Simple settings to speed up your Chrome browser and improve its performance

I love Google Chrome for its intuitive interface and versatility. However, it consumes a lot of memory, and you may notice that it becomes sluggish after prolonged use. So you may find that browsing the Internet can become annoying when Chrome starts to slow down. Whether you're experiencing lag in loading pages or sluggishness while switching between open tabs, a few simple settings tweaks can make a noticeable difference. From clearing your cache to managing extensions, there are steps you can follow to significantly improve Chrome's performance. Check Does your phone storage space always get full? Some strategies to save space and improve performance.

Update Chrome browser

One of the first things I check when Chrome is performing slow is whether my browser is up to date. Google regularly releases updates that introduce new features, fix bugs, and enhance security. Chrome should update automatically by default, but it's worth checking, as an outdated version of Chrome can slow performance and cause compatibility and security issues.

How to update Chrome

1. Launch the browser on your device.
2. Click the More icon In the top corner to open the Chrome menu.
3. Hover over “Help,” and then click “About Google Chrome.”
4. Chrome will automatically check for updates and install any available update.

If an update is installed, restart Chrome to complete the process.

Close all unused tabs and extensions

I'm bad at closing unused browser tabs while working. Each open tab consumes memory and resources, resulting in slow performance. The same goes for browser extensions. Although they improve functionality, too many of these extensions can strain Chrome's efficiency.

Tips for managing tabs and extensions

1. Review your open tabs regularly and close any you no longer need. You can also use bookmarks to save important pages for later access.
2. Chrome lets you group tabs, which can help you organize your workflow without dozens of tabs filling up your interface.
3. Go to the Chrome menu by clicking the More icon In the top corner, move your mouse over Extensions, and then select Manage Extensions. Disable or remove any extensions that you do not use frequently.

You may also consider using lightweight alternatives for a faster browsing experience. Check out the best Google Chrome extensions for tab management.

Activate the memory saving feature

As an automated tab management assistant, Chrome offers a memory saving feature that improves its performance by reducing memory usage of inactive tabs. When this feature is enabled, it automatically frees memory from tabs that you are not currently using, allowing active tabs to run more smoothly.

How to activate the memory saving feature

1. Open the Chrome menu by clicking the More icon In the upper corner and select “Settings”.
2. Scroll down to find the “Performance” section.
3. Enable the toggle switch next to Memory saving To operate it.

I set mine to “Balanced,” which deactivates my tabs after a set period of time.

Configure preload settings

Chrome uses a preloading feature that anticipates your browsing behavior and preloads pages you might visit. By optimizing your preload settings, you can speed up Chrome for a better browsing experience.

It's worth experimenting with the preload feature to see what works best for you. Turning them off can sometimes improve performance, especially if your browsing habits don't match preload expectations.

Pay attention to unwanted processes

Chrome is known for using a lot of memory and CPU. This is often due to unwanted processes running in the background, resulting in slow performance. Regularly checking and managing these processes can significantly increase browser speed.

Manage processes in Chrome

1. Open the Chrome menu by clicking the More icon in the upper corner and move your mouse over More tools.
2. Select “Task Manager” to view all active processes.
3. Look for processes that are using excessive CPU or memory.

If you identify any unwanted or unnecessary processes, select them and click End Process to close them.

Start from the beginning

If you've tried all of the above methods and your Chrome browser is still slow, it's time for a more drastic measure — reset Chrome. This will restore the browser to its original settings while removing any custom configurations that may be causing issues. Remember, resetting Chrome will remove pinned tabs, startup pages, and other personal settings. However, your bookmarks and saved passwords will remain intact.

How to reset Chrome

1. Open the Chrome menu by clicking the More icon In the upper corner and click “Settings”.
2. Scroll down and tap Reset Settings.
3. Select Restore settings to their original defaults.
4. A confirmation window will appear. Click “Reset Settings” to continue.

Chrome is arguably the most popular browser by a wide margin, with over 60% of the global market share. As with most of Google's lifestyle and productivity tools, I'm a big fan of Chrome, even though it's not without flaws and can be quite a CPU hog.

Making sure I use this list of simple fixes whenever Chrome starts to slow down dramatically enhances my browsing experience, improves productivity and makes my sessions more enjoyable. Each fix can be done from within Chrome and takes seconds, which can save hours of frustration in the long run. You can now see: Are browser add-ons consuming system resources and slowing down browsing?