Text-based web browsers may have fallen to a secondary level, but they never completely disappeared. In fact, they are very useful for users who depend on slow connections, or who need to remove JavaScript support from their sessions for different reasons. One of the oldest and best-supported browsers on modern operating systems is Links, which can work in pure text mode or with basic graphics support.
Modern web pages are packed with content, and modern web browsers must respond to their technical demands... unless the user wants something simpler. So-called “reading modes” are quite common these days, but there is another alternative in the form of web browsers that limit their support to text.
Now, what are the best options? I have seen some recommendations for Browsh, but it has many execution problems under Windows and hasn't received updates in more than three years, while Lynx is very finicky about enabling SSL support. Personally, I'll mention Links, which not only has updated builds for Windows, but also works in two different ways: with pure text or basic graphics.
Links: An Excellent Browser for Exploring the Web in Pure Text
Once installed, Links creates two shortcuts: one called Links Graphics, which takes us to its version with graphics support, and the standard Links which barely shows a black screen with a cursor. In both cases, to enter a web address we need to press the “g” key, and the menu at the top of the screen is invoked by pressing “Esc”.
One of the most interesting features of Links is its customization potential. The browser lets us change the text color, links and background easily, so we can set up an appearance similar to old terminals, or simply be more creative. However, the best thing about Links... is that it flies. By stripping all the “unnecessary” elements from a page, its loading takes a fraction of the normal time.
The Obvious Trade-Offs
Obviously, using Links means accepting compromises... many compromises. Pages and services like YouTube are completely nullified, but we can always explore parallel resources (say, Invidious) that enable video downloads even without JavaScript available. Give it a try! Text-mode browsing is much more striking than it seems.
Official site and downloads: Click here
