Where each is relatively distinctive
Playwright is relatively strong when selectors, assertions and repeatable browser sessions must be explicit. browser-use is relatively distinctive when an agent needs to interpret a page and take a sequence of actions. Stagehand is relatively focused on exposing browser control alongside model-assisted actions. These strengths describe control surfaces and failure modes, not a quality ranking.
Where each fits
Use Playwright for release checks, regression coverage and workflows that should fail loudly when the interface changes. Consider browser-use for exploratory or task-oriented agents where the page structure is variable and a human can review outcomes. Consider Stagehand when the team wants model-assisted steps but still wants to compose them with browser-level code. Keep high-impact actions behind confirmation and policy checks.
Boundaries and ownership
Browser automation touches credentials, personal data and external side effects. Model-assisted actions add nondeterminism, latency and prompt-injection exposure. Regardless of the tool, isolate test accounts, log actions without leaking secrets, cap retries and make destructive steps explicit. A green run is evidence for one environment, not a guarantee that an agent will behave safely on every page.
A comparison you can run
Use one harmless task such as searching a test site, filtering a list and exporting a result. Run it repeatedly with the same account and deliberately change one label or layout element. Compare reproducibility, recovery after a failed step, trace quality and review effort. Keep the test away from purchases, account changes or irreversible actions.