Leaving Yahoo Search? Here's everything you need
Compare 4 EU alternatives side-by-side. Find the right fit based on migration difficulty, pricing, and privacy features.
Your data may be subject to US surveillance laws
Yahoo Search is headquartered in the US. Under the CLOUD Act and FISA Section 702, US authorities can access your data without your knowledge. Switch to an EU alternative to keep your data protected under GDPR.
All EU Alternatives at a Glance
| Alternative | Country | Pricing | Difficulty | Time Estimate | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
QwantRecommended 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. | 🇫🇷France | Free | Medium | 30 minutes | |
MojeekRecommended 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. | 🌍GB | Free | Medium | 1-2 hours | |
metaGer 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. | 🇪🇺EU | Free | Medium | 1-2 hours | |
Startpage Search and browse the internet without being tracked or targeted. Startpage is the world's most private search engine. Use Startpage to protect your personal data. | 🇳🇱Netherlands | Free | Medium | 30 minutes |
Our Top Picks
Best for Privacy
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.
Certifications:
Best Free Option
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.
- Qwant does not store search data, enhancing user privacy.
- Qwant is hosted in the EU, ensuring GDPR compliance.
- Qwant does not sell personal data, unlike Yahoo.
Migration difficulty data is being enriched for these alternatives.
Detailed Comparison of Each Alternative
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.
Advantages
- Qwant does not store search data, enhancing user privacy.
- Qwant is hosted in the EU, ensuring GDPR compliance.
- Qwant does not sell personal data, unlike Yahoo.
- Qwant provides fast answers without tracking user behavior.
Trade-offs
- Qwant lacks Yahoo's advanced search operators support.
- Qwant may have fewer local business listings than Yahoo.
- Transitioning requires adapting to a new interface and features.
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.
Advantages
- Mojeek operates its own search index, ensuring unique search results.
- Fully GDPR compliant, enhancing user data protection in the EU.
- EU-hosted servers may reduce latency for European users.
- No reliance on third-party data, promoting transparency in search results.
Trade-offs
- Mojeek lacks advanced features like Yahoo's image search filters.
- Limited local business listings compared to Yahoo's extensive database.
- Users may face a learning curve adjusting to Mojeek's interface.
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.
Advantages
- metaGer is EU-hosted, ensuring data compliance with GDPR regulations.
- It offers optional end-to-end encryption for enhanced user security.
- As a metasearch engine, it aggregates results from multiple sources.
- metaGer is open-source, allowing for community-driven improvements.
Trade-offs
- Missing features like Yahoo's voice search and customizable homepage.
- Migration may involve losing saved search history from Yahoo.
- Learning curve for users accustomed to Yahoo's interface and features.
Search and browse the internet without being tracked or targeted. Startpage is the world's most private search engine. Use Startpage to protect your personal data.
Advantages
- Startpage uses HTTPS encryption for all searches, enhancing security.
- No user tracking or profiling means your searches remain private.
- GDPR compliance ensures your data is handled with strict privacy laws.
- IP address anonymization prevents location tracking during searches.
Trade-offs
- Missing Yahoo's image search filters and local business listings.
- No integration with Yahoo Answers reduces access to community Q&A.
- Learning curve for users accustomed to Yahoo's interface and features.
Before You Switch
Export your data from Yahoo Search before you start the migration. This ensures you have a backup and makes the transition smoother.
General Data Export Steps
- 1Log into your Yahoo Search account and navigate to Settings or Privacy.
- 2Look for "Download your data", "Export", or "Data portability" options.
- 3Select all data you want to export and choose a standard format (ZIP, CSV, JSON).
- 4Wait for the export to complete — large accounts may take hours or days.
- 5Download and verify the export before proceeding with migration.
Under GDPR Article 20, you have the right to data portability. Yahoo Search is required to provide your data in a structured, commonly used format upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best EU alternatives to Yahoo Search?
There are 4 European alternatives to Yahoo Search. Qwant, Mojeek, metaGer are among the top-rated options. All are GDPR-compliant and store your data in European data centers.
How long does it take to switch from Yahoo Search?
Migration time varies by alternative. Most migrations can be completed in under an hour with our step-by-step guides. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative.
Can I export my data from Yahoo Search?
Yes, most services including Yahoo Search allow you to export your data. Check the settings or privacy section of your Yahoo Search account for data export options. GDPR also grants you the right to data portability.
Is switching from Yahoo Search to an EU alternative safe?
Yes, switching is safe when done correctly. We recommend: 1) Export your data from Yahoo Search first, 2) Set up the new EU service, 3) Import your data, 4) Run both services in parallel for a transition period, 5) Update any linked accounts or integrations, and 6) Cancel your Yahoo Search subscription only after verifying everything works.
Why should I switch from Yahoo Search to an EU alternative?
EU alternatives provide stronger privacy protection under GDPR, keep your data in European data centers, and are not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act or FISA Section 702. By switching, you gain true data sovereignty and support European tech innovation.