WXT
Open SourceNext-gen open-source web extension framework built on Vite — file-based entrypoints, HMR, cross-browser Manifest V2/V3 builds for Chrome, Firefox and Safari, framework-agnostic (React, Vue, Svelte), with auto-publishing tools.
Why we recommend WXT
WXT is the community's current-generation answer for extension development: built on Vite (so the whole plugin ecosystem applies), framework-agnostic where Plasmo is React-first — Vue, Svelte, Solid and React all get first-class modules — and rigorous about cross-browser reality, generating Manifest V2 or V3 per target so one codebase ships to Chrome, Firefox and Safari without manifest forks. The DX detail is exceptional: file-based entrypoints replace manifest bookkeeping, HMR works in content scripts, and the submit tooling automates store publishing. It's actively maintained with a fast release cadence and has become the default recommendation for new extensions in most web-dev communities.
Best use cases
Best for: Vue/Svelte developers building extensions (nothing else serves them this well), teams that must ship Chrome + Firefox + Safari from one repo, and Vite-native developers who want their existing plugins, aliases and tooling to just work in an extension context.
Honest limitations
Not for: teams wanting a corporate-backed vendor — WXT is community-driven (primarily one lead maintainer), which cuts both ways. Safari support still ultimately routes through Apple's converter and its quirks. Younger ecosystem than Plasmo's template library, so more assembly for complex auth/messaging patterns.
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