Most Windows 11 Users Are Struggling to Change Their Default Browser, New Survey Claims

Microsoft has been notorious for pushing Edge across Windows 11, which is why it has been heavily criticized in the past. A new survey now puts fresh numbers behind complaints about browser choice. A survey commissioned by the Browser Choice Alliance asked 2,000 U.S. Windows users about browser preferences and changing default settings. Its findings suggest many users face more friction than expected.

Windows 11 users say switching their default browser can be frustrating

The survey found that 86% believe users should control their default browser. Another 80% support a one-click option for making that choice. However, 81% of respondents said Edge isn’t their preferred browser. Only 19% said they would choose Edge as their preferred option.

The bigger issue appears when users actually try changing browsers. 72% of people who changed defaults recently reported encountering problems. Some users said Windows redirected them toward the pre-installed browser. Others reported links continuing to open in their previous browser. Some also needed online guides, videos, or tutorials to complete the process.

Windows updates are another concern

The survey claims 29% of respondents experienced browser preferences changing after Windows updates. That finding could raise eyebrows because maintaining a chosen default should generally be straightforward. The BCA describes this issue as the “Reset Trap.”

Older users reportedly face even greater difficulties. 44% of respondents aged 65 and above called changing browsers complex.
Only 15% of users aged 18 to 44 reported the same experience. Meanwhile, 61% of older respondents felt slightly confident or not confident managing browser preferences.

Moreover, the BCA has said that it will publish deeper analysis of the findings over the coming weeks.