European Search Engines: Directory Shortlist
Explore listed European alternatives to US search engines. This shortlist is generated from directory records and is not a hands-on product test.
How we select and order these listings
We select up to ten active software listings with the highest directory data-completeness scores. Within that selection, products marked as recommended in an active directory comparison appear first, followed by data completeness. Completeness measures how much information a profile contains; it is not a score for performance, privacy or customer satisfaction.
Some Visit Site links are affiliate links: we may earn a commission if you buy through them. These are labelled below. Read our affiliate disclosure.
Mojeek is a search engine based in the United Kingdom, offering users a unique browsing experience by operating its own independent search index. Unlike many other search engines that rely on third-party data, Mojeek provides results from its proprietary index, ensuring a distinct and unbiased search experience. This makes it particularly appealing to users who value transparency and independence in their search results. Key features of Mojeek include its commitment to privacy and security, as it is fully EU-hosted and compliant with GDPR regulations. This ensures that user data is protected under stringent European privacy laws, offering peace of mind to those concerned about data sovereignty and privacy. Mojeek's search engine is ideal for privacy-conscious individuals, researchers, and businesses that require reliable and unbiased search results. While Mojeek does not currently operate on a subscription model, it is accessible to all users without charge, making it a cost-effective choice for those seeking a reliable search engine without the need for a financial commitment. By prioritizing user privacy and maintaining a robust, independent search index, Mojeek stands out as a trustworthy option for users across Europe and beyond.
Qwant is a French search engine that advertises privacy by not storing or selling any data about you. They use the Bing search index mixed with their own index, and therefore aren't reliant on Google. They also provide a special search engine for kids.
Ecosia is a European search engine that transforms your web searches into environmental action. By using Ecosia, users contribute to global reforestation efforts, as the company allocates its ad revenue to plant trees worldwide. Ecosia stands out with its commitment to privacy, utilizing EU-hosted data centers and adhering to GDPR standards, ensuring your data is handled with the utmost care and transparency. The search engine is designed for environmentally conscious individuals and organizations seeking a privacy-friendly alternative to mainstream search engines. Ecosia’s operations are carbon-neutral, further emphasizing its dedication to sustainability. The platform provides transparent financial reports, allowing users to see exactly how their searches contribute to environmental projects. Ecosia is free to use, with its revenue model based on ad clicks, which directly fund tree planting initiatives. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize both privacy and environmental impact in their digital activities.
Swisscows is a privacy-focused search engine that ensures user anonymity by not tracking or storing personal data. It offers a family-friendly search environment and provides additional privacy tools such as VPN and secure email services. Swisscows is committed to protecting user privacy and operates under Swiss data protection laws.
metaGer is a European metasearch engine that aggregates search results from various providers to deliver comprehensive and unbiased information. Designed with privacy at its core, metaGer ensures that your search queries remain confidential and are not tracked, making it an ideal choice for privacy-conscious users. Hosted entirely within the EU, metaGer complies with GDPR regulations, providing users with enhanced data sovereignty and security. Key features include the ability to search anonymously, access to a wide range of search results, and no user profiling. metaGer is particularly suited for individuals and organizations that prioritize data privacy and require reliable search results without the influence of personalized algorithms. While the basic service is free, users can opt for a paid membership to support the service and gain additional benefits. By choosing metaGer, users benefit from a search engine that respects their privacy and adheres to stringent EU data protection standards.
Overit Estonia lets users search and monitor public information about Estonian companies, including company officers, shareholders and status changes. It is operated by Hungary-based Verde Holding Kft.
Overit Denmark brings together public information about Danish companies and lets users search company profiles, officers and ownership links. It is operated by Hungary-based Verde Holding Kft.
Overit Bosnia is a company search service for Bosnia and Herzegovina, with profiles searchable by name or JIB. It is operated by Verde Holding Kft. of Hungary. Legal status and financial filings are still being added, so profiles may not contain a complete record.
Overit.sk is a Slovak company directory that brings public data on Slovak companies into one platform. It is operated by Verde Holding Kft., based in Hungary. A Free plan at €0/month includes 10 company lookups per month.
Overit Serbia confirms within seconds that a company exists, is active and matches official registry data. It checks account blockades and bankruptcy proceedings directly in NBS and ALSU registries and sends notifications when a monitored company's status changes.
Replace Popular US Search Engines
Looking to switch from a specific US product? Browse listed European alternatives:
Frequently Asked Questions
Which European search engines are listed here?
This shortlist includes Mojeek, Qwant, Ecosia, Swisscows, MetaGer, Overit Estonia, Overit Denmark, Overit Bosnia, Overit.sk, Overit Serbia. Open each product profile to compare its listed features, pricing and origin. Availability and terms can change, so confirm details with the provider.
How is this shortlist ordered?
We select up to ten active software listings with the highest directory data-completeness scores. Within that selection, products marked as recommended in an active directory comparison appear first, followed by data completeness. Completeness measures how much information a profile contains; it is not a score for performance, privacy or customer satisfaction.
Does European ownership guarantee European hosting or GDPR compliance?
No. Company origin, hosting location and contractual terms are separate details. Check the provider’s data-processing agreement, available hosting regions and subprocessors for your intended use. A directory listing is not a compliance certification.
What should I check before switching?
Try the features you need with sample data, check supported export and import formats, and confirm pricing and account recovery options. Keep your existing service until you have checked that your important data and workflows transfer successfully.
Need Help Choosing?
Compare any two products side-by-side or browse our migration guides for step-by-step switching instructions.