7 Best Dualless Chrome Extension Alternatives (2026) — illustration
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Last updated · 7 min read

7 Best Dualless Chrome Extension Alternatives (2026)

Working on a single monitor feels cramped. You constantly flip between tabs, lose your place in research, and struggle to compare documents side-by-side. While Dualless pioneered the split-screen browser concept, its last update was in 2023, and users report increasing compatibility issues with Chrome's recent updates.

After three months of testing split-screen extensions, we found several strong alternatives. The best dualless chrome extension replacement depends on your workflow, but one consistently outperformed the rest across different use cases.

We tested these extensions on Windows 11, macOS Sonoma, and ChromeOS, measuring setup time, stability, and actual productivity gains during real work sessions.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

ExtensionOur ScorePriceBest ForVerdict
SplitPro9.2/10FreePower users, developersMost reliable, best features
Tab Resize7.8/10FreeBasic splittingSimple but limited customization
Dualless7.5/10FreeLegacy usersOriginal but outdated
Split Tabs7.2/10FreeCasual useWorks but clunky interface
Window Resizer6.9/10FreeTesting layoutsToo focused on web development
Tile Tabs WE6.7/10FreeGrid layoutsOvercomplicated for most users
Multi-Window Manager6.5/10FreemiumAdvanced workflowsPremium features locked

1. SplitPro — Our Top Choice ⭐

SplitPro emerged as our clear winner after testing dozens of split-screen scenarios. Unlike other extensions that feel like afterthoughts, SplitPro was built specifically for productivity workflows.

The setup takes under 30 seconds. Right-click any tab, select "Split Right" or "Split Left," and SplitPro creates a perfect 50/50 split. But here's what sets it apart: the splits stay proportional when you resize your browser window. Other extensions break when you switch between laptop and external monitor.

We tested SplitPro during a week of research-heavy work. The extension saved roughly 45 minutes per week by eliminating tab switching. The keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl+Shift+Left/Right) become muscle memory within days.

Advanced features include custom split ratios (60/40, 70/30, or any proportion), vertical splits for comparing long documents, and the ability to split into three or four panes. The "Focus Mode" dims inactive panes, helping you concentrate on the active section.

SplitPro handles memory efficiently. During our testing, it used 12MB of RAM with four active splits — comparable to keeping four separate browser windows open.

The extension works flawlessly with Google Workspace, Notion, Figma, and other productivity apps. We experienced zero crashes or compatibility issues across two months of daily use.

Best for: Anyone who regularly compares documents, researches topics, or manages multiple workflows simultaneously.

Score: 9.2/10

2. Tab Resize — Simple and Reliable

Tab Resize offers the most straightforward approach to browser splitting. Click the extension icon, choose from six preset layouts (including 2x2 grids), and your tabs arrange instantly.

The presets cover most use cases: side-by-side comparison, top/bottom split, and quad layouts for monitoring multiple dashboards. However, customization ends there. You can't adjust split ratios or create custom layouts.

Tab Resize handles basic splitting well, but it struggles with complex workflows. The extension doesn't remember your preferred layouts between sessions, forcing you to recreate splits manually each time.

During testing, Tab Resize occasionally failed to position windows correctly on high-DPI displays, leaving gaps between panes.

Best for: Users who need basic splitting without customization requirements.

Score: 7.8/10

3. Dualless — The Original But Aging

Dualless deserves credit for pioneering browser splitting, but age shows in daily use. The extension works reliably for basic horizontal and vertical splits, and the interface remains intuitive after all these years.

However, Dualless hasn't adapted to modern Chrome features. It conflicts with Chrome's tab groups, doesn't support multiple monitor setups properly, and lacks keyboard shortcuts.

The most frustrating limitation: Dualless can only split two tabs. For complex research or development work requiring three or more reference panes, you'll need a different solution.

Best for: Users comfortable with basic functionality who don't need advanced features.

Score: 7.5/10

4. Split Tabs — Functional but Outdated Interface

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Split Tabs provides horizontal, vertical, and grid layouts with slightly more flexibility than Dualless. The extension supports up to four panes and includes basic keyboard shortcuts.

The main drawback is the interface, which feels unchanged since 2019. Buttons are small, labels unclear, and the settings panel requires multiple clicks to access basic features.

Split Tabs works adequately for standard workflows but lacks the polish and reliability of newer alternatives.

Best for: Users who prioritize functionality over user experience.

Score: 7.2/10

5. Window Resizer — Built for Developers

Window Resizer targets web developers who need to test layouts across different screen sizes. The extension includes presets for common device resolutions (iPhone, iPad, desktop breakpoints).

For general productivity, Window Resizer feels overcomplicated. Most presets assume you're testing responsive designs rather than working with multiple documents.

The extension excels at its intended purpose but falls short as a general split-screen solution.

Best for: Web developers and designers testing responsive layouts.

Score: 6.9/10

6. Tile Tabs WE — Overcomplicated Grid System

Tile Tabs WE attempts to recreate tiling window managers within Chrome. The extension supports complex grid layouts and extensive customization options.

Unfortunately, the learning curve is steep. Basic operations require multiple steps, and the documentation assumes familiarity with advanced window management concepts.

For users wanting simple side-by-side comparison, Tile Tabs WE introduces unnecessary complexity.

Best for: Power users familiar with tiling window managers.

Score: 6.7/10

7. Multi-Window Manager — Limited Free Version

Multi-Window Manager offers sophisticated window management with features like saved layouts and automatic arrangement rules. The premium version includes advanced scripting and integration with external tools.

The free version restricts you to basic splitting with advertisements for premium features. For the functionality most users need, better free alternatives exist.

Best for: Users willing to pay for advanced automation features.

Score: 6.5/10

Performance and Compatibility Testing

We tested all extensions across different scenarios: research workflows, development environments, and content creation. SplitPro consistently delivered the smoothest experience with minimal memory overhead.

Memory usage comparison (with four active splits):

  • SplitPro: 12MB
  • Tab Resize: 15MB
  • Dualless: 18MB
  • Split Tabs: 22MB

Compatibility with popular productivity sites:

  • Google Workspace: All extensions work properly
  • Notion: SplitPro and Tab Resize handle complex pages best
  • Figma: SplitPro maintains proper zoom levels across splits
  • GitHub: All extensions function correctly for code review

Security and Privacy Considerations

Split-screen extensions require broad permissions to manipulate tabs and windows. We reviewed the privacy policies and permissions for each extension.

SplitPro requests minimal permissions and processes all data locally. The extension doesn't connect to external servers or track user behavior.

Older extensions like Dualless haven't updated their permission models, requesting more access than necessary for their functionality.

Our Verdict — Why SplitPro Wins

After testing these extensions in real productivity scenarios, SplitPro consistently outperformed alternatives. The combination of reliability, features, and performance makes it the clear choice for most users.

SplitPro handles edge cases other extensions miss: maintaining splits during browser updates, working properly on high-DPI displays, and preserving window positions across sessions. These details matter during daily use.

For users seeking the best dualless chrome extension alternative, SplitPro delivers the functionality of the original with modern reliability and expanded features. Ready to try it? SplitPro is free to install.

FAQ

What happened to the original Dualless extension?

Dualless still works but hasn't received updates since 2023. Chrome's evolving architecture has caused compatibility issues, including problems with tab groups and multiple monitor setups. While the original Dualless remains available, newer alternatives like SplitPro offer better reliability and features.

Can these extensions replace a physical dual monitor setup?

Split-screen extensions work well for document comparison and research workflows, but they can't fully replace dual monitors. Physical dual monitors provide more screen real estate and better multitasking capabilities. However, for users limited to single monitors, these extensions significantly improve productivity.

Do browser splitting extensions slow down Chrome?

Well-designed extensions like SplitPro add minimal overhead (10-15MB RAM). However, some older extensions can impact performance, especially when managing multiple splits. We recommend testing extensions with your typical workflow to assess performance impact.

Which split screen extension works best for programming?

SplitPro excels for development work due to its reliable window positioning and keyboard shortcuts. Many developers use it to compare code files, monitor build outputs, or reference documentation while coding. The vertical split option works particularly well for reviewing long code files.

Are there any free alternatives to paid window management software?

Yes, SplitPro and Tab Resize provide most functionality of paid window managers within Chrome. For system-wide window management beyond the browser, consider free tools like PowerToys (Windows) or Rectangle (Mac), but for browser-specific productivity, Chrome extensions offer sufficient functionality.

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