How to change default search engine in Chrome

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To change the default search engine in Chrome, navigate to Settings Search Engine > Manage Search Engines. From there, you can select a new default search engine or add a custom one. This process is straightforward and can be completed in just a few clicks.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before changing the default search engine in Chrome, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •A computer or device with Google Chrome installed (version 90 or higher recommended).
  • •Internet access to download any new search engines if needed.
  • •Administrative access to modify browser settings.
  • •Backup any important data or bookmarks in case of unexpected changes.

Method 1: Changing Default Search Engine via Chrome Settings

This is the primary method to change your default search engine directly through Chrome's settings. Use this method when you want to quickly switch between available search engines.
  • •Step 1: Open Google Chrome and click on the three vertical dots (⋮) in the top right corner to open the menu.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 3: In the left sidebar, click on 'Search engine'.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Manage search engines and site search'.
  • •Step 5: Under 'Default search engines', find the search engine you want to set as default and click on the three vertical dots next to it, then select 'Make default'.
  • •Step 6: To verify, perform a search in the address bar and check if the results are from the new default search engine.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, repeat the steps to ensure you selected the correct engine.

For Windows 11

On Windows 11, the steps are similar, but the interface may look slightly different.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Start menu and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to 'Apps' > 'Default apps'.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down to find Google Chrome and click on it to access its settings.

For Windows 10

The process in Windows 10 is almost identical to Windows 11, with minor interface differences.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Start menu and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Go to 'System' > 'Default apps'.
  • •Step 3: Locate Google Chrome and click on it to adjust its settings.

Method 2: Adding a Custom Search Engine

Use this method when you want to add a search engine that is not listed in Chrome's default options.
  • •Step 1: Follow the steps to reach 'Manage search engines and site search' as described in Method 1.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down to 'Site search' and click on 'Add'.
  • •Step 3: Fill in the fields: 'Search engine' (name), 'Shortcut' (optional), and 'URL with %s in place of query' (the search URL).
  • •Step 4: Click 'Add' to save the new search engine.
  • •Step 5: To set it as default, find it under 'Default search engines' and click the three vertical dots to select 'Make default'.
  • •Step 6: Verify the change by performing a search using the new search engine.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while changing your default search engine, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Search engine not found' - Solution: Ensure you entered the correct URL format with '%s' for the query.
  • •Issue: 'Default search engine not changing' - Fix: Restart Chrome and try again; check for browser updates.
  • •Problem: 'Search results still show old engine' - Workaround: Clear browser cache by going to Settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Chrome experience with these power user tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + L (Windows) or Command + L (Mac) - Focus on the address bar for quick searches.
  • •Command line: chrome://settings/searchEngines - Directly access the search engines settings page.
  • •Hidden feature: Custom search shortcuts - Use shortcuts to quickly access specific search engines.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For a seamless browsing experience, regularly review and update your default search engine settings based on your needs.