You can run Loki on a Linux server to capture and compare Storybook stories, but it is not a general-purpose tool for taking screenshots of arbitrary websites. Install Loki in your Node project, start Storybook separately, create reference images with yarn loki update, then compare future captures with yarn loki test. Loki recommends running Chrome in Docker; the project documentation does not establish an India-specific VPS price or minimum server size, so test your workload and compare it with CI before choosing a host.
What Loki captures—and what it does not
This guide refers to oblador/loki, a visual regression testing tool for Storybook. It captures component stories, compares them with stored reference images, and produces differences for review. It does not automatically crawl or screenshot arbitrary live websites, and it does not start your Storybook server for you.
If your goal is scheduled screenshots of public web pages rather than visual tests of your own Storybook components, use a website screenshot service instead. ScreenshotNeo is a website screenshot API and MCP server: a single request can return a screenshot or PDF, with options that include removing common consent banners and popups.
What you need before installing Loki
- A Node project containing the Storybook setup and stories you want to test.
- Node 16 or later, as stated in Loki’s getting-started documentation.
- A Linux host where you can run the selected browser target. For the recommended Docker target, verify that Docker is installed and usable by the account that runs Loki.
- A way to start Storybook and keep it reachable while Loki runs, whether on the same host or through your project’s established workflow.
Loki’s getting-started documentation was last updated August 27, 2024. The npm listing surfaced version 0.35.1 and described it as published two years before its crawl. Check the installed package’s compatibility with your current Node, Storybook, Chrome, and Docker versions before adopting it.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchInstall Loki and create the first reference images
- Install the development dependency. From the project directory, run
yarn add loki --dev. - Initialize Loki. Run
yarn loki initand review the configuration it creates or updates. - Start Storybook separately. Use the command and port configured by your project. Loki needs Storybook to be available; it does not launch it itself.
- Create the baseline. With Storybook running and accessible, run
yarn loki update. This captures the stories as reference images for later comparisons. - Inspect and commit the baseline. Review the generated images and add the approved references to version control alongside the code. Confirm the actual output location from your installed Loki version; the documentation describes different default paths in different places.
Run these commands in the same project environment that contains your Storybook configuration and stories. If you use a package manager other than Yarn, adapt the dependency installation and script invocation to your project’s setup; the documented examples here use Yarn.
#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 1-year limited GMKtec's warranty for each mini PC, starting from the date of the purchase. 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.
Run visual comparisons after changes
After editing components or stories, start the same Storybook build or server and run yarn loki test. Loki captures the stories again and compares the results with the references. Review the current captures and difference images before treating a failed comparison as a regression.
- If a difference is unintended, fix the component or test environment and rerun the comparison.
- If the visual change is intentional, approve the failed tests or update the references, inspect the new images, and commit the changed references with the code.
The CLI reference lists ./.loki/reference, ./.loki/current, and ./.loki/difference as default paths; the getting-started guide describes paths under loki/ without the leading dot for current and difference images. Because the documentation differs, use the paths printed or created by your installed package rather than assuming one layout.
Choose a Linux execution target
Loki documents three Chrome targets: Chrome in Docker, which the project recommends; Chrome in AWS Lambda; and a local Chrome application. Its configuration guide exposes chrome.docker and chrome.aws-lambda targets, along with viewport dimensions and presets. For a Linux server you control, Docker is the most directly relevant documented option, provided the host supports the required container setup.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Docker on a VPS
Use the Docker target when you want a repeatable browser environment on a host you manage. Check Docker permissions and browser dependencies for your Linux distribution, then run your Storybook workload on the actual machine. Loki documentation lists a Docker image default and a Chrome concurrency default of four; these are version-sensitive configuration details, not a guarantee that a small VPS can sustain that setting. Reduce concurrency if the host runs short on memory or CPU, and confirm the option names against the installed version’s configuration documentation.
Local Chrome or AWS Lambda
Local Chrome can avoid a Docker container but ties runs to Chrome installed and maintained on the host. AWS Lambda is another documented target, but it is not the same as running Chrome on your own VPS. Check the current Loki configuration guide and the target’s requirements before choosing; available targets alone do not establish which one is cheaper or faster for your project.
Decide whether a VPS or CI fits your workload
Loki’s CI guide describes building a static Storybook and running Loki with --requireReference. That is a supported alternative to keeping a dedicated server available. A VPS gives you a host to configure and maintain; CI requires pipeline configuration and is subject to the chosen service’s current usage terms. The available project documentation does not compare CI pricing with VPS prices in India.
Rank #2
- High-Performance NAS with Powerful Procesor: Intel Core 5 320 is ideal for small offices, & More. You can enjoy smooth performance and seamless collaboration, while making use of advanced features like Docker and virtual machines. It works semalessly across every device inluding Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android or Google services and so on.
- Better Way to Store Than External Drives: NAS offers centralized storage, automatic backups, remote access, and a wide range of RAID options for easy data recovery even if a drive fails. Massive Storage Capacity: Never worry about storage limits again. With up 144TB capacity, you can store 50 million 1MB photos or 98K 1.5GB movies，5 million 30MB songs! *Hard Drives not included.
- Secure Private Cloud: Retain 100% data ownership with advanced encryption to protect your files. Flexible permission management makes it easy to protect your privacy when collaborating with others.
- AI-Powered Photo Album: Automatically organizes your photos by recognizing faces, scenes, objects, and locations. It can also instantly remove duplicates, freeing up storage space and saving you time.
- User-Friendly App: Simple setup and easy file-sharing on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, web browsers, and smart TVs, giving you secure access from any device.
Before selecting an India-region host, check its current price, region, resource limits, bandwidth, and Docker support. Then run your real Storybook workload and observe whether your chosen concurrency and browser setup complete reliably. Do not infer a monthly cost, minimum RAM requirement, capture speed, or savings percentage from Loki’s target documentation; it publishes no India-specific host comparison or benchmark.
Troubleshooting common Loki problems
Loki cannot connect to Storybook
Cause: Storybook is not running, is listening on a different address or port, or is not reachable from the environment where Loki runs. Loki does not start it automatically.
Fix: Start Storybook first, verify the configured URL and port, and ensure the browser container or Lambda target can reach that address. In a container, do not assume that localhost refers to the host machine.
Chrome or Docker fails to launch
Cause: Docker may be unavailable to the running user, required browser dependencies may be missing, or the selected target may not match the configuration.
Fix: Confirm Docker is installed and accessible to the process running Loki, inspect the error output for missing dependencies, and check that the configured Chrome target matches the environment. Verify current target settings against the installed Loki version.
Runs fail or slow down on a small server
Cause: Multiple browser workers can compete for limited CPU or memory. Loki’s documented default concurrency is not a sizing recommendation for every VPS.
Rank #3
- ✅ Next-Gen AI Mini PC with Linux Mint – Open Source Meets Power: ASUS NUC 14 Pro delivers cutting-edge performance with the latest Intel Core Ultra 7 155H (16C/22T) processor and Linux Mint pre-installed for a secure, open-source environment. Ideal for developers, AI researchers, and power users, this mini desktop combines efficiency and flexibility with Intel Arc graphics for stunning visuals and AI acceleration.
- ✅ Linux Mint for Developers, Creators & Businesses: Enjoy a lightweight, stable, and privacy-focused operating system that’s easy to use and developer-friendly. Linux Mint ensures a clutter-free experience without unnecessary bloatware, offering powerful open-source tools for programming, virtualization, and cloud-native development. This linux mint mini pc is perfect for professionals seeking freedom and security.
- ✅ Scalable Memory & Blazing-Fast Storage: With configurations from 16GB to 64GB DDR5 RAM (expandable up to 96GB) and 512GB–2TB M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 x4 SSD, this Linux Mint ASUS NUC handles heavy workloads effortlessly. Optional SATA HDD (sold separately) support gives you extra storage for large projects, making it ideal for coding, AI model training, and big data processing without performance bottlenecks.
- ✅ Advanced Cooling for 24/7 Operation: ASUS NUC 14 Pro is engineered for silent and efficient cooling. The aluminum fin design, dual copper heat pipes, and optimized airflow system keep your mini PC cool during intense workloads. Perfect for running Linux-based servers, development environments, or AI inference tasks 24/7 without overheating.
- ✅ Ultimate Connectivity & Multi-Display Support: Packed with versatile ports—USB 3.2 Gen2 x 2 Type C, USB 3.2 Gen2 Type A, HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt 4 & 2.5G Gigabit Ethernet—this Linux Mint mini desktop supports 8K or up to four 4K HDR displays, enabling seamless multitasking. With WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, it’s ideal for developers, creative professionals, and home offices. VESA mount-ready for space-saving setups. Plus, enjoy a free $99 wireless keyboard and mouse bundle to boost your workflow.
Fix: Lower Chrome concurrency and rerun the same suite. If resource pressure remains, compare a larger host or a CI run rather than assuming a particular server size will work.
Tests report differences after a harmless environment change
Cause: A baseline comparison is sensitive to changes in the captured rendering environment as well as to code changes. The cited Loki documentation does not prescribe a universal environment-pinning setup.
Fix: Keep the browser target, Storybook build, viewport, and relevant runtime configuration consistent between baseline creation and comparison. Inspect the images and diff before updating references.
Reference or diff files appear in unexpected directories
Cause: Loki’s getting-started and CLI documentation describe different default path spellings.
Fix: Check the installed package’s output and configuration, then use those actual paths in your review and version-control workflow.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or skip the browser setup
For arbitrary website screenshots rather than Storybook regression tests, ScreenshotNeo provides a one-call API. This cURL request saves a WebP screenshot of the target page; see the ScreenshotNeo API documentation for request options.
Rank #4
- Built for Local AI Development: AMD Ryzen AI Halo is designed for local AI development and inference, featuring 128GB unified memory and support for up to 200B parameter models to build and run intensive AI workloads locally.
- 128GB Unified Memory: Features 128GB LPDDR5x unified memory at 8000 MT/s with 256 GB/s memory bandwidth, providing a shared memory pool across the CPU, GPU, and NPU to support larger AI models.
- AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Processor: Features 16 cores, 32 threads, and Zen 5 architecture, paired with AMD Radeon 8060S integrated graphics featuring 40 RDNA 3.5 compute units and an AMD XDNA 2 NPU with up to 50 TOPS.
- Linux AI Developer Platform: Purpose-built for Linux-based AI development with full AMD ROCm software support and preloaded tools, models, and workflows optimized for local AI development.
- Compact, Connected Design: Includes a 2TB M.2 SSD, 10GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C connectivity, and HDMI 2.1b.
curl -G "https://api.screenshotneo.com/v1/shot" -d access_key=YOUR_API_KEY --data-urlencode url=https://stripe.com -o shot.webp
ScreenshotNeo accepts common cookie or consent banners like a visitor and removes more than 60 known consent platforms, newsletter popups, and chat widgets before capture; those cleanup steps can be turned off. Bot checks or CAPTCHAs, blank pages, timeouts, failed loads, and cache hits are not billed, and each response indicates the page verdict and billing status. Its MCP server offers take_screenshot, get_page_info, and capture_pdf for AI agents. The free plan includes 1,000 screenshots per month with no card; paid plans start at $5 for 3,000 screenshots.
Sign up for 1,000 free screenshots a month, with no card required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Loki take a screenshot of any public website?
No. This Loki is designed to capture Storybook stories for visual regression testing, not to crawl arbitrary live websites.
Does Loki start Storybook when I run its test command?
No. Start Storybook separately and make it reachable before running Loki.
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 →Is a Linux VPS in India guaranteed to be cheaper than CI?
No. Loki’s documentation establishes neither India VPS pricing nor a cost comparison with CI; compare current provider terms against your run frequency and workload.
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.
