Ordered matching
The first enabled expression that matches a URL decides its identity, so broad fallback rules can sit below specific ones.
Chrome extension
Keep the tab you opened first.
Regex Tab Dedupe watches newly opened tabs, compares their URLs with rules you control, and closes a new duplicate after returning you to the oldest match.
How it works
You decide what counts as the same page.
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01
Add a rule
Write a JavaScript regular expression or start with a preset. Capture the stable part of the URL in group 1.
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02
Open a link
The extension checks new HTTP and HTTPS tabs against your enabled rules. Existing tabs are left alone.
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03
Return to the original
If an older tab has the same rule identity, the extension focuses that tab and closes only the new duplicate.
Your rules
Precise enough for the sites you use.
Editable presets
Start with common GitHub, YouTube, Google Docs, Jira, or query-free URL patterns, then edit before saving.
Local processing
URL matching happens inside Chrome. The developer has no server, analytics, ads, or access to your browsing activity.
Fail-open behavior
If Chrome cannot verify, focus, or close a tab safely, the new tab stays open.
Privacy
URLs stay inside Chrome.
Regex Tab Dedupe reads tab URLs only to provide duplicate detection. It does not send them to the developer or any developer-controlled service.