How To Fix Google Chrome Is Running Very Slow [2026 Guide]

I'm going to teach you how to fix Google Chrome if it's running very slow.

We all rely heavily on our web browsers, and Google Chrome is one of the most popular choices. However, it can become sluggish, which is frustrating if you're trying to work or browse efficiently.

Here are the steps you can take to speed things up and get Chrome back to running smoothly.

Why Chrome slows down - Fix Google Chrome Is Running Very Slow [2026 Guide]

A slow browser can be attributed to a variety of factors. It could be due to an overload of cache and cookies, too many background extensions running, or simply the need for an update.

Occasionally, the problem might not be with Chrome itself, but with your computer's performance. Restarting can give it a fresh start by terminating tasks that might be consuming unnecessary resources.

Clear cache and cookies - Fix Google Chrome Is Running Very Slow [2026 Guide]

Open Chrome and click the three vertical dots in the top right corner to open the menu.

Navigate to More tools and select Clear browsing data.

In the Time range dropdown, select All time for a thorough cleanup.

Ensure Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files are checked.

Click Clear data.

This helps free up memory and remove outdated data that might be causing delays.

Disable extensions - Fix Google Chrome Is Running Very Slow [2026 Guide]

Consider disabling unnecessary extensions. These can significantly slow down your browser's performance.

Click the three dots, go to More tools, then Extensions.

Review everything installed on the Extensions page.

Disable the ones you do not use frequently by toggling them off, or click Remove if you no longer need the extension.

After you've streamlined your extensions, check if performance improves.

If the Apps shortcut icon in Chrome is missing or not working, follow this Apps button fix.

Update Chrome - Fix Google Chrome Is Running Very Slow [2026 Guide]

An outdated version might be lacking necessary speed enhancements or security updates.

Click the three dots, go to Help, then select About Google Chrome.

Chrome will automatically check for updates and install them.

Relaunch the browser to apply these updates.

If pages fail to load with an IP address not found error, use these network fixes before blaming Chrome.

Restart your computer - Fix Google Chrome Is Running Very Slow [2026 Guide]

If the slowdown persists, restart your computer.

After restarting, open Chrome again to see if there's an improvement in speed.

If you run into freezing or lag specifically in fullscreen, see troubleshooting for Chrome in fullscreen.

Reset Chrome settings - Fix Google Chrome Is Running Very Slow [2026 Guide]

If all else fails, consider resetting Chrome settings to their original defaults. This is a more drastic measure, but it can be effective if previous steps have not worked.

Open the menu and click Settings.

Scroll down to Advanced.

At the bottom, click Reset and clean up.

Select Restore settings to their original defaults to begin the process.

Final thoughts - Fix Google Chrome Is Running Very Slow [2026 Guide]

Follow these steps, and your Chrome browser should be running much more efficiently. Repeat these maintenance steps periodically to keep it in top condition.