How to export a Chrome session to a portable file

Tabwell's JSON export is a portable copy of the snapshots already stored in local IndexedDB. Each snapshot represents one saved Chrome window, including tab URL, title, order, pinned state, window state, and native group fields. The export can contain many snapshots, so several windows can be backed up by saving each window separately and then exporting the collection. Importing the file on another machine writes those snapshots into that browser's local Tabwell storage; you still choose which saved window to restore. The file does not contain page bodies, form input, downloads, login sessions, or data from windows that were never saved. Because a JSON file is only a useful backup when it is stored outside the Chrome profile and can be read later, this guide treats export as a verified backup workflow: save, inspect counts, export, keep the source file, import in a disposable profile, and restore a sample before removing the original copy.

What the JSON file contains

The export contains Tabwell snapshots. Each snapshot represents one saved window with tab metadata, order, pinned state, window state, and native group title, color, collapsed state, and membership. To include multiple Chrome windows, save each window separately before exporting the snapshot collection.

Create the portable copy

Install Tabwell from the Chrome Web Store.
Focus a window, save it, and repeat for other windows you need.
Inspect snapshot names and counts.
Export the snapshots to JSON.
Store the file outside the Chrome profile and keep an older known-good copy when practical.

Import and verify elsewhere

Install Tabwell on the destination machine and import the JSON file. Compare snapshot names and counts, then restore one disposable sample and inspect tab order, pinned state, and native group fields. Import creates local snapshots; it is not automatic cross-device sync.

Plans and privacy

JSON export is available on Free and Pro. Pro adds unlimited history, search, supported third-party importers, and configurable periodic intervals. Current prices, purchase options, and terms are listed on the pricing page.

Snapshots, tab titles, and URLs stay in local IndexedDB. Billing and license requests use Tabwell's billing service and Polar without sending tab data. Optional redacted crash diagnostics can be enabled; they are off by default. See the privacy policy.

FAQ

Does one exported snapshot contain every Chrome window?

No. Each snapshot represents one saved window. Save other windows separately, then export the collection of snapshots.

What is not included in the JSON file?

It does not include page body content, unsaved forms, downloads, login sessions, or windows that were not saved as snapshots.

Can I import the JSON on another machine?

Yes. Import writes the snapshots into that machine's local Tabwell storage. Verify names, counts, and a sample restore before removing the source copy.

Is export the same as sync?

No. Export and import are deliberate file operations. Tabwell does not provide automatic cross-device synchronization.

Does JSON export require Pro?

No. JSON export is available on Free. Current prices, purchase options, and terms are listed at https://tabwell.org/pricing.html.