If you're tired of traditional search engines that return endless blue links, it's time to upgrade your browser setup. In this guide, you'll learn exactly how to set Perplexity as search engine on Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and other browsers. By the end, you'll enjoy instant, AI-powered answers without needing to open a separate tab or app. Let's dive in.
Why Set Perplexity AI as Your Default Search Engine?
Perplexity AI is an AI-powered search assistant that delivers direct, conversational answers instead of overwhelming link lists. With built-in access to real-time web sources, it’s become a favorite alternative to Google for research, productivity, and fast factual retrieval. When you set Perplexity as search engine, you can access this power from your address bar or search box instantly.
Benefits of using Perplexity AI as your search engine:
?? Fast, AI-powered answers with citations
?? Fewer ads and cleaner interface than Google or Bing
?? Built-in web browsing for up-to-date results
?? Support for natural language questions
How to Set Perplexity as Search Engine in Chrome
Chrome doesn’t list Perplexity AI as a default provider, but it’s easy to add it manually. Here’s how:
Open Chrome and go to Settings > Search engine > Manage search engines.
Click “Add” next to Site Search.
Fill in:
Name: Perplexity
Keyword: perplexity
URL:
https://www.perplexity.ai/search?q=%sClick “Add”.
Then click the three dots next to Perplexity and select “Make default”.
Setting Perplexity AI as Search Engine in Firefox
Firefox also lets you create custom search engines easily. Follow these steps to set Perplexity as search engine:
Visit https://www.perplexity.ai.
Right-click the search box and choose “Add a Keyword for this Search…”.
In the pop-up, set a name like “Perplexity” and a keyword like “px”.
Click Add. You can now search using “px + your query” in the address bar.
How to Use Perplexity AI as Default Search in Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge runs on Chromium, so the process is nearly identical to Chrome. You can set Perplexity as search engine using these steps:
Go to Edge Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Address bar and search.
Click “Manage search engines”.
Add a new search engine with:
Name: Perplexity
Keyword: perplexity
URL:
https://www.perplexity.ai/search?q=%sClick the three dots and choose “Set as default”.
Use Perplexity AI with Brave and Vivaldi Browsers
Brave and Vivaldi are also based on Chromium, so the Chrome method applies. Once you set Perplexity as your search engine, you can use AI-enhanced answers across these privacy-friendly browsers.
Mobile Browsers: Can You Use Perplexity AI on Phones?
While mobile versions of Chrome or Safari don’t support adding custom search engines directly, you can bookmark Perplexity.ai or save it to your home screen for easy access. Alternatively, use third-party browsers like Kiwi Browser (Android) or Firefox Focus to access full settings.
What Makes Perplexity AI Better Than Google or Bing?
The main advantage of Perplexity lies in its conversational search format. Rather than scanning through 10+ links, it gives you a concise, referenced summary using its AI engine. When you set Perplexity as search engine, you’re not just replacing Google—you’re enhancing your daily productivity with AI tools built-in.
?? Ideal For Researchers
Pulls in credible sources from academic databases and the web with citations automatically.
?? Built for Curiosity
Great for asking complex questions or exploring niche topics with clarity and accuracy.
Other Tools That Work Well with Perplexity AI
Once you set Perplexity as search engine, try pairing it with tools like:
Notion AI – Turn search results into structured notes automatically.
Grammarly – Improve clarity and style of research content generated by Perplexity.
Zapier – Automate workflows by connecting Perplexity outputs to task apps like Trello or Slack.
How Often Should You Update Your Default Search Engine?
You should review your browser's default settings every few months, especially if you explore new AI chat or search platforms. Many users switch between ChatGPT, Perplexity AI, and Google based on task needs—research, coding, or shopping.
Final Thoughts: Is Perplexity the Right Search Engine for You?
If you value speed, precision, and minimal distractions, then yes—setting Perplexity as your search engine can dramatically improve your online workflow. Its AI capabilities aren’t just trendy—they’re useful for real-time, high-quality search outcomes. Give it a try, and you might not look back at traditional search again.
Key Takeaways
? Learn how to set Perplexity as the search engine in Chrome, Firefox, and Edge
? Enjoy AI-powered answers with real-time sources
? Works well with productivity tools like Notion and Zapier
? Recommended for researchers, writers, and knowledge workers
Learn more about Perplexity AI