extension-toolchain

Manifest V3 is the current standard for browser extensions. Use a modern toolchain like WXT, Plasmo, or CRXJS to handle MV3 requirements automatically. WXT provides framework-agnostic development with TypeScript-first setup and Vite-powered builds; Plasmo optimizes for React workflows; CRXJS offers minimal tooling. All three guide you through MV3 patterns and cross-browser compatibility.

WXT is ideal for framework-agnostic projects prioritizing flexibility and modern tooling. Plasmo suits React-centric workflows with streamlined setup. CRXJS works best when you want minimal abstraction and direct control. Consider your framework preference, team experience, and whether you need automated hot module replacement and content-script auto-reload—all supported by WXT and Plasmo.

Yes. WXT, Plasmo, and CRXJS all support multi-browser extension development with cross-browser compatibility built in. They handle platform-specific differences and Manifest V3 variations, letting you maintain a single codebase and publish to Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons, and Safari App Store through automated workflows.

TypeScript-first development is a core feature of WXT, Plasmo, and CRXJS, providing type safety and better IDE support. While some toolchains allow JavaScript, TypeScript is the recommended default for these modern extension frameworks and improves maintainability in multi-entry-point projects.

WXT and Plasmo provide hot module replacement and content-script auto-reload out of the box, eliminating manual refresh cycles. This accelerates development by instantly reflecting code changes in the browser without reloading the entire extension or target webpage.

Modern toolchains handle multi-entry-point layouts automatically. Structure your project with separate directories for background scripts, content scripts, popup UI, and options pages. WXT and Plasmo infer entry points from file location conventions, while CRXJS requires explicit manifest configuration—all generate correct Manifest V3 files.