For reading HTML, I use various versions of links 1.x and links 2.x, patched to meet personal preferences. Of course links can make HTTP requests, as well as display HTML, but I use a variety of programs to make HTTP requests. When I use links to make HTTP requests, it is always through a loopback-bound proxy.
For commercial use of the www of course I am forced use a popular graphical web browser like everyone else. But I make minimal commercial use of the www. Most www use for me is academic or recrerational.
I had campus security called on me because I was using an acoustic coupler on a payphone to a free dial-up provider to browse the internet via links. Luckily the security guard understood what I was talking about and was chill, but he couldn't understand why I wasn't just using the campus WiFi.
For commercial use of the www of course I am forced use a popular graphical web browser like everyone else. But I make minimal commercial use of the www. Most www use for me is academic or recrerational.