macOS comes with Safari as its default web browser. While Safari is well-optimized for the Apple ecosystem, many users prefer third-party browsers like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or the latest Arc browser by The Browser Company due to their unique features and cross-platform compatibility.
If you primarily use Google services, Google Chrome is an excellent choice. It’s fully optimized for Google’s ecosystem, offering seamless syncing across devices and a wide range of extensions to boost productivity. On the other hand, if you rely on Microsoft services, Microsoft Edge is a great alternative, as it’s designed to integrate smoothly with Microsoft tools like Copilot and Microsoft 365.
Whether your priority is speed, advanced extensions, or a more intuitive user interface, switching to a browser that suits your needs can significantly improve your browsing experience. Fortunately, changing the default browser on macOS is a quick and simple process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to set your preferred browser as the default.
How to Change Default Browser on macOS
Changing the default browser on macOS is a simple process. However, before you can do so, you need to have at least one additional browser installed on your Mac. Popular options include Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Arc, Opera, and others. Once you’ve installed a new browser, you’ll be ready to set it as the default.
Here’s how you can change the default browser on macOS using the System Settings:
1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen.
2. Select System Settings from the drop-down menu.
3. In the left sidebar, click the Desktop & Dock option.
4. Scroll down to the Default web browser section.
5. Click the dropdown menu and select your preferred browser from the list.
Once you select a new browser, macOS will use it to open all links by default.
This is a quick method to change the default browser on macOS. However, you can also change the default browser through the specific browser’s settings. Most popular browsers have built-in settings that allow you to set them as the default browser.
How to Make Google Chrome the Default Browser on macOS
To make Google Chrome the default browser on macOS, you first need to install it on your Mac. We already have a guide on installing Chrome on macOS, so follow that guide to install it. If you have already installed the browser, you can follow the steps below to set it as the default.
1. Open the Google Chrome browser.
2. Click on the three-dot icon and select the Settings option.
3. Click on the Default Browser tab and click on the Make Default button.
4. You will get a prompt asking, “Do you want to change your default web browser to Chrome?“
5. Click on the Use Chrome button.
How to Make Microsoft Edge the Default Browser on macOS
If you’re looking to make Microsoft Edge your default browser on your Mac, then you’re covered. Here are the steps you can follow to do so.
1. Open the Microsoft Edge browser.
2. Navigate to the three-dot icon and select Settings from the overlay menu.
3. Select the Default Browser tab and click the Make Default button.
4. From the prompt, click the Use Microsoft Edge button to confirm.
How to Make Arc the Default Browser on macOS
Arc is now the newest addition to the list of the best browsers for Mac. If you’ve already switched to Arc and are enjoying its unique features, great! However, if you haven’t made it your default browser on macOS yet, follow these steps:
1. Open the Arc browser on your Mac.
2. In the top menu bar, click on Arc and select Set as Default Browser.
3. To change it to Arc, simply click on Use Arc, and it will become your default browser.
Once you’ve done that, Arc will be your default browser on macOS, and all web links will automatically open in Arc.
Conclusion
Changing the default browser on macOS is straightforward and allows you to personalize your web browsing experience. Whether you prefer Google Chrome for its speed, Microsoft Edge for its features, or Arc for its innovative design, macOS makes it easy to set your favorite browser as the default. You can either change it from the system settings or use the browser’s settings.
