Internet Explorer 11
The modern version of Internet Explorer 11 rocks in Windows 8.1, and its sleek interface hides fresh tricks that go beyond tab syncing. On the surface, Microsoft tweaked IE 11's oft-hidden navigational controls to merge the tab menu and address bar into a single interface at the bottom of the screen—a welcome change.

The modern version of IE 11 also supports Windows 8.1's new Reading List app, and it can open links in new windows. Under the hood, IE 11 adds WebGL 3D, hardware acceleration capabilities, and numerous technical tweaks that help make the browser run like greased lightning, even while handling intense websites. A new reading view makes settling down with long articles a pleasure, and new functionality treats (some) pinned websites as Live Tiles, displaying up-to-date article information.