Search Google or Type a URL: Which Is Better?

“Search Google or type a URL” means using the browser’s address bar to either search the web with keywords or directly visit a website by entering its web address.

When you open a new tab in your browser, you’ll often see the message “Search Google or type a URL.” While both options appear similar, they serve different purposes and are designed for different browsing needs.

Understanding when to search Google and when to type a URL can save time, improve accuracy, and help you browse the internet more efficiently. In this guide, we’ll explain what “search Google or type a URL” means, how it works, the differences between both options, and which one is better for different situations.

What Does “Search Google or Type a URL” Mean?

“Search Google or type a URL” is a prompt shown in the browser’s address bar that tells users they can use the same field to either:

• Search the web using Google by entering keywords or questions
• Visit a specific website by typing its web address (URL)

Modern browsers combine searching and navigation into one bar to make browsing faster and more convenient.

Why Does Chrome Show “Search Google or Type a URL”?

Google Chrome displays this message because it uses a unified search and address bar called the Omnibox. The prompt helps users understand that the same bar can handle both searching and direct website access.

This design removes the need for separate search and address bars, reduces confusion, and improves browsing speed. The wording appears because Google is set as Chrome’s default search engine.

Is “Search Google or Type a URL” Only Available in Google Chrome?

No. While Chrome popularized this feature, other browsers offer the same functionality with slightly different wording:

• Google Chrome: Search Google or type a URL
• Microsoft Edge: Search or enter web address
• Mozilla Firefox: Search with Google or enter address
• Safari: Smart Search Field

Despite the different labels, the function remains the same across browsers.

What Is an Omnibox?

The Omnibox is the combined address bar and search bar used in modern browsers. It allows users to perform multiple tasks from one place, including:

• Searching Google
• Entering website URLs
• Performing math calculations
• Converting units and currencies
• Checking weather updates
• Finding definitions

For example:

• Typing 20+30 shows the answer instantly
• Typing USD to INR converts currency
• Typing weather today displays weather information

The Omnibox makes browsing faster, simpler, and more efficient.

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How “Search Google or Type a URL” Works (Step-by-Step)

Here’s how the browser decides what to do with your input:

1. Open a new tab and click the address bar.
2. Type keywords → Google shows search results.
3. Type a valid URL → The browser opens the website directly.
4. Press Enter to complete the action.

The browser automatically recognizes whether your input is a search query or a web address.

What Is Search Google? 

“Search Google” means typing keywords, phrases, or questions to find information across the internet. Google then displays results based on relevance, quality, and user intent.

This option is ideal for:

• Research and learning
• Product or service comparisons
• Discovering new websites
• Reading news and updates

Search results can include articles, videos, images, shopping results, and featured snippets.

What is Type URL? 

Typing a URL means entering a website’s address directly into the Omnibox to access it instantly.

This option works best when:

• You know the exact website you want to visit
• You frequently visit the same sites
• You want faster, direct access

For example, typing example.com takes you straight to the website without showing search results.

How to Use Search Google Tool Effectively? 

If you want your search query to display results as per your expectations, here are some tips you can follow. 

Keep Queries Simple 

The simpler the query, the better it is for Google to understand. Thus, instead of complicating the question, keep it straightforward. Understand how you can simplify the way you say. The search engine does not want a polished version of your query; instead, it should be in layperson’s language. 

Use Precise Language 

Focusing on making the query simple, but do not forget to use precise language. For example, instead of searching “Which are the best restaurants near me for Indian food”, use “best Indian restaurants near me.”

Use Special Characters 

To refine your search, use special characters and commands. For example, use quotation marks to get results containing the exact phrase. Use two periods to search within the numbers. For example, the best cameras Rs 1500 .. Rs 2000. This command ensures that results are displayed only within this range. 

How to Use the Type URL Tool Effectively? 

To refine your search results using the URL, you can use the operators shown below. 

Use ‘site:’ operator 

If you want to land on a particular page on a website, using the’ site:’ operator is beneficial. If you know the website but want to end up on a specific page, for example, www.affrisemedia.com, this is the website, and you want to land on a page of SEO services. Typing ‘site:www.affrisemedia.com Search Engine Optimization’ will open that page. 

Use the ‘related:’ operator 

Using a related operator helps you find similar websites based on the URL you enter. It is a creative method for identifying similar domains. It is helpful to discover competitors, analyse content gaps, and find similar domains for backlink opportunities. 

Use ‘cache:’ operator 

If you want to see the cached version of a website, using the cached operator can help load the webpage faster. For example, type “cache:https://www.affrisemedia.com in the search bar and you will see the cached pages of a website. 

Search Google or Type a URL: Differences Between Both 

Understand the search or type URL differences with the table listed below. 

Point of Differentiation	Search Google	Type Web Address
Speed	Search Google can take time as one has to go through the various search engine results in order to get their desired results.	Typing a URL does not take time or display results in seconds. Thus, for a faster search result, typing a web address would definitely be a better choice.
Input Type	For “Search Google,” the input type can be a word, phrase, or query, and it can be slightly imperfect.	For “Type URL,” the input must be exact and complete, with no scope for even a minor error, as it can lead to opening a different website.
Use	The “Search Google” is for exploration, research, product comparison, learning, or news checking.	The “Type Web Address” option is used when you want to access a frequently visited or trustworthy website directly.
Search Engine Algorithm	For “Search Google,” results vary or are influenced by the search engine’s algorithm.	For “Type URL,” results do not get affected by the search engine algorithm.
Result Type	For “Search Google,” results are in different formats, such as articles, blogs, webpages, news, product pages, or videos.	For “Type URL”, results are not in a different format. When you enter the link, you will simply be directed to that website.
Security	When you search on Google, there is an added layer of security as Google filters out the malicious or suspicious websites.	When you type a web address directly into the search bar, there is no chance of getting saved from fraudulent websites.
Rate of Error	There are more chances of getting irrelevant results with “Search Google.”	There is no chance of making mistakes, as typing a URL will direct you to the website or page you want to access.
User Experience	The user experience with “Search Google” will be more explorative.	The user experience here will be quick and purposeful, rather than in a discovery stage.
Example	For a “Search Google” example, include “best SEO agency in Gurugram,” “360-degree marketing agency in Gurugram,” and “affordable marketing agency in Gurugram.”	For a “Type URL,” all you have to do is enter the website that you want access to, for example: “affrisemedia.com.”

Now that you know the difference between “search Google or type URL,” it is time to decide which is better. 

Which Is a Better Choice Between Search Google and Type URL? 

The choice between “search Google or type a URL” entirely depends on your purpose. For example, if you are searching for “best SEO agency in Gurugram,” you may see multiple options on the search results page and even in “people also search for” and then choose the one that best matches your intent or goal. On the other hand, when you are sure of seeking services from any agency, say for example Affirse Media, in such a case, directly typing a URL “affrisemedia.com” would provide fast and quick results you have been looking for. Ultimately, understand your intent, then choose between the two. However, do you know that beyond “search or type web address,” there are also different types of searches you, as a user, can make? Hop on to the next section to discover about them. 

Which Is Safer: Searching Google or Typing a URL?

Both methods are safe when used correctly, but each has risks:

• Google Search filters phishing and malicious sites
• Typing a URL is safe for trusted sites but risky if misspelled

If you’re unsure about a website, searching Google is usually safer.

How Google Autocomplete Works in the Omnibox

Google Autocomplete predicts queries as you type based on:

• Popular searches
• Your location
• Browsing history (if enabled)
• Trending topics

Autocomplete helps save time but may not appear for new or restricted searches.

What Are the Different Types of Searches a User Can Make on Omnibox? 

Other than the “Search Google” and typing a URL, there are also other searches a user can make. Explore and experiment with them as well. 

Voice Searches 

Voice searches are another type of search you can make on Omnibox, other than “search Google or type a URL.” It is helpful when a user wants to browse hands-free. For example, if you are driving and want to search for “nearby salons or restaurants,” simply using the voice search feature will let you find nearby spots, making your work easier and faster than ever before. 

Check: difference between internal and external link

Math Calculations 

Can an omnibox solve math problems? If so, the answer is yes. For example, if you want to perform a calculation such as “50+30” without a calculator, simply typing the query in the omnibox will display the result without pressing the “enter” key. Thus, Google has also become a space from basic to bright maths expressions. 

Unit Conversions 

Chrome unit conversions is also one of the omnibox features, along with “search Google or type URL.” All you have to do is type the query you are facing an issue with, and you will get instant results, making the process seamless, fast, and efficient. It is beneficial for students, professionals, or anyone seeking guidance on different unit measurements. 

AutoComplete Predictions 

Autocomplete predictions are the suggestions that Chrome gives based on your browsing history, Google’s popular searches, and frequently visited websites. Such predictions save time and show relevant keywords that you might have forgotten. Furthermore, these searches become more personalised and accurate based on your habits. 

Check the Blog: What are LSI keywords

Wrapping Up 

The blog explains “search Google or type a URL” in detail, including the differences between the two, and further discusses other types of searches you can make in the omnibox. Thus, understanding your intent and purpose, and the strengths of both the methods, is essential if you want to create the best experience. If you want quick results, typing a URL is the best choice. On the other hand, if you want to make a detailed search that includes product comparisons, discovering new information, or checking news updates, Google would be a better choice. Ultimately, the choice is yours. Nevertheless, if you face any confusion between both or any domain of digital marketing, such as what is on-page seo, wait no more, connect with Affrise Media. We are a 360-degree marketing agency that helps you across every domain, from SEO to performance marketing. 

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