Chrome lets you pick which search engine opens when you search from the address bar
When you type a question or phrase into Chrome's address bar (called the omnibox), the browser sends that search to a default search engine. By default, that engine is Google. You can change it to Bing, DuckDuckGo, Yahoo, Ecosia, or several others in about 30 seconds through Chrome's settings.
The change affects only searches you type into the address bar. It does not change search results on websites themselves, and it does not affect which search engine appears when you click a search box on a web page.
Key Takeaways
- Open Chrome settings, go to Search engine, and pick a new default from the dropdown menu — no restart required.
- Chrome offers Google, Bing, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo, and Ecosia as built-in options, plus the ability to add custom search engines.
- Changing your default search engine in Chrome does not affect searches on websites or search boxes within web pages.
- If you use multiple browsers, each one has its own default search engine setting and they do not sync across browsers.
How to change your default search engine in Chrome
Open Chrome and click the three vertical dots in the top right corner. Select Settings from the menu. On the left side, click Search engine.
You will see a dropdown menu labeled "Search engine used in the address bar." Click it and choose from Google, Bing, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo, or Ecosia. The change takes effect immediately — you do not need to restart Chrome or sign out.
If you want to use a search engine not listed in the dropdown, scroll down to "Other search engines" and click the Add button. You will need the search engine's web address and the format it uses for search queries, which you can usually find in the search engine's settings or help section.
What each built-in search engine does differently
Google is the default and shows results based on your search history and location. Bing is Microsoft's search engine and integrates with Windows and Microsoft accounts. Yahoo uses Bing's results but adds its own layout and features. DuckDuckGo does not track your searches or use your history to rank results. Ecosia is a nonprofit search engine that plants trees with its advertising revenue.
The practical difference you will notice is in how many results appear, how they are ranked, and whether ads are labeled clearly. Most people find Google and Bing return similar results. DuckDuckGo and Ecosia return fewer results but prioritize privacy. Try one for a week if you are unsure which fits your needs.
Removing a search engine you no longer use
If you added a custom search engine and want to remove it, go back to Settings > Search engine. Scroll to "Other search engines" and find the one you want to delete. Click the three dots on the right side of that entry and select Remove.
You cannot remove the built-in search engines (Google, Bing, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo, Ecosia) from the dropdown menu, but you can stop using them by choosing a different default.
Why Chrome might reset your default search engine
If you install a browser extension or download software from certain websites, that software may change your default search engine without asking. This is common with toolbars and download managers. If you notice your search engine has changed on its own, check your installed extensions by clicking the puzzle piece icon in the top right of Chrome and looking for unfamiliar ones.
To prevent this, only download software from official websites or the Chrome Web Store, and review the permissions each extension asks for before you install it. If an extension has changed your search engine, you can remove it by clicking the three dots next to its name and selecting Remove from Chrome.
How this setting works across your devices
If you sign into Chrome with a Google account, your default search engine choice syncs to all devices where you are signed in with that account. If you change it on your laptop, the change appears on your phone and tablet automatically.
If you use Chrome on a shared computer or in a guest profile, your search engine choice applies only to that profile. Other users on the same computer will not see your change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does changing my default search engine affect Google searches on websites?
No. Your default search engine only affects searches you type into Chrome's address bar. When you visit Google.com or any other website and use their search box, that website's search engine handles the query, not your default setting.
Can I use a search engine that is not in the dropdown menu?
Yes. Go to Settings > Search engine, scroll to "Other search engines," and click Add. You will need the search engine's URL and its search query format. Most search engines list this information in their settings or help pages.
What happens if I delete a custom search engine I added?
It disappears from your "Other search engines" list and you cannot use it as your default anymore. If it was your current default, Chrome will switch you back to Google. You can add it again later if you change your mind.
Will my default search engine change if I update Chrome?
No. Chrome updates do not reset your search engine choice. Your setting stays the same unless you change it manually or a third-party program changes it without your knowledge.
Do I need to change my search engine on my phone too?
If you are signed into the same Google account on your phone, the change syncs automatically. If you use a different account or are not signed in, you will need to change it separately in Chrome's settings on your phone.