When it comes to browser userscript managers, ViolentMonkey and Tampermonkey are the dominant players. Both are widely used to install, manage, and run custom scripts that enhance web functionality. Users often wonder which one is truly better in terms of features, usability, and long-term support.
While both tools serve the same core function, their design goals and approaches differ. Tampermonkey leans toward polished interfaces and advanced management options. ViolentMonkey, on the other hand, focuses on open-source transparency and lightweight performance.
This comparison is not just about interface or reputation—it’s about which extension delivers a smoother scripting experience. In this article, we’ll compare the two in terms of usability, features, compatibility, and control. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which userscript manager might suit your workflow better.
User Experience and Interface
Interface Design and Usability
Tampermonkey has a highly polished user interface with clear menus and settings. It’s more beginner-friendly, offering helpful tooltips and visual indicators. ViolentMonkey’s interface is simpler but less visually refined. Power users might prefer its minimalism. For first-timers, Tampermonkey wins in clarity.
Script Dashboard Layout
Tampermonkey provides a well-organized dashboard for script editing, sorting, and toggling. ViolentMonkey includes similar tools but with fewer customization options. Both support real-time script updates and editing. Tampermonkey’s layout feels more intuitive overall. Users needing quick overviews may find Tampermonkey easier.
Learning Curve for New Users
Tampermonkey provides tutorials, tooltips, and community help for beginners. Its settings are explained in more detail, making it less intimidating. ViolentMonkey is leaner but lacks extensive onboarding. New users may find it more technical at first. Tampermonkey’s ease of use lowers the learning curve.
Feature Set and Script Control
Script Installation and Management
Both extensions make it easy to install scripts from sites like GreasyFork. Tampermonkey adds advanced controls such as script update logs and execution timing. ViolentMonkey supports standard features but skips some extras. Tampermonkey is better for those who manage many scripts.
Auto-Update and Syncing Options
Tampermonkey supports script auto-updates with more visibility and control. It can check for updates frequently and alert the user. ViolentMonkey also supports updates but with a simpler implementation. When it comes to syncing across devices, both extensions support it via browser sync.
Customization and Settings
Tampermonkey offers more granular script execution options. Users can set script priority, block domains, and fine-tune permissions. ViolentMonkey focuses on simplicity, offering fewer settings. While both are configurable, Tampermonkey stands out in script-level customization power.
Performance and Resource Use
Browser Memory and CPU Load
ViolentMonkey uses less memory and CPU due to its lightweight design. It’s ideal for users on older machines or who want minimal impact. Tampermonkey uses more resources due to its robust UI. Performance-focused users may lean toward ViolentMonkey for better speed.
Speed of Script Execution
Both tools execute scripts at similar speeds on modern browsers. However, ViolentMonkey may load slightly faster due to fewer background processes. Tampermonkey, with its heavier interface, may take a bit longer to initialize scripts. The difference is small but noticeable for some.
Impact on Browser Start Time
ViolentMonkey has a smaller footprint and causes minimal delay during browser startup. Tampermonkey may introduce a slight lag, especially with many scripts enabled. On devices with limited RAM, this difference becomes more visible. ViolentMonkey is favored for fast startups.
Compatibility and Browser Support
Supported Browsers
Tampermonkey supports Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Safari, and Opera. ViolentMonkey supports Chrome, Firefox, and a few Chromium-based browsers. Tampermonkey wins on cross-browser compatibility. Those using multiple browsers may find Tampermonkey more universally accessible.
Mobile Browser Functionality
Tampermonkey is compatible with some mobile browsers, like Kiwi on Android. It offers limited but working mobile script support. ViolentMonkey doesn’t officially support mobile browsing. Tampermonkey users benefit from a broader script experience across platforms.
Integration with Other Extensions
Both can work alongside extensions like AdBlock or uBlock Origin. However, Tampermonkey integrates more smoothly with a variety of tools due to its robust API. ViolentMonkey keeps things simpler and avoids complexity. Tampermonkey’s ecosystem makes it more versatile.
Security and Open-Source Trust
Open Source Availability
ViolentMonkey is fully open-source and hosted on GitHub. Users can inspect the code and verify transparency. Tampermonkey is mostly closed-source, raising questions for privacy-focused users. For those valuing code openness, ViolentMonkey is clearly the preferred option.
Community Involvement
ViolentMonkey has strong community backing due to its open nature. Users can contribute directly, request features, and track issues publicly. Tampermonkey’s development is centralized with less user input. Open-source advocates appreciate ViolentMonkey’s inclusive development model.
Script Privacy and Permissions
Tampermonkey and ViolentMonkey both request script permissions with user approval. However, ViolentMonkey avoids extra permissions, focusing on minimal data collection. Tampermonkey may request more access depending on script functions. For tight control, ViolentMonkey offers greater peace of mind.
Developer Tools and Power Features
Debugging and Logs
Tampermonkey offers detailed debugging tools, including console logs, error tracking, and export options. ViolentMonkey has basic logging but lacks deep inspection. Developers working on complex scripts will appreciate Tampermonkey’s superior debugging support.
External Script Hosting
Both allow loading scripts from external URLs using @require. Tampermonkey supports a broader range of hosting configurations. ViolentMonkey handles most basic needs, but with fewer options. Advanced users may prefer Tampermonkey for remote script integration.
Script Execution Order
Tampermonkey allows users to set script execution order, delay, and priority. This is useful when multiple scripts run on the same page. ViolentMonkey executes based on install order with limited override. For detailed control, Tampermonkey offers more options.
Final Thoughts
ViolentMonkey and Tampermonkey are both excellent tools for running userscripts, but they serve different audiences. Tampermonkey provides a polished experience with richer controls, making it ideal for users managing multiple scripts or requiring mobile support. ViolentMonkey, being lightweight and open-source, appeals to developers and minimalists seeking speed and transparency. Ultimately, your choice depends on your goals—ease of use and flexibility with Tampermonkey, or simplicity and privacy with ViolentMonkey.
