Use puppeteer-core when you want to manage the browser yourself or connect to one that is already running. Unlike the puppeteer package, it does not download Chrome during installation or choose a browser for you: for a local launch, supply an executable path or browser channel; for a remote browser, supply its WebSocket endpoint.
What Puppeteer Core does—and when to choose it
Puppeteer provides a JavaScript API for controlling browsers: launch or connect to a browser, create pages, navigate, interact with elements, inspect results, and clean up. Puppeteer Core is the library-only package. Choose it when your application or deployment environment controls browser installation, or when automation attaches to an existing remote browser. If you want Puppeteer to download and manage its browser setup, the regular puppeteer package may be more convenient. See the Puppeteer installation guide.
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| Choice | Browser setup | Good fit |
|---|---|---|
puppeteer |
Installs Puppeteer’s managed browser as part of its setup. | You want the standard managed installation and do not need to provision the browser independently. |
puppeteer-core |
You supply a compatible browser executable, channel, or existing browser endpoint. | You manage browser binaries yourself or connect to a browser running elsewhere. |
Puppeteer’s documentation version 25.12.0 says Core works best with its matching Chrome for Testing build and does not guarantee compatibility with other browser versions. A system-installed Chrome can be used, but choosing a non-bundled browser puts compatibility responsibility on you. Check the current LaunchOptions reference and supported browsers before pinning a production setup.
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The Puppeteer documentation version 25.12.0 lists Node.js 22.12 or newer, and TypeScript 5.0.1 or newer if you use TypeScript. Check the current system requirements for supported operating systems and architectures. Chrome for Testing support varies by platform; Linux installations may also require system packages and archive extraction utilities.
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- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- Auto-Light Balance: RightLight boosts brightness by up to 50%, reducing shadows so you look your best—compared to previous-generation Logitech webcams (1)
- Privacy with a Slide: The integrated webcam cover makes it easy to get total, reliable privacy when you're not on a video call
- Built-In Mic: The built-in microphone lets others hear you clearly during video calls
- Easy Plug-And-Play: The Brio 101 works with most video calling platforms, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Google Meet—no hassle; it just works
Install Core with your project’s package manager. For npm:
npm install puppeteer-coreThis installs the library, not Chrome. You must provision a browser separately before using launch(). Puppeteer’s browser management documentation describes the @puppeteer/browsers CLI and programmatic options for installing stable or specific Chrome for Testing builds, listing builds, and managing its cache. Its Debian/Ubuntu dependency-install option requires root privileges.
Launch a locally managed browser
For a local browser process, set executablePath to the browser binary you installed, or use channel to select an installed browser channel. One of those options is required for puppeteer-core launches. Replace the sample path below with the real path on the machine running the script.
import puppeteer from 'puppeteer-core';
const browser = await puppeteer.launch({
executablePath: '/path/to/chrome',
headless: true,
});
try {
const page = await browser.newPage();
await page.setViewport({ width: 1280, height: 800 });
await page.goto('https://example.com', { waitUntil: 'domcontentloaded' });
const title = await page.title();
console.log(title);
} finally {
await browser.close();
}Save this as an ES module, for example capture.mjs, and run it with node capture.mjs. The path is environment-specific: a binary path from macOS will not work on Linux, and a container must have both the browser and any required system libraries available inside that container.
Rank #2
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- Crisp HD 720p/30 fps video calls with diagonal 55° field of view and auto light correction. Compatible with popular platforms including Skype and Zoom.
- The built-in noise-reducing mic makes sure your voice comes across clearly up to 1.5 meters away, even if you’re in busy surroundings.
- C270’s RightLight 2 feature adjusts to lighting conditions, producing brighter, contrasted images to help you look good in all your conference calls.
- The adjustable universal clip lets you attach the camera securely to your screen or laptop, or fold the clip and set the webcam on a shelf. You’re always ready for your next video call.
Selecting the browser
executablePath: identifies a specific installed browser binary. This is useful when deployment configuration pins the browser location.channel: selects an installed browser channel, such as stable Chrome. The channel must exist in the execution environment.- Headless mode: LaunchOptions documents
headless: trueas the default; set it explicitly when you want the script’s intent to be clear. The value'shell'selects the old headless shell. - Other launch controls: LaunchOptions also documents arguments, environment variables, user-data directories, and startup timeout. Use only options that your deployment needs, and consult the reference for current names and behavior.
Connect to a browser that is already running
If another process or service owns the browser, connect with its WebSocket endpoint instead of launching a new local process. Obtain the endpoint from the browser owner; the example uses a placeholder and cannot connect until you replace it with a valid endpoint.
import puppeteer from 'puppeteer-core';
const browser = await puppeteer.connect({
browserWSEndpoint: 'ws://127.0.0.1:9222/devtools/browser/REPLACE_WITH_REAL_ID',
});
try {
const page = await browser.newPage();
await page.goto('https://example.com', { waitUntil: 'domcontentloaded' });
console.log(await page.title());
} finally {
await browser.disconnect();
}connect() attaches to the browser identified by the WebSocket endpoint; it does not provision or launch that browser for you. Treat the endpoint as a credential-like access path: use an endpoint supplied by the browser owner and do not expose it publicly. Puppeteer’s browser management guide covers connection and lifecycle behavior. The guide is marked Next, so verify lifecycle details against the current stable documentation for your release.
Puppeteer also documents a browser-side puppeteer-core entry point for controlling a separate browser from within a browser. That bundle can connect using a valid WebSocket endpoint, but it cannot launch or download browsers because those operations depend on Node.js APIs. See Browser-in-Browser.
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Understand pages, contexts, and cleanup
The basic unit of work is browser, page, navigation, interaction, and cleanup. After creating a page, navigate with page.goto(), then use Puppeteer’s page and locator APIs to read content or interact with controls. The official getting started guide shows this workflow, including viewport changes and page interaction.
Rank #3
- 【Full HD 1080P Webcam】Powered by a 1080p FHD two-MP CMOS, the NexiGo N60 Webcam produces exceptionally sharp and clear videos at resolutions up to 1920 x 1080 with 30fps. The 3.6mm glass lens provides a crisp image at fixed distances and is optimized between 19.6 inches to 13 feet, making it ideal for almost any indoor use.
- 【Wide Compatibility】Works with USB 2.0/3.0, no additional drivers required. Ready to use in approximately one minute or less on any compatible device. Compatible with Mac OS X 10.7 and higher / Windows 7, 8, 10 & 11 / Android 4.0 or higher / Linux 2.6.24 / Chrome OS 29.0.1547 / Ubuntu Version 10.04 or above. Not compatible with XBOX/PS4/PS5.
- 【Built-in Noise-Cancelling Microphone】The built-in noise-canceling microphone reduces ambient noise to enhance the sound quality of your video. Great for Zoom / Facetime / Video Calling / OBS / Twitch / Facebook / YouTube / Conferencing / Gaming / Streaming / Recording / Online School.
- 【USB Webcam with Privacy Protection Cover】The privacy cover blocks the lens when the webcam is not in use. It's perfect to help provide security and peace of mind to anyone, from individuals to large companies. 【Note:】Please contact our support for firmware update if you have noticed any audio delays.
- 【Wide Compatibility】Works with USB 2.0/3.0, no additional drivers required. Ready to use in approximately one minute or less on any compatible device. Compatible with Mac OS X 10.7 and higher / Windows 7, 10 & 11, Pro / Android 4.0 or higher / Linux 2.6.24 / Chrome OS 29.0.1547 / Ubuntu Version 10.04 or above. Not compatible with XBOX/PS4/PS5.
Use separate browser contexts when tasks should not share cookies or local storage. A context provides isolated browser state, which is useful when one automation job must not inherit another job’s sign-in or consent state.
- When your script called
launch()and owns the process, callbrowser.close()when finished; this closes the browser. - When your script called
connect()to attach to a browser managed elsewhere, callbrowser.disconnect()when finished; this detaches Puppeteer without shutting down the browser.
Keep browser versions reproducible
Pin the Puppeteer package and browser build together where repeatability matters. Installing a different Chrome build can introduce behavior or protocol compatibility drift. The @puppeteer/browsers installation options include browser, build ID, platform, and cache directory; an expected SHA-256 can also be supplied to check a downloaded archive. Custom browser providers are not officially supported, so using one shifts compatibility and maintenance work to you. See the browser management API.
Troubleshoot common failures
puppeteer-core cannot find a browser
Cause: Core does not download Chrome, and a local launch() needs a browser selected explicitly. Fix: install a compatible browser and pass its real executablePath or an installed channel. Confirm that the path exists in the same environment where Node runs.
Launch fails with a missing executable or shared library
Cause: the configured path is wrong, the browser was not installed in the runtime image, or the operating system lacks a required dependency. Fix: verify the binary path and platform, then install the documented system dependencies for that environment. On Debian or Ubuntu, Puppeteer’s browser tooling documents a dependency installation option that requires root privileges.
Rank #4
- 1080P Webcam with Cover for Video Calls - EMEET computer webcam provides design and Optimization for professional video streaming. Realistic 1920 x 1080p video, 5-layer anti-glare lens, providing smooth video. C960 computer camera delivers 1920x1080 video with fixed focus (11.8–118.1 inches), so as to provide a clearer image. C960 USB webcam has a cover and can be removed automatically to meet your needs for privacy. For optimal image performance, use the webcam in a well-lit environment.
- Built-in 2 Omnidirectional Mics - EMEET webcam with microphone for desktop features 2 built-in omnidirectional microphones, picking up your voice to create clear audio for communication. When installing the webcam, select EMEET C960 as the default microphone input device in your computer and video applications and select C960 as the default device in Zoom/Teams and ensure microphone permissions are enabled for proper use. Please note that C960 does not include built-in speakers.
- Automatic Light Adjustment - Automatic exposure adjustment is applied in EMEET HD webcam 1080p so that the streaming webcam can deliver stable image performance. EMEET C960 camera for computer also features color adjustment and exposure optimization to help you look your best. For optimal video quality, it is recommended to use the webcam in normal or well-lit environments and select suitable video settings in your application. Proper lighting helps achieve a clearer and more balanced image.
- Plug-and-Play & Upgraded USB Connectivity - New C960 webcam features both USB Type-A & A-to-C adapter connections for wider compatibility. For stable performance, connect the webcam directly to the computer's main USB port and ensure the device is recognized correctly. If a hub or docking station is used, please ensure it provides sufficient power and stable data transmission, as limited ports may affect performance. 90° wide-angle lens captures more participants without frequent adjustments.
- High Compatibility & Multi Application - C960 webcam for laptop is compatible with Windows 10/11, macOS 10.14+, and Android TV 7.0+. Not supported: Windows Hello, TVs, tablets, or game consoles. It works with Zoom, Teams, Facetime, Google Meet, YouTube and more. Please select C960 webcam as the default camera and microphone device in your application and ensure camera/microphone permissions are enabled, especially on macOS. (Tips: Incompatible with Windows Hello)
The browser launches but automation behaves inconsistently
Cause: the browser version may not match the Puppeteer release. Puppeteer does not guarantee compatibility with arbitrary browser versions. Fix: use the matching Chrome for Testing build when practical, and pin both versions for repeatable deployments.
connect() rejects the endpoint
Cause: the value is not a valid, reachable browser WebSocket endpoint, or the remote browser is not accepting connections. Fix: request the current endpoint from the process or service that owns the browser, verify network access from the Node process, and use connect() rather than launch() for an already-running browser.
Automation cannot access a page from a browser-side bundle
Cause: browser-side Puppeteer Core cannot launch a browser or download one; those operations require Node.js APIs. Fix: use it only to connect to a separate browser through a valid WebSocket endpoint, or run the automation in Node.js.
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Best Value
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- HD lighting adjustment and autofocus: The Logitech webcam automatically fine-tunes the lighting, producing bright, razor-sharp images even in low-light settings. This makes it a great webcam for streaming and an ideal web camera for laptop use
- Advanced capture software: Easily create and share video content with this Logitech camera that is suitable for use as a desktop computer camera or a monitor webcam
- Stereo audio with dual mics: Capture natural sound during calls and recorded videos with this 1080p webcam, great as a video conference camera or a computer webcam
- Full HD 1080p video calling and recording at 30 fps. You'll make a strong impression with this PC webcam that features crisp, clearly detailed, and vibrantly colored video
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Puppeteer Core require an executable path or channel?
Because Core does not install a browser or assume which browser binary to use. A local launch must identify the browser explicitly; connecting to an existing browser instead uses its WebSocket endpoint.
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It can be configured to use a custom executable or installed channel, but Puppeteer says compatibility with browsers other than its matching Chrome for Testing build is not guaranteed.
Should I use Puppeteer Core or Puppeteer?
Use Core when you manage browser installation or connect to an existing browser. Use the regular Puppeteer package when you want Puppeteer’s managed browser installation.
Quick Recap
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