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 reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePuppeteer is a JavaScript library for automating Chrome and Firefox: it can open pages, interact with controls, inspect content, and save screenshots or PDFs. This guide walks through installation, a first browser workflow, useful outputs, version compatibility, and when Puppeteer or Selenium is a better fit.
What Puppeteer does
Puppeteer provides a JavaScript API for controlling browsers through the Chrome DevTools Protocol (CDP) or WebDriver BiDi. It launches headless by default, but can also run a visible browser. Common uses include form submission, UI testing, keyboard input, performance tracing, Chrome extension testing, and crawling single-page applications to generate pre-rendered content. See the official Puppeteer guide for the current overview.
Puppeteer’s browser support changes alongside releases. Its current documentation describes Chrome and Firefox automation, with Chrome using CDP by default and also supporting WebDriver BiDi; Firefox uses WebDriver BiDi by default. Check the project’s supported-browser mapping for the Puppeteer release you install rather than assuming any locally installed browser will match.
Choose and install the right package
Use puppeteer for the usual local setup: its installation downloads a compatible Chrome build. Choose puppeteer-core when you will supply or connect to a browser yourself, such as a managed or remote browser. The core package does not download a browser, so you must explicitly configure which browser executable or connection to use.
#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.
npm install puppeteer
For a self-managed or remote-browser setup:
npm install puppeteer-core
Package managers sometimes block installation scripts. If Puppeteer installs but cannot find its bundled Chrome, run the documented browser installation command:
npx puppeteer browsers install
Alternatively, allow the Puppeteer install script in your package manager’s configuration and reinstall. For package-manager-specific settings, consult the installation guide.
Build a first browser automation
This example launches the downloaded Chrome, visits a page, sets a viewport, uses a locator to interact with a search box, reads the resulting title, and closes the browser even if an earlier step fails. Save it as first-run.mjs and run node first-run.mjs from the project directory.
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://www.google.com', { waitUntil: 'domcontentloaded' });
const search = page.locator('textarea[name="q"]');
await search.fill('Puppeteer browser automation');
await search.click();
await page.keyboard.press('Enter');
await page.locator('#search').wait();
console.log(await page.title());
} finally {
await browser.close();
}
The selectors in a live site can change, and search results may vary by locale, login state, or page changes. For your own application, prefer stable selectors you control, such as accessible labels or test IDs, rather than relying on fragile layout-specific CSS. Puppeteer’s locator API provides methods for locating and interacting with elements.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesRank #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.
Run a visible browser while debugging
Headless mode is the default. To see the browser window and watch the automation, launch with headless: false:
const browser = await puppeteer.launch({ headless: false });
Use the same navigation and interaction code after launch. Close the browser when the script is done, as in the example, so the process does not leave browser processes running.
Use a specific browser with puppeteer-core
Because puppeteer-core does not fetch Chrome, launch configuration must point to a browser you manage, or connect to a browser endpoint. Browser and Puppeteer versions need to be compatible. Use the project’s version mapping and the configuration options documented for browser configuration; do not assume the system’s latest Chrome automatically matches the installed Puppeteer release.
Capture a screenshot or PDF
Save a screenshot
After navigation, call page.screenshot(). This runnable variation saves a full-page PNG:
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.
import puppeteer from 'puppeteer';
const browser = await puppeteer.launch();
try {
const page = await browser.newPage();
await page.goto('https://example.com', { waitUntil: 'networkidle2' });
await page.screenshot({ path: 'page.png', fullPage: true });
} finally {
await browser.close();
}
For a viewport-only image, omit fullPage or set it to false. Screenshot options, including output formats and image settings, are listed in the screenshot API reference.
Save a PDF
page.pdf() creates a PDF using the print CSS media type by default. If the page’s screen styling is what you need, emulate screen media before generating it:
await page.emulateMediaType('screen');
await page.pdf({ path: 'page.pdf', format: 'A4' });
See the PDF API reference for page format and other options. A page designed for screen display may paginate differently in print mode, so choose the media type deliberately.
Keep browser and Puppeteer versions compatible
Puppeteer releases are paired with browser versions to maintain protocol compatibility. The project’s supported-browser table maps Puppeteer versions to Chrome for Testing and Firefox versions. Puppeteer has used Chrome for Testing beginning with v20.0.0 and stable Firefox beginning with v23.0.0. Those milestones do not mean every browser release works with every Puppeteer version; consult the live mapping when upgrading or selecting a browser.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Rank #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
If the exact Puppeteer version you need is not listed in the mapping, the project advises using the browser version mapped to the immediately prior Puppeteer release. Treat that as a documented fallback, not a guarantee for unrelated browser builds. The Puppeteer FAQ explains the project’s version pairing and protocol compatibility rationale.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshoot common setup and automation failures
“Could not find Chrome” or browser executable missing
The package install script may have been blocked, or you installed puppeteer-core without configuring a browser. For the standard package, run npx puppeteer browsers install or permit the install script. With puppeteer-core, configure a compatible managed browser or connect to the remote browser you intend to use.
Browser launches but navigation or commands fail
Check that the Puppeteer version and browser version are a supported pair. A system browser that updated independently may no longer match the version expected by Puppeteer. Compare versions with the official supported-browser table and install a mapped browser build or align the Puppeteer version.
Locator cannot find an element
The page may not have rendered the target yet, the selector may be stale, or the element may be inside a frame. Wait for the relevant state with a locator or an explicit selector wait, then confirm the selector against the current page markup. For controls in an iframe, select the frame before locating its contents; the API reference covers page and frame operations.
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.
Script hangs waiting for a page to finish
Modern pages may keep network connections open for analytics, streaming, or other background work. A wait condition that expects complete network quiet can therefore wait longer than expected. Choose a navigation condition appropriate to the task, such as domcontentloaded, and separately wait for the specific element or result your automation needs.
Puppeteer or Selenium?
Both projects contribute to WebDriver BiDi, and both can be used for browser automation. The practical distinction supported by their documentation is scope: Puppeteer is a JavaScript browser-control library with CDP and BiDi paths, while Selenium offers more language bindings and orchestration tooling such as Selenium Grid. Choose based on your application language, required browser/protocol setup, and whether you need distributed test orchestration—not on an unsupported blanket claim that one is always faster or more reliable. The Puppeteer project discusses the comparison in its FAQ.
Or skip the browser setup
If your goal is a screenshot or PDF rather than interactive browser automation, ScreenshotNeo offers a website screenshot API and MCP server for developers. One GET request can return an image or PDF; its clean-shot steps accept cookie and consent banners before capture and remove more than 60 known consent platforms, newsletter popups, and chat widgets, with each step configurable. Bot checks, blank pages, failed loads, timeouts, and cache hits are not billed, and response headers report page verdict and billing status. Its MCP server provides take_screenshot, get_page_info, and capture_pdf for AI agents and MCP clients.
Install the Python requests package with pip install requests, then run:
import requests
r = requests.get(
"https://api.screenshotneo.com/v1/shot",
params={"access_key": "YOUR_API_KEY", "url": "https://stripe.com"},
timeout=90,
)
r.raise_for_status()
open("shot.webp", "wb").write(r.content)
See the ScreenshotNeo API documentation for API details. The free plan includes 1,000 shots a month without a card; paid plans start at $5 for 3,000. Sign up for the free plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Puppeteer support WebDriver BiDi?
Yes. Chrome automation uses CDP by default and can also use WebDriver BiDi; Firefox automation uses WebDriver BiDi by default. The project says it will continue supporting Chrome automation with CDP.
Is Puppeteer a replacement for Selenium?
Not in every setup. Puppeteer is a JavaScript browser-control library; Selenium offers more language bindings and orchestration tools such as Selenium Grid. Choose according to language, browser/protocol needs, and orchestration requirements.
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.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.

