How to Promote a Chrome Extension

The fastest, cheapest, and most effective way to start promoting your Chrome extension is through strategic directory submissions.

Launch directories are platforms where users actively browse to discover new browser extensions and productivity tools. Think Product Hunt (excellent for extension launches), extension directories, browser extension aggregators, and startup platforms.

Why directory submissions are essential for Chrome extensions:

Immediate visibility and first installs: A successful Product Hunt launch can drive thousands of users to install your extension in a single day, creating momentum and social proof that helps your Chrome Web Store rankings.

Landing page SEO boost: Many users research extensions on Google before installing. When you're listed on 100+ directories, your domain rating jumps from zero to 30+ within weeks, helping your landing page rank for searches like '[problem] extension' and '[category] Chrome extension'. Better Google rankings drive more traffic to your Chrome Web Store listing.

AI Assistant visibility: Directory backlinks make your extension visible to AI assistants. When users ask ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity for browser extension recommendations, these AI systems crawl authoritative directories to provide answers.


Trust signals: Users are cautious about browser extensions because of permissions. Being listed on recognized platforms builds credibility and makes users more comfortable installing your extension.

Permanent results: These listings stay live permanently. Unlike paid ads, directory backlinks keep working 24/7, driving organic installs for years without ongoing costs.

This is probably the single best way to start promoting your Chrome extension because it builds visibility beyond the Chrome Web Store. LaunchDirectories maintains a comprehensive database of 100+ best platforms for launching your extension. We also offer a done-for-you submission service where we handle all the manual submissions, save you 70+ hours, and get your extension listed across the most impactful directories in just 3-5 days.

Your Chrome Web Store listing is your primary conversion point. Use a clear, keyword-rich title that describes what your extension does. Write a compelling description with relevant keywords in the first paragraph. Use high-quality screenshots showing actual use cases and value. Create a demo video highlighting your extension's benefits in under 60 seconds. Encourage satisfied users to leave 5-star reviews - ratings dramatically impact install rates.

Don't rely solely on Chrome Web Store for discovery. Create a dedicated website that ranks on Google for searches like '[problem] extension,' '[category] Chrome extension,' and 'best [use case] extension.' This landing page should have clear CTAs to install, feature highlights, use cases, testimonials, and a demo video. Many users research extensions on Google before installing - capture this traffic.

Publish blog posts and YouTube videos solving problems related to your extension's use case. For example, if you built a productivity extension, create content about productivity hacks, workflow optimization, and browser tips. This content ranks on Google, drives traffic to your site, and positions your extension as the solution. Include clear CTAs to install your extension.

Share your extension in communities where your target users gather: relevant subreddits, Facebook groups, productivity forums, and niche Discord servers. Focus on providing value first - answer questions, share insights, and when appropriate, demonstrate how your extension solves problems people are discussing. Authentic engagement drives your most loyal users.

Create a simple email signup on your landing page. Use this list to announce updates, share tips, and build a community around your extension. Email subscribers are more engaged, more likely to leave reviews, and more likely to refer friends. Regular communication keeps your extension top-of-mind and reduces churn.

Create short demo videos showing your extension in action and post on Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts. Browser extension demos can go viral - users love seeing productivity hacks and clever browser tricks. One viral post can bring thousands of installs and create momentum that compounds through word-of-mouth.

Identify tools and platforms your users already use. Partner with these tools through integrations, co-marketing, or referrals. Many extensions grow through partnerships - for example, a screenshot extension might partner with design tools, while a grammar extension might partner with writing platforms. Strategic partnerships bring targeted, high-intent users.