Quick answer
The 7 worth installing in 2026: ChatGPT for Google, Grammarly, Wordtune, Merlin AI, Glasp, GPT-Search, and Bardeen. All free or freemium. Most have lifetime free tiers.
Chrome extension stores have thousands of "AI" extensions, most garbage. We tested 50+ and kept these seven on our browser. Each saves at least 30 minutes per week.
The 7 keepers
- ChatGPT for Google — shows AI answer alongside Google results
- Grammarly — fixes grammar in every text field
- Wordtune — rewrite sentences in different tones
- Merlin AI — Cmd+M opens AI chat on any page
- Glasp — highlight web pages, AI summarises into notes
- GPT-Search — chat with any LLM from address bar
- Bardeen — automate repetitive browser tasks with AI
Privacy warning: AI Chrome extensions often see everything you type. Read permissions carefully. Many random "AI assistant" extensions are spyware.
Related reading
Bottom line
Most AI Chrome extensions are noise. These seven earn their place. Install one, master it, then add the next.
