Chrome Split Screen vs Link Preview: Which Method is More Efficient?

When you need to view multiple web pages at the same time, which option do you choose? Chrome's native split screen feature or a link preview extension?

As a heavy browser user, I spent two weeks diving deep into both options, and I'm here to share my genuine experience.

Understanding Chrome's Split Screen Feature

How to Use Split Screen

  1. Open multiple tabs
  2. Right-click on a tab
  3. Select "Move tab to a new window"
  4. Drag the window to the edge of the screen to enable split screen

Advantages of Split Screen

  • Native Support: No need to install extra plugins
  • True Multitasking: Two windows run completely independently
  • Keyboard Shortcuts: Quickly adjust with Win + left/right arrow keys

Limitations of Split Screen

  • Complicated Setup: Requires manual dragging each time
  • Low Screen Utilization: Two windows divide the screen, resulting in smaller content areas
  • High Switching Costs: You have to switch focus between different windows

NoTab’s Preview Method

  • Dragging links for a direct preview in the current page
  • Adjustable preview window size and position
  • Supports multiple open preview windows at the same time

Advantages of Preview

  • Simple Operation: Just drag and drop
  • Maximized Screen Utilization: Resize windows as needed
  • Maintains Context: Operate within the original page

Limitations of Preview

  • Requires Extension Installation: Not a native browser feature
  • Functional Limitations: Some features might be limited within the preview window

Comparison Tests in Real Scenarios

Scenario 1: Academic Research

Task: Read a paper while checking 3 related documents

Split Screen Method:

  • Main window displays the paper, split window sequentially opens documents
  • Frequent switching between windows and tabs is necessary
  • Time spent: about 15 minutes

Preview Method:

  • Main page shows the paper, dragging links previews documents
  • Multiple preview windows can be opened simultaneously for comparison
  • Time spent: about 10 minutes

Result: The preview method was more efficient, reducing time by 33%.

Scenario 2: Product Research

Task: Compare features of 5 competing products

Split Screen Method:

  • Requires multiple window or tab openings
  • Frequent browsing switches can lead to missing information
  • Heavy memory load

Preview Method:

  • Directly previews product pages on the comparison table page
  • Information is clear and easy to compare
  • Thoughts flow better, reducing the chance of missing details

Result: The preview method vastly outperformed the split screen in information organization and comparison.

Scenario 3: News Browsing

Task: Quickly catch up on today’s hot news

Split Screen Method:

  • News list and detailed content displayed in split screen
  • Suitable for in-depth reading of a few articles

Preview Method:

  • Quickly previews multiple articles from the list page
  • Rapidly filters through content of interest

Result: The preview method is better for information filtering, while split screen is more suited for deep reading.

Performance and Resource Consumption Comparison

Chrome Split Screen

  • Memory Usage: Each window consumes its own memory, which can be quite large
  • CPU Usage: Multiple windows running simultaneously puts a heavy load on the processor
  • Battery Consumption: Noticeable decrease in laptop battery life
  • Memory Usage: Preview windows share resources from the main page, saving memory
  • CPU Usage: Loads on-demand, resulting in a lighter processor load
  • Battery Consumption: Minimal impact on battery life

Summary of Applicable Scenarios

When to Choose Split Screen

  • Need to operate on two pages simultaneously for an extended period (e.g., for comparative translations)
  • Frequent input between two pages
  • Using a large-screen monitor (27 inches or more)
  • Quick information gathering and filtering
  • Academic research and document review
  • News browsing and content discovery
  • Using a laptop or smaller screen device

Practical Tips

Hybrid Usage Strategy

  1. Daily Browsing: Prioritize link preview for quick information sourcing
  2. In-depth Work: Use split screen when needing to compare for extended periods
  3. Device Consideration: Use split screen on large screens, link preview on smaller ones

Tips to Boost Efficiency

  • Learn Shortcuts: Speed up split screen operations
  • Set Up Preview Windows Wisely: Adjust sizes based on content needs
  • Build Good Habits: Close unnecessary windows promptly

Conclusion

Through practical testing, link preview proves to be more efficient than split screen in most scenarios:

  • Simpler and more direct operation
  • Higher screen utilization
  • Lower resource consumption
  • Greater adaptability

However, split screen has its unique value, especially in scenarios requiring prolonged multitasking.

Best Practice: Lean towards link preview while using split screen as a supplementary tool, flexibly choosing based on specific tasks.

For most users, installing a useful link preview extension (like NoTab) can significantly enhance browsing efficiency and reduce unnecessary window switching.

Give it a try; you might discover an entirely new browsing experience!