In many ways, proxies are the best tool to ensure your privacy and run various projects, such as web scraping or social media marketing. No doubt it is inconvenient to use them simply with your Chrome browser.
Switching between different IPs and managing a large pool of available proxies manually with Chrome can be an exhausting and time-consuming feat. There are many Chrome extensions that make your life easier but beware – they differ in quality.
We are going to go over five of the best picks and compare them based on different criteria. These are the main points we looked at when reviewing proxy extensions for Chrome.
Ease of use
The reason for choosing a Chrome extension in the first place is convenience. So, this is the most important criteria. Usually, it comes together with popularity as easier-to-use extensions attract more downloads. But don’t get scared if it is unpopular, it might only be an undiscovered gem and we are here to show you some of our finds.
Updates
Security patches have to be issued as often as possible. Otherwise, the extension can be abused by those with bad intentions. Risks of exposing your data or allowing malicious software into your system can arise. Version number might give us some indication, but it is not enough on its own. For this reason, we will look into when the extension was first released.
Proxy support
The last criteria to look into is proxy integration. Some of the extensions can only be used with proxies from one provider, while others will let you add multiple different ones. For specific projects, it is better to use an extension with a built-in proxy service but then make sure to assess the proxy itself also.
Metrow Proxy Manager
Last updated: October 21, 2021
Version: 0.0.2
User count: Low
Even though the user count is small, Metrow Chrome proxy extension is a lucky find for those who seek to manage multiple social media accounts. The interface is as simple as it gets, and no prior knowledge while setting up and using this extension is needed.
Metrow Proxy Manager comes with a free trial of a large pool of dedicated residential social media proxies. It will allow you to switch between profiles quickly and with ease. Pick a duration of up to 30 minutes, choose your desired location, and you are good to go.
A useful added feature is an automatic solving of CAPTCHAs, meaning you won’t need to look for any additional tool. Combined with best in the game proxies, Metrow achieves a near-perfect and earns a well-deserved place among best proxy extensions for Chrome.
Oxylabs Proxy Manager
Last updated: October 8, 2021
Version: 0.2.0
User count: Average
Oxylabs Proxy Manager has all the features you need to switch and manage proxies like a pro. The interface is smooth, and the extension overall feels very high-end. They allow you to add an unlimited number of proxies from any proxy provider. Even though Oxylabs’ own proxies are definitely a steal.
Oxylabs extension is well supported, and this makes using it very simple. Installing and setting up proxies takes only a few clicks. Updates are comparatively frequent, and additional help is available. Finally, many supporting articles and a well-developed blog is there to help you.
The features do not disappoint as well. You can change proxies without editing your username and switch between any proxy type or HTTP(S) and SOCKS protocols.
Proxy SwitchyOmega
Last updated: March 13, 2020
Version: 1.10.7
User count: High
Proxy SwitchyOmega is a popular open-source project with a community actively giving feedback and looking for improvements. Thus, you can be sure that it receives security patches and works as intended.
This extension is made to help those who want to avoid the know-how of switching proxies on Chrome. Installation is a breeze, and you do not even need to set up proxy settings yourself. Extension fills in settings for all proxies automatically at the same time. But if you wish to get your hands dirty, feel free to play with settings.
Additional auto Switch functionality works great and with no disturbances. It allows users to access websites of their choice with wanted IP addresses.
Proxy Switcher and Manager
Last updated: February 11, 2021
Version:0.5.1
User count: Average
Proxy Switcher and Manager is a compact open-source tool that allows having all proxy-related settings in one panel. Originally, it was made to use with Firefox but works excellently with Chrome as well.
All essential features are included and work as expected. You can add multiple proxy profiles and switch between them while using auto-detection or manual modes. The toolbar indicator will inform you about your current proxy type. Finally, you can even add different colors to your profiles too!
An exceptional feature of this extension lets you import and export proxy profiles between different browsers. There is no fear of changing browsers with this extension.
Proxy Switcher
Last updated: August 24, 2021
Version: 0.1.5
User count: Average
Proxy Switcher delivers what it promises. It’s simple, easy to use and changes proxies within your Chrome browser. Toolbar popup is designed to provide all the required features without complicating anything on the way.
Just add a proxy, choose one of the five available settings groups and surf the web anonymously. The badge icon colour will always inform you about the category you have selected.
Additionally, this extension distinguishes itself from the rest with an easy way to whitelist any website. Just add it to a bypass list which is always a click away in the same toolbar.
Conclusion
All the extensions listed above are worth a try. They all have a high value in convenience, frequent updates, and additional features. Just make sure to avoid free proxies with them as only trusted providers will deliver the safety and quality.
Which one of them will stick is dependent on your needs. But we are sure you are on the right track now.
