Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →There is no universal “stealth” switch for headless browsers. A common implementation is puppeteer-extra-plugin-stealth, which registers multiple changes with Puppeteer Extra before you launch the browser. It may alter browser-visible signals, but it does not make automation undetectable or guarantee access to any site. Use it for authorized QA, development, and research on systems you own or are permitted to test.
What “stealth mode” means
Headless mode runs a browser without its usual visible window; stealth tooling attempts to change some signals that websites can observe. In the documented Puppeteer Extra example, stealth is a plugin you register in code—not a built-in mode shared by every browser or automation framework.
The plugin project describes its techniques as modular and also says headless Chromium can still be detected. Treat it as a way to test how your own site behaves under a particular automation configuration, not as a guarantee that a browser will appear to be an ordinary visitor.
Install and register Puppeteer Extra Stealth
Prerequisites
Use a supported Node.js installation and npm project. The project README’s documented setup installs the browser automation packages and plugin together. Check the current README for package compatibility before using this in a maintained test suite, since package and browser versions change.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
-
From your project directory, install the packages:
npm install puppeteer puppeteer-extra puppeteer-extra-plugin-stealth -
Create a file such as
stealth-shot.jsand register the plugin before launching Puppeteer:const puppeteer = require('puppeteer-extra'); const StealthPlugin = require('puppeteer-extra-plugin-stealth'); puppeteer.use(StealthPlugin()); (async () => { const browser = await puppeteer.launch({ headless: true }); try { const page = await browser.newPage(); await page.goto('https://example.com', { waitUntil: 'domcontentloaded' }); await page.screenshot({ path: 'page.png', fullPage: true }); } finally { await browser.close(); } })(); -
Run it with
node stealth-shot.js. Replacehttps://example.comwith a page you control or are authorized to test. The example captures a screenshot using the ordinary Puppeteer page API; it does not demonstrate or guarantee a particular detection result.
The project README also documents an ES module/TypeScript import pattern. Follow its current instructions if your project uses that module system rather than mixing import styles from different examples. See the Puppeteer Extra Stealth project README for its setup and compatibility notes.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Using the plugin with Playwright Extra
The playwright-extra package documents registering the stealth plugin with its Chromium instance. Its compatibility wording describes the plugin as optimized for Chromium-based browsers; do not infer equivalent behavior for Firefox, WebKit, or every branded browser channel.
const { chromium } = require('playwright-extra');
const StealthPlugin = require('puppeteer-extra-plugin-stealth');
chromium.use(StealthPlugin());
(async () => {
const browser = await chromium.launch({ headless: true });
try {
const page = await browser.newPage();
await page.goto('https://example.com', { waitUntil: 'domcontentloaded' });
await page.screenshot({ path: 'page.png', fullPage: true });
} finally {
await browser.close();
}
})();Verify the current playwright-extra and plugin documentation, package versions, and browser combination before relying on this in CI. The integration is a package-documented path, not evidence that every Playwright engine has the same stealth support. The Playwright Extra package documentation provides the integration context.
Choose the browser mode that matches your test
Stealth registration and headless implementation are separate choices. Select the browser mode that most closely matches the environment your application needs to support, then test that exact configuration.
| Configuration | What the browser documentation says | When to consider it |
|---|---|---|
| Puppeteer default headless | Puppeteer’s current default is headless. Before Puppeteer v22, its default was the old Headless mode; that mode is now separately shipped as chrome-headless-shell. |
Automation where the shell’s feature set is sufficient. |
| Puppeteer headful | Launch with headless: false to run Chrome with a visible window. |
Tests that need visible-browser interaction or a headed environment. |
| Playwright headless shell | Playwright ships a separate Chromium headless shell for headless operation. | Headless automation where the shell matches the test requirement. |
| Playwright new headless mode | Playwright documents opting into the newer headless mode with the chromium channel; Chrome describes it as the real Chrome browser and suited to higher-fidelity testing. |
Testing that should use this newer headless implementation; this does not establish that it evades detection. |
Puppeteer notes that chrome-headless-shell does not completely match regular Chrome and is currently more performant for automation tasks that do not need the full Chrome feature set. Playwright supports Chromium, Firefox, WebKit, branded Chrome and Edge channels, and device configurations; its guidance recommends keeping Playwright updated. Consult the current Puppeteer headless mode documentation and Playwright browser documentation because defaults and available modes can change.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What stealth mode can and cannot establish
The plugin maintainer explicitly acknowledges that headless Chromium remains detectable and frames detection as an ongoing cat-and-mouse problem. The README says: “It’s probably impossible to prevent all ways to detect headless chromium, but it should be possible to make it so difficult that it becomes cost-prohibitive or triggers too many false-positives to be feasible.” This is the project’s statement, not an independent guarantee.
The README also claims the plugin passes public bot tests. That is a maintainer claim, not an independently established benchmark and not proof of results on a particular site, browser version, or future test. No universal success rate follows from it. A site can use signals or controls that the plugin does not change, and the browser configuration may behave differently as browsers and detection methods evolve.
Test responsibly and keep the setup maintainable
-
Run tests against your own staging application or a service whose owner has authorized the automation. Puppeteer’s security policy says: “Puppeteer provides powerful capabilities for browser installation, automation, and inspection, and it is the responsibility of the calling code to ensure these are used safely and as intended.” See the Puppeteer security policy.
-
Record the framework, browser engine, browser mode, and package versions used by a test. A result from one Chromium configuration should not be generalized to Firefox, WebKit, or another release.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
-
Keep the browser automation packages current and re-check their documentation when upgrading. Changes to headless implementations and package compatibility can change test behavior.
-
For browser compatibility testing, validate the behavior you care about—rendering, navigation, interaction, or screenshots—rather than treating a bot-check response as proof that a configuration is invisible.
Troubleshooting
Plugin import or module errors
Confirm that the three documented npm packages are installed in the project from which the script runs. Keep the import style consistent with your project’s CommonJS or ES module configuration and use the README’s corresponding example.
The browser launches but a page still identifies automation
That can happen: the plugin does not claim to prevent every detection method. Verify that registration occurs before launch(), capture the browser and package versions in your test logs, and use the result only to evaluate authorized test behavior. Do not assume adding arbitrary fingerprint tweaks will produce reliable results across sites.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Playwright setup behaves differently from Puppeteer
Check that the integration uses playwright-extra’s Chromium instance and that the installed package guidance still supports your versions. The plugin’s compatibility description is Chromium-focused, not a promise of identical support across Playwright’s other engines.
Headless output differs from visible Chrome
Check which headless implementation is running. Puppeteer’s shell does not completely match regular Chrome; Playwright distinguishes its headless shell from the newer mode available through the Chromium channel. If your test requires a visible browser, run Puppeteer with headless: false or choose the matching Playwright configuration, then compare outputs under the same browser version.
Or skip the browser setup
If your goal is to capture a website screenshot rather than test browser automation, ScreenshotNeo provides a screenshot API and MCP server. A single GET request can return an image or PDF. For example, with cURL (see the API documentation):
curl -G "https://api.screenshotneo.com/v1/shot" -d access_key=YOUR_API_KEY --data-urlencode url=https://example.com -o shot.webpScreenshotNeo accepts cookie or consent banners before capture and removes more than 60 known consent platforms, newsletter popups, and chat widgets; each cleanup step can be turned off. Bot checks and CAPTCHAs, blank pages, timeouts, failed loads, and cache hits are not billed, and response headers identify the page verdict and billing status. Its MCP server gives AI agents tools for screenshots, page information, and PDF capture.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The Free plan includes 1,000 screenshots per month with no card. Paid plans start at $5 for 3,000 screenshots; every feature is available on every plan. Sign up for 1,000 free screenshots a month with no card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does stealth mode make a headless browser undetectable?
No. The plugin maintainer says headless Chromium can still be detected, and no universal success rate or guarantee is established.
Can I use Puppeteer Extra Stealth with Firefox or WebKit?
The plugin describes itself as optimized for Chromium-based browsers. Do not assume equivalent support for Firefox or WebKit.
Is ScreenshotNeo a stealth browser?
No. It is a screenshot API and MCP server for capturing websites, not a browser stealth plugin.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteQuick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
