Choose how you want to change Chrome
On desktop Google Chrome, you can install a theme from the Chrome Web Store, change available colors with Chrome’s built-in customization controls, or create a personalized theme from your own photo. Each option changes the browser in a different way.
Want a theme nobody else has? Our free builder turns your image into a Chrome theme with matching colors and a live preview.
Try the Chrome Theme Builder →Method 1: Install a theme from the Chrome Web Store
- Open Google Chrome on your computer.
- Open Settings, then select Appearance.
- Use the theme option to visit the Chrome Web Store themes collection. If your Chrome version shows a different menu, you can open the collection directly.
- Browse the available designs and open one you like.
- Select Add to Chrome to apply the theme.
Chrome applies the selected theme to your browser profile. Some visual details may differ by operating system, Chrome version, and browser settings.
Method 2: Change colors with Customize Chrome
- Open a new tab in desktop Chrome.
- Open Customize Chrome, typically available near the bottom-right of the New Tab page.
- Choose a color or appearance option if your version offers one.
- Try another color until you find a look you like.
This is useful for a quick change without downloading theme files. For more color advice, see our guide to changing Chrome theme colors.
Method 3: Make a custom Chrome theme
If you'd rather use your own photo, artwork, or wallpaper, open the ChromeThemer Theme Builder. The tool lets you upload an image, automatically match colors, adjust them manually, and preview the result.
- Choose an image in JPG, PNG, or WebP format.
- Let the Auto wizard suggest complementary colors.
- Optionally switch to Manual mode and adjust the browser colors.
- Check the illustrative live preview.
- Download your custom theme ZIP.
Unlike a Web Store theme, a ZIP exported by our builder requires a few installation steps. Extract the ZIP, open chrome://extensions, enable Developer mode, and use Load unpacked to select the extracted theme folder. Only load files you trust. Follow our custom theme installation tutorial for full details.
How to switch to another Chrome theme
To replace an existing theme, choose a different theme in the Chrome Web Store and select Add to Chrome. Chrome generally replaces the active theme with the newly selected one. If you're using a locally loaded custom theme, follow the appropriate installation process for your new theme.
How to restore Chrome's default theme
- Open Chrome on your computer.
- Open Settings → Appearance.
- Find the theme setting and select Reset to default, if shown.
Labels and locations can change between versions. If your browser is managed by a school or organization, some appearance settings may be restricted.
Chrome theme vs. New Tab background
A Chrome theme can affect browser interface colors and the New Tab background. A New Tab background changes the image on that page without necessarily changing the browser's tabs, frame, or toolbar. Choose the option that matches the part of Chrome you want to personalize.
What if the new theme doesn't appear?
- Make sure you're changing the correct Chrome profile.
- Check whether the theme was actually applied or installed.
- Open a new tab to inspect the background and the browser's upper interface.
- Check whether a managed-browser policy limits appearance changes.
- For an unpacked custom theme, ensure you selected the folder containing
manifest.json.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change my Chrome theme for free?
Yes. Chrome offers built-in appearance choices and many free themes. ChromeThemer's online theme builder is also free to use.
Can I use my own photo as a Chrome theme?
Yes. Our builder lets you use a photo as the New Tab background and select matching interface colors. Read our photo-to-theme guide for practical tips.
Will changing my Chrome theme affect my bookmarks?
Changing a theme changes appearance, not your saved bookmarks or browsing history.
Does this work on Chrome for phones?
These theme installation instructions are for desktop Chrome. Chrome on mobile does not support desktop themes in the same way.
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