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“Search Google or type a URL” is Chrome’s reminder that its address bar—the omnibox—can either search for words or open a website. Type a question or topic and press Enter to search with the default search engine configured for that Chrome profile; enter a website address, such as example.com, and press Enter to go there. The word “Google” in the hint does not guarantee Google is the search provider for every user.
What the message means
Chrome combines web search and website navigation in one field called the omnibox. Chromium describes its purpose as merging the location and search fields while offering relevant suggestions or early results. The hint is interface guidance, not an error message.
Should you search or type a URL?
| Your goal | What to enter | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| You know the website you want | The site’s address, such as example.com |
Chrome treats URL-like input as a destination and navigates to it. |
| You want to find information or are unsure which site has it | A few descriptive words or a question | Chrome sends the input to the default search engine configured for that profile. |
| You have only a single word | A word that could be a search query or a local hostname | In Chromium’s documented behavior, a single word generally brings up web search results while the browser checks for a local host in the background. This is not a guarantee for every browser or version. |
If direct navigation matters, enter the complete website address rather than relying on a lone word to be interpreted as a destination. Chromium notes that URL-like syntax, such as adding a slash, can signal navigation, but a full address is clearer.
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Search for something
- Click the address bar, or press
Ctrl+Lon Windows or Linux or⌘+Lon Mac. - Enter a topic, a few keywords, or a question.
- Press Enter to search with the default engine for that Chrome profile.
Open a website directly
- Click the address bar or use the keyboard shortcut for your device.
- Enter the website address, for example
example.com. - Press Enter to navigate to the site.
Why the search provider may not be Google
Chrome’s hint uses the word “Google,” but the search engine actually used depends on the default configured in the profile. Google says Chrome uses Google Search by default in some countries; users in others may be asked to choose a default. A work or school administrator may also manage the setting.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
Change the default in Chrome desktop
- Open Chrome’s menu and select Settings.
- Select Search engine.
- Next to the current search engine, select Change, then choose an available option.
If the setting is controlled by an organization, you may not be able to change it yourself. Google’s help also notes that an unexpected search-engine change can indicate malware, but the “Search Google or type a URL” hint alone is not evidence of a problem.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
Rank #4
- 【Dreamy Rainbow Gaming Keyboard】K521 Gaming Keyboard Adopts a Different LED Backlight Design, Upgraded on the Traditional LED Backlight Effect, Making the Light More Penetrating, Giving You a More Dazzling Visual Effect, Making Your Gaming Process More Enjoyable
- 【One Touch Opens & Visual Feast】The K521 Red Dragon Keyboard has a One-Touch on/off Lighting Button for Added Convenience. It also has a Three-Position Adjustable Breathing Mode and a Four-Position Adjustable Brightness Lighting Mode
- 【Mechanical Feeling & Fast Tapping】The PC Keyboard Keys are Designed for Mechanical Feeling, Giving You a Better Feel During Use and the Ability to Trigger Keys Quickly, Allowing You to Win All Your Games
- 【19 Keys Anti-Ghosting Keyboard】Anti-Ghosting Ensures Every Button Can Be Triggered. This Allows You to Trigger Key Combinations In The Game Accurately, And Each Skill Can Be Accurately Released to Increase Your Winning Rate. Redragon K521 Will Be Your Perfect Partner
- 【12 Multimedia Combination Keys】The K521 Wired Gaming Keyboard is Equipped with 12 Multimedia Keys That Can Greatly Enhance Your Gaming/Office Efficiency and Make It More Convenient to Use
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
Rank #2
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
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