While Chrome extensions offer a range of functionalities to enhance the browsing experience, certain additions can negatively impact browser performance.
A recent study by DebugBear analyzed over 5,000 extensions to determine their effect on Google Chrome. Their findings indicate that some extensions, particularly Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), can contribute to slower page loading times due to the additional processing required for rerouting traffic through intermediary servers.
The study further identifies extensions like Trancy AI Subtitles and Klarna Pay Later as potential contributors to sluggish browsing. It’s important to note that even extensions that don’t directly affect initial page load times can introduce delays in user interactions. This can manifest as a perceived slowdown when clicking on website elements, as observed with Avira Password Manager, which reportedly adds a slight delay when clicking on content.
Conversely, ad-blocking extensions can demonstrably improve browsing performance by reducing the amount of data downloaded and processed during page loading. DebugBear’s research suggests that ad blockers can significantly reduce power consumption on user devices by minimizing resource demands associated with displaying advertisements.
This revised version uses more formal language and avoids informal phrases like “tonnes of ads” and “feeling sluggish.” It also clarifies technical terms like “VPNs” and explains the concept of intermediary servers.