Go Back With Backspace

Re-enables the backspace key as a back navigation button (except when writing text).
What is Go Back With Backspace?
"Go Back With Backspace" is a handy Chrome extension designed to restore the backspace key's function as a back navigation button. It revives this function, which was removed in Chrome 52, bringing convenience for users who were accustomed to the old setup. Note that backspace navigation is disabled when the user is writing text. However, backspace restoration cannot be done on special Chrome pages, such as Settings or Extensions. Please note that by installing this extension, you agree to Google's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. The extension's source code is accessible for viewing."

Extension stats

Users: 300,000+
Rating: 3.14 (1,353)
Version: 3.0 (Last updated: 2023-11-21)
Creation date: 2017-09-14
Risk impact: High risk impact
Risk likelihood: Very low risk likelihood
Manifest version: 3
Permissions:
  • management
  • scripting
  • storage
  • tabs
Host permissions:
  • <all_urls>
Size: 22.41K

Other platforms

Not available on Firefox
Not available on Edge
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Extension summary

Go back with the backspace button! This extension re-enables the backspace key as a back navigation button -- except if you're writing text.

What's New in 3.0:

  • Updated to Manifest V3.

Before Chrome 52, the backspace key navigated back (if you weren't writing text). Many people lost their progress while working online by accidentally pressing backspace and leaving a page -- so we removed the feature from Chrome, and created this extension for those who prefer the old behavior.

This extension can't restore backspace on certain special pages, for example any of the "chrome://" pages such as Settings or Extensions.

About the requested permissions:

"Read and modify all your data": In order to capture backspace on every page, the extension needs to install a little piece of code on each one. It does nothing else with the page, its information, or your typing.

"Manage your apps, extensions, and themes": This lets the extension detect when it has been re-enabled and install its code into tabs that are already open then.

See more

User reviews

These summaries are automatically generated weekly using AI based on recent user reviews. Chrome Web Store does not verify user reviews, so some user reviews may be inaccurate, spammy, or outdated.
Pros
  • Works well for most users
  • Restores functionality that was removed by Google
  • Very handy and useful for keyboard-only navigation
  • Flawless operation for long periods
  • Customizable experience
Cons
  • Does not work for some users
  • Inconsistent performance across different sites
  • Causes issues such as unexpected double navigation
  • Can slow down browser performance for some users
  • Potential security concerns raised by some users
Most mentioned
  • Does not work for some users
  • Restores the backspace functionality
  • Works well most of the time
  • Issues with specific websites like Notion and Squarespace
  • Needs to be a built-in feature instead of an extension
User reviews
DOES NOT WORK! Google should be ashamed.
by Kevin M., 2024-11-05

Works for me!
by Orlin Shirov, 2024-10-22

downloaded and installed. still doesn't work.
by Dylon Schulz, 2024-10-03
View all user reviews

Extension safety

Risk impact

Go Back With Backspace requires some sensitive permissions that could impact your browser and data security. Exercise caution before installing.

Risk likelihood

Go Back With Backspace has earned a good reputation and can be trusted.

Upgrade to see risk analysis details

Promo images

Go Back With Backspace small promo image
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