四氯化锗是一种无色的发烟液体，带一股独特的酸性臭味。它是生产高纯锗过程中的反应中间体。因为可用作光纤试剂的缘故，近年来四氯化锗的使用量增加了不少。

Germanium tetrachloride is a colourless, fuming liquid with a peculiar, acidic odour. It is used as an intermediate in the production of purified germanium metal. In recent years, GeCl₄ usage has increased substantially due to its use as a reagent for fiber optic production.