How to export Chrome bookmarks

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

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

Quick Answer

Exporting Chrome bookmarks is a straightforward process that allows users to back up their favorite websites for easy access later. You can accomplish this through the Chrome browser's built-in bookmark manager or by using the settings menu.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before exporting Chrome bookmarks, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •Google Chrome installed (latest version recommended)
  • •Access to the internet for potential updates
  • •Basic knowledge of navigating the Chrome interface
  • •Backup of important data, especially if you are migrating to a new device

Method 1: Using the Bookmark Manager

This method is ideal for users who prefer a visual interface to manage their bookmarks.
  • •Step 1: Open Google Chrome and click on the three vertical dots (menu) in the upper right corner.
  • •Step 2: Hover over 'Bookmarks' and select 'Bookmark Manager' (or press Ctrl + Shift + O).
  • •Step 3: In the Bookmark Manager, click on the three vertical dots in the blue banner to open the options menu.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Export bookmarks' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 5: Choose the location where you want to save the bookmarks file (usually in HTML format) and click 'Save'.
  • •Step 6: Verify the export by navigating to the saved location and opening the HTML file in a text editor or browser.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, ensure you have the necessary permissions to write files in the selected directory.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users may notice slight differences in the interface.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Start menu and type 'Chrome' to open the browser.
  • •Step 2: Follow the same steps as above to access the Bookmark Manager.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users will find the process similar to Windows 11.
  • •Step 1: Open Chrome from the taskbar or Start menu.
  • •Step 2: Access the Bookmark Manager as described above.

Method 2: Using Chrome Settings

This alternative method is useful for users who prefer accessing settings directly.
  • •Step 1: Open Google Chrome and click on the three vertical dots in the upper right corner.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down and click on 'Import bookmarks and settings' under the 'You and Google' section.
  • •Step 4: In the new window, select 'Bookmarks HTML file' and click 'Choose File' to select the file you want to import.
  • •Step 5: If you want to export, you may need to first import bookmarks from another browser, then export them using Method 1.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the export process, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Failed to export bookmarks' - Solution: Check if Chrome has the necessary permissions to access the file system.
  • •Issue: 'Bookmarks not found' - Fix: Ensure you are in the correct Bookmark Manager and that bookmarks exist.
  • •Problem: 'Exported file is empty' - Workaround: Verify that bookmarks were saved properly before exporting.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your bookmark management with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + B - Toggles the bookmarks bar on and off for quick access.
  • •Command line: chrome://bookmarks/ - Directly opens the Bookmark Manager.
  • •Hidden feature: Bookmark folders - Organize bookmarks into folders for better management.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best experience, regularly back up your bookmarks to avoid losing them during updates or migrations.