Verdict
Tampermonkey is the practical choice for users who need the widest script library and familiar workflow. Violentmonkey is the practical choice for users who prioritize open-source transparency and lower resource usage. Neither is a universally better option — the right choice depends on your existing scripts, sync setup, and permission requirements.
Key Differences
- Tampermonkey has a larger user base and script library; Violentmonkey supports the same userscript format with a smaller community.
- Tampermonkey has a more feature-rich interface with built-in script editor features; Violentmonkey has a more minimal interface.
- Tampermonkey stores scripts locally by default and supports cloud sync; Violentmonkey syncs directly with GitHub Gist.
- Tampermonkey requires additional permissions for some script features; Violentmonkey requests fewer permissions by default.
- Both are available as MV3 extensions in the Chrome Web Store and support userscripts written for the Tampermonkey API.
Side-by-side Comparison
| Option | Best For | MV3 | Cost | Open Source | Setup | Main Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tampermonkey | Users with large script libraries who need a familiar workflow | Available (MV3) | Free / Donationware | Partial (core is open source) | Easy | Larger resource usage but more features |
| Violentmonkey | Users who prefer open-source tooling and direct GitHub sync | Available (MV3) | Free / Open source | Fully open source | Easy | Minimal interface and fewer built-in features |
| Browser bookmarks | Very simple scripts that do not require external libraries | N/A | Free | N/A | Easy | Very limited — no GM_* APIs, no persistent config |
Which One Should You Choose
You already use scripts from GreaseMonkey or the Tampermonkey script library and want the widest compatibility.
You prefer open-source software and want to sync scripts directly through your own GitHub account.
Browser bookmarks
You only need very simple automation that does not require external libraries, cross-origin requests, or advanced script features.
Common Failed Fixes
Trying to: Switching from Tampermonkey to Violentmonkey without checking @grant rules
Why it does not work: Some scripts use GM_xmlhttpRequest or other GM_* APIs that require specific permissions. Violentmonkey supports these but may need additional configuration.
Safer alternative: Test scripts in Violentmonkey one at a time before migrating your full library.
Trying to: Copying script files directly between extensions
Why it does not work: Importing individual .user.js files through Violentmonkey may not preserve all settings and @match rules.
Safer alternative: Use the built-in script import/export feature in both extensions to transfer full scripts with metadata.
Trying to: Installing scripts from random CRX mirrors
Why it does not work: Unofficial downloads of Tampermonkey or Violentmonkey can be modified to include tracking or unwanted behavior.
Safer alternative: Install both extensions only from the official Chrome Web Store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Tampermonkey GitHub RepositoryTampermonkeyPrimary source
Supports: Official source for Tampermonkey development
- Violentmonkey GitHub RepositoryViolentmonkeyPrimary source
Supports: Official source for Violentmonkey development
- Tampermonkey — Chrome Web StoreChrome Web StorePrimary source
Supports: Official Chrome Web Store listing for Tampermonkey
- Violentmonkey — Chrome Web StoreChrome Web StorePrimary source
Supports: Official Chrome Web Store listing for Violentmonkey