Have you ever noticed that there are two ways of searching on the internet? You can either search Google or type a URL. According to Statista, around 6.3 million searches are conducted every minute.
Google’s easy-to-use interface and huge resources make it one of the most go-to search engines in the world. What makes it even better is its next-generation features and tools.
Let’s get started with what the “Search Google or Type a URL” feature is and ways to enhance your search experience.
What is Search Google or Type a URL?
When you visit the Google search engine page, you get a search bar on which “Search Google or Type a URL” is written. I bet you have seen this many times, but only a few people notice. Open your Google and see for yourself. This search box in the middle of the Google search engine is known as the Omnibox, where you can search with a keyword or a specific URL.
This feature gives you direct access to the information you are searching for. You get two options:
- You can search for the term or phrase in the search bar and proceed by clicking Enter. This will lead you to the Google Search Results Page (SERP).
- You can also directly enter the URL of the website or page you want to navigate. You don’t have to go through various search results. You will directly land on your desired web page.
The Internet is a web of data and information. “Search Google or Type a URL” offers a simple and effective way to browse. Not only Google but most of the browsers, such as Chrome, Firefox, and Safari, have this feature.
Let’s look at an example to understand this better.
For instance, if your keyword is “Search Engine Land,” there are two ways to browse the internet. You can either search this term or you can directly enter the URL https://searchengineland.com/ in the search bar. In the first case, you will be redirected to the SERP page, where you will get multiple results related to the term “Search Engine Land”. In the second case, you will directly land on the exact web page you have searched for.
Difference Between: Search Google or Type a URL
Let’s compare both ways to search on browsers like Chrome, Google, Safari, etc.
| Search on Google | Type a URL |
| Requires more time | Quick search |
| Influenced by the search engine algorithm | Not influenced by the search engine algorithm, as it directly navigates to the specific web page |
| More secure, as suspicious web pages are blocked by Google | Error in typing may lead you to unsafe web pages |
| Very easy and user-friendly | Quite difficult to enter an accurate URL |
| Broader and non-specific search intent | Specific search intent |
| Lower rate of error | Higher rate of error |
Also Read: Add Me To Search Guide: How To Create Google People Card
Which One Is Better: Search Google or Type a URL?
The Search Google option pairs effectively with entering a URL for searching. You can determine which option is best, depending on your requirements and the intent behind that search. The following discussion evaluates the comparison between searching and typing URLs.
1. Quick Result
When you manually enter the website address using the URL, you can quickly navigate to the specific web page. It eliminates the in-between process of browsing through multiple search results and saves a lot of time.
Example:
If you search for a keyword like “shoes under 5000”, you will encounter various search results. And from these searches, you have to look for what you need. Rather than using this extensive process, you can directly enter the URL of your favorite shoe brand, such as https://in.puma.com/.
2. Accuracy
Another advantage of directly searching a URL is that you browse only authentic and accurate sites. It saves you from surfing third-party pages.
Example:
If you search for “CNN,” results may show you some duplicate web pages along with the authentic ones. However, if you enter the URL directly, i.e., www.cnn.com, it will take you to only the accurate site.
3. Flexibility
You obtain only one webpage when you search a URL in the search field. The website appears without any detours; therefore, you reach your destination right away. Through a search, you can obtain multiple possible options to consider.
Example:
Suppose you want to learn coding. If you type www.codecademy.com, you miss the chance to browse other coding platforms. Rather, when you search for a “free coding website” or “free coding course,” you will get a chance to choose from a long list of courses. This list may also contain some of the better options.
4. Security
The risk level increases when users enter incorrect URLs while browsing the web. A wrong website entry can place you on a suspicious page. Scammers create URLs that appear similar to genuine ones before the user. A single typo in your spelling will produce unwanted trouble. Search helps avoid that. Google blocks many dangerous sites. You will receive warnings beforehand if you attempt to enter these pages. Still, be careful and always inspect the site name before clicking any link.
Want to avoid scams? Do this:
- Only click trusted links.
- Check the spelling of URLs.
- The address bar contains a padlock symbol that signals website safety.
- Keep your sensitive information private when the site does not establish security measures.
The Google search engine provides safe tools for everybody’s use.
5. Autocomplete and Suggestions
Modern browsers make things easier. The browser maintains memory records of all websites that you access frequently. The application completes your website address automatically as you begin typing. It also suggests popular searches. The browser system provides support throughout your URL finding and search activities.
Choosing between searching with Google or entering an address depends on the situation. Use the given table to make better decisions.
| Goal | Best Option |
| You know the full website | Type the URL |
| Want options or comparisons | Use Google search |
| Not sure of the website name | Use Google search |
| You visit the site daily | Bookmark or type the URL |
| Want fast info or answers | Use Google to search |
Conclusion
The Search Google or type a URL feature is based on the situation and your goal. You should use the website address when you already know the URL. Google provides the best tools for exploration or comparison needs. Moreover, bookmark websites that you need to access often.
The Internet gives you many ways. Knowing how to use them makes your online life easier, faster, and safer. Want to boost your search skills even more? Visit Google’s Search Tips to learn cool tricks.
Also Read: Chrome Net Internals DNS Tool – Complete 2025 Guide to Clear DNS Cache
FAQs
When you know the exact web page and its URL you want to search for, you should type the URL. If you are just looking for information, you should choose Search Google and go through multiple websites.
You can improve your search results by entering the right search term or URL. Also, you can bookmark the website or pages you frequently visit.
The URL bar in a web browser allows you to search for specific pages in a faster and more direct way.
