How to change default search engine in Safari

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 Safari, navigate to Safari Preferences, select the Search tab, and choose your desired search engine from the dropdown menu. This process allows you to customize your browsing experience according to your preferences.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before changing the default search engine in Safari, ensure you meet the following prerequisites:
  • •A Mac or iOS device with Safari installed (macOS 10.12 or later for Mac, iOS 10.0 or later for iPhone/iPad).
  • •Administrative access to change settings.
  • •An active internet connection to verify search engine options.
  • •No active restrictions or parental controls that may limit changes.

Method 1: Changing Default Search Engine via Safari Preferences

This method is the primary way to change the default search engine in Safari and is suitable for most users.
  • •Step 1: Open Safari by clicking the Safari icon in your Dock or Applications folder.
  • •Step 2: From the menu bar at the top of the screen, click on 'Safari' and then select 'Preferences...' (or use the keyboard shortcut Command + ,).
  • •Step 3: In the Preferences window, click on the 'Search' tab.
  • •Step 4: Under the 'Search engine' dropdown menu, select your preferred search engine (Google, Yahoo, Bing, DuckDuckGo).
  • •Step 5: Close the Preferences window to save your changes.
  • •Step 6: To verify, perform a search in the address bar and check that the results reflect your selected search engine.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, ensure that Safari is updated to the latest version by going to the App Store and checking for updates.

For macOS Ventura (13) and later

In macOS Ventura and later, the steps remain the same, but the interface may have slight visual changes.
  • •Step 1: Open Safari and click on 'Safari' in the menu bar.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings...' instead of 'Preferences...'.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as above to change the search engine.

For macOS Monterey (12) and earlier

The steps are consistent across these versions, but ensure your macOS is updated for the best experience.
  • •Step 1: Open Safari and click 'Safari' in the menu bar.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Preferences...' and follow the same steps as above.

Method 2: Changing Search Engine on iOS Devices

This method is specifically for users who want to change the default search engine on their iPhone or iPad.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone or iPad.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Safari'.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Search Engine'.
  • •Step 4: Select your preferred search engine (Google, Yahoo, Bing, DuckDuckGo) from the list.
  • •Step 5: Exit the Settings app to save your changes.
  • •Step 6: To verify, open Safari and perform a search to ensure it reflects your selected search engine.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while changing the default search engine, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Search engine not available' - Solution: Ensure you have an active internet connection and that the search engine is supported by Safari.
  • •Issue: Changes not saving - Fix: Restart Safari and try again; if the problem persists, check for macOS or iOS updates.
  • •Problem: Search results not reflecting changes - Workaround: Clear Safari's cache by going to 'Safari' > 'Clear History...' and selecting 'All History'.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Safari experience with these power user tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Command + L - Focuses the address bar for quick searches.
  • •Command line: Open Terminal and use 'open -a Safari' to launch Safari directly.
  • •Hidden feature: Enable 'Show Develop menu in menu bar' in Preferences > Advanced for advanced web development tools.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best browsing experience, regularly review your search engine settings and preferences.