Using Vue.js DevTools for Better DX

Exploring Vue.js DevTools: Installation and Key Features

1. Getting Started: Installation Options

Vue.js DevTools offers three installation options: Chrome extension, Firefox extension, and standalone application (Electron application). Choose the method that suits your development environment.

Chrome Extension

Visit the Chrome Web Store, search for Vue.js DevTools, and add the extension to your browser.

Firefox Extension

Similarly, navigate to the Firefox extension store, search for Vue.js DevTools, and install the extension.

Standalone Version

If you prefer the standalone version, install Vue.js DevTools globally or locally using NPM or Yarn. Utilize the following commands:


Once installed, initiate DevTools using the vue-devtools command and link it to your Vue.js application.

2. Components Tab: Real-time Component Data Editing

Navigate to the Components tab to view a clear picture of your page components. This tab allows real-time editing of component data, including props, data, and bindings. Enable editing from the Settings tab and experience seamless modifications in strings, arrays, numbers, booleans, and even data fetched from API calls.

3. Routing Tab: Track Routes and User Data

As your application grows, tracking routes becomes challenging. The Routing tab in Vue.js DevTools consolidates all routes and their details in one place. Choose between viewing the history or routes and monitor a complete history of your application’s routing actions along with user data.

4. Time Travel with Vuex Store

Vue.js DevTools aids in debugging Vuex, the state management library in Vue.js. It logs application state details during Vuex mutations, allowing you to traverse through time and inspect previous states. The Time Travel option lets you navigate through different application states effortlessly.

5. Events Tab: Centralized Record of Custom Events

Track custom events emitted by your application using the Events tab. It compiles all emitted events into a single location, displaying the event name, size, source component, and payload. Note that Vue.js DevTools only tracks events emitted using this.$emit('myEvent') and does not track events like v-on:click or v-on:keyup.

6. Performance Tab: Measure Application Efficiency

The Performance tab in Vue.js DevTools offers insights into Frames per second and Component render details. Monitor the frames per second section to identify mutations, events, and route changes affecting your application’s performance. The component rendering section provides detailed timing descriptions of each component’s lifecycle, aiding in optimizing load times.

Conclusion: Mastering Vue.js DevTools for Efficient Development

This article covered the diverse installation methods of Vue.js DevTools and delved into its key features. Whether you are a seasoned Vue.js developer or just starting your journey, understanding these aspects will significantly enhance your development process. Keep in mind that these features are just the tip of the iceberg; explore further to discover functionalities that best suit your needs. Thank you for reading!