How to change the default browser on a Mac

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

Open System Settings, click Desktop & Dock, scroll down to Default web browser and choose Chrome, Firefox or another installed browser from the menu.

A Mac opens links in Safari until you choose another browser. The setting is in a place few people expect, under Desktop & Dock.

These steps are for recent versions of macOS, where the settings app is called System Settings. The pictures are simplified diagrams, not screenshots.

Step by step

  1. Install the browser first

    Download it from the official website, open the downloaded file and drag the browser into the Applications folder. Open it once.

  2. Open System Settings

    Click the Apple menu in the top left corner and choose System Settings.

  3. GeneralAccessibilityAppearanceMenu BarDesktop & DockDisplaysWallpaperBluetoothDesktop & DockDock sizeMinimise windows usingDefault web browserStage Manager

    Click Desktop & Dock

    It is in the list on the left.

  4. GeneralAccessibilityAppearanceMenu BarDesktop & DockDisplaysWallpaperBluetoothDesktop & DockDock sizeMinimise windows usingDefault web browserStage Manager

    Scroll to Default web browser

    Scroll down the page. It sits just above the Windows section.

  5. Choose the browser from the menu

    The change applies immediately. Links in Mail, Messages and other apps now open there.

Good to know

Most browsers also ask "Make default?" when you first open them. Clicking yes does the same thing.

To change the default email app, open Mail, choose Mail, Settings, General, and pick another app under Default email reader.

In short: System Settings, Desktop & Dock, Default web browser.

Sources
  • Apple Support: Change the default web browser or email app on Mac

Rules and prices change. Check the official source before you act.