How to sync Chrome across devices

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

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

Quick Answer

To sync Chrome across devices, ensure you are signed into your Google account on each device and enable sync in Chrome settings. This allows bookmarks, history, passwords, and other settings to be shared seamlessly across all your devices.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start syncing Chrome across devices, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •A Google account (Gmail) to sign in to Chrome.
  • •Devices running supported versions of Chrome (latest version recommended).
  • •Internet connection to enable sync features.
  • •Permissions to modify settings on the devices.

Method 1: Enable Sync in Chrome Settings

This method is the primary way to enable sync across devices. Use this when you want to ensure all your Chrome data is synchronized.
  • •Step 1: Open Chrome on your device.
  • •Step 2: Click on the three vertical dots (menu) in the upper right corner.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 4: Under 'You and Google', click on 'Turn on sync...'.
  • •Step 5: Sign in with your Google account if prompted.
  • •Step 6: Confirm by clicking 'Yes, I'm in'.
  • •Step 7: Verify sync settings by going to 'Settings' > 'You and Google' > 'Sync and Google services'. Ensure 'Sync everything' is enabled or customize your sync settings.
  • •Step 8: To verify it worked, check if bookmarks or history from one device appear on another.
  • •Step 9: If it doesn't work, ensure you are logged into the same Google account on all devices and check your internet connection.

For Windows 11

Follow these specific steps for Windows 11 users.
  • •Open the Start menu and type 'Chrome', then select it.
  • •Follow the same steps as above to access settings.

For Windows 10

Follow these specific steps for Windows 10 users.
  • •Click the Start button and select 'Chrome' from the list of applications.
  • •Follow the same steps as above to access settings.

Method 2: Sync via Chrome Mobile App

Use this method when syncing on mobile devices, such as Android or iOS.
  • •Step 1: Open the Chrome app on your mobile device.
  • •Step 2: Tap the three dots (menu) in the upper right corner.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 4: Tap on your account name at the top to access sync settings.
  • •Step 5: Enable 'Sync' and select what you want to sync.
  • •Step 6: To verify, check if bookmarks or tabs from your mobile device appear on your desktop.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, ensure you are logged into the same Google account and have a stable internet connection.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while syncing, try the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Sync is paused' - Solution: Click on the notification and select 'Resume sync'.
  • •Issue: 'Bookmarks not syncing' - Fix: Ensure bookmarks are selected in sync settings and restart Chrome.
  • •Problem: 'Sync not working on mobile' - Workaround: Check mobile data settings and ensure Chrome has permission to use data.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Chrome experience with these tips.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + B - Toggles bookmarks bar visibility.
  • •Command line: chrome://sync-internals - Access detailed sync information.
  • •Hidden feature: Chrome flags - Type 'chrome://flags' in the address bar to access experimental features.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For optimal performance, always ensure you are using the latest version of Chrome and regularly check sync settings.