When you start a new tab in a browser, are you looking to go somewhere or are you looking for information to come to you?

By default, a new tab page in Chrome features the Google search bar and shortcuts to the websites you visit the most often. There is also a shortcut to Gmail and other Google services at the top right corner of the page.

However, if you want to be even more productive, you can replace this page with a new tab to-do list or other helpful tools. Let's take a look at the most productive new tab extensions for Google Chrome!

1. Prioritab

Prioritytab-new-tab-extension

Prioritab's purpose is simple: to tell you what you have to do and give you an idea of the amount of time left to do it.

There are three simple to-do lists to fill: today, this week, and this month. The simplicity is reminiscent of productivity apps like TeuxDeux, which tell you to stop organizing and start working.

Above the three lists (which you can rearrange as you see fit), you'll see a counter to show you the percentage of the day, the month, and the year that has already elapsed. It's a grim reminder of how time flies, and it can motivate you to get things done.

2. Momentum

Momentum-new-tab-to-do-list

Momentum is one of our favorite new tab pages. Apart from an inspirational background, a to-do list, and a single focus item of the day, Momentum also has link widgets. These links help you quickly navigate the pages of your choice.

Additionally, you can show or hide widgets to customize the new tab's look. And finally, you can search from within the app, too.

Related: Elegant To-Do List Apps for the Productive Minimalist

3. Toby for Chrome

Toby-for-Chrome-extension

Many professionals have dozens of tabs open in their browsers when working on a project. If, say, you're writing a report, you may need to pull data from several different sources. The more tabs you open, the harder it gets to find what you need.

With Toby for Chrome, it's easy to manage your tabs. Simply drag and drop each tab into the app and then organize everything by categories, such as Homework, Research, or Public Data.

Users can also create tab collections, add tags, and sort tabs by name, date, or other criteria. For example, if you create a tab collection, you can easily access the tabs at a later date without having to do the research all over again.

The search feature is also a lifesaver. Use it whenever you need to find a specific website, publication, or article within your tabs.

4. Taskade

Taskade-Chrome-extension

Taskade isn't just another new tab to-do-list app. With this handy tool, users can take notes, video chat, create virtual workspaces, and more.

With over 70,000 users, Taskade makes it easy to track and manage your projects. It features Trello-like layouts, ready-made templates, keyboard shortcuts, and collaboration tools. It's a must-have for virtual teams and small businesses.

Think of it as a free alternative to Slack, Asana, and other task management apps. While it's not as advanced as these premium tools, it's convenient and easy to use. Plus, you can customize just about any feature that comes with it.

Related: Uncomplicated To-Do Apps to Focus on Tasks and Get Things Done

5. Infinity New Tab

Infinity-New-Tab-Extension

Infinity New Tab brings your to-do lists, bookmarks, and favorite websites in one place. Its interface is similar to Chrome's default new tab page but has several distinct features:

  • Create to-do lists
  • Choose from over 365 wallpapers and 200 icons
  • Back up and sync your data to the cloud in real-time
  • Set email notifications
  • Browse your search history
  • Take notes

What we love most about Infinity New Tab is its clean, easy-to-navigate interface and minimalist design. It works just like an online library where you can pick what you need with one click.

6. Zest 

Zest for marketing professionals

If you're a freelance writer or content manager, you want to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in marketing, copywriting, and SEO. But that's not always easy because of the large number of resources available. Sometimes, it can take hours to find a trusted source of information.

With Zest, you'll get the information you need when you need it. Once installed, the app displays the most relevant content based on your interests.

Related: Tips to Become a Successful Content Writer

For example, if you want to get the latest news about remote work, select this topic and then see what's out there. You can add new topics to your list anytime. Zest will only display articles, videos, and podcasts related to the topics you're interested in.

Users can also suggest articles, switch themes, and access their go-to Google services—all from a single dashboard. If you're good at writing, you can sign up as a contributor for Zest and get your content in front of marketing professionals worldwide.

7. Switch Workstation

Switch Workstation for Google Chrome

With Switch, users can see their tabs, notifications, online accounts, and bookmarks on one page. This eliminates the need to open new tabs or pages from your browser, helping you save time and stay organized.

Switch Workstation doesn't replace Chrome's default new tab page. Instead, it adds a sidebar to your browser, which allows you to access your email, tabs, and favorite websites with a single click.

8. Tab Notes

Tab Notes new tab to-do list

This might be the simplest new tab to-do list you've ever come across. Once installed, it displays a blank page where you can write down your tasks for the day. When you're done, open a new tab to start a new list. It's that easy!

Unlike other new tab extensions, Tab Notes doesn't require users to create an account or set permissions. All you need to do is to add it to Google Chrome and write down what you have in mind.

With this app, you can access your notes even when you're offline. If you work late, switch to Dark Mode to reduce eyestrain.

Related: Elegant To-Do List Apps for the Productive Minimalist

9. Plan: Calendar & Tasks

Plan Calendar and Tasks extension

This productivity tool makes it easy to organize your day the moment you turn on your computer. When you open a new tab, Plan will display the local time, weather, date, and a handy to-do list.

Another cool feature is its ability to sync with Google and Microsoft Outlook. You can also add shortcuts to Box and Google Drive to access your files in the tab. In case you need quick access to your favorite online tools and services, click the first icon at the bottom left side of the screen to open Google Sheets, Google Docs, YouTube, and more.

If you're feeling creative or looking for inspiration, you can change and personalize the background image.

10. New Tab Redirect

New-Tab-Redirect-Extension

While the above extensions are fantastic, nothing stops you from setting the new tab to open your favorite to-do app, email inbox, or anything else that makes you productive. That's where New Tab Redirect comes in.

Productivity is about what works for you—simply install New Tab Redirect, and set a custom URL that opens whenever you start a new tab.

Stay on Task When You Open a New Tab

Installing one of these Chrome extensions can help you focus on your work. What better way to fend off distractions than by opening a to-do list as your new tab, or opening a new tab that leads to your email inbox?