What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Puppeteer’s default provider is the fallback source used to obtain a browser binary; it is not the setting that chooses which browser Puppeteer uses. The defaultBrowser setting currently selects Chrome by default, while the @puppeteer/browsers install API adds its default provider as the final fallback after any custom providers.
Browser selection and the default provider are different settings
There are two separate decisions to make:
- Which browser should Puppeteer use? The
defaultBrowserconfiguration property selects the browser. It currently defaults tochrome, and can also be set with thePUPPETEER_BROWSERenvironment variable. - Where should an install operation get a browser binary? The provider in the
@puppeteer/browsersinstall API is the download-source implementation. If you supply custom providers, Puppeteer tries them in order and adds its default provider as the final fallback.
Changing defaultBrowser changes browser selection; it does not replace or reorder the install API’s provider chain. Puppeteer’s InstallOptions documentation says, “The default provider is automatically added as the final fallback.”
What browser does Puppeteer install by default?
Puppeteer downloads and uses a specific browser version so its API is paired with a browser it is designed to work with. Its managed Chrome distribution is Chrome for Testing. Starting with Puppeteer v20, Chrome for Testing replaced Chromium as the downloaded and supported Chrome build.
Browser versions change with Puppeteer releases, so do not copy a browser version number from an older guide or pin an unrelated Chrome build without checking compatibility. The current supported-browser documentation should be checked for the exact Puppeteer release installed in your project.
#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.
Configure the browser Puppeteer uses
Set a configuration option
Use Puppeteer’s configuration file when you want a project-level setting. The defaultBrowser option selects the browser; the default is chrome. Configuration files are read by the puppeteer package, but not by puppeteer-core.
Set the environment variable
Set PUPPETEER_BROWSER to override the browser selection through the environment. Environment values override applicable configuration-file options. This is useful when CI and local development need different settings without changing the project file.
Use an explicit executable path
If you already manage the browser binary yourself, supply its executable path when launching Puppeteer. This is separate from choosing an install provider: an explicit executable path directs Puppeteer to a binary you provide rather than relying on its managed installation. With puppeteer-core, configure the browser and launch environment directly because Puppeteer configuration files and environment variables are ignored.
Manage browser downloads and cache separately
Browser selection does not by itself determine whether installation scripts download a browser, which browser-specific download options apply, or where the binary is cached. Puppeteer’s configuration guide documents skipDownload, browser-specific configuration, and the default cache location ~/.cache/puppeteer beginning with v19.0.0.
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.
When you change browser-download options, apply them with the documented browser install command:
npx puppeteer browsers install
Some package managers block install scripts, which can prevent an automatic browser download. In that case, install the browser deliberately with the command above or arrange your own binary and executable path.
Should you use a custom provider?
Use the default provider when you want Puppeteer’s documented compatibility path. Custom providers are optional, but Puppeteer explicitly does not officially support them. Puppeteer tests and guarantees compatibility for default binaries, not custom-provider binaries.
| Choice | Control | Compatibility responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Default provider | Uses Puppeteer’s default browser download source. | Puppeteer tests and guarantees compatibility for default binaries. |
| Custom provider chain | Lets you choose additional download sources and their order; the default provider remains the final fallback. | You own compatibility, archive compatibility, feature integration, installed-binary testing, and consistent versions across platforms. |
A custom provider is most appropriate when you have a concrete need to control the source or build and can take responsibility for validating every target environment. Check that the provider’s archive format and binary work with your Puppeteer version, verify the installed binary actually launches, and keep builds consistent across platforms. Custom providers are not an equivalent supported replacement for the default path.
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.
Browser lifecycle is independent of the provider
The provider concerns obtaining a browser binary. Once you have a browser, Puppeteer’s browser-management APIs control how you use and share it:
puppeteer.launch()starts a browser process.puppeteer.connect()connects Puppeteer to a browser that was started externally.- Browser contexts isolate tasks: they do not share cookies or local storage.
browser.close()closes the browser.browser.disconnect()disconnects Puppeteer without shutting down the browser or closing its pages.
Choose disconnect() when another process or caller still needs the running browser; choose close() when Puppeteer should end that browser process.
Troubleshooting browser setup
No browser binary is available after installation
A package manager may have blocked installation scripts, or skipDownload may be enabled. Run npx puppeteer browsers install after applying the desired configuration, or supply a deliberately managed executable path.
Puppeteer launches a different browser than expected
Check the defaultBrowser setting and PUPPETEER_BROWSER. Environment values override applicable file options. Also confirm you are using puppeteer rather than puppeteer-core; the latter ignores Puppeteer configuration files and environment variables.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
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
A custom-provider binary does not launch or behave correctly
Puppeteer does not guarantee compatibility for custom-provider binaries. Verify the archive and installed binary against the Puppeteer version, validate feature integration, and test launch in each target platform. If you need Puppeteer’s compatibility assurance, use its default provider.
A browser remains running after your task
browser.disconnect() intentionally leaves the browser process running. Call browser.close() when the process should be shut down.
Or skip the browser setup
If your goal is to capture a web page rather than automate a browser, ScreenshotNeo provides a screenshot API and MCP server. A single GET request returns an image or PDF; see the API documentation for options.
This cURL example saves a screenshot of Stripe as WebP:
Crashes, 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 minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Best 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.webp
- Cookie and consent banners, newsletter popups, and chat widgets are removed before capture; each cleanup step can be turned off.
- Bot checks, blank pages, failed loads, timeouts, and cache hits cost nothing; response headers identify the page verdict and whether the request was billed.
- An MCP server provides
take_screenshot,get_page_info, andcapture_pdftools for AI agents. - The free plan includes 1,000 screenshots per month with no card; paid plans start at $5 for 3,000.
Sign up for 1,000 free screenshots a month—no card required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Puppeteer’s default provider mean Chrome is the default browser?
No. Chrome is the current default selected by defaultBrowser; the default provider is the final fallback download source in the install API’s provider chain.
Can I use a custom browser provider with Puppeteer?
The install API accepts custom providers, but Puppeteer does not officially support them. You are responsible for compatibility and testing.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree 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.
