Guides › What is a start page
What is a browser start page?
A browser start page is the first page you see when you open your browser or a new tab. It can be a plain search box — or a personal dashboard with your shortcuts, widgets and live information in one place.
You open your browser dozens of times a day, and something loads first every time. By default that's usually a search engine or a grid of thumbnails. A start page replaces that default with a page you actually chose: quick links to the sites you use, plus tools like a to-do list, weather, a clock, or news and market tickers.
Homepage vs new tab vs start page
These three terms get mixed up constantly. Here's the difference:
| Term | When it appears |
|---|---|
| Homepage | When your browser starts, or when you click the home button. |
| New tab page | Every time you open a new, empty tab. |
| Start page | A customizable dashboard you can set as your homepage, your new tab, or both. |
In other words, "start page" describes what the page is; "homepage" and "new tab" describe where it shows up. A good start page can fill both roles. See our step-by-step guide to setting your homepage and new tab.
Why replace the default?
- Save clicks. Your most-used sites are one tap away instead of a search away.
- See what matters. Weather, tasks, news or markets the moment a tab opens.
- Start with intent. A blank search box invites drifting; a dashboard reminds you what you meant to do.
- Make it yours. Your links, your layout, your background — not a generic default.
What to look for in a start page
- Speed — it loads on every new tab, so it must be instant.
- Editable shortcuts — grouped the way you think.
- Useful widgets — without turning into clutter.
- Fair pricing — free to use, no forced subscription for the basics.
- Privacy — clear about what data it stores and where.
Want to compare real options? See the best start pages of 2026 or the best Momentum alternatives.
Try Dayblaster free →More: Best start pages 2026 · Chrome new tab extensions · All guides