How to Install Nodejs on Mac

If you’re new to automation or just setting up Playwright on your machine, Node.js is the very first requirement. Here’s a simple, no-nonsense guide to help you get Node.js running on your Mac.

✅ Step 1: Check if Node.js is Already Installed

Open Terminal (⌘ + Space → search “Terminal”) and run:

node -v

If you see something like:

v18.4.0

…great! Node.js is already installed. If not, continue below 👇

✅ Step 2: Install Node.js (Recommended via Official Installer)

1. Go to the official Node.js website:
   👉 https://nodejs.org

2. Download the LTS version (Recommended for most users). As of this writing, that’s v18.18.0+

3. Run the installer and follow the prompts.

   • Keep the default settings.
   • It will install both node and npm (Node Package Manager).

✅ Step 3: Confirm Installation

After installation, open Terminal again and run:

node -v
npm -v

You should now see version numbers for both Node and npm:

v18.18.0
9.8.1

🔄 Optional: Install via Homebrew

If you’re using Homebrew, you can also install Node.js with:

brew install node

But if you’re a beginner, the official installer method is simpler and safer.

🎉 You’re Done!

Node.js is now ready to go! You can continue setting up Playwright or any other tools that depend on it.

If you’re following along with my YouTube video, head back there now — you’re ready for the next step.