How to Change the Default Browser on a Mac

For many Mac users, Apple’s built-in Safari browser is fast, efficient, and beautifully integrated into the Apple ecosystem. However, if you rely heavily on Google services, require specific extensions, or are a web developer, you might prefer using Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge.

When you install a new browser on macOS, it often prompts you to make it the default. But if you clicked “No” or “Later” and now want to make the switch permanently, finding the correct setting can be surprisingly unintuitive in newer versions of macOS.

In this guide, we will show you exactly how to change your default web browser on a Mac, ensuring that every web link you click in an email or document opens in your preferred application.

How to Change the Default Browser in macOS System Settings

Apple recently redesigned the System Preferences app (now called System Settings), making it resemble the iOS settings menu. Depending on whether you are running a newer version of macOS (like Ventura or Sonoma) or an older version (like Monterey), the steps are slightly different.

For macOS Ventura, Sonoma, and Later:

1. Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen.
2. Select System Settings from the dropdown menu.
3. In the left-hand sidebar, scroll down and click on Desktop & Dock.
4. Scroll down the right-hand panel until you find the section labelled Default web browser.
5. Click the dropdown menu next to it and select your preferred browser (e.g., Google Chrome or Firefox).

For macOS Monterey and Earlier:

1. Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner.
2. Select System Preferences.
3. Click on the General icon (it looks like a small gear).
4. Look for the Default web browser dropdown menu roughly halfway down the window.
5. Click the dropdown and select your new browser.

How to Change the Default Browser from Within the App

If you prefer not to dig through Apple’s System Settings, most modern web browsers allow you to claim default status directly from their own preference menus.

Using Google Chrome:

1. Open Google Chrome.
2. Click the three vertical dots in the top-right corner and select Settings.
3. In the left-hand menu, click on Default browser.
4. Click the Make default button. macOS will prompt you to confirm the change.

Using Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Mozilla Firefox.
2. Click the three horizontal lines (hamburger menu) in the top-right corner and select Settings.
3. Under the “General” tab, look for the “Startup” section.
4. Click Make Default and follow the macOS prompt.

Why Do Links Still Open in Safari?

If you have followed the steps above but certain links are still opening in Safari, there are two common culprits.

First, some Apple applications (like the Apple News app or certain system help menus) are hard-coded by Apple to open links internally using Safari’s web rendering engine. You cannot override this behaviour.

Second, you may need to restart your Mac. Occasionally, macOS caches the default application settings. A quick system restart will force the operating system to recognise your new default browser across all applications.

By taking two minutes to configure this setting, you can ensure a much smoother, uninterrupted workflow that fits your personal web browsing preferences.