How to Set ChatGPT as Default Search Engine in Chrome
Setting ChatGPT as your default search engine in Chrome replaces traditional web pages of blue links with direct AI answers right in your address bar. This setup routes all your searches through the AI model instead of Google or Bing.
You can make this switch in just a few minutes by installing a browser extension like the ChatGPT Search add-on. Once you add it to Chrome, every time you type a question into the top address bar and press Enter, ChatGPT answers you right away.
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.
Set ChatGPT Search with its extension
Connecting the “ChatGPT Search” extension allows queries typed straight into the address bar to run through the AI automatically. This extension gives you quick AI-powered answers without needing extra steps to get to ChatGPT. After adding the extension to Chrome, it takes care of setting ChatGPT as your default search.
First, open the ChatGPT Search extension page.
Then, click the Add to Chrome button.

Click the Add extension button.

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

Set ChatGPT Search as default in Chrome Settings
ChatGPT can be set as your default search engine in Chrome directly within the browser's settings, no extra downloads required. This method lets you choose ChatGPT for all your searches within Chrome itself, making it faster to get AI answers. Go to Chrome's search engine settings to make ChatGPT your default.
To do that, open Chrome and go to the settings page shown below.
chrome://settings/searchEngines
Under the Search engines page, click the Add button.

Here's what you'll need for ChatGPT:
Name: ChatGPT
Shortcut: @ChatGPT
URL for your query: https://chatgpt.com/?q=%s&hints=search

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

That should do it!
Conclusion:
- 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.
Was this guide helpful?
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.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!