How to fix
Google Chrome high CPU usage
on Windows

Hello. I noticed that Google Chrome uses high amounts of CPU on my Windows PC even when I have just a couple of tabs open. Any way to fix this issue?

High CPU usage is a recurring problem that periodically tarnishes Google Chrome's reputation as a popular and effective browser. While Chrome is known for its relatively higher consumption of CPU and memory compared to other browsers, the concern arises when the usage surpasses the typical 70-80% threshold or remains elevated even with a moderate number of tabs open. A user's workflow may be greatly impacted by this high CPU usage, which can result in poor performance, sluggish reaction times, and a generally impaired browsing experience.

This problem has multiple contributing factors. Installed extensions, which are frequently meant to improve browsing performance, may occasionally be the cause of elevated CPU usage. Furthermore, malware on a user's computer may make the issue worse, impacting not just Chrome's functionality but also presenting a wider risk to the system. Using Chrome in a virtual machine might increase CPU usage even more, and corrupt Chrome files might also play a role.

High CPU utilization has more negative effects than just being inconvenient. Users might notice a general slowdown in the speed of their system, which would affect their ability to multitask and interfere with other apps running smoothly. In extreme circumstances, it may result in system instability and crashes, interfering with work and possibly erasing data.

An approach that is strategic is needed to address the problem. To get started, users should make sure that Chrome's files are intact, do comprehensive malware scans, and identify and disable any dangerous extensions. In cases where high CPU usage persists, especially in virtual machine scenarios, optimizing the virtual environment may be necessary.

In this guide, you will find 6 steps that should help you fix Google Chrome high CPU usage in Windows. You can also run a maintenance tool like [d1] that can fix most system errors, BSODs,[ref en-1] corrupted files, registry[ref en-2] issues, or clear cookies and cache[ref en-3] automatically.

Method 1. Run Chrome as an Administrator

• Locate the Chrome shortcut.
• Right-click on the Chrome shortcut.
• Select Properties.

• Navigate to the Compatibility tab.
• Tick the checkbox for Run this program as an administrator.
• Click on OK to save the changes.

Method 2. Remove Extensions

• Launch Google Chrome.
• Click on the Extensions icon in the Toolbar.
• Select Manage Extensions.

• Click the Remove button for the extension causing trouble.
• Again, click Remove in the confirmation prompt.
• Restart the browser for the changes to take full effect.

Method 3. Update the Graphics Driver

• Press the Windows key + S to launch the Search menu.
• Enter Device Manager in the text field.
• Click on the relevant search result.
• Double-click on the Display adapters entry.

• Right-click on the graphics adapter.
• Select Update driver from the context menu.
• Now, select Search automatically for drivers.

Method 4. Clear Browsing Data

• Press Ctrl + H to launch Chrome’s History.
• Click on Clear browsing data on the left.
• Click on the Time range dropdown menu.
• Select All time.
• Tick the checkboxes for all three: Browsing history, Cookies and other site data, and Cached images and files.
• Click on Clear data at the bottom.

Method 5. Scan for Malware

It is possible that a malware infection may be the cause of Google Chrome high CPU usage in Windows. It is important to run a comprehensive security scan to rule out this possibility and ensure that the computer is not infected. This can help to prevent further issues with the Windows operating system and ensure that it is functioning properly.

If you have access to a security scanner, or if your organization pays for one, you can use it to scan your entire system to check for a virus infection. Otherwise, you can use Windows Defender to scan your system:

• Click on the Windows Start menu or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
• Type Microsoft Defender in the search bar and click on Microsoft Defender Antivirus to open the application.
• Click on the Virus & threat protection option in the left-hand menu.
• Click on the Quick scan or Full scan option, depending on your preference.

• If you choose Quick scan, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will scan the most vulnerable and commonly infected areas of your computer.
• If you choose Full scan, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will scan your entire computer, including all files, folders, and programs.
• Click on the Scan now button to start the selected scan type and wait for the scan to complete.
• The time it takes will depend on the size of your hard drive and the number of files being scanned.
• Once the scan is complete, you will be informed of any detected threats, and you can choose to quarantine or remove them.
• If no threats are found, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will inform you that your device is secure.

Method 6. Disable Software Reporter

• Press the Windows key + R to launch the Run command.
• Enter regedit in the text field and click OK to launch the Registry Editor.
• Click Yes in the UAC (User Account Control) prompt.
• Now, paste the following path in the address bar at the top and hit Enter:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies

• If Google and Chrome keys do not exist here, right-click on Policies.
• Hover the cursor over New, select Key, and then name the one created as Google.
• Right-click on the Google key.
• Move the cursor over New, select Key, and name this one Chrome.
• Next, right-click on the empty portion.

• Hover the cursor over New, select DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it ChromeCleanupEnabled.
• Right-click on the DWORD and select Modify.
• Finally, enter 0 under Value data and click OK to save the changes.