a deep dive from a dedicated gamer‘s viewpoint on Opera GX‘s key benefits versus concerning downsides across privacy, security, features and more. My goal is to give fellow players the real talk on what to consider before choosing Opera GX as your main gaming browser.

VPN Legality – Quick Primer

Opera GX comes bundled with a free built-in VPN service. But given varying national laws, new gamers rightly wonder: "Isn‘t a VPN illegal?"

Here‘s a fast status check on VPN legality across major regions:

Using a VPN itself is not illegal in most open internet countries. But governments warn VPNs do NOT make illegal acts legal while browsing anonymously. For us gamers, this usually comes down to pirating games or streaming unauthorized copyrighted content.

Just something to keep in mind even though Opera‘s VPN seems handy. You can still get fined or charged if caught torrenting games illegally!

Concerning: Opera‘s Rocky Recent Privacy & Security Record

Look, I‘ll admit I was pumped to try out Opera GX after seeing all the slick gaming customization options compared to Chrome or Firefox.

But I had to dig deeper given Opera‘s questionable reputation lately around handling user data. It turns some gamers off Opera GX entirely despite the cool features.

In 2016, Opera sold itself to a Chinese consortium consisting of Chinese companies Kunlun Tech and Qihoo 360. This raised alarm bells about user data being exposed to Chinese authorities.

Then in 2020, Opera confirmed a data breach exposing personal information of 2.9 million users tied to their gaming subsidiary.

While Opera GX itself claims not to collect browsing data or personal information, experts warn their underlying data infrastructure seems susceptible to both hackers and government pressure on private user data.

Just this year, researchers revealed Opera‘s "VPN" works more akin to a proxy that still leaks identifiable info like device types to third parties. It does not provide true full traffic encryption offered by paid VPN alternatives.

For gamers strongly prioritizing privacy while browsing, this track record rightfully raises red flags about trusting Opera with our data.

Wins for Gamers: Opera GX‘s Slick Integrated Features

However, I still believe Opera GX brings a lot to the table specifically for us gamers even if you use a separate more trusted VPN.

Here are some standout integrated features that provide a smoother browsing experience:

CPU/RAM Limiter

This is a godsend for gamers. No more lagspikes if Opera GX starts eating up RAM in background tabs while your game runs.

Twitch Sidebar

Keeps my stream chat open without hopping between tabs. Easy access to new follower alerts is great for engagement.

Colorful Themes + Customization

Way more possibilities to make Opera GX feel like part of my overall gaming setup compared to other bland browsers. The dark mode support is on point.

Integrated Ad Blockers

Faster page loading and removing annoying ads on game wikis or walkthroughs is a big workflow perk.

Free Built-In VPN

Sure, it‘s not the most robust for complete anonymity. But an extra layer of encryption remains useful on public Wi-Fi networks. Worth activating but don‘t rely on it fully.

GX Corner Discount Alerts

I‘ve grabbed great gaming headset and graphics card deals thanks to popup codes for Razer, Corsair and more. These loyalty promotions add up over time for us gamers!

The Verdict? Consider Opera GX But Use Separate VPN

After really scrutinizing Opera GX‘s pros and cons specifically for gaming use cases, I do still recommend it in 2024 given the utility benefits like resource limiting and Twitch integration. These perks outweigh downsides in my personal opinion compared to Chrome or Firefox.

However, I cannot in good conscience say it‘s the "best" or most private overall browser choice after their questionable privacy track record and data handling policies. I advise pairing Opera GX with a more trusted third-party VPN for anonymizing any sensitive browsing if you want air tight protection.

So in summary – yes, Opera GX itself remains perfectly legal to download and use today. But be careful about relying on their still somewhat sketchy VPN replacement to shield illegal activities. Take precautions and use the unique gaming tools Opera GX provides as an added bonus!

What do you think? Have you used Opera GX as your gaming browser? I‘m curious to hear your experiences or if you recommend alternatives!