Published
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Browser Extensions Every Developer Should Have
Introduction
Why Browser Extensions Matter
Whether you build websites, optimize performance, design UI, or debug APIs, the right browser extensions can dramatically boost your workflow.
Whether you’re a developer, student, or just someone who wants to save time, Here’s a curated list of the best developer-friendly browser extensions you should have.
1. React Developer Tools
Perfect for anyone working with React or Next.js.
What it does:
- Inspect components
- View props / state
- Debug renders
- Track performance
Download React Developer Tools
2. Wappalyzer
Quickly detect technologies on any website.
Identifies:
- Frameworks (Next.js, React, Laravel, Django)
- CDNs
- Payment processors
- Analytics tools
Useful for competitor analysis or learning how sites are built.
Download Wappalyzer
3. CSS Peeper
A polished CSS inspector designed for designers and frontend developers.
Why it’s useful:
- Shows clean CSS rules
- Quickly extracts colors, fonts, assets
- Easier than DevTools for visual analysis
Download CSS Peeper
4. VisBug
A visual debugging tool from Google.
What it does:
- Move elements around
- Adjust spacing with drag tools
- Inspect typography, layout, margins
- Edit content directly on the page
Perfect for UI designers tweaking layouts.
Download VisBug
5. ColorZilla
A color picker for your browser.
Why devs love it:
- Sample any pixel on the page
- Save color history
- Gradient generator
Download ColorZilla
6. Clear Cache
One-click cache removal.
Why it saves time:
- Faster than Ctrl+Shift+R
- Clears specific caches
Download Clear Cache
7. WhatFont
Instantly check what font a website uses.
Useful for:
- Designers
- Branding work
- UI inspiration
Download WhatFont
8. JSON Formatter
Formats raw JSON in the browser with clean indentation and syntax highlighting.
Why it’s useful:
- Auto-detects JSON
- Makes objects collapsible
- Easier to read API responses
- Lightweight and fast
Download JSON Formatter
9. Social Share Preview
Preview how your page looks when shared on social platforms (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.).
Why it’s useful:
- Shows OG/Twitter Card previews
- Helps fix missing or wrong metadata
- Ensures thumbnails and titles display correctly
- Great for SEO and branding
Download Social Share Preview
New to extensions?
Start with these extensions:
- Wappalyzer (for tech stack research)
- React Developer Tools (if you work with React)
- Social Share Preview (for share preview)
- JSON Formatter (for any API work)
Final Thoughts
With the right tools in your browser, you can speed up development, improve accuracy, and stay more organized. A few well-chosen extensions can make everyday tasks smoother and help you deliver better work with less effort.
FAQ
Do these extensions slow down my browser?
Some can if you install too many. Stick to lightweight, reputable ones, and your browser will stay fast.
Are they safe to use?
Yes,as long as you install from official stores (Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons) and check reviews before adding