Comparison

Chrome Default New Tab vs PureTab

Chrome's default new tab is a simple search and shortcut surface. PureTab is a Chrome new tab extension for people who want a customizable productivity dashboard with widgets, layouts, wallpapers, and presets.

Chrome Default New Tab vs PureTab in PureTab
Search
Chrome default and PureTab both support quick search
Widgets
PureTab adds todos, notes, bookmarks, countdowns, focus, and more
Presets
PureTab supports saved and shareable dashboard layouts
Privacy positioning
PureTab is local-first, no ad tracking, optional sign-in

Default Chrome new tab

The default Chrome page is fast and simple, but it is intentionally limited.

  • Search-first layout.
  • Basic shortcut surface.
  • Limited dashboard customization.

PureTab

PureTab adds a widget-based dashboard for users who want their new tab to carry useful work context.

  • Todos, notes, bookmarks, search, clock, countdowns, and focus tools.
  • Wallpapers and movable layouts.
  • Saved and shareable presets.

Which one to choose

Use the default Chrome new tab if you only need quick search. Use PureTab if you want a repeatable productivity surface every time you open a tab.

  • Choose Chrome default for minimal built-in behavior.
  • Choose PureTab for widgets and presets.
  • Use optional sign-in only for account-linked PureTab features.

Widgets and surfaces

  • Clock and date
  • Todos and notes
  • Bookmarks and quick links
  • Search
  • Wallpapers
  • Countdowns and focus tools
  • YouTube embeds
  • Draggable and resizable widgets
  • Shareable presets

FAQ

  • How is PureTab different from the default Chrome new tab?

    Chrome's default new tab is mostly a search and shortcut surface. PureTab adds draggable productivity widgets, reusable layouts, focus tools, and presets.

  • What widgets does PureTab include?

    PureTab includes widgets for todos, notes, bookmarks, search, clock and date, countdowns, focus tools, wallpapers, YouTube embeds, and shareable presets.

  • Can I use PureTab without an account?

    Yes. Core new tab customization works without an account. Optional sign-in is used for saved presets, publishing, syncing, billing, and support.

  • How do I remove PureTab?

    You can remove or disable PureTab from Chrome's Extensions page. After removal, Chrome returns to its default new tab behavior.

Chrome Default New Tab vs PureTab