Go Back With Backspace

Re-enables the backspace key as a back navigation button (except when writing text).

Go Back With Backspace brings back the classic functionality of the backspace key in Chrome, allowing you to navigate back to the previous page when not typing text. Since Chrome 52 removed this feature to prevent accidental data loss, this extension restores it for users who prefer the old behavior.

The extension works by injecting a small script into pages to capture backspace key presses and navigate back safely without interfering when you're writing text. It respects text input areas and does not work on Chrome's internal pages like Settings. Updated to Manifest V3 for compatibility and security, this extension requires permissions to access page data solely to enable the back navigation feature, ensuring your privacy is maintained.

By:: https://google.com
Users:: 300,000+
Rating:: 3.15

(1,360)
Version:: 3.0 (Last updated: 2023-11-21)
Creation date:: 2017-09-14
Risk:: High risk impact Very low risk likelihood
Permissions:: management
scripting
storage
tabs
Host permissions:: <all_urls>
Size:: 22.41K
Email:: go*****@google.com
URLs:: Website ,Privacy policy
Full description:: See detailed description
Source:: Chrome Web Store
Updated:: 17 hours ago

Ranking

# 1,024 ▲ 7

Other rankings

#233 in Functionality & UI ▼ 1

#48 in button for google keyword 54

#147 in install keyword 89 ▲ 12

#152 in source code keyword 27

#233 in extension keyword 90 ▼ 9

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User reviews

The 'Go Back With Backspace' extension restores the much-missed backspace-to-go-back browser functionality removed by Chrome. Most users find it works well and consider it essential for keyboard-based browsing. Some report site-specific compatibility issues and occasional bugs like double-back navigation. A few mention performance impacts, but reinstalling can help. Many believe this feature should be integrated by default in the browser. Overall, it's widely appreciated for bringing back a convenient and familiar navigation shortcut.

Pros

Restores the backspace key functionality to navigate back, which many users miss.
Works seamlessly for most users and provides a useful, lightweight browsing enhancement.
Highly valued by users who prefer keyboard shortcuts and 'keyboard only' navigation.
Offers options to tailor the backspace behavior according to user preferences.
Considered essential by many users; some consider it the 'favorite' extension after the default feature removal.

Cons

Does not work on some specific sites (e.g., Squarespace, Notion).
Issues with the extension causing abnormal behavior like double navigation back on pressing backspace.
Some users report performance issues including high CPU usage and browser slowdowns attributed to the extension.
Rare reports of erratic behavior such as unintended likes on YouTube or erratic page navigation.
Does not close tab when backspace is pressed on the first page (requested feature).

Recent reviews

Should still be in the browser by default.

Sam Bartle, 2025-03-23

Would be much greater if it would also close the tab when you are on the first site from the tab.

MeboGo, 2025-03-20

Works great so far.

Rich Elvers, 2025-01-15

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 impact analysis details

Critical Grants access to browser tabs, which can be used to track user browsing habits and history, presenting a privacy concern.
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Risk likelihood

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

Risk likelihood analysis details

Medium This extension has medium user count. Unpopular extensions may not be stable or safe.
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