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How to Set ChatGPT as Default Search Engine in Chrome

Richard
Written by
Richard
Dec 20, 2024 Updated Sep 15, 2026 2 min read
How to Set ChatGPT as Default Search Engine in Chrome
How to Set ChatGPT as Default Search Engine in Chrome

Setting ChatGPT as your default search engine in Google Chrome replaces standard web link results with direct AI answers in the address bar. This configuration routes your search queries directly through OpenAI’s model instead of Google, Bing, or Yahoo.

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You can complete this switch in under two minutes by installing a third-party browser extension from the Chrome Web Store. Once you add the extension, typing a question into the top URL bar and pressing Enter loads the ChatGPT interface right away.

⚡ Quick Answer

Install the “ChatGPT Search” extension from the Chrome Web Store. Then, navigate to Chrome settings, click “Search engines,” and select “Add” to input ChatGPT’s details. Finally, click the three dots next to ChatGPT and choose “Make default.

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Set ChatGPT Search with its extension

Using the ChatGPT Search extension is the fastest way to make ChatGPT default search engine in Chrome so your address bar queries go straight to the AI. This free browser add-on handles the setup automatically when you install it , meaning you do not have to dig through any complicated settings menus to start getting AI answers right away.

First, open the ChatGPT Search extension page.

Then, click the Add to Chrome button.

ChatGPT chrome extension
ChatGPT chrome extension

Click the Add extension button.

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ChatGPT chrome extension add
ChatGPT chrome extension add

Chrome sometimes disables new extensions automatically upon installation. If you get a notification to enable it, please turn it on.

If not, open the chrome://extensions page and manually turn on the “ChatGPT Search” extension.

ChatGPT chrome extension enable
ChatGPT chrome extension enable

Set ChatGPT Search as default in Chrome Settings

Adding ChatGPT default search engine manually through Chrome Settings lets you route your searches without installing any third-party browser extensions. You just need to paste a quick web address into your browser options to tell Chrome to send your typed questions directly to ChatGPT every time you hit enter.

To do that, open Chrome and go to the settings page shown below.

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chrome://settings/searchEngines

Under the Search engines page, click the Add button.

ChatGPT chrome extension add button
ChatGPT chrome extension add button

Here's what you'll need for ChatGPT:

Name: ChatGPT

Shortcut: @ChatGPT

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URL for your query: https://chatgpt.com/?q=%s&hints=search

Clicking the Add to Chrome button for the ChatGPT extension
Clicking the Add to Chrome button for the ChatGPT extension

Once the custom search engine is saved, click the three-dot menu icon next to the entry and select Make default.

Enabling the ChatGPT Search extension in Google Chrome settings
Enabling the ChatGPT Search extension in Google Chrome settings

That should do it!

Conclusion:

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  • Setting ChatGPT as your default search engine in Google Chrome enhances your search experience by providing prompt answers with relevant links.
  • You can easily install the ChatGPT Search extension directly from the Chrome Web Store for quick access.
  • Alternatively, you can manually add ChatGPT as your search engine in the Chrome settings for a more customizable approach.
  • Following the outlined steps ensures that you seamlessly integrate ChatGPT’s capabilities into your browsing experience.
  • Enjoy faster and more efficient searches tailored to your needs!

Can I set ChatGPT as my default search engine?

You can set search on ChatGPT as your Chrome browser's default search by downloading and installing our Chrome Extension.

Does ChatGPT have its own search engine?

While traditional search engines provide a list of links in response to a query, ChatGPT offers answers. In October 2024, ChatGPT introduced ChatGPT search, which provides updated, live information – a feature absent from its earlier version.

Does ChatGPT search the web by default?

ChatGPT doesn't search the web by default for every query, but it will automatically look online if your question needs current information.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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