Chromebooks are designed around the Chrome ecosystem, and for the longest time, ChromeOS didn’t allow users to change the default browser. Everything from links in apps to web shortcuts, opened straight in Google Chrome browser. Thankfully, newer versions of ChromeOS now give us the option to pick a different default browser, including Firefox, Opera, Brave, Edge, and others.
If you prefer to browse with something other than Chrome, we’ll walk you through every method to change the default browser on your Chromebook, plus a few extra tips in case the new browser isn’t showing up.
How to Change the Default Browser on Chromebook
To change the default browser on your Chromebook, you’ll need a browser installed from the Google Play Store. As long as you have the browser installed and updated, ChromeOS will automatically list it in the default browser settings.
1. Install Your Preferred Browser
Most popular browsers offer Android versions that run well on Chromebooks, including Firefox, Opera, Brave, and Microsoft Edge. To install your preferred browser, follow these steps:
1. Open the Google Play Store.
2. Search for the browser you want to set as the default and select it from the search results.
3. Click Install.
Once installed, you’re ready to set it as the default browser on your Chromebook.
2. Change Default Browser Using In-Browser Prompts
Some browsers automatically detect when they’re not the default and show a prompt when you first open them. If you see this prompt, simply select your preferred browser from the list and click Set as default.
3. Change the Default Browser Manually
If you missed the browser prompt, you can change your default browser from the browser’s own settings. Here’s how:
1. Open the browser you just installed. For example, open Firefox if you want Firefox to be your default.
2. Open the browser’s Settings page.
3. Look for an option that says Set as Default Browser and turn it on.
4. ChromeOS will display a popup asking you to choose your default browser.
5. Select the browser you want and click Set as default.
Once done, ChromeOS will immediately update your default browser, and all links will now open in the browser you selected.
Set Default Browser on Chromebook
Changing the default browser on your Chromebook is easier than ever with modern ChromeOS releases. As long as your preferred browser is installed and recognized, you can switch to it with just a few clicks. Whether you love Firefox’s privacy tools, Brave’s speed, or Opera’s built-in features, ChromeOS gives you the flexibility to browse the way you want.
However, the Linux desktop version of browsers won’t appear as an option for default apps. The Android version typically works best. So, use the Google Play Store to install your preferred browser.
