Google Chrome continues to dazzle us at PCMag and that goes for the rest of the Web browsing world as well. Now up to version 17, Chrome remains our Editors' Choice for browsers because it's super-fast and has excellent security, bookmark and preference syncing, and strong support for HTML5. The browser tipped into greatness in late 2009 when it started to support extensions to give it almost unlimited customization.
The Chrome Extensions category of the Google Chrome Web Store has exploded since then, going from 300 to 11,500 in just the first 14 months. Two months ago, the extension gallery got a major facelift. Now, it's even easier to find the best items to install for extra features while surfing (albeit on a never-ending scrolling page full of icons).
We figured, why make you search and search when we can simply tell you what the best are up front? Here's our list of 22 fantastic extensions that all Google Chrome users should know. They'll increase productivity, security, and make the overall experience of using this already-great browser even better. Try them all and if you don't like them, typechrome://extensions into the browser's address bar, which lets you disable or remove all of them. You can also right click an extension's icon to ditch it. Disagree with our list? Have something to add? Tell us about your favorite extensions in the Comments area.
1. Xmarks Bookmark Sync
If there's an extension that's necessary for users of multiple computers—and even multiple browsers on the same or multiple computers—it's Xmarks. It ensures that your bookmarks, tabs, and even passwords are synchronized no matter what browser you use, be it Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or IE.
2. LastPass
The PCMag choice for encrypted password storage and filling out forms is available across platforms and browsers. Naturally, you'll want it on Chrome. Use it and the full installer to import all passwords stored with other tools like KeePass, 1Password or Roboform, as well.
3. Evernote Web Clipper
If you haven't set up an Evernote account, then you're probably not storing much data from the Web. It's practically the gold standard for quickly clipping info, even entire pages, for future reference. The clipper extension is a must-have for making quick storage to Evernote a breeze. You can then search through the data at a later date.
4. Offline Google Mail
This extension lets you access your Gmail account even when there's no Internet available (such as on your commute). You can read whatever was downloaded before and write new messages in the browser interface. Next time you go online, it synchronizes everything so messages send and new ones are received.
5. exfm music
If you love music and visit a lot of music sites, exfm music is an extension you need to know. When you hit a page with MP3s on it, an exfm player pops up to stream the music, which continues even after you leave the site. If you want to share what you find, or find out what your friends are listening to, social networking links are standing by to assist you.
6. IE Tab
In the days when Internet Explorer dominated, the browser forced a lot of developers to create websites that supported it directly. Some continue to haunt us. If you must visit such dark recesses of the Web, you can use Chrome. Just install IE Tab, so the IE rendering engine can be utilized to display the pages in question.
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