What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
In a normal Node.js project, install Puppeteer with npm i puppeteer. The full puppeteer package normally downloads a compatible Chrome for Testing browser during installation. If your package manager blocks install scripts, install the package first and then run npx puppeteer browsers install. Choose puppeteer-core only when you manage the browser yourself or connect to a remote browser; it does not download Chrome.
Choose the right package
| Package | Best fit | Browser handling |
|---|---|---|
puppeteer |
Most new projects using Puppeteer’s defaults | Downloads a compatible browser by default and can be configured |
puppeteer-core |
An application that manages a local browser separately or connects to a remote browser | No automatic browser download; you provide a connection or executable details |
The commands and behavior below reflect Puppeteer’s current documentation, including the Node.js 22.12+ requirement documented for Puppeteer 25.12.0. Version-specific browser pairings change, so check the supported-browsers table when pinning a separately managed browser.
Prerequisites and supported systems
- Install Node.js 22.12 or newer, matching Puppeteer’s current documented minimum.
- If you use TypeScript, use TypeScript 5.0.1 or newer. For type-checking dependencies, target ES2022 or later.
- Chrome for Testing is documented for Windows x64; macOS x64 and arm64; Debian/Ubuntu Linux x64 and arm64; and openSUSE/Fedora Linux x64 and arm64.
- Linux still needs the libraries required by your distribution. Use Puppeteer’s system requirements page for the current dependency list.
- Browser extraction requires
tar.exeor PowerShell on Windows andunzipon macOS/Linux, unless the optionalyauzlpackage is available.
Install Puppeteer with your package manager
npm
mkdir puppeteer-demo
cd puppeteer-demo
npm init -y
npm i puppeteerYarn
yarn add puppeteerpnpm
pnpm add puppeteerBun
bun add puppeteerThe install script normally downloads Chrome for Testing and the headless-shell binary selected for your Puppeteer release. The default browser cache is $HOME/.cache/puppeteer (for example, ~/.cache/puppeteer on Linux and macOS). These are downloaded software binaries; you do not buy a separate browser.
If the browser download was skipped
Corporate policies, locked-down CI runners, and package-manager settings can disable dependency install scripts. You may then have a valid JavaScript package but no browser binary. From the project directory, run:
#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.
npx puppeteer browsers installAlternatively, permit Puppeteer’s install script using your package manager’s documented mechanism. The exact setting differs between npm, Yarn, pnpm, and Bun, so do not copy an npm-specific option into another manager. If you change download configuration, rerun the browser-install command.
Verify the installation with a smoke test
Create smoke-test.mjs in the project root:
import puppeteer from 'puppeteer';
const browser = await puppeteer.launch();
try {
const page = await browser.newPage();
await page.goto('https://example.com', { waitUntil: 'domcontentloaded' });
console.log('Title:', await page.title());
console.log('URL:', page.url());
} finally {
await browser.close();
}Run it locally with:
node smoke-test.mjsA successful run prints the page title and URL, then exits after closing Chrome. This test uses Puppeteer’s downloaded browser. For a CommonJS project, use a dynamic import:
const { default: puppeteer } = await import('puppeteer');
const browser = await puppeteer.launch();
try {
const page = await browser.newPage();
await page.goto('https://example.com', { waitUntil: 'domcontentloaded' });
console.log(await page.title());
} finally {
await browser.close();
}Install and use puppeteer-core
Use this package when your platform supplies Chrome, when a browser runs in a separate container, or when you connect to a remote debugging endpoint.
npm i puppeteer-coreFor a locally managed executable, provide its path explicitly:
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
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.
import puppeteer from 'puppeteer-core';
const browser = await puppeteer.launch({
executablePath: '/path/to/your/chrome'
});
try {
const page = await browser.newPage();
await page.goto('https://example.com', { waitUntil: 'domcontentloaded' });
} finally {
await browser.close();
}Replace the example path with the actual Chrome or Chromium binary on the machine. When connecting to a remote browser, use the connection details supplied by that service. puppeteer-core does not apply the full package’s configuration or environment-variable defaults, so manage its executable, cache, and compatibility yourself.
Configure downloads and browser selection
Puppeteer recommends a configuration file for supported settings; environment variables are also available, and some settings are environment-only. Read the current configuration guide before selecting a variable or file name.
Move the browser cache
The default cache is ~/.cache/puppeteer. Set a different cache directory through Puppeteer’s supported configuration or PUPPETEER_CACHE_DIR. In CI or a container, make sure the same cache exists in the runtime image, not only in the build step. Run npx puppeteer browsers install again after changing a setting that affects downloads.
Use a custom executable
With the full package, pass executablePath to puppeteer.launch() when you intentionally use an installed browser. Verify that the browser version is supported by your Puppeteer release. Puppeteer’s current documentation surfaces an example pairing of Puppeteer 25.12.0 with Chrome for Testing 154.0.8037.57 and Firefox 156.0.1; those releases are volatile, not permanent version recommendations.
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.
Keep deployment environments consistent
- Cache or copy the downloaded browser into the image or machine that actually runs the script.
- Do not assume a developer’s home-directory cache is present in a clean CI runner.
- Pin package versions when reproducibility matters, then review the official compatibility table before upgrading either Puppeteer or an independently managed browser.
Troubleshoot installation and launch failures
“Could not find Chrome” or a missing-browser error
The install script was probably blocked or the cache is absent in the runtime environment. Run npx puppeteer browsers install, allow the install script according to your package manager, and confirm that the configured cache directory is available to the user running Node.
Chrome downloads but will not launch on Linux
Install the shared libraries required by your distribution and architecture. The list changes with the OS release; follow the current system requirements and troubleshooting pages rather than copying an old package list.
Sandbox errors
Configure a supported Linux sandbox. Puppeteer strongly discourages running without a sandbox, so do not treat --no-sandbox as a routine fix. Investigate container privileges, kernel settings, and the documented sandbox setup first.
A custom browser reports an incompatible version
Compare the browser with the supported-browser table, then update either Puppeteer or the browser as appropriate. Set executablePath to the binary you actually intend to launch; a system may contain several Chrome installations.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsRank #4
- 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
The browser works locally but fails in CI
Check four things: the browser cache was transferred to the job that runs tests, the Linux dependencies are installed in that image, the process has a usable sandbox, and the configured path is readable by the CI user. A fresh environment commonly exposes a cache or permissions assumption hidden on a workstation.
Downloads fail or extraction stops
Check network access to the download host, available disk space, and extraction tools. On Windows, ensure tar.exe or PowerShell is available; on macOS/Linux, ensure unzip is installed unless you installed the optional yauzl dependency.
Performance, reliability, and cost considerations
- The initial installation is slower and larger because it downloads browser binaries; subsequent runs can reuse the cache.
- Persisting the cache in CI reduces repeated downloads, but invalidate it when changing Puppeteer or browser versions.
- Downloading the browser during an image build makes runtime startup more predictable, provided the final image contains the cache and required libraries.
puppeteer-corecan reduce package-managed downloads, but shifts browser patching, compatibility checks, security updates, and provisioning to your team.- Network-restricted builds should install the browser in an allowed build stage or provide a separately managed executable; do not expect the JavaScript package alone to create a working browser.
Or skip the browser setup
If your goal is simply to obtain reliable website screenshots rather than automate a browser yourself, ScreenshotNeo provides a website screenshot API and MCP server. A single request returns PNG, JPEG, WebP, or PDF. Before capture it accepts cookie or consent banners and removes more than 60 known consent platforms, newsletter popups, and chat widgets; each cleanup step can be disabled.
Only clean shots are billed. Bot checks or CAPTCHAs, blank pages, timeouts, failed loads, and cache hits cost nothing, and response headers identify the page verdict and billing status. Its MCP server exposes take_screenshot, get_page_info, and capture_pdf for Claude, Cursor, and other MCP clients.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchUse the API examples in the ScreenshotNeo documentation:
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.
curl -G "https://api.screenshotneo.com/v1/shot" -d access_key=YOUR_API_KEY --data-urlencode url=https://stripe.com -o shot.webpimport requests
r = requests.get("https://api.screenshotneo.com/v1/shot", params={"access_key": "YOUR_API_KEY", "url": "https://stripe.com"}, timeout=90)
open("shot.webp", "wb").write(r.content)const q = new URLSearchParams({ access_key: 'YOUR_API_KEY', url: 'https://stripe.com' });
const res = await fetch(`https://api.screenshotneo.com/v1/shot?${q}`);Every plan includes the full feature set, including full-page and element capture, device and retina settings, PDF controls, custom CSS and JavaScript, waits, blocking rules, headers and cookies, geolocation and timezone, transparent backgrounds, resizing, TTL caching, signed links, asynchronous webhooks, bulk capture of up to 100 URLs per call, usage reporting, and an OpenAPI specification. The Free plan includes 1,000 screenshots per month with no card; paid plans start at $5 for 3,000 shots. Sign up free for ScreenshotNeo.
Frequently asked questions
Can I install Puppeteer globally?
You can install command-line tooling globally, but a project dependency is more reproducible. Add Puppeteer to the project that imports it and commit the lockfile so teammates and CI resolve the same dependency graph.
Where should browser binaries live in a container?
Place them in the final runtime image or mount a persistent cache at the exact configured path. Installing during an earlier build stage without copying the cache leaves the runtime unable to find Chrome.
Should I use Chrome or Firefox with Puppeteer?
Use a browser listed as supported for your Puppeteer release and verify the pairing before pinning it. The supported-browser page is the authoritative place for current mappings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install Puppeteer globally?
You can, but a project dependency with a committed lockfile is more reproducible for applications and CI.
Where should browser binaries live in a container?
Copy the downloaded cache into the final runtime image, or mount a persistent cache at the configured path.
Should I use Chrome or Firefox with Puppeteer?
Choose a browser listed for your Puppeteer release and verify the pairing on Puppeteer’s supported-browsers page.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Quick 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.
