TL;DR
SnapDOM captures an element already rendered in the user browser. Puppeteer is best for server-side URL rendering, automation and controlled-browser screenshots.
Different tools for different execution models
| Requirement | SnapDOM | Puppeteer |
|---|---|---|
| Runs in an existing web app | Yes | Via automation |
| Needs server infrastructure | No | Usually |
| Capture arbitrary URLs | No | Yes |
| Controlled browser engine | User browser | Yes |
| Element export button | Direct | Network workflow |
Choose SnapDOM when
- The element already exists in the user’s DOM.
- The export should work client-side without uploading private UI.
- You need SVG, PNG, JPEG, WebP, Canvas or Blob from one capture.
Choose Puppeteer when
- You must render without an active user browser.
- You need navigation, authentication automation or full-page URL screenshots.
- Output must come from a controlled browser build.
This requires a Node service and Chromium, but it solves a broader automation problem.
Frequently asked questions
Can SnapDOM replace every Puppeteer screenshot?
No. It replaces client-side element capture, not remote-page rendering or browser automation.
Can both be used together?
Yes. Puppeteer can load a page that uses SnapDOM, though direct browser screenshots may be simpler in an automated workflow.
Capture it in the browser
Install SnapDOM and turn the DOM your users already see into a portable image.
Open the demoInstall from npm