Switching Google accounts can feel like starting over, especially when it comes to your carefully curated Chrome setup. Your browser extensions, those tiny tools that make your digital life easier, don’t automatically transfer when you log in with a new account. Annoying, right? But here’s the good news: it is possible to import Chrome extensions from another Google account. And today, I’m going to show you exactly how to do it.
Whether you’ve recently switched jobs, set up a new personal account, or simply want to merge your browser preferences across accounts, this guide has you covered. Let’s dig in!
Why Would You Want to Import Chrome Extensions From Another Google Account?
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s pause for a second: why even bother? Sure, you can always reinstall your favorite extensions one by one, but let’s be honest—that’s tedious and time-consuming. Plus, if you’ve forgotten the names of a few of those handy tools, you’re stuck trying to remember (or worse, digging through old bookmarks).
Maybe you’ve set up a work account with a tailored extension suite for productivity—think Grammarly, Todoist, or Trello. Now, you want that same setup on your personal account. Or maybe you’ve just got a ton of niche tools for trading, designing, or coding, and you don’t want to lose them.
So, Can You Really Import Chrome Extensions From Another Google Account?
The short answer: sort of. Chrome doesn’t offer a one-click solution to transfer extensions between accounts. However, with a few clever workarounds, you can make it happen. Let’s break it down.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Import Chrome Extensions From Another Google Account
1. Sync Your Extensions on the Original Account
Before you do anything else, you’ll need to ensure that all your extensions are synced to the original account. Here’s how:
- Open Chrome and log into the Google account with the extensions you want to transfer.
- Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
- Navigate to Settings > Sync and Google services.
- Under Manage what you sync, make sure Extensions is toggled on.
This step ensures all your extensions are saved to Google’s servers.
2. Export Your Extension List for Reference
While there’s no built-in way to “export” a list of your extensions, you can manually note them down—or better yet, install the Extensions Manager Chrome extension. This tool lists all your installed extensions and lets you save them as a file for easy reference later. Trust me, this step will save you a lot of headaches.
3. Log Into the New Account
Now, switch to the Google account where you want to import the extensions:
- Open Chrome and log out of the current account.
- Log in with your new Google account credentials.
Here’s where things get interesting: Chrome doesn’t automatically pull extensions from your old account. But don’t worry—we’re getting there.
4. Manually Reinstall the Extensions
Using the list you exported earlier, start reinstalling your extensions manually. Here’s how:
- Go to the Chrome Web Store.
- Search for each extension from your saved list.
- Click Add to Chrome for each one.
It’s a bit of a manual process, but having the list ensures you don’t forget anything important.
5. Bonus Hack: Use a Local Backup (Advanced Users Only)
Feeling adventurous? You can back up your extensions from the original account’s local files and install them on your new account. Here’s a quick overview:
- Navigate to Chrome’s extension directory on your computer. On Windows, it’s typically found at:
On macOS, it’s located at:
- Copy the folder containing your desired extensions.
- On the new account, go to chrome://extensions/, enable Developer Mode, and use the Load unpacked option to install the extensions from the folder.
Heads up: This method is more technical, and not all extensions will function correctly without proper authentication from the Chrome Web Store.
Are There Any Limitations?
Unfortunately, yes. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Settings Don’t Always Transfer: Some extensions store user-specific data (like saved passwords or preferences) in the cloud, tied to your original Google account. You may need to reconfigure these on the new account.
- Paid Extensions: If you’ve purchased extensions or premium features, they’re likely tied to the original account. You’ll need to repurchase or contact the developer for a potential transfer.
- Syncing Restrictions: If your new account is managed by an organization (e.g., a work email), certain extensions might be blocked.
A Better Way: Chrome Profiles
If you regularly switch between accounts, consider setting up Chrome profiles instead of importing extensions. Each profile is like its own mini-browser, complete with separate extensions, bookmarks, and settings. You can easily toggle between them without logging in and out. Here’s how:
- Click on your profile icon in the top-right corner.
- Select Add or Manage profiles.
- Set up a new profile and log into your secondary Google account.
Problem solved, no importing required.
Final Thoughts
So, can you import Chrome extensions from another Google account? Technically, yes—with a bit of patience and creativity. Whether you choose to sync, manually reinstall, or explore advanced backup methods, the goal is to make the transition as seamless as possible.
But here’s the thing: it’s not just about moving extensions; it’s about creating a setup that works for you. Take this opportunity to reassess which tools you actually use and ditch the ones that no longer serve you. After all, a streamlined browser is a happy browser.
Got any tips or tricks for managing Chrome extensions? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear how you handle it!
Read Next:
10 Best Personal Self Care Apps for Chromebook Users
