🚀 NEW: Pop-up Windows Recording - [See how to test seamlessly OAuth integrations](https://docs.bugbug.io/recording-tests-steps/record-pop-up-window-actions)

Product Updates

Application Consultant working as a Tech Writer


[https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominikdurejko/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominikdurejko/)

Dominik Szahidewicz

Testing user flows that involve pop-up windows, such as third-party logins like Google Auth or as third-party payments like PayPal, has long been the bane of QA engineers and developers alike. 

Traditional testing tools often stumble when a new window appears, disrupting the smooth automation of test scripts. 

But what if you could record and automate these actions just as easily as any other step in your user flow? 

This is where BugBug's innovative feature for recording actions on pop-up windows shines, offering a seamless testing experience.

[Check BugBug's documentation for more information.](https://docs.bugbug.io/recording-tests-steps/record-pop-up-window-actions)

## The Pop-Up Challenge in Automated Testing

Picture this common scenario: a user attempts to log into their account using an external service like Google. A pop-up window appears, they authenticate successfully, and the pop-up closes, bringing them back to the main application. 

Automating this flow has typically been complex, as testers must handle the switch between the main window and the pop-up, not to mention ensuring the pop-up's actions are recorded accurately.

**BugBug simplifies this by cleverly transforming pop-up windows into new browser tabs.**

## Step-by-step pop-up window handling instruction

**1. Start the Recording:** Initiate a new test or edit an existing one within BugBug.

![BugBug Login Test ](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Group_1_259ac7938f.png)

**2. Trigger the Pop-Up:** Click the element that would normally trigger a pop-up window. BugBug steps in here, redirecting the pop-up to open in a new browser tab instead.

![login button click test recording](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Group_2_b2b34d8012.png)

**3. Automated Context Switch:** The testing context automatically shifts to this new tab, allowing you to perform necessary actions, such as logging in via an external service, without manual intervention.

![login auth window step recording](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Group_3_9ab081ceb7.png)

**4. Complete the Flow:** Go through the login steps as needed. BugBug records all these actions as if they were happening in a pop-up window.

![login auth step context change recording](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Group_4_01773cce09.png)

**5. Seamless Transition:** Once the login or action in the new tab is complete, it closes automatically, mimicking the behavior of a pop-up. The testing context then switches back to the main tab.

**6. Continue Recording:** With the focus back on the main application, you can carry on recording subsequent actions.

[Read more about pop-up window actions.](https://docs.bugbug.io/recording-tests-steps/record-pop-up-window-actions)

## Benefits of BugBug's Approach

**- No Pop-Up Blockers:** With pop-ups being redirected to tabs, there's no need to worry about pop-up blockers interfering with your tests.


**- Consistent Context:** Testers no longer need to manually switch contexts, reducing the risk of errors and saving valuable time.


**- Accurate Recording:** Every action within the pop-up is recorded with the same fidelity as other steps, ensuring a comprehensive test script.


**- Streamlined Test Flows:** The automated closing of tabs after the action streamlines the flow, closely replicating the user's experience.

**Say goodbye to the hassles of pop-up window testing and hello to streamlined, efficient automation with BugBug.**


<br/><br/>

* * * * *



In conclusion, BugBug's feature allows QA teams to record and automate tests involving pop-up windows effortlessly, offering a much-needed solution to a longstanding issue in test automation. 

Whether it’s a third-party authentication or any other pop-up driven interaction, BugBug ensures that your automated testing is as close to real-world user behavior as possible. 



**Happy (automated) testing!**


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New Feature: Pop-Up Window Recording

Testing Tools Comparisons

[TABLE_OF_CONTENTS]

**Cypress** is an open source, front-end testing tool built for the modern web. It is designed to handle the testing needs of developers and QA engineers working on applications created using modern JavaScript frameworks. It provides a rich, interactive user interface for running end-to-end tests, integration tests, and unit tests. 

The tool has emerged browser automation and [end-to-end testing](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/what-is-end-to-end-testing/), but it's not the only player in the field. There are many Cypress competitors; let's explore top alternatives - the article is based on BrowserStack ratings and key features of the tools. 

![Cypress Best Practices](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/let_me_introduce_66913b919c_842c5be422.jpeg)

## Test Automation Basics

[Codeless automation](https://bugbug.io/blog/guides/codeless-automation-testing/) is an evolving trend in QA that simplifies the process of automating test cases for web applications, serving as an alternative to more code-intensive frameworks like Cypress, Selenium, and WebDriverIO. 

This user interface (UI)-centric approach to test automation allows testers to create and maintain automated tests using a visual editor, which can be particularly advantageous for those not well-versed in JavaScript or other programming languages. By integrating with modern web browsers, codeless tools enable QA teams to automate without delving into the complexities of a codebase, thus broadening the scope of who can contribute to automated testing. 

This aligns with the 2023 shift towards more inclusive and efficient testing frameworks that support end-to-end testing (BugBug, Playwright, Puppeteer), but without the steep learning curve associated with traditional automation tools such as Selenium or Protractor.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

### Codeless Automation: A Paradigm Shift in Testing

Moreover, codeless automation platforms often come equipped with [record-and-playback](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/record-and-play-vs-coded-automation-testing/) capabilities similar to those found in Puppeteer or TestCafe, providing an intuitive workflow for testers to run tests across different browsers, including Chrome and Firefox. They can be seen as a bridge between the need for browser automation and the desire for a more streamlined, codeless testing environment. 

Despite the ease of use, these tools still offer robust features such as cross-browser testing, integration with CI/CD pipelines, and the ability to debug and take screenshots, much like open-source frameworks.

The adoption of codeless automation does not dismiss the power of traditional testing tools; rather, it complements them by offering a more accessible entry point for automated testing, particularly for front-end testing of web-based applications. 

The rise of codeless test automation suggests a significant shift in the software development and testing industries towards more agile, efficient, and inclusive practices that can accommodate the rapid evolution of the modern web.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## Cypress Pros & Cons

**Pros:**

**- Real-Time Testing:** Directly runs tests in the browser, allowing for interaction and observation as tests execute.

**- Rich Debugging Tools:** Offers time-travel features, real-time reloads, and automatic waiting.

**- Automatic Assertions:** Cypress automatically waits for commands and assertions before moving on, reducing flaky tests.

**- JavaScript-Based:** Being JavaScript-native makes it a natural choice for software teams working with Node.js and front-end frameworks.

**Cons:**

**- Limited Browser Support:** Primarily supports Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, which may not be sufficient for comprehensive cross-browser testing.

**- No Native Mobile Testing:** Lacks the ability to test native mobile applications for iOS and Android.

**- Potential Complexity:** Can be complex to set up for projects that are not JavaScript-centric.

**- Single Tab Focus:** Tests cannot be run in parallel in multiple tabs, which can be a limitation for complex test scenarios.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## What Are The Best Cypress Alternatives?

### BugBug

![bugbug](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/bugbug_io_2dc9182824.png)

[BugBug](https://bugbug.io/) emerges as a top end to end testing platform and the best Cypress alternative. The platform is engineered to simplify test creation and maintenance, boasting Chrome extensions that are accessible to users. This makes it a highly cost-efficient tool for fostering teamwork and collaboration. 

BugBug is an excellent choice not only for seasoned QA engineers but also for those with minimal coding skills. Its user-friendly interface is perfect for robust web app testing.


Enjoy a **14-day trial** with BugBug, after which you can continue with what's arguably the most generous free plan on the market!

**Key Features:**

- **Unlimited Local Test Runs:** Execute an unlimited number of tests locally, empowering you to conduct in-depth and regular testing.

- **Unlimited Test Suites:** You can create and manage your test cases into numerous suites to navigate complex testing landscapes with ease.

- **Team-Wide Access:** BugBug invites unlimited users to work on its platform, eliminating barriers to user count and enhancing collective efficiency and output.

- **Modular Components:** Streamline your testing workflow by reusing common steps across various tests, ensuring uniformity and saving time.

- **Adaptive Wait Times:** Utilize the platform's smart waiting feature that adjusts wait times within tests automatically, minimizing erratic test results and errors.

- **Test History Retention:** Monitor your testing progress with a history log that spans a full week, aiding in the analysis of test outcomes and identification of trends.

### BugBug vs Cypress

**Features** | **BugBug** | **Cypress.io**
---|---|---
Pricing | Freemium, $99/month (Pro), Custom (Enterprise)| $67/month (Team), $267/month (Business), Custom (Enterprise)​
Real-time recording | Yes | Yes​
Fix test by re-recording | Yes | No
Real cursor movement | Yes | No
Recording click | Yes | Yes​
Unlimited local test runs | Yes | Yes
Custom JavaScript actions | Yes | Yes
Multiple environments | Yes | Yes
[Smart clicks](https://docs.bugbug.io/preventing-failed-tests/smart-click) | Yes | No
[Smart scroll](https://docs.bugbug.io/preventing-failed-tests/smart-scroll) | Yes | No
Unlimited users | Yes | No, unlimited only for Enterprise​
Unlimited projects | Yes | Yes
Unlimited test runs | Yes | No​
PDF reports | Yes | No
Integration with any CI/CD pipeline | Yes | Yes

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## Best Alternatives to Cypress.io

### Rainforest QA

![rainforest qa screenshot](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_09_18_at_15_58_08_5621ccb18a.png)

**Rainforest QA** is primarily focused on regression and performance testing, leveraging crowd-sourced human testers and virtual machines to execute tests. It is designed to offer a no-code solution to QA testing, which means it can be particularly useful for teams that want to automate their regression testing without the need for deep programming expertise.

Unlike Cypress which is JavaScript-based, Rainforest QA doesn't require coding skills, broadening its appeal to non-technical users. However, Cypress allows for a deeper level of integration with the development process due to its JavaScript roots.

**Key Features**:

-   **Cross-Browser Testing**: Enables tests across various browsers, ensuring compatibility and performance.

-   **Virtual Machines**: Utilizes VMs to simulate different testing environments.

-   **No Code Test Writing**: Allows writing of tests without any coding knowledge, making it more accessible.

-   **Native Mobile Application Testing**: Supports Android and iOS apps, providing a comprehensive testing solution.

### Katalon

![Katalon](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_09_05_at_12_34_46_108c3d105d.png)

**Katalon** is a powerful test automation framework that integrates both Selenium and Appium, thereby supporting web, API, and mobile application testing. Katalon offers a more diversified testing suite than Cypress, with support for mobile applications, which Cypress lacks. It also integrates with a variety of tools and frameworks, unlike Cypress's more focused approach.

**Key Features**:

-   **Rich Set of Features**: Combines UI and API/Web services testing across devices and platforms.

-   **Recorder and Scripts**: Offers a Selenium ide like recording feature as well as scripting for advanced users.

-   **Cross-Browser Testing**: Provides extensive browser support for comprehensive testing.

### Testim.io

![testim](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_09_05_at_12_32_42_1ea8d0a349.png)

**Testim.io** is one of the modern web applications for testing that leverages machine learning for the authoring, execution, and maintenance of automated tests. Testim.io's AI capabilities provide an edge in maintaining tests over time, potentially reducing the maintenance burden compared to Cypress. It also offers better cross-browser support out of the box.

**Key Features**:

-   **AI-Based Locator**: Utilizes machine learning to improve the reliability of locators.

-   **Cross-Browser Support**: Ensures that tests can run across different browsers.

-   **Testim Editor**: Allows testers to create, manage, and execute tests with ease.

### WebdriverIO

![webdriverio](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_11_27_at_19_11_52_6ced6f1161.png)

**WebdriverIO** is an open-source testing utility for Node.js, which enables both command-line and JavaScript-based automation testing. WebdriverIO supports a wider range of browsers and integrates with many more services than Cypress. However, Cypress provides a more seamless experience for JavaScript-centric developers.

**Key Features**:

-   **Extensive Browser Support**: Compatible with all major browsers, including cloud-based browsers.

-   **Customizable Framework**: Can be tailored with numerous plugins, services, and reporters.

-   **WebDriver Protocol**: Uses the WebDriver protocol for automation, which is different from Cypress's native automation architecture.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

### Protractor

![protractor](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_11_27_at_19_10_19_99532ca9ea.png)

**Protractor** is an end-to-end test framework for Angular and AngularJS applications, making it a specialized tool within the testing space. Protractor is tailored for Angular applications, whereas Cypress is more generic but not specialized for any framework. Protractor's development has been deprecated, while Cypress continues to evolve.

**Key Features**:

-   **Angular-Specific Features**: Offers automatic waiting for Angular-specific elements and events.

-   **Locator Support**: Provides locators for Angular-specific elements, enhancing testing accuracy.

### Lamdatest

![lambda test](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/eb1b705e_c69e_4440_bd0a_9ccbaeefc38b_7f4cbf9788.png)

**Lamdatest** is a cloud-based cross-browser testing platform that allows users to run automated Selenium tests on a scalable cloud grid. Lamdatest excels in parallel testing and offers a broader range of browser support for Selenium-based tests compared to Cypress's more limited browser range.

**Key Features**:

-   **Parallel Testing**: Enables simultaneous execution of tests to reduce runtime.

-   **Real-Time Testing**: Provides access to a live interactive environment for manual testing.

-   **Integration with CI/CD**: Offers integration with various CI/CD tools.

### TestSigma

![testsigma](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/b50c5db8_05e9_48f1_a901_7f721c686918_872b89388c.png)

**TestSigma** is a cloud-based automation testing tool that is designed for continuous testing in Agile and DevOps. TestSigma provides a unified platform for different types of testing and uses AI to maintain tests, unlike Cypress, which is primarily focused on web applications.

**Key Features**:

-   **Natural Language Scripting**: Allows writing tests in simple English, reducing the entry barrier.

-   **AI-Driven Maintenance**: Utilizes AI to suggest improvements and self-heal tests.

-   **Unified Platform**: Supports web, mobile, and API testing all in one platform.

### Sauce Labs

![ Sauce Labs](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/80f1df16_e3e7_4d47_9b06_636ec9579528_e9e51f177c.png)

**Sauce Labs** offers a cloud-based platform for automated testing of web and mobile applications. Sauce Labs provides more comprehensive testing options, especially for mobile app testing. In contrast, Cypress is more focused on providing a streamlined experience for web testing, particularly for those within the JavaScript ecosystem.

**Key Features**:

-   **Secure Test Cloud**: Offers a secure and scalable cloud environment for testing.

-   **Cross-Browser Testing**: Extensive browser and OS support for comprehensive testing coverage.

-   **Parallel Test Execution**: Allows tests to be run in parallel, speeding up the testing process.

## Alternatives to Cypress - Final Thoughts

Cypress competitors and alternatives all have unique strengths, whether it's ease of use, extensive browser support, integration with CI/CD pipelines, or advanced debugging tools. As the industry evolves, these tools present opportunities for teams to optimize their testing processes, embrace agile and DevOps practices, and ensure high-quality software delivery. 

The key takeaway is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and teams should choose the tool that best aligns with their project needs, technical capabilities, and strategic goals. 

Best Cypress.io alternatives should be cost-effective and full of features that you need for your business. Remember to check which tools companies use, read, and verify latest news.

Happy (automated) testing!



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Top Cypress Alternatives in 2023

[TABLE_OF_CONTENTS]

**Selenium** has been the most popular testing framework on the market for many years. This open-source browser automation tool provides a vast number of key functionalities that businesses need: codeless automation, API testing, regression testing, and more. Selenium serves as a framework designed to assist developers in automating web browsers. 

While **Selenium WebDriver** allows the creation of test scripts in a wide array of programming and scripting languages, gaining proficiency in its intricate details can require a substantial time investment. 

Although Selenium is still one of the cornerstones of automated testing, it has its limitations. We will compare alternatives like BugBug, Cypress, and many more to assess functionalities, costs, and business compatibility.

![Selenium alternative meme](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/selenium_meme_f9123c7053.webp)

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-


## What Is Codeless Automation?

[Codeless automation](https://bugbug.io/blog/guides/codeless-automation-testing/) represents a shift toward a testing process that eschews the conventional reliance on heavy coding in favor of user-friendly interfaces and AI-powered technologies. 

This innovative approach allows teams to automate web application testing without deep programming expertise, making automation accessible to a broader range of professionals. 

By removing the technical barriers, codeless test automation platforms empower teams to focus on enhancing user experience and broadening test coverage, all while accelerating the test creation and execution processes.


## How to Use Selenium?

**Selenium** is an open-source automation tool that revolutionized web application testing by providing a powerful platform to automate browsers. It allows developers and testers to write test scripts in numerous programming languages, including Java, Python, Ruby, and JavaScript, to run automated tests that mimic user interactions with web applications.

The Selenium suite has several components:

### Selenium WebDriver

![Selenium Webdriver](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_11_29_at_11_04_10_b25ad97dbd.png)

WebDriver is the heart of the Selenium project. It provides a programming interface to create and run test scripts that emulate user actions on web browsers. WebDriver interacts directly with the browser without any intermediary, unlike Selenium Remote Control (the deprecated part of the project that required a server). 

It supports a wide range of browsers including Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer, and Safari, and it can be used with a variety of programming languages such as Java, C#, Python, Ruby, and JavaScript.

### Selenium IDE (Integrated Development Environment)

![Selenium IDE](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_11_29_at_11_06_01_58862f8247.png)

This is a browser extension for Firefox and Chrome that allows for record-and-playback of user interactions with the browser. It's a quick tool to create test cases without writing code, which is very useful for beginners or for creating tests on the fly. 

However, the tests created with Selenium IDE are typically less robust and more prone to breakage with application changes than those written with WebDriver.

### Selenium Grid

![Selenium Grid](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_11_29_at_11_07_57_c8ac4ec17a.png)

Grid allows you to distribute your tests across multiple machines and browsers simultaneously. This means you can run tests in parallel, which greatly speeds up the testing process and helps in testing under different environments. 

It's an efficient way to scale your testing suite and is particularly useful when you have a large number of tests or need to run tests on different browser/OS combinations.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-


## Selenium Pros & Cons

**Pros:**

- You can run automated tests with Selenium on any browser that supports WebDriver (Chrome and Firefox included).

- Being an open-source tool, it has a large community for support and continuous development.

- Selenium can be integrated with tools like Jenkins for CI/CD, TestNG for testing frameworks, and many other third-party tools for various testing needs.

- Testers can write complex and advanced test scripts to handle various levels of complexity in web testing.

**Cons:**

- Requires skilled developers for test script writing and maintenance.

- Time-consuming test maintenance, as tests can break with minor UI changes.

- Scalability often necessitates additional paid tools for efficient test management.

- Not inherently designed for non-technical users, limiting cross-team collaboration.


## What Is the Best Selenium Alternative?

### BugBug

![bugbug](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/bugbug_io_2dc9182824.png)

BugBug is a test automation solution that streamlines the test automation process with its intuitive, powerful UI, making it an asset for both testers and developers. 

It simplifies the creation and maintenance of tests through user-friendly Chrome plugins and offers cost-effective solutions for team collaboration. 

The tool is perfect for experienced QA professionals and also for employees without extensive technical coding background. 

**BugBug offers the best free forever plan on the market:**

**-   Unlimited Tests:** Create as many tests as you need, without any restrictions, allowing for comprehensive coverage of all your application's functionalities.

**-   Unlimited Local Test Runs:** Run as many tests as you want, giving you the freedom to test thoroughly and frequently.

**-   Unlimited Suites:** Organize your tests into as many suites as necessary, which helps in categorizing and managing complex test scenarios.

**-   Unlimited Users:** Collaborate with your entire team on the BugBug platform, with no limit on user accounts, promoting team synergy and productivity.

**-   Components:** Reuse common test steps across different tests with modular components, which streamlines the testing process and ensures consistency.

**-   Smart Waiting Conditions:** Benefit from intelligent wait times that adapt dynamically during tests, reducing the chances of flaky tests and false negatives.

**-   7 Days of Test History:** Keep track of your tests with a week's worth of history, allowing you to review recent results and analyze performance trends.


### BugBug vs Selenium

| Features                             | BugBug                                  | Selenium                               |
|--------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------|----------------------------------------|
| Pricing                              | Freemium, $99/month (Pro), Custom (Enterprise) | Free, may require additional infrastructure costs |
| Real-time recording                  | Yes                                     | Only by browser extensions or 3rd party tools |
| Fix test by re-recording             | Yes                                     | N/A                                    |
| Real cursor movement                 | Yes                                     | No                                     |
| Recording click                      | Yes                                     | No                                     |
| Unlimited local test runs            | Yes                                     | Yes                                    |
| Custom JavaScript actions            | Yes                                     | Yes                                    |
| Multiple environments                | Yes                                     | Yes                                    |
| Smart clicks*                        | Yes                                     | No                                     |
| Smart scroll*                        | Yes                                     | No                                     |
| Unlimited users                      | Yes                                     | Yes                                    |
| Unlimited projects                   | Yes                                     | Yes                                    |
| Unlimited test runs                  | Yes                                     | Yes                                    |
| PDF reports                          | Yes                                     | Possible with TestNG                   |
| Integration with any CI/CD pipeline  | Yes                                     | Yes                                    |

### Best Alternatives to Selenium

### Testim

![testim](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_09_05_at_12_32_42_1ea8d0a349.png)


**Testim** is an AI-powered test automation tool that enhances the speed and reliability of automated UI tests. It employs smart locators and self-healing tests, which automatically adjust to changes in the application's UI, significantly reducing the need for manual test maintenance. Testim is designed to integrate easily into CI/CD workflows, streamlining the test automation process. Its visual testing capabilities and data-driven tests enable comprehensive test coverage and improved test execution.

Unlike Selenium, which requires manual updates to test scripts when application changes occur, Testim's AI algorithms automatically adjust tests, saving time and resources. Testim also provides a more user-friendly interface compared to Selenium IDE and does not require in-depth programming knowledge, making it a more accessible tool for non-developers.

### Testsigma

![testsigma](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/b50c5db8_05e9_48f1_a901_7f721c686918_872b89388c.png)

**Testsigma** is a cloud-based test automation platform that facilitates continuous testing with an intuitive natural language scripting approach. Its user-friendly interface is welcoming for non-technical users, while it still offers advanced functionalities for experienced testers. It supports cross-browser and cross-device testing, AI-driven maintenance, and has a strong focus on mobile web and API testing.

Testsigma's main advantage over Selenium is its natural language approach to writing test scripts, which is more accessible compared to writing code in programming languages such as Java or Python. It also offers a higher level of abstraction and cloud execution capabilities, which Selenium only provides through additional tools like Selenium Grid or third-party services like BrowserStack.

### Lambdatest

![Lambda test](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_09_05_at_12_36_48_ef16a977d6.png)

**Lambdatest** is a comprehensive browser automation tool that provides a cloud-based platform for automated and manual cross-browser testing. With support for a plethora of browser and OS combinations, it ensures that web applications perform consistently in various environments. Lambdatest integrates well with CI/CD pipelines, supports visual regression testing, and offers real-time debugging.

Lambdatest allows for Selenium tests to run on its cloud platform, offering cross-browser support and scalability that can be more challenging to achieve with a self-hosted Selenium setup. It provides a broader range of browser and OS combinations than a typical Selenium grid, along with additional tools for debugging and visual testing.

### Katalon Studio

![Katalon](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_09_05_at_12_34_46_108c3d105d.png)

**Katalon Studio** is a versatile testing platform that provides a comprehensive solution for web, API, mobile, and desktop application testing. It's designed for users of all technical levels and features codeless test creation, a friendly UI, and the ability to integrate with various tools and frameworks. Katalon platforms offers both automated and exploratory testing, facilitating end-to-end test automation.

Katalon Studio offers a low code test automation environment, which is a contrast to Selenium's code-centric approach. It provides a more integrated experience with features like object spy, recorder, and built-in keywords, which can simplify the test creation process. Katalon also offers out-of-the-box cross-browser support and a more robust reporting mechanism compared to Selenium.

### Endtest

![endtest](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/72afb7d6_b208_42a4_80ab_79c4ea846cfe_bc4074a518.png)

**Endtest** is a codeless test automation platform that simplifies the process of creating, managing, and executing automated tests. Its intuitive interface is designed for ease of use, and it includes powerful features such as conditional logic and loops. Endtest allows for quick setup and execution of automated end-to-end tests without the need for deep technical knowledge.

Endtest is an alternative to Selenium that offers a codeless automation testing experience, making it more accessible to non-technical users. It provides an all-in-one platform with features that are not present in Selenium, such as the ability to run tests without writing a single line of code and the inclusion of advanced logic directly within the test steps.

### Sauce Labs

![ Sauce Labs](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/80f1df16_e3e7_4d47_9b06_636ec9579528_e9e51f177c.png)

**Sauce Labs** is a cloud-based platform that offers automated testing tools for web and mobile applications. It provides a secure and scalable environment for running tests across a wide range of browsers and operating systems. With features like parallel testing, real device testing, and live debugging, Sauce Labs focuses on improving test execution times and overall efficiency.

Sauce Labs can be used to run Selenium tests in the cloud, providing an infrastructure that is often more scalable and easier to manage than a self-maintained Selenium grid. It adds value by offering a vast selection of real devices for testing, something that Selenium on its own does not offer, and enables simultaneous test execution to speed up the testing process.

### Rainforest QA

![rainforest qa screenshot](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_09_18_at_15_58_08_5621ccb18a.png)

**Rainforest QA** is a no-code test automation platform that emphasizes a user-friendly approach to test automation. It enables teams to quickly create and execute tests, focusing on user experience and functional testing. The platform offers features like exploratory testing and integrations with popular CI/CD tools, making it a versatile option for modern development teams.

Rainforest QA differs from Selenium in that it provides a no-code interface for test automation, allowing tests to be created and executed without any programming knowledge. It is designed for rapid test development and execution, offering an alternative for teams looking to move away from code-heavy test automation practices.

### Cucumber

![cucumber](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_11_29_at_00_18_09_30d8be85c5.png)

**Cucumber** is a testing tool that supports Behavior-Driven Development (BDD), facilitating communication between technical and non-technical stakeholders by allowing the specification of application features in plain language. It encourages collaboration and helps ensure that all team members have a clear understanding of the application's features and the associated test scenarios.

Cucumber itself is not a test automation tool but a framework that supports BDD. It is often used in conjunction with Selenium to provide a layer where test scenarios are written in a way that is understandable by all team members. Unlike Selenium, which focuses on automating browser actions, Cucumber focuses on defining behavior and can be used to drive Selenium tests.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-


## Conclusion 

Many Selenium alternatives offer much more user-friendly and cost-effective test automation solutions. These alternatives promise to democratize testing by making it more accessible, reduce maintenance overhead, and provide scalable solutions that fit your business.


**Happy (automated) testing!**

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Top Selenium Alternatives in 2023

Software Testing Knowledge

[TABLE_OF_CONTENTS]

In the digital world, the functionality of web form is paramount. Form testing emerges as a non-negotiable practice that assures an online form's performance aligns with the organization's intent, ensuring visitors can submit forms seamlessly, a process critical for registrations, donations, and engagement.

The need to test forms stems from the fact that technology, despite its advances, is prone to errors. Form testing is not just about checking the working conditions but also about resolving formatting errors, technological bugs, integration issues, and potential user confusion. 

![form testing meme](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/684ox9_d57b13d21b.jpeg)

It's about the peace of mind that comes from knowing your form is not a barrier but a bridge to your visitors' involvement. Learn how to test the functionality of forms on your website! 


## What Is Form Testing?

Using **form testing** means a systematic approach to evaluating the functionality, usability, and accessibility of online forms on a website. It involves a series of checks and procedures to ensure that every field works correctly, data is collected as intended, and users have a seamless experience while interacting with the form. 

The process ranges from simple manual entry tests to complex automated scripts that simulate user behavior. The goal is to identify what's working and rectify any issues that could hinder the form's performance or lead to poor user experience.

## Why Test a Website Form?

The importance of testing a website form cannot be overstated. Forms on your website are often the primary means for users to interact with your business, especially for tasks such as signing up for accounts, registering for events, or making online purchases. 

A form that functions correctly can greatly enhance user experience, leading to increased engagement and conversion rates. On the other hand, a form with issues can frustrate users, lead to a loss of valuable data, and ultimately decrease the effectiveness of the website. 

Testing helps to ensure reliability, increase user satisfaction, and support the overall goals of the website.

## How To Test a Website Form?

Testing a form is a **multi-layered process**. It starts with ensuring that the form's appearance on the website is correct and checking on different devices such as mobile phones, tablets, and desktop. 

The functionality must be flawless across various browsers, including Chrome, to avoid alienating any segment of your audience. Here's a rundown of the process:

1.  **Preview and Validate**: Form building is the most important step. This is where a form builder, especially those with WordPress plugins, becomes invaluable. Testing the form involves checking the conditional logic, ensuring that the form works and that every field operates as expected.

2.  **UX**: Consider the user experience and overall design. This means checking the form's validation process and ensuring that error and confirmation messages are clear and helpful.

3.  **Integration and Functionality**: The new form must integrate seamlessly with third-party services like CRM systems and payment processors, confirming that the information---such as an email address or phone number---flows correctly.

4.  **Accessibility and Compliance**: Accessibility issues must also be considered; the form should be usable by everyone, including those relying on screen readers or alternative input methods. The submission process must be compatible with computers and mobile devices to accommodate all users.

5.  **Testing the Submission Process**: When you test a form, don't just focus on the front end. Ensure that the form submission leads to the correct thank you page and that all notifications are triggered appropriately.

6.  **Monitoring and Analytics**: After the form is ready, and even when it's working properly, it's always a good idea to use analytics tools to check performance and collect accurate data. Information that you'll get can help improve forms and identify any new accessibility issues or bugs that might arise.

7.  **The Importance of Regular Updates**: Nonprofits might also use search engine optimization (SEO) best practices to ensure their forms are easily discoverable. This, coupled with regular updates and tests, ensures that forms continue to work as intended, even as browsers and devices evolve.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## Strategies to Test Your  Website Form


1.  **Visual and Functional Inspection**: Begin by previewing your form on your site. Check for aesthetics, field inclusion, and any code snippets that might have mistakenly made their way onto the page.

2.  **Accessibility**: Ensure the form is easy to interpret, mobile-friendly, and accessible via keyboard navigation. Use screen readers to test auditory accessibility, addressing the needs of all potential users.

3.  **Error Message Evaluation**: Test required fields intentionally left blank to assess if the error prompts are clear and guide the user appropriately.

4.  **Conditional Logic Checking**: If your form uses conditional fields, validate their functionality to ensure they appear or hide as per the designed triggers.

5.  **Submission Confirmation**: Post-submission, ensure that the correct thank-you message or page is displayed, providing clear next steps for the user.

6.  **Email Notification Testing**: Confirm that upon form submission, the appropriate email notifications are dispatched and appear as intended.

7.  **Integration Verification**: For forms tied to CRM, payment processors, or email marketing tools, verify that information is accurately passed and received.

8.  **Cleanup**: Post-testing, remember to remove test data to maintain the integrity of your records.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## Broadening Your Testing Scope

1.  **Cross-Device Functionality**: Test your form across various devices and browsers to ensure universal compatibility.

2.  **Real User Feedback**: Invite colleagues and friends to use your form while you observe their interaction, gathering firsthand insights into user experience.

3.  **Performance Metrics**: Leverage tools like PageSpeed Insights and Lighthouse to measure site performance and identify SEO, best practice, and accessibility issues.

4.  **Monitoring User Experience**: Use field data to monitor real user interactions with your form, employing the PSI API or Lighthouse CI for continual performance checks.

Check also [What is User Journey Testing? Guide for Software Testers](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/what-is-user-journey-testing/). 

## Monitoring Form Experience

1.  **Real User Monitoring (RUM)**: RUM tools collect performance data directly from users' browsers. This data provides insights into how users interact with forms under various conditions, including different devices, browsers, connection speeds, and more.

2.  **Heatmaps and Session Recordings**: Heatmap tools can show where users click, move, and scroll on your forms. Session recordings let you watch real-time user interactions with your forms to understand where they may encounter problems.

3.  **Conversion Funnels**: Use analytics tools to set up conversion funnels that track the user's journey through the form. This helps identify at what stage users are dropping off or experiencing issues.

4.  **Feedback Tools**: Implement feedback buttons or surveys that ask users about their experience directly after they use the form. This can provide qualitative data on user satisfaction.

5.  **Error Logging**: Keep logs of form errors encountered by users. This can help identify common issues that need to be addressed to improve the form experience.

## Analyzing Forms

By regularly monitoring and analyzing your forms, you can gain valuable insights into how to optimize them for better performance, higher conversion rates, and a smoother user experience. This is an ongoing process, as user expectations and web standards continue to evolve.

For ongoing monitoring, you can use the PSI API to integrate performance testing into your continuous integration/continuous deployment ([CI/CD](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/benefits-of-ci-cd-pipeline/)) workflows, ensuring that any updates to your form maintain or improve its performance.

In essence, PSI can be a part of your toolkit for monitoring form experience by ensuring that the technical aspects of your form's performance are optimized, which is a critical part of the overall user experience. 

However, for a more detailed analysis of how users interact with the form itself (such as field completion rates, error messages, and abandonment rates), you would need to complement PSI with other tools that are dedicated to user experience monitoring.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## Conclusion

Form testing is a process that assures nonprofits that their online tools are efficient in gathering essential information. It's a practice that supports the mission of nonprofits by enhancing user experience, thereby strengthening relationships with supporters. 

Remember, a form is more than a gateway to data---it's an extension of your nonprofit's commitment to its cause and community.

## FAQ

## What is form testing and why is it important?

Form testing is the process of evaluating and ensuring the functionality of online forms. It is important to test forms to ensure that they are working as intended, capturing the necessary information, and providing a seamless user experience.

## How can I test my online forms?

You can test your forms by filling them out with different sets of data, trying various scenarios, and using form-testing tools or plugins to automate the process.

## What are some best practices for testing forms?

Some best practices for testing forms include testing on different devices and screen sizes, validating input fields and error messages, and testing form submission under various network conditions.

## Why is it important to test every element of a form?

Testing every element of a form helps identify any potential issues or errors that may arise during the user interaction. It ensures that the form functions smoothly and provides a positive user experience.

## How can form testing help in creating an effective form?

Form testing helps you identify and address any usability or functional issues, ensuring that the form works seamlessly for users. It also helps in refining the form design and user flow based on testing feedback.

## What are some common things to look for when testing a web form?

When testing a web form, it's important to check for form validation, submission handling, error messages, form length, and compatibility across different browsers and devices.

## Why should marketers get involved in form testing?

Marketers should get involved in form testing to ensure that the forms capture the necessary information for lead generation and analytics tracking. Testing helps optimize forms for better conversion rates.

## How can form testing help improve user experience?

Form testing helps you create forms that are user-friendly, with clear instructions, helpful validation messages, and efficient submission processes, ultimately enhancing the overall user experience.

## What are the benefits of testing your online forms?

Testing your online forms helps you identify and fix any issues before users encounter them, ensures that the forms are working flawlessly, and provides the information you need for tracking and analysis.

## Is it important to test the form submission process?

Yes, testing the form submission process is crucial to ensure that users can successfully submit the form and that the data is captured accurately. It helps you validate that the submission URL is correct and that the submission confirmation is displayed appropriately.

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Testing Forms: A Comprehensive Guide for QA

[TABLE_OF_CONTENTS]

Navigating the world of software testing can sometimes feel like maneuvering through a complex maze, especially when it comes to tools as powerful and versatile as Selenium WebDriver. For those who harness the capability of this tool, executing test scripts on various web browsers becomes a breeze. 

Check our **Selenium Cheat Sheet**, your handy companion that will help you quickly reference key commands and methods, ensuring your test automation journey is smooth and efficient.

Whether you're trying to pinpoint a specific web element using xpath or css selectors, manage cookies in a browser session, or handle unexpected pop-up alerts and frames, this cheat sheet has got you covered. 

For those versed in Java, integrating with Selenium becomes second nature. However, even seasoned developers sometimes need a quick reminder or clarification.

![selenium cheat sheet bugbug](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/EHMD_Ikk_Xk_AE_7_YX_5_d8960949d3.jpeg)

**Check out also our other Cheat Sheets:**

- [Cypress Cheat Sheet](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/cypress-cheat-sheet/)

- [Playwright Cheat Sheet](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/playwright-cheat-sheet/)

- [The Ulitimate Xpath Cheat Sheet](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/the-ultimate-xpath-cheat-sheet/)

## What is Selenium?

[Selenium](https://www.selenium.dev/) is an open-source automation testing framework designed for automating web browsers, allowing testers and developers to write scripts in various programming languages, including Java, C#, and Python. 

![selenium](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Screenshot_2023_08_23_at_11_54_58_ad86e6bf5e.png)

It provides tools and libraries to interact with web applications, facilitating tasks like clicking buttons, filling out forms, and verifying content. Selenium supports multiple browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, making execution of cross-browser testing more efficient.

Check also our [Ultimate XPath Cheat Sheet](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/the-ultimate-xpath-cheat-sheet/) for more resources. 

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<- 

## Selenium [Webdriver](https://www.selenium.dev/documentation/webdriver/) Java Cheat Sheet


**Run Webdriver in Browser:**

- **Edge:**   `WebDriver driver = new EdgeDriver();`

- **Safari:**   `WebDriver driver = new SafariDriver();`

- **Chrome:**    `WebDriver driver = new ChromeDriver();`

- **Firefox:**    `WebDriver driver = new FirefoxDriver();`

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## Selenium Locators Cheat Sheet

Here is a comprehensive list of selenium locators you might need:

- **By ID:** Finds an element by its unique ID.

  `driver.findElement(By.id("elementId"));`

- **By Name:** Finds an element by its name attribute.

  `driver.findElement(By.name("elementName"));`

- **By Class Name:** Finds an element by its class attribute.

  `driver.findElement(By.className("className"));`

- **By Tag Name:** Finds elements by their tag name.

  `driver.findElements(By.tagName("a"));`

- **By Link Text:** Finds a link by its exact text.

  `driver.findElement(By.linkText("Link Text Here"));`

- **By Partial Link Text:** Finds a link by a part of its text.

  `driver.findElement(By.partialLinkText("Partial Link Text"));`

- **By XPath:** Finds an element using [XPath ](link)expressions.

  `driver.findElement(By.xpath("//tagname[@attribute='value']"));`

- **By CSS Selector:** Finds an element by its CSS selector.

  `driver.findElement(By.cssSelector("tagname.class#id"));`

When using these locators, ensure you're selecting the most stable and direct way to interact with web element. The goal is to maintain robustness in your automation scripts.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<- 

## Selenium Commands Cheat Sheet

### 1. Basic Browser Operations

To initialize the Chrome WebDriver: `WebDriver driver = new ChromeDriver();`

To load a specific web page: `driver.get("https://www.example.com");`

To maximize the browser window: `driver.manage().window().maximize();`

To close the current browser window: `driver.close();`

To close all browser windows associated with that driver session: `driver.quit();`

### 2. Navigational Commands

For refreshing the current page: `driver.navigate().refresh();`

To navigate backward in the browser's history: `driver.navigate().back();`

To navigate forward in the browser's history: `driver.navigate().forward();`

### 3. Web Element Interaction

To locate an element by its ID: `WebElement element = driver.findElement(By.id("elementId"));`

To click on a web element: `element.click();`

To input text into an input field: `element.sendKeys("Text Here");`

To clear content from an input field: `element.clear();`

To retrieve text from a web element: `String text = element.getText();`

### 4. Selenium WebDriver Waits

For implicit waiting (waits for elements to become available up to a set time): 
`driver.manage().timeouts().implicitlyWait(10, TimeUnit.SECONDS);`

For explicit waiting (waits for a specific condition up to a set time):
`WebDriverWait wait = new WebDriverWait(driver, 10);`
`wait.until(ExpectedConditions.visibilityOf(element));`

### 5. Advanced Interactions

To switch to an alert window: `Alert alert = driver.switchTo().alert();`

To switch to a specific frame by name or ID: `driver.switchTo().frame("frameNameOrId");`

To execute JavaScript on the loaded web page:
`JavascriptExecutor js = (JavascriptExecutor) driver;`
`js.executeScript("javascriptCodeHere");`

## Selenium Grid

**Start Hub:**
`java -jar selenium-server-standalone-x.x.x.jar -role hub`

**Start a Node:**
`java -jar selenium-server-standalone-x.x.x.jar -role node -hub http://<hub_ip>:4444/grid/register`

## TestNG with Selenium

### Annotations

- `@BeforeSuite`, `@AfterSuite`: Run methods before and after the suite respectively.

- `@BeforeTest`, `@AfterTest`: Execute methods before and after any test tag in the XML.

- `@BeforeClass`, `@AfterClass`: Execute methods before and after the current class.

- `@BeforeMethod`, `@AfterMethod`: Run methods before and after every `@Test` method.

- `@Test`: Marks a method as part of the test.

### Priority & Dependencies

Setting priority: `@Test(priority=1)`

Setting dependencies: `@Test(dependsOnMethods={"method_name"})`

### Parameterized Testing

Using `@Parameters` or `DataProvider` to pass parameters to test methods.

### Groups:

`@Test(groups="groupName")`: Helps to categorize tests.

### Assertion:

`Assert.assertEquals(actual, expected)`: Compare two values.

## JUnit with Selenium

### Annotations:

- `@BeforeAll`, `@AfterAll`: Run methods once, before and after all tests in the class.

- `@BeforeEach`, `@AfterEach`: Execute methods before and after each test method.

- `@Test`: Marks a method as a test method.

### Test Lifecycle:

Test initialization: `@BeforeEach`

Test cleanup: `@AfterEach`

### Assertions:

`Assert.assertEquals(expected, actual)`: Compare two values.

`Assert.assertTrue(condition)`: Assert a condition as true.

### Assumptions:

Assumptions.assumeTrue(condition): Continue with the test only if the condition is true.

### Timeouts & Disable:

Timeout: `@Test(timeout=1000)`: Fail the test if it takes longer than 1000ms.

Disable a test: `@Disabled`

### Parameterized Testing:

`@ParameterizedTest` with `@ValueSource`, `@EnumSource`, `@MethodSource`, etc. for various input sources.

## Conclusion

In this article, we broke down essential commands and methods, helping you to specify and automate tasks with ease. From executing JavaScript on a page to handling the intricacies of different web elements, this cheat sheet will be your go-to guide. 

So whether you're a novice just diving into the realm of [test automation](https://bugbug.io/blog/guides/automation-testing-guide-for-startups-level-1/) or a seasoned automation engineer looking for a quick refresher, let this cheat sheet guide your WebDriver driver in the fast-paced world of web automation.

Also, check out our [No-code Xpath builder](https://bugbug.io/xpath-selector-builder/).



**Happy (automated) testing!**



->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<- 

### Q&A

**Q: What is a web element?**

**A:** A web element refers to any component or element on a web page, such as buttons, text boxes, drop-down lists, etc. Selenium provides methods to locate and interact with web elements.

**Q: How can I locate web elements using Selenium?**

**A:** Selenium provides multiple methods to locate web elements, such as xpath, CSS selectors, class name, id, name, link text, and partial link text.

**Q: What is a frame in Selenium?**

**A:** A frame, also known as an iframe, is an HTML element that allows content from another HTML document to be embedded within the current document. Selenium provides methods to switch between frames for interacting with elements inside them.

**Q: What is an alert in Selenium?**

**A:** An alert is a pop-up window that appears on a web page to notify the user or request input. Selenium provides methods to handle alerts programmatically.

**Q: What are some best practices for using Selenium?**

**A:** Some best practices for using Selenium include using explicit waits instead of hard coding wait times, using Page Object Model design pattern, organizing tests into separate test classes, and maintaining clear and descriptive test names.

**Q: Can I write tests using Selenium in other languages?**

**A:** Yes, Selenium supports multiple programming languages including Java, Python, C#, and Ruby. However, this cheat sheet specifically focuses on Selenium Webdriver with Java.

**Q: Is there any online training available for learning Selenium Webdriver?**

**A:** Yes, there are many online platforms that offer comprehensive Selenium Webdriver training, such as Intellipaat, Udemy, and Coursera. These courses cover topics from basic to advanced Selenium concepts.

**Q: What does the "navigator" term refer to in Selenium?**

**A:** In Selenium, the "navigator" term refers to the WebDriver interface's method that allows navigation actions on a web page, such as navigating to a URL, navigating back, refreshing the page, etc.

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Selenium Cheat Sheet: Java Cheat Sheet, Commands and Locators

[TABLE_OF_CONTENTS]

**Playwright** is an open-source automation library for web testing and automation. It allows developers to write scripts that can control a web browser and perform actions just like a human would, such as clicking on elements, typing text, navigating through pages, and capturing screenshots. 

Playwright supports multiple browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and WebKit, which allows for cross-browser testing. It provides a powerful API to automate web interactions and is capable of running tests in headless mode (without a browser UI) for faster execution. 

![Playwright cheat sheet](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Euoz_XOBWYA_Uyn_V9_d1c6cf4a22.jpeg)

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<- 

Playwright is often used for [end-to-end testing](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/what-is-end-to-end-testing/), ensuring that web applications work as expected. It's a project maintained by Microsoft and is part of their modern testing toolset that also includes tools like Selenium and Cypress.

Let's dive into a comprehensive cheat sheet which can help you with mastering Playwright. 

## Why Use Playwright?

![playwright](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/Playwright_f756dfe521.png)

It enables interaction with elements of a web page, handling tasks from inputting text to asserting the visibility of a key element. Its robust API supports automation scenarios such as navigating browsers, managing cookies, and capturing dialog boxes. 

Playwright tests can emulate complex user interactions with a web's structure, including selecting items from a list, clicking on labels, or handling CSS [selectors](https://docs.bugbug.io/preventing-failed-tests/selectors). 

Compared to tools like Cypress, Playwright offers cross-browser testing capabilities and the flexibility to write tests in multiple programming languages. Developers can write Playwright code to automate and interact with web elements, ensuring their applications work as intended in different environments.

**Check out also our other Cheat Sheets:**

- [Cypress Cheat Sheet](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/cypress-cheat-sheet/)

- [Selenium Cheat Sheet](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/selenium-cheat-sheet/)

- [The Ulitimate Xpath Cheat Sheet](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/the-ultimate-xpath-cheat-sheet/)

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<- 

### Browsers

In Playwright, a **Browser** represents an instance of a web browser. It's not just limited to a single tab or window; rather, it's the actual program itself, like an instance of Chrome or Firefox. When you start a browser through Playwright, you're effectively opening the application which can then contain multiple web pages and contexts.

### Contexts

A **BrowserContext** is an independent incarnation of a browser environment within Playwright. It can be thought of as an incognito session where no state is shared with other browser contexts. 

This isolation is particularly useful for simulating multiple sessions or users in testing scenarios. Each context can have its own cookies, local storage, and session information, and you can have multiple contexts within the same browser instance.

### Pages

A **Page** in Playwright is akin to a single tab or window in a web browser. It provides methods to interact with and control a single web page. Actions such as navigating to URLs, interacting with page content, and evaluating JavaScript within the context of the web page are done at this level. Pages live within a browser context, and you can have multiple pages within a single context.

### Understanding Selectors and Elements

**Selectors** are the means by which Playwright identifies elements on a web page to interact with. They can be CSS selectors, XPath selectors, text selectors, or even custom selectors defined by the user. Once a selector is defined, Playwright can perform actions on the element it points to, such as clicking, typing, or reading text.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<- 

**Elements**, or more specifically *ElementHandles*, are objects that reference an element on a page. Once you have an ElementHandle, you can perform actions on that element, and it will ensure that the element is available and not stale. This is useful for interacting with elements that may not be immediately available due to dynamic content loading and other asynchronous behavior common in modern web applications.

### The Playwright API Structure

The Playwright API is designed to be intuitive and straightforward. It mirrors the structure of a web browsing experience at a high level while providing detailed control at the lower levels. The API is organized around the following hierarchy:

-   **Browser**: Methods to control browser-level actions, such as launching or closing a browser.

-   **BrowserContext**: Methods to manage contexts, like creating new contexts or closing them, along with setting context-wide options (e.g., viewport size, geolocation, permissions).

-   **Page**: Methods to interact with and control a web page, like navigating to a URL, selecting elements, and executing page-level scripts.

-   **ElementHandle**: Methods to perform actions on individual elements, such as clicking, typing into inputs, or retrieving properties and text content.

## Playwright Test Automation Cheat Sheet 

### Installation Guide:

1.  Ensure Node.js (version 12 or above) is installed.

2.  Run npm i -D playwright to install Playwright and browser binaries.

3.  Verify the installation with npx playwright --version.

**Configuring Playwright for different browsers:**

1.  Install the necessary browser binaries via npx playwright install <browser> where <browser> can be chromium, firefox, or webkit.

2.  Configure the desired browser in the script by using `playwright.<browserType>()`.

### Creating your first script:

1.  Create a new JavaScript file (e.g., `firstScript.js`).

2.  Import Playwright using 
`const { chromium } = require('playwright');`.

3.  Write a basic script to launch a browser, create a page, and navigate to a URL.

### Basic Commands:

#### Launching browsers:

`const browser = await chromium.launch({ headless: false });` 
// for visible browser

#### Navigating pages:

`const page = await browser.newPage();` 

`await page.goto('https://example.com');`

#### Interacting with elements:

`await page.click('button#submit');`

`await page.type('input[name="email"]', 'example@example.com');`

`await page.selectOption('select#countries', 'US');`

## Advanced Interactions

### Dealing with frames and pop-ups:

`const frame = page.frame({ name: 'frame-name' });`

`await frame.click('button#submit');`

### Uploads and downloads:

`await page.setInputFiles('input[type="file"]', 'path/to/file');`

`const [ download ] = await Promise.all([ page.waitForEvent('download'),'` 

`page.click('a#downloadLink') ]);`
// waits for download to start 


### Handling network conditions and events:

`page.setOfflineMode(true);`
// To simulate offline mode await 

## Selectors Cheat Sheet

### Common selectors and their syntax:

-   CSS: `page.click('button.class')`

-   XPath: `page.click('//button[@id="submit"]')`

-   Text: `page.click('text="Submit"')`

### Best practices for selecting elements:

-   Use ID or class selectors when possible.

-   Avoid using indexes in selectors; prefer text content or specific attributes.

### Custom selectors and functions:

`await page.$('data-testid=submit-button');` 
// Custom attribute selector

## Working with Assertions

### Overview of assertions in Playwright:

-   Assertions are used to verify conditions in the browser.

-   Playwright works with assertion libraries like Chai, Jest, etc.

### Common assertion examples:

`const title = await page.title();`
`expect(title).toBe('Expected Title');`

### Tips for effective assertions:

-   Always wait for elements before asserting.

-   Use assertions to verify the state of the application, not just the presence of elements.

## Automation Recipes

### Login automation example:

`await page.type('input[name="username"]', 'user');` 
`await page.type('input[name="password"]', 'pass');`
`await page.click('text="Log in"');`

### Data scraping example:

`const data = await page.evaluate(() => { // Return scraped data from page });`

### End-to-end test scenario:

// Example steps for an e-commerce checkout process

## Debugging Playwright Scripts

### Tools and techniques for debugging:

-   Use `page.on('console', message => console.log(message.text()));` to listen to page console events.

-   Use `DEBUG=pw:api` before running the script to get Playwright's API call logs.

### Common errors and their solutions:

-   Element not found: Ensure the selector is correct and the element is loaded.

-   Timeout: Increase timeout or use `page.waitForSelector()`.

### Logging and reporting:

-   Use built-in `page.screenshot()` and `page.video()` for visual logs.

## Integration with Test Runners

### Configuring Playwright with Jest, Mocha, etc.:

-   Use playwright-test runner for Jest-like experience.

-   Use mocha with playwright for Mocha setup.

### Organizing tests and suites:

-   Group tests into describe blocks and use test or it for individual tests.

### Parallel execution and headless mode:

-   Enable parallel execution by configuring the test runner appropriately.

-   Run tests in headless mode for CI/CD environments.

## Continuous Integration and Deployment

### Setting up Playwright in CI/CD pipelines:

-   Use the playwright-github-action for GitHub Actions integration.

-   Configure environment variables for sensitive data like login credentials.

### Docker integration:

-   Use Playwright's official Docker image to run tests in containers.

### Best practices for CI/CD with Playwright:

-   Cache browser binaries between runs.

-   Use artifacts for storing screenshots and videos from test runs.

#### Resources

**Official documentation:** [Playwright Documentation](https://playwright.dev/)

**Community forums and support:** [Playwright GitHub Discussions](https://github.com/microsoft/playwright/discussions)


**Happy (automated) testing!**


## FAQ

#### Q: What is Playwright Cheat Sheet?

A: The Playwright Cheat Sheet is a resource that provides a quick reference guide for leveraging Playwright for browser automation and testing.

#### Q: How can I explore the capabilities of Playwright?

A: To explore the features and capabilities of Playwright, you can refer to the official documentation and tutorials provided by the Playwright team.

#### Q: What are the key features of Playwright?

A: Playwright offers features such as cross-browser testing, parallel and headless execution, and the ability to automate tasks across different web platforms.

#### Q: What is the recommended way to set up Playwright for automation?

A: It is recommended to set up Playwright for automation by following the installation and setup instructions provided in the official Playwright documentation.

#### Q: How can I locate a specific element on a web page using Playwright?

A: You can use the Playwright API to locate elements on a web page by using methods such as 'locate', 'match', and 'explicit selection'.

#### Q: Can Playwright be used for mobile automation?

A: Yes, Playwright provides support for mobile automation, allowing you to automate tasks and tests on mobile platforms.

#### Q: What are the benefits of migrating to Playwright from other automation frameworks like Cypress?

A: Migrating to Playwright from frameworks like Cypress can offer benefits such as improved performance, broader browser support, and a more up-to-date platform for automation.

#### Q: How can I ensure accessibility in automated tests using Playwright?

A: You can ensure accessibility in automated tests using Playwright by leveraging features such as 'text alternative', 'accessible value await', 'label await', and 'placeholder'.

#### Q: Can Playwright be integrated with Git for version control?

A: Yes, Playwright can be integrated with Git for version control to manage and track changes in automation scripts and test files.

#### Q: How can I master Playwright for advanced automation tasks?

A: To master Playwright for advanced automation tasks, it is recommended to explore advanced features, APIs, and best practices provided by the Playwright team and community.

#### Q: What is async in Playwright? 

A: In the Playwright framework, `async ({page})` signifies a function that operates asynchronously, accepting an argument named `page` that denotes a web page. The use of `async` indicates that the function is designed to execute without hindering the concurrent running of other scripts.

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Playwright Cheat Sheet 

Reliable, modern end-to-end test automation tool that improves testers’ and developers’ work.


Before you release your product into the market, it is extremely important to properly test whether it’s functioning as intended. To do that, software developers utilize a variety of testing techniques that verify the software’s integrity. To thoroughly check their software from start to finish, developers implement **End-to-End testing**, often simply called **E2E** testing – an elaborate technique that mimics end user experience. 

There are many layers to End to End testing, as it is one of the most complex testing methods. This type of testing involves testing every part of your software that the end-user interacts with in any imaginable way.

With this guide, we want to show you the importance of E2E tests, as well as tell you precisely what they are, including a few specific examples.

**Also see:** if you're new to software automation, take a look at this [beginner's guide to automation with step-by-step screenshots](https://docs.bugbug.io/in-depth-guides/beginners-tutorial-to-automation-testing).

[TABLE_OF_CONTENTS]

## What exactly is End-to-End testing?

**End-to-End testing** is one of the most useful and informative techniques for software testing, providing valuable data about the inner workings of the program from the end-user perspective. With E2E testing, developers can thoroughly verify the behaviour of their software. During the test, you will be trying to replicate key user behaviour scenarios when using your software. The actual list of things to do varies, depending on the type of software you’re testing – but in all cases, it is rather extensive.

When performing a software testing method, like an End-to-End test on a web application, you would start with opening your browser and navigating to the proper URL, and then proceeding to use the software as intended for the end-user.

Similarly, in the case of a regular desktop application or mobile application, you would open the app just like a user would, checking out every bit of functionality that is intended for the users to work with. Keep in mind that during E2E testing you won’t need to check developer-specific aspects of the software, only the end-user perspective if it is important to you.

## End-to-End test goals

During an E2E test, your goal is to verify all of the dependencies and data integrity that directly or indirectly influence the reception of the software by the end-user. This usually includes any external services, as well as databases used by the software and metrics, as well as any other system dependencies. 

E2E tests will ideally be performed in the production environment, but this isn’t always possible. The tests can, of course, be performed in an independent End-to-End testing environment, but you should make sure it is as close to the production environment as possible.

Within the SDLC process, E2E tests are performed in the Testing phase, which is situated after Coding and before Deployment. 
->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-


## Why is End-to-End testing important?

Is End-to-End testing necessary? It is true that more and more developers make sure to implement an E2E testing phase before the final deployment of their software. There are many benefits to E2E tests, but the most crucial ones are:

- The ability to verify software performance from the end-user perspective
- Testing verifies not only the software itself but also any interrelated sub systems, increasing test coverage
- Validation of back-end systems
- Immediate end-user-like feedback on test failing

While tests such as unit testing or integration testing are very useful (functional testing), allowing you to verify the working of each component and providing quick results, they don’t give you the whole picture. By not performing E2E tests, you won’t know how the experience of using your software will look like from the end-user perspective.

For example, individual component testing (integration tests) might show promising results and full functionality. However, when combined, something goes wrong and produces a bug. By only checking individual components, you wouldn’t be able to find out about the bug. 

With a proper End-to-End test, you can verify whether everything works correctly together as it should. Even integration testing doesn’t cover all of the system components of your software, and you might never know whether every aspect of your app clicks together.

E2E testing doesn’t necessarily have to discover bugs – it can also give you useful insight into the user scenario of your product. Overall, all types of tests play their respective roles in the whole vertical end-to-end testing process (differently to horizontal end-to-end tests). Just because E2E tests give you a more complex understanding of your software as a whole doesn’t mean that other test types are less valuable. 

Before releasing your app, always make sure to proceed with a thought-through testing strategy. However, while they’re certainly extremely useful, keep in mind that E2E tests occupy the top of the testing pyramid, making them the most expensive and most difficult to perform.

End-to-End testing is also one of the few functional types of tests that can be performed manually, as well as automated - which is done especially often in Continuous Integration. In such a scenario, a chosen set of tests can be run automatically each time a new iteration is uploaded to the testing server.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## Benefits of end-to-end testing

One of the goals of this software testing technique is to simulate the end-user's perspective. This means that this type of testing helps to verify not only the security or performance, but the business aspect as well. It will check whether the software collects and processes data as it was designed to do. End-to-end testing is essential for a comprehensive validation of your product. This testing ensures that all integrated parts of the application work together as expected.

Another purpose of E2E testing is to mitigate risks. E2E testing verifies if the software is ready for deployment. The confidence in stability is a crucial factor which the stakeholders consider while approving the next release. 

There are obviously much more obvious benefits of this form of testing (like bug fixing or testing across different user scenarios), but we described them already in this article.

## End-to-End Testing Framework

Alright, so now you know what End-to-End testing is – but how to exactly implement it? There is a wide variety of checks and individual tests that must be covered by your end-to-end testing plan, some of which include:

- Establishing test requirements in the preparation phase (including software and hardware requirements)
- Creating proper documentation
- Deciding what type of test environment will be used (production environment or independent test environment)
- Preparation of test cases and general E2E design
- Tracking of data input and output
- Test execution and evaluation

When executing E2E testing methods, developers usually follow an established E2E testing framework that guides you throughout the process, enumerating various tasks and responsibilities. The framework is relatively simple and consists of only three elements:

### Establish user functions

The User Functions relates to listing the features of your software, as well as all of its interconnected software systems. To properly measure and test software functionality, you need to first think about what you’re going to test. After you’re finished with listing user functions, remember to record everything relevant to each of them, including both the input and output data. Since E2E testing can be considered holistic, you also need to pay attention to all of the relations between every individual function – how they work together and whether there are any clashes.

### Come up with specific conditions

Now that you have established the user functions you’re going to test, you need to think about the testing conditions. Try to come up with as many quantifiable indicators that can be measured for each of the functions. These can range from response time to consistency of data flow, to simple convenience of use. Remember – you’re trying to imagine yourself as an end-user, so try to keep track of anything that might be an issue for a non-developer.

### Create individual test cases

Finally, before the E2E testing can commence, you need to prepare specific test cases for each of the conditions. At this point, you have prepared a list of user functions to test, as well as data conditions that will be measured during the test. Now, you need to create at least one test case for each of the conditions. By test cases, we mean user scenarios during which specific indicators will be able to be measured.

And by test case preparation status, we mean the precise location of the test instances being developed, as compared to intended test cases.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## End-to-end test cases for your testing process

Congratulations, you’ve almost reached the end! At this point, you should pretty much be a walking fountain of knowledge about End-to-End tests. However, the raw theory is one thing, and implementing those types of tests for system testing in reality is another. To make the process a bit more digestible, consider this End-to-End testing example for a website with shopping functionality:

- Go to the specified URL
- Open a list of products
- Check whether the information on the list correlates with specific product pages
- Try to add the product to the cart and look for visible confirmation
- Navigate to the cart and check whether the product has been successfully added
- Double-check all of the relevant information (price, product info, etc.)
- Proceed with the check-out and verify payment options integration

See how simple it is in the end? Now you can implement E2E testing methodology in your software to ensure better end-user reception, increase your product quality, and build a positive brand image.

This is just a high level example. If you would like to learn how to create a proper test case from start to end, please check out our article on [test case creation](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/how-to-write-automation-test-cases/). You will have a better understanding on how to design test cases for manual and automatic testing. Also check out our other topics in our testing guide. 

## End to End testing tools

Proper tools may play a crucial role in reducing your effort by automating your end-to-end tests. These tools provide a range of features and capabilities to support horizontal testing and vertical testing of the entire system. They allow testers to perform comprehensive testing processes. Choosing a proper tool for testing is typically a long-term investment. If you research and choose a tool that will enable you to execute and record complex user scenarios and allow testing across multiple technologies, your job will be way easier. 

One of the tools that meet such requirements is BugBug. This automated testing tool proved its efficiency for many clients. On the picture below you might see how many steps might an end-to-end scenario actually have.

![n example of a passed test with a proper output statement.](https://bugbug-homepage.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/88bc1d9e_16f8_4e1a_b33d_15e2a8d17cdf_cdfc84abfc.webp)

## Summary

End-to-end testing is a type of testing that focuses on validating the whole system from start to finish rather then testing individual functionalities. It is often seen as a software testing methodology, but it is not the case. It may be a part of a methodology (i.e. Agile testing) but it is by definition a type of software testing. 

Performing end-to-end testing covers an important task of checking data flows and focuses on testing if any functional gaps occur. This type of testing is necessary to verify if the software is ready for the next release cycle.

## Frequently Asked Questions

1. **What is automated testing?** \
Automated testing in software development is a form of software testing that uses the execution of predefined sets of operations to probe and validate the software system. The fundamental purpose of automation testing in software development is to generate objective feedback about the quality of the product. One such testing tool is Selenium. It can run UI tests. The ideal situation is to run E2E tests with both manual testing and automated testing approaches. If your application has a lot of complicated user interfaces, you'll need more end-to-end testing.

2. **What is software development lifecycle?** \
Software development lifecycle (SDLC) is the process used by developers to create, deploy and maintain software. This process includes several steps that are all closely connected with one another. These steps include requirements gathering, analysis and design, coding and testing.

3. **What is a testing pyramid?** \
In software development projects, we have limited time and resources. This is why it's important to consider our test efforts carefully and find the right balance between different types of testing. Basically, there are 3 layers in the testing pyramid: Unit Tests, Integration Tests, and E2E Tests.

3. **What is a selector?** \
A selector is a small piece of code that describes a specific button in your app. It allows you to clearly define what should be clicked in automated end-to-end tests. You can learn more about selectors using [this interactive XPath learning tool](https://bugbug.io/xpath-selector-builder/?ref=blogarticle)



Happy (automated) testing!


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What is End-to-End (E2E) Testing?

Professional Quality Evangelist, experienced in testing web and mobile applications.  
[linkedin.com/in/kinga-witko-b5bba659/](https://linkedin.com/in/kinga-witko-b5bba659/)

Kinga Witko

[TABLE_OF_CONTENTS]

The term “shift left” expresses movement. It can describe the movement of an entire team or individuals.
What does it do in a project or an entire development lifecycle? Putting it simply,  it reflects the position of testing on a timeline. 

**Shift Left means testing earlier in the development process.** It also means repositioning the engagement, development, and testing efforts towards the customer.


Typically, in a traditional (waterfall) model of software making, testing lands at the end of the pipeline or is one of the last phases of the process. Bringing testing at the very last stage usually causes many problems such as:

- delays in the deployment
- a lot of bugs at the end of the development lifecycle
- bugs discovered just before or after the release to production
- lack of collaboration between developers and testers through the entire process.

Poor software quality is one of the most harmful consequences of all of these pains listed above.

At first, the team members do not communicate with each other and they fail to communicate the problems early. 

It must not necessarily be a bug; sometimes there is some issue with the application setup, there is no testing environment, access to certain resources (such as specific tooling or external software providers), the task description is vague, or the team setup is incorrect. 

If communicated and fixed earlier, the entire process can be smoother and cause less frustration in the team. It also encourages people to focus more on the code quality and to deliver earlier and faster.

Most of those issues can be avoided by changing the style of working and shifting testing efforts at the beginning of the process.
->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-


## Agile way of working

If you care about the quality of your product, your mindset has probably shifted left already.

This approach is strongly connected with the agile way of thinking and using agile work methods in software projects.


In this setup, testing is an integrated part of the team and accelerates software development at higher quality. As a result, testers can identify bugs sooner, saving time and effort. Notably, the earlier you test, the less expensive bugs are to fix.


[T The Seven Testing Principles (ISTQB)](https://www.istqb.org/downloads/syllabi/foundation-level-syllabus.html) tell that testing everything is not possible unless a system or functionality is very simple. In practice, however,  the testing efforts should be targeted appropriately at the risk analysis, techniques, and bugs prioritization rather than be attempted thorough testing. 


One of the good methods of approaching testing strategy for a specific application can be the guideline from [Agile Testing Quadrants](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/agile-testing-quadrants/). The quadrants are a taxonomy to help teams plan the testing process and testing activities and make sure they have all the resources they need to accomplish it.


## Shift Left approach and DevOps and agile background

With the rise of the DevOps movement, there is an increased focus on delivering automated, continuous improvement. It holds true for development and testing alike.

What is more, Continuous Integration (CI) and Continuous Delivery (CD) are core software development disciplines integrated into the agile software development cycle. The point is to release fully-tested and stable builds early and as often as possible. Development, delivery, and test automation are crucial components of this process. 

## What it means to “Shift Left”

As mentioned at the beginning, Shift Left testing pushes testing to the “left”, to the earlier stages in the pipeline. This improves software quality and reduces time spent on resolving issues later in the pipeline.

Introducing testing early on the “left-side” of the development process, starting with unit tests and complementing with functional and integration tests is fundamental to making CI/CD happen. But that may not be enough.

The team can go even further: to eliminate unclear and contradicting requirements and improve the end-user experience, it is best to involve test engineers in the clarifying and prioritising application requirements. Test engineers can check the available or newly created requirements or user stories for clarity, consistency, testability, and traceability.

This also improves the shift towards client happiness. An early review of the requirements and spotting the flaws marks an early start of the communication with the end-user. 

The Shift Left approach introduces more care and thought exchange concerning the client. The team can be perceived as more proactive and more dedicated to the best quality standards of a project.
->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-


## Benefits of Shift Left Testing for Agile and Devops teams

Agile teams benefit most from Shift Left Testing in terms of clearer specifications, smoother implementations, earlier testing, and reduced costs. However, Shift Right Testing has more benefits like the ability to incorporate user and system feedback based on real usage scenarios. 

In opposition to testing early, Shift Right can provide an additional context to the testing scenarios. Shifting right means testing at the end of the process, typically when the software is deployed to production (the post-production environment). 

It is performed by a group of experts or selected end-users. It can utilize testing methods such as API Monitoring, using Feature Toggles, or measuring the performance of a live application. 

This helps to understand the application better and discover some other flaws that could have been omitted earlier.

Nevertheless, when quality comes first:

- developers spend more time on coding because they discuss potentially good solutions - they do not investigate who pushes the code first into production without testing

- there are Unit Tests beside the application code, available and maintainable

- there is an infrastructure that allows testing before pushing to production, usually the entire team is responsible for the process health

- there is room for improvement and mistakes

- developers pair up to catch obvious errors on the fly and learn from one another

- teams estimate tasks together, taking quality and risks into account

- potential risks in the systems are spotted and minimized rather than left alone

And finally - the application is tested - not only by one automated or manual test  but by a set of different functional and non-functional scenarios. 

The tests are regularly reviewed, adjusted, and observed. This approach introduces a new way of working and highlights the value of testing.


## Benefits of the Shift-Left Testing approach

The idea of shift left testing is simple to understand but hard to implement in the development cycle. It is worth the effort though, especially when the team and the entire organization understands the main benefits of this approach, such as:

- Lower costs - as explained above, bugs detected earlier are less expensive to fix.

- Increased efficiency in the software development process.

- Improved product quality and reliability because more bugs are detected at earlier stages.

- Reduced time to market since the QA process covers the entire development cycle, not only its’ last phase.

- A competitive advantage gained by letting development teams move fast, build and defend their credibility by innovating in iterations.
->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-


## Get started with “Shift Left” Testing in Agile

How to approach the change and switch to early software testing? Here is the basic list: 


1. **Plan**

Shape development in a way that is friendly to Shift Left testing. Once the requirements have been established, developers and testers should ideate how to shape the coding and software testing as early as possible. 


Depending on the product expectations as well as the limitations of the team, specific strategies, such as involving testers in the project since the planning phase or using the TDD approach, might have to be crafted to accommodate the Shift Left way of working.


2.** Review the requirements**

It is best to verify not only the existing code but also all the requirements necessary for the code to be written. Early verification can spot obvious mistakes.


3. **Use Static Code Analysis**

Static code analysis is the practice of checking the code without executing it. It runs through the basic code structure and ensures that the code is aligned with many standards and guidelines. By following the approach the team can early detect:

- Programming errors

- Violations of commonly followed coding standards

- Syntax anomalies

- Security issues

A static code analysis is best done via automation. The software should scan all untested codes in a project before it moves to the test phase.

4. **Collaborate**

As in any other [agile testing](https://bugbug.io/blog/software-testing/agile-testing-organized-chaos-or-a-planned-way-of-improving-your-software/) technique - early software testing requires a lot of collaboration with the team: Developers, Product Managers, Business Analysts, and other stakeholders responsible for the overall product. 

Everybody needs to understand the value of the Shift Left approach and spot the difference after some time of the new process introduction because as a result, the client benefits from better software quality and receives a lovable product.

## Conclusion for Left Shift Testing in test automation

There are a number of benefits to left shift testing in test automation. One of the primary benefits is that it helps to identify defects earlier in the development cycle. This means that defects can be caught and addressed before they become more complex and costly to fix. In addition, left shift testing can help to reduce the overall time and effort required for testing by identifying and addressing issues earlier in the process.

Another benefit of left shift testing in test automation is that it can help to improve the quality of the software being developed. By identifying and addressing defects earlier in the process, developers can ensure that the software they are creating is of higher quality and meets the requirements of the end-users.
->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-


One of the keys to successful left shift testing in test automation is to incorporate testing into the development process **from the very beginning**. This means that testing is not an afterthought or an additional step at the end of the development process, but rather an integral part of the development process itself. Test automation tools and frameworks can be used to automate testing activities and make it easier to incorporate testing into the development process.

It is also important to involve testers in the development process as early as possible. This allows them to provide feedback and identify potential issues before they become more complex and difficult to fix. Testers can also work with developers to ensure that the code being developed is testable, and that the testing process is efficient and effective.

Overall, **left shift testing is an important approach in test automation that can help to improve the quality of software, reduce testing time and effort, and identify defects earlier in the development process**. By incorporating testing into the development process from the very beginning, developers and testers can work together to create software that is of higher quality and meets the needs of the end-users.

Happy (automated) testing!

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Shift Left Testing Explained

Guides to Test Automation

Software developer currently working as a tech writer and PM.  
[linkedin.com/in/marcin-%C5%82ojewski-a4191518/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcin-%C5%82ojewski-a4191518/)

Marcin Łojewski

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Testing Tools for Web Application - The Ultimate Guide 2023

Testing is an ever-present part of a software developer’s job, performed at every stage of the production process. There is a wide range of test types used for software testing, some performed at various points during production, and some performed after production to confirm that the software functions as intended.

Regression testing is performed on a product that has already been finished and released. How exactly is it performed? What are the objectives and how does the procedure look? If you’re keen to find out, keep on reading as we explain everything you should know about regression testing.

[TABLE_OF_CONTENTS]

## The definition of Regression Testing

**Regression testing** is a software testing method that aims to investigate and locate any possible flaws or bugs in software that has already been fully developed. Regression Testing is performed to find out whether your software has regressed (surprise, surprise) as you continue introducing new updates and bug fixes. Whenever a piece of software is changed in any way, new bugs might emerge and some of the older ones re-emerge.

Most often, regression testing is performed immediately after introducing a new update, but it isn’t the only factor that might call for the test. If any software or hardware-related factor has changed, regression testing should be committed to find out whether everything performs as it has before the change. 

This can include any sort of bug fixes and software changes, but regression might also be caused by hardware configuration changes and electronic component degradation over time. Regression testing isn’t easy – it requires cooperation and diligence out of all of the team members, which makes it perfect for agile software development practices.

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## Regression Testing process

As with most testing efforts regression testing is an art rather than science. Let us describe the regression testing process that our development team uses. You may then use and adapt it to your existing test strategy. As regression testing is a type of testing that occurs whenever any change in your software occurs, the smartest way to start is to..

### Identify code changes

This will allow you to asses the number of test cases for regression testing that will need to be created. The testing team will need information on the impact that the current changes may have on the whole application. This is done also during this step.

### Prioritize changes

You finished step one with a list. Now you need to create a queue out of it. By proper prioritizing the changes in your software application you reduce the amount of time you will use on 

### Select for re-run

This is the part where the selection of test cases is performed. After the first test is done, test cases are categorized into reusable and obsolete ones. The reusable ones create a regression test suite. The others are will not be used for regression. 

### Categorize manual and automated regression test cases

Here is where the test automation actually begins. Test cases that occur more often within one process are perfect candidates to for the automation tool to do the work for you. If you want to automate tests in a fast and efficient way, try BugBug as your tool for regression testing. You will soon find out that it is great to reduce regression testing costs.

### Prioritize test cases

Here is where regression testing becomes a tad tricky. One would think, that the most often occurring test cases should have the biggest priority, right? Well the theory on that one is a tad different. The need for regression testing, therefor the priority, is the highest for those cases, that cover all essential features. The lowest on the other hand are stated as "technical complexities". 

### Plan and execute

This one is rather obvious, but we have to put it here. After doing all the analysis, you have to plan when regression testing is done and "push the execute button". 

## Regression Testing techniques

Regression testing can include various functional and non-functional tests in its process to thoroughly investigate the software in search of flaws. There are also many techniques with which developers and QA specialists perform regression testing, including:

- Retest All
- Regression Test Selection
- Test Case Prioritization
- Hybrid approach

### Retest All – an accurate yet expensive solution

**The Retest All ** technique is the most accurate and all-around method of regression testing, but it is also the most expensive one. In Retest All, every test case is checked again on the software to confirm if all of its parts are working as intended. That’s all there is to Retest All – it might be simple in definition, but it is definitely the hardest and most costly technique to actually perform.

### Regression Test Selection – when you realize you might not have enough for a Retest All

**Regression Test Selection** has been designed as a solution to the expensive nature of the Retest All technique. In RTS we don’t run all of the tests in our test suite, but instead we divide all of the tests into three categories – reusable test cases, retestable test cases, and obsolete test cases. In addition, RTS might actually create new test cases that haven’t been in the suite before, but might be relevant for regression tests.

If you’re interested in finding out more about regression testing examples, we recommend taking a look at Understanding Regression Testing Techniques by Gaurav Duggal and Bharti Suri. The authors further divide RTS techniques, naming two most important categories – coverage techniques and minimization techniques, and explain what are safe techniques.

**Coverage techniques** feature specific coverage criteria, often provided by the client who wants their software regression tested. These techniques sift through all test cases, selecting only the ones that are relevant for the covered parts of your software. **Minimization techniques** work in a way similar to coverage techniques, but instead of selecting cases based on set criteria, you select a minimum set of cases that you think will do the job.

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### Test Case Prioritization – a rational approach

**Test Case Prioritization** aims to maximize the rate of fault detection, creating the most thorough regression test for the lowest cost. First you prioritize the test cases one by one. Then all of them are performed in order, starting from the most important one and finishing on the least important one. Thanks to that, even if your resources aren’t enough to perform all of the tests in your suite, you will still perform the ones that should detect the most flaws.

**TSP** might be performed in two ways – the first one, called **General Prioritization**, selects test cases that should be effective (on average) on all versions of the software you’re working with. The other way, called Version Specific **Prioritization**, only takes into account a specific version of the software, without considering other existing or potential future versions.

### Hybrid approach – the best of both worlds

When choosing one technique of regression testing is impossible – why not combine the best features of Regression Test Selection and Test Case Prioritization? 

The hybrid approach is still being developed, and every researcher gives a personal spin on the idea. Since there isn’t an exact definition of what a hybrid approach actually is, there are tons of versions available – each one with its own upsides and downsides.

## Regression Testing tools

Regression testing ensures that each version of your software runs smoothly. We have described various regression testing techniques, but our article would not be complete without a few hints of what tool to use for proper test execution. 

Regression testing is used on an incremented basis. Each release of your software means building another layer of an already high pile of multiple regression test cases. A good tool will allow you to perform regression tests without writing a single line of code. 

If you want a specific list of tools, please redirect to our article [HERE](https://bugbug.io/blog/guides/testing-tools-for-web-application/).

->[Automate your tests for free](https://app.bugbug.io/sign-up/){.markdown-cta}<-

## Disadvantages of regression testing

Well now that's a shocker isn't it? We have many articles on testing in the BugBug blog, and never have I ever wrote anything negative about testing. Until now. We found four "buts" on regression testing and we tried to tackle them immediately.

- "but regression testing is time consuming" - yes, but only if you only perform a manual test, this is why selecting a good testing tool is essential
- "but you have to do it after even the smallest patch" - yes, but this is why you build a good regression cycle. You store all the recurring tests and only build a few on top of them for that given patch. It is like CI/CD for your testing process
- "but that process might interfere with the sprint planning" - only if you do regression tests without automation. Think of it from a business perspective - would you have a task that goes cross-sprint or a large bug in the production environment?
- "but it is difficult, to write those test cases" - ah, an oldie but a goodie. There are great no-code regression testing tools. Those might be used not only by QA or other technical personnel but by a PM. Such a person would be even able to automate the test or record and recreate it. 

Regression testing is one of the key ways to have your code thoroughly checked and ready to start earning you money!

## Conclusion – is Regression Testing necessary?

As you have already learned, regression testing plays a key role in keeping the quality of your software as high as possible for as long as possible. Updates and changes to your software might introduce new problems, which is exactly why regression testing is so important – to keep user experience high throughout all iterations of your program.

Not all projects require regression testing, of course. In projects that are already finished and won’t be further updated, regression testing is mostly irrelevant. However, if you are planning to continue development further – never forget to properly regression test your software before releasing an update.


Happy (automated) testing!

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