Google Chrome offers two private browsing options: Incognito mode and Guest mode. At first glance, they appear similar because both prevent the browser from saving your history, cookies, passwords and other data, making them useful for private browsing. You might wonder why there are two modes if they both seem to do the same thing. The answer is that each mode serves different purposes. Let’s explore the differences between Incognito mode and Guest mode and when you to use the best one.
Also Read: How to Secure Google Chrome
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What Is Incognito Mode in Google Chrome?
Incognito mode is designed for private browsing for your personal use. When you use Incognito mode, Chrome does not save your browsing history, passwords, payment details, addresses, or any other data you enter into forms. Websites can still store cookies on your device to keep you logged in and remember your preferences, such as dark mode. However, these cookies are deleted once you close the Incognito window. In contrast, when using Incognito you can still access your bookmarks, passwords, and even extensions (if enabled).
It’s important to note that Incognito mode does not make you anonymous online. Websites, your internet service provider (ISP), and network administrators can still view your browsing activity.
You can use Incognito mode for:
- Private Browsing: when looking up sensitive information or logging into private accounts that you don’t want to save in history or let other websites track you.
- Multiple Accounts: Sign in to multiple accounts simultaneously without logging out of your main account.
- Temporary Sessions: Log in to accounts for temporary use, such as net banking or private accounts.
- Bypassing Page View Limits: Some websites limit the number of free articles you can view. Incognito mode can help bypass these limits.
- Checking Prices: Check flight and other prices without them being influenced by your browsing history.
To open Incognito mode, click the three-dot menu in Chrome’s top-right corner and select New Incognito Window.
Refer to our detailed guide on 13 things to know about Incognito mode on Google Chrome.
What Is a Guest Mode in Google Chrome?
Guest mode, on the other hand, is designed for temporary use by someone else using your computer. When you open a Guest window, Chrome creates a clean slate or a new blank profile. Similar to Incognito mode, Guest mode doesn’t save browsing history, cookies, passwords, or site data. In addition to the Incognito mode, the guest user cannot access any of your personal data, such as bookmarks, extensions, or saved passwords.
Like Incognito mode, Guest mode does not offer complete privacy from websites, ISPs, or network administrators.
Guest mode is ideal for:
- Guest Use: Let a friend or family member use your computer without accessing your personal information.
- Public or Shared Computer: useful for temporary browsing session on a public or shared computer.
- Testing Extensions: Test installed extensions without interference if you suspect one is causing issues with a website.
To open Guest mode, click on the profile icon at the top-right corner and select the Guest option.
What Is the Difference Between Incognito and Guest Mode?
In short, Incognito mode is intended for your personal use. You can still access your passwords, bookmarks, and extensions for convenience. In contrast, Guest mode operates as a completely separate profile, making it useful when you want to let others use your computer. Here’s a more detailed comparison:
| Feature | Incognito Mode | Guest Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Browsing History | Not saved | Not saved |
| Cookies | Stored temporarily, deleted when the Incognito window is closed | Same as Incognito mode |
| Third-Party Cookies | Blocked by default, but can be allowed through settings | Blocked by default, with no option to change settings |
| Passwords | Can access previously saved passwords but cannot save new ones | Cannot access or save passwords |
| Addresses, Payment Details, and Other Form Data | Can access previously saved data, but new details entered will not be saved | Cannot access or save any data |
| Bookmarks | Can access and save bookmarks | Cannot access or save bookmarks |
| Extensions | Accessible (if enabled) | Not accessible |
| Privacy | Limited; activity visible to websites, ISPs, and network administrators | Same as Incognito mode |
| Search Engine | Cannot change default search engine just for Incognito | Can change the default search engine, however, it have to adjust for every session |
| Windows and Tabs | Can open multiple Incognito tabs and windows | Same as Incognito mode |
When to Use Incognito or Guest Mode
Use Incognito mode for your private browsing needs when you want to prevent Chrome from saving your activity, but still need access to your personal data and settings. Use Guest mode when someone else needs to use your computer temporarily, ensuring they do not access your personal information or affect your browsing experience.
