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To take a Puppeteer screenshot on an Ubuntu VPS, install Node.js, install Puppeteer and its compatible Chrome for Testing browser, install the browser’s Linux dependencies, then run a headless script that opens a page and saves an image. The browser setup is the same on an Indian VPS as elsewhere on Ubuntu; the data-center location matters to network distance, not to Puppeteer’s installation steps.
Choose the browser installation path
For a new Node.js project, the simplest route is the puppeteer package. It downloads a compatible Chrome for Testing browser by default. Puppeteer’s installation guide, version 25.12.0, gives an approximate Linux browser download of 282 MB; that is the download size, not the total disk space the browser and its runtime files will use. See the Puppeteer installation guide.
Puppeteer supports Chrome for Testing on Debian and Ubuntu systems using both x64 and arm64. Check your VPS architecture before provisioning or diagnosing a browser download problem; the current platform requirements are listed in the supported browsers documentation.
Use Ubuntu’s packaged Chromium only if you want to manage the browser separately. In that setup, use puppeteer-core and set executablePath to the installed browser. Verify that the Chromium version supplied by your Ubuntu image works with your Puppeteer version. Ubuntu’s Chromium packaging involves Snap, so do not assume it is interchangeable with Puppeteer’s downloaded Chrome for Testing on every VPS image.
#1 Best Overall
- 12th Intel Alder Lake N95 Processor – The GMKtec G3 S Mini PC is powered by the 12th Gen Intel N95 processor with 4 cores, 4 threads, 6MB cache and a burst frequency up to 3.4GHz. Compared with N100/N5105/N5100/N5095, the N95 delivers up to 36% overall performance improvement. Perfect for routine tasks, office work, and home entertainment, this compact mini desktop is more convenient than traditional bulky PCs.
- 8GB RAM & 256GB SSD Storage – Pre-installed with 8GB DDR4 memory and a fast 256GB M.2 2242 SSD, the G3 S mini desktop offers quicker startup, smoother multitasking, and faster file transfers. Enjoy seamless performance whether you’re working on multiple applications, browsing, or streaming content.
- Rich Interfaces & Connectivity – The G3 S mini computer comes equipped with USB 3.2 (up to 10Gbps), dual HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz), and a 3.5mm audio jack. With support for WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45 1000MbE), it connects easily with monitors, projectors, printers, office equipment, and other peripherals, making it versatile for both home and business use.
- Dual 4K Display Support – Featuring upgraded Intel UHD Graphics (up to 1000MHz), the G3 S supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding for a smooth viewing experience. With dual HDMI outputs, you can connect two 4K@60Hz displays simultaneously, enabling efficient multitasking for work and entertainment.
- GMKTEC WARRANTY - GMKtec offers a 3-year limited warranty (1 year replacement + 2 years parts replacement) for each mini PC, starting from the date of the purchase effective on all sales starting Oct. 2026. All defects due to design and workmanship are covered. With a professional after sales team always ready to attend to your needs, you can simply relax and enjoy your mini PC
Prepare Ubuntu and install Puppeteer
Check architecture and Node.js
Connect to the VPS and check its architecture:
uname -mx86_64 corresponds to x64; aarch64 corresponds to arm64. Puppeteer’s current system requirements page documents Node.js 22.12 or later; confirm the requirement against the Puppeteer version you install at Puppeteer system requirements.
Create a project with a package manager and Node.js version that meet those requirements:
mkdir puppeteer-shot && cd puppeteer-shot
npm init -y
npm install puppeteerIf your project uses ECMAScript modules, set "type": "module" in package.json, or save the script with an .mjs extension. Keep the same user account for installation and execution where practical: Puppeteer’s browser cache defaults to $HOME/.cache/puppeteer, so a browser installed under one user may not be available to a service running as another.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Rank #2
- 【Powerful AMD Core Running Performance】Adopt AMD Ryzen 5 7430U processor with 6 cores 12 threads, clock speed reach up to 4.3GHz. This mini computer delivers steady running performance to match daily office operation, daily home entertainment and light gaming usage demands, stable output without frequent stutter, fit for long time daily use.
- 【Smooth 4K Multi-screen Display Output】Built-in AMD Radeon graphics card with 1800MHz working frequency, this mini gaming pc supports 4K 60Hz video output. Equipped with HDMI, DP 1.2 and Type-C three display interfaces, users can freely combine connection ways to realize triple screen linkage, convenient for multi-task work split screen operation and high-definition video playback, improve daily operation efficiency effectively.
- 【Rich Interfaces & Stable Dual LAN Transmission】This mini pc comes with complete daily mainstream ports, including multiple USB 3.2/USB2.0 ports, audio jack, DC power port and other common interfaces. Equipped with 2.5G dual RJ45 wired network port, support fast and stable data transmission, can stably connect with monitor, projector, office equipment and household audio-visual devices, meet diversified external connection needs.
- 【Dual High-speed Wireless Connection Mode】Equipped with WiFi6 wireless network module and upgraded Bluetooth 5.3 version on this micro pc. WiFi6 brings faster network access speed and smoother network signal transmission; Bluetooth 5.3 realizes low-delay stable connection with wireless keyboard, mouse, headset, printer and other peripheral devices, optimize daily wireless using experience.
- 【Large Expandable Memory & Reliable Heat Dissipation】Configured with 16GB 3200MHz DDR4 RAM and 512GB built-in SSD, users can expand memory up to 64GB and solid state storage up to 4TB through reserved expansion slots. Compact body structure adopts aluminum alloy shell and honeycomb heat dissipation holes, speed up internal air circulation, lower operating temperature, maintain long-term stable operation and extend service life.
Install browser and operating-system dependencies
On Debian or Ubuntu, Puppeteer can install Chrome and its required OS packages in one step. The dependency installation needs root and apt privileges. Run it during provisioning or another privileged setup phase, then run the screenshot process as an unprivileged user:
sudo npx puppeteer browsers install chrome --install-depsIf you run this command from a project owned by another user, make sure the resulting browser cache is readable by the account that will launch Chrome. Do not run the production browser process as root just to work around a setup permission error.
Write and run the screenshot script
Puppeteer is headless by default, so a VPS does not need a desktop environment. Save the following as screenshot.mjs:
Rank #3
- 【AMD Ryzen 3 5300U CPU: Outperforms N150 & 3500U】 BOSGAME E5 mini PC is powered by the TSMC 7nm FinFET architecture AMD Ryzen 3 5300U processor (4 Cores, 8 Threads, up to 3.8GHz boost, 6MB total cache). Compared to low-end Intel N150 or 3500U chips which only have 4 single threads and throttle under load, the 5300U delivers over 30% faster multi-core speed. Run 30+ browser tabs, large Excel sheets, and Zoom meetings simultaneously without system lag.
- 【8GB DDR4 RAM & 256GB NVMe SSD Storage】 Installed with high-speed 8GB DDR4 dual-channel memory and a fast 256GB M.2 2280 SSD, eliminating slow boot times and application loading delays. To accommodate growing data requirements, the upgradeable hardware design features dual SODIMM slots that allow you to expand memory up to 64GB RAM, ensuring smooth operation during heavy multitasking.
- 【High-Capacity Dual M.2 SSD Storage Expansion】 Never worry about running out of space for your business files. In addition to the pre-installed 256GB system drive, the motherboard houses an extra empty internal M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe 3.0 slot. This allows you to easily add a second solid-state drive for up to an additional 2TB of storage capacity (upgrades not included) without needing to remove or reinstall the original operating system.
- 【Radeon 6-Core Graphics & Triple 4K Displays】 Integrated with official AMD Radeon Graphics (6 Graphics Cores, 1500 MHz frequency) for casual gaming, photo editing, and crisp 4K media decoding. Featuring 1x HDMI 2.0 port, 1x DisplayPort, and 1x Full-Function Type-C port, the E5 outputs true 4K@60Hz resolution to three monitors at once. This multi-screen setup eliminates constant window-switching for traders, programmers, and office workers.
- 【Dual 2.5GbE LAN Ports for Advanced Networking】 Experience fast wired network transmission speeds up to 2500Mbps without lagging or buffering. The integration of dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports (powered by Realtek RTL8125 controller) makes this compact computer an exceptional hardware choice for tech enthusiasts. Easily configure it into software routers, hardware firewalls (pfSense, OpnSense), home NAS servers, or local homelabs.
import puppeteer from 'puppeteer';
const browser = await puppeteer.launch();
try {
const page = await browser.newPage();
await page.setViewport({ width: 1280, height: 800 });
await page.goto('https://example.com', { waitUntil: 'networkidle2' });
await page.screenshot({ path: 'page.png', fullPage: true });
} finally {
await browser.close();
}Run it from the project directory:
node screenshot.mjsThe script writes page.png into the current directory. The finally block closes Chrome even if navigation or capture throws an error, which helps prevent orphaned browser processes in a long-running service.
Choose a navigation wait that fits the page
networkidle2 is a useful example, not a guarantee that every page has finished rendering. Pages with persistent connections, analytics, delayed content, or lazy-loaded elements may never reach the condition you expect. Depending on the site, use a different waitUntil option such as domcontentloaded, wait for a specific selector with page.waitForSelector(), or add a deliberate delay after navigation. For full-page captures, check that content loaded below the initial viewport before saving; some sites load images only when scrolled into view.
Use an Indian VPS for the right reason
A data center in India may reduce network distance when your screenshot worker needs to reach Indian users or data sources, provided the chosen facility is actually located appropriately. That does not establish a particular latency or speed improvement: results depend on the destination, routing, page, and provider.
Rank #4
- 【Powerful & Efficient Performance】Powered by the Intel Celeron J3355 Processor (up to 2.5GHz), this Mini PC delivers a 25% performance boost over previous generations. Pre-installed with Windows 11 Home and supporting Linux/Ubuntu, it’s the ideal micro desktop for seamless web browsing, document editing, and efficient daily office tasks.
- 【Massive Storage & Unique Expansion】Equipped with 6GB LPDDR3 RAM and 128GB onboard storage for fast boot-ups. Stand out with our dual M.2 SSD slot design (1x SATA + 1x NVMe), allowing you to easily expand storage up to 2TB without replacing the original drive. Perfect for managing large digital libraries and intensive multitasking.
- 【Stunning 4K Dual HDMI Display】Boost your productivity with Intel HD Graphics 500 and dual HDMI ports, supporting 4K @60Hz high-definition visuals. Connect two monitors simultaneously to streamline your workflow—ideal for home office setups, stock trading, or enjoying a theater-like 4K media experience.
- 【Ultra-Compact & Space-Saving Design】Measuring only 4.2x4.1x1.4 inches and weighing just 0.49 lbs, this palm-sized mini computer fits anywhere. Use the included VESA bracket to mount it behind your monitor for a zero-clutter workspace. Features a smart silent fan and heat sink system for quiet, reliable 24/7 operation.
- 【Stable Connectivity & Smart Recovery】Stay connected with Dual-Band WiFi (2.4G/5G), Bluetooth 5.0, and Gigabit Ethernet. Exclusive One-Click Restore feature (via F9 key) allows for quick system recovery in minutes. Backed by Bmax's 12-month warranty and lifetime technical support for a worry-free purchase.
Before choosing or resizing a VPS, check its current location, CPU and RAM, disk space, architecture, bandwidth, and outbound-traffic rules. The browser download is substantial, and Chrome also needs writable cache and profile paths. No universal minimum VPS size follows from Puppeteer’s documentation, so size the machine against your workload and measure it under your own pages.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshoot failed installs and captures
Puppeteer installed, but Chrome is missing
Some package-manager configurations block install scripts. If Puppeteer did not download a browser, install it explicitly:
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
npx puppeteer browsers install chromeAlternatively, allow Puppeteer’s install script according to your package manager’s policy. See the installation guide for current installation details.
Best Value
- WHY CHOOSE G3 ULTRA MINI PC PENTIUM GOLD 7505 - Choose the Intel Pentium Gold 7505 for snappier everyday responsiveness: It delivers up to 30% faster single-core performance than the Ryzen 5 3500U, making office apps and web browsing feel noticeably quicker, while its Intel UHD Graphics (48 EUs) provides 2.4x the GPU performance of the N100 & N150's 24-EU graphics, ensuring smoother 4K streaming and light photo editing.
- 16GB RAM MEMORY & 512GB STORAGE - GMKtec Nucbox G3 Ultra mini computer is prebuilt with 16GB LPDDR4 RAM at 3200 MT/s, you will enjoy a speedier experience with Built-in 512GB M.2 SATA Hard Drive. Our mini desktop pc boots up in seconds, work on multiple browser tabs, software applications and quickly transfers files. There is a primary slot and secondary expansion storage. Primary slot is M.2 2280 PCIE and secondary slot is M.2 2280 SATA.
- RICH INTERFACE - Nucbox pentium mini computer is equipped with 3* USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, up to 10Gbps/S, 1*USB 2.0, HDMI(4K@60Hz)*2, 3.5mm Audio Jack. Supports WiFi 6, and Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 2.5GbE network connectivity, Bluetooth 5.2. This Mini PC supports multiple device connection and can be used with servers, monitoring equipment, office equipment, displays, projectors, televisions, etc.
- 4K DUAL SCREEN DISPLAY - Mini desktop computer is equipped with upgraded Intel Graphics(max 1000MHz), supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding, connect the pc with a projector as a home theatre, enjoy a variety of entertainments. Two HDMI 2.0 ports allows you to multi-task efficiently on two 4K@60Hz displays.
- UPGRADED COOLING FAN - The G3 Ultra has upgraded the cooling fan to reduce fan noise and thermals. We are using an upgraded thermal paste as well to help reduce heat on the CPU.
Chrome reports missing libraries or will not launch
First install the required Ubuntu/Debian dependencies with the privileged --install-deps command shown above. If launch still fails, inspect the browser binary’s shared-library links with ldd and compare them with Puppeteer’s current Linux dependency guidance at Puppeteer troubleshooting. Common dependency categories include NSS, GTK, GBM, fontconfig, and X11 components; the exact requirements can vary with the browser and system image.
The browser cache or profile is inaccessible
Confirm that the runtime user can read the installed browser under $HOME/.cache/puppeteer and can write to its home directory and temporary/profile locations. A read-only or restricted home can prevent Chrome from creating the files it needs. Install or configure the browser cache for the same account that will run the job.
Chrome says “No usable sandbox!”
Keep Chrome sandboxing enabled where possible. Puppeteer warns against --no-sandbox because the sandbox is a security boundary for web content; it recommends that workaround only for trusted content. Diagnose permissions and the VPS’s Ubuntu configuration first. On Ubuntu 23.10 and later, an AppArmor profile can affect Chrome stable under /opt/google/chrome/chrome and block user namespaces for Puppeteer-downloaded Chrome for Testing. Check the current troubleshooting page for a remedy matching your Ubuntu release rather than applying an old workaround blindly.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsNavigation times out or the screenshot is incomplete
- If navigation waits indefinitely, the site may keep connections open; try a different navigation condition and wait for the page element your capture needs.
- If the screenshot misses delayed or below-the-fold content, wait for the relevant selector or content to appear before capturing.
- If the browser cannot save output, check that the working directory is writable and that the target path is valid.
- If the VPS runs out of space, check free disk capacity and browser-cache growth; the documented browser download figure is not a total disk-use estimate.
Or skip the browser setup
ScreenshotNeo is a screenshot API and MCP server: one GET request can return a screenshot or PDF without installing and maintaining Chrome on your VPS. For example, using cURL:
Quick Recap
curl -G "https://api.screenshotneo.com/v1/shot" -d access_key=YOUR_API_KEY --data-urlencode url=https://example.com -o shot.webpSee the ScreenshotNeo documentation for API options and formats. ScreenshotNeo removes cookie banners, newsletter popups, and chat widgets before capture; bot checks, blank pages, and failed loads are never billed. Its MCP server lets AI agents take screenshots, and the free plan includes 1,000 screenshots per month with no card; paid plans start at $5 for 3,000. Sign up for free.
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