Quick Answer
Tampermonkey is the more widely known userscript manager with a large ecosystem and familiar workflow, while Violentmonkey is a common choice for users who prefer open-source tooling and more transparent script management. For most users, the better choice depends on script compatibility, sync needs, permissions, and whether important scripts run correctly after migration. Neither option makes untrusted scripts safe by default, so users should review script sources, check @match and @grant rules, and test scripts on non-sensitive pages before using them on important accounts.
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 | Public repository exists; current extension source availability more limited than Violentmonkey | 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.
Trying to: Running both Violentmonkey and Tampermonkey at the same time with overlapping scripts
Why it does not work: Two userscript managers running simultaneously can cause scripts to run twice on the same pages, leading to duplicate behavior, conflicts, and unexpected results.
Safer alternative: Use one manager at a time. Export scripts from the old manager before switching, and remove the old manager after confirming the new setup works correctly.
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