Browser extensions for developers have become essential tools in 2025 for boosting productivity, streamlining workflows, and simplifying debugging.
π§ 1. VisBug β Visual Debugging Made Easy
VisBug is a Chrome extension that empowers developers to visually edit and debug web pages in real-time. With tools like a box model inspector, spacing adjustments, and alignment guides, it simplifies the design tweaking process without delving into the code.
Key Features:
- On-page editing of elements
- Real-time CSS adjustments
- Grid and alignment tools
Why Developers Love It:
VisBug bridges the gap between design and development, allowing for rapid prototyping and immediate visual feedback.
βοΈ 2. React Developer Tools β Essential Browser Extension for Developers
For React developers, this extension is a must-have. It integrates seamlessly with Chrome DevTools, enabling inspection of React component hierarchies, props, state, and more.
Key Features:
- Component tree visualization
- Props and state inspection
- Performance profiling
Why Developers Love It:
It simplifies debugging and enhances understanding of component structures, making React development more efficient.
π Install React Developer Tools
π 3. Wappalyzer β Uncover Website Technologies
Wappalyzer is a technology profiler that reveals the technologies used on websites, including CMS, frameworks, and analytics tools. Jam
Key Features:
- Detects over 1,400 technologies
- Provides insights into competitors’ tech stacks
- Useful for research and learning
Why Developers Love It:
It offers a quick way to understand the tools and technologies behind any website, aiding in competitive analysis and learning.
π Install Wappalyzer
π§ͺ 4. Postman β Simplify API Testing
Postman is a powerful tool for testing APIs. While it has a standalone app, the Chrome extension allows for quick API requests and testing directly within the browser.
Key Features:
- Send HTTP requests
- Organize requests into collections
- Automate testing with scripts
Why Developers Love It:
It streamlines the process of developing and testing APIs, saving time and reducing errors.
π Install Postman
π 5. Dark Reader β Eye-Friendly Browsing
Dark Reader applies a dark theme to websites, reducing eye strain during long coding sessions.
Key Features:
- Dark mode for all websites
- Adjust brightness and contrast
- Supports dynamic themes
Why Developers Love It:
It provides a comfortable viewing experience, especially in low-light environments, making it easier to work for extended periods.
π Install Dark Reader
π§° 6. Web Developer β Comprehensive Web Tools
The Web Developer extension adds a toolbar with various web development tools, including options to disable scripts, inspect CSS, and resize the browser window.
Key Features:
- Inspect and edit CSS
- Validate HTML
- Manage cookies and scriptsJam+1Medium+1
Why Developers Love It:
It consolidates essential tools into one extension, enhancing productivity and simplifying tasks.
π 7. JSONView β Enhanced JSON Viewing
JSONView formats JSON data in your browser, making it easier to read and debug API responses.
Key Features:
- Syntax highlighting
- Collapsible trees
- Error detection
Why Developers Love It:
It simplifies the process of viewing and debugging JSON data, which is essential when working with APIs.
π Install JSONView
πΈ 8. GoFullPage β Full-Page Screenshots
GoFullPage allows you to capture full-page screenshots with a single click, capturing everything from the header to the footer in one image.
Key Features:
- Capture entire web pages
- Save as PNG or PDF
- No additional permissions required
Why Developers Love It:
It simplifies the process of capturing full-page screenshots, which is useful for documentation and sharing.
π Install GoFullPage
π§ 9. Daily.dev β Stay Updated with Developer News
Daily.dev offers a curated feed of the best developer content from hundreds of sources, all delivered directly to your Chrome homepage.
Key Features:
- Personalized tech news feed
- Wide range of sources
- Easy access to tutorials and articles
Why Developers Love It:
It keeps developers informed about the latest trends, tools, and best practices without leaving the browser.
π Install Daily.dev
𧩠10. Octotree β GitHub Code Tree Navigation
Octotree enhances GitHub by adding a file tree sidebar, making it easier to navigate large repositories.
Key Features:
- IDE-like code tree
- Quick file search
- Supports private repositories
Why Developers Love It:
It streamlines code browsing on GitHub, saving time and improving productivity.
π Install Octotree
π§ Final Thoughts
Integrating these browser extensions into your development workflow can significantly enhance your productivity and efficiency. They offer tools for debugging, testing, and managing your projects more effectively. Remember to choose extensions that align with your specific needs and development environment.
Feel free to share your favorite extensions or any new tools you discover that help boost your productivity!
