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Nova Devtool Laravel Package
laravel/nova-devtool
Laravel Nova Devtool streamlines Nova component development with a Workbench-based Nova install, optional auto-login, and commands to install common JS deps. Easily enable/disable Vue Devtools in Nova and upgrade from Nova 4 with a generic Mix extension.
Devtool for Laravel Nova Development
Frequently asked questions about Nova Devtool
- How do I set up a Laravel Nova development environment with laravel/nova-devtool?
- Run `composer require --dev laravel/nova-devtool` and then execute `php vendor/bin/testbench nova:devtool setup` to generate a Workbench-based Nova install. Serve it with `composer run serve` for immediate testing. The package automates Workbench configuration, so no manual setup is required.
- Does laravel/nova-devtool support Laravel Nova 4.x upgrades?
- Yes, the package includes a generic `nova.mix.js` replacement to simplify upgrades from Nova 4.x. Replace `require('./nova.mix')` with `mix.extend('nova', new require('laravel-nova-devtool'))` in your `webpack.mix.js` and remove the old file. Test thoroughly after migration.
- Can I use laravel/nova-devtool without Orchestra Workbench?
- Workbench is optional for basic usage. The package automates Workbench setup, but you can disable it by skipping the `nova:devtool setup` command. Core features like Vue DevTools toggling and dependency management still work without Workbench.
- How do I enable Vue DevTools in my Nova project?
- Run `php vendor/bin/testbench nova:devtool enable-vue-devtool` to inject Vue DevTools into your Nova build. Disable it later with `nova:devtool disable-vue-devtool` to avoid production performance overhead. This toggle is ideal for debugging during development.
- Will laravel/nova-devtool auto-update my package.json with dependencies?
- Yes, running `php vendor/bin/testbench nova:devtool install` adds common JS dependencies (Axios, Lodash, Tailwind CSS) to your `package.json` and runs `npm install`. Review the changes afterward to avoid unintended dependency bloat.
- Is laravel/nova-devtool compatible with Laravel 10–13 and Nova 5.x–6.x?
- The package explicitly supports Laravel 10–13 and Nova 5.x–6.x. For older versions, test compatibility manually or check the GitHub issues for patches. Always verify after major Laravel/Nova updates.
- How do I handle Vue DevTools in CI/CD or production?
- Disable Vue DevTools in production using `nova:devtool disable-vue-devtool` or configure it via `.env` (if supported). The package provides CLI toggles, but you may need custom scripts to enforce this in CI pipelines.
- Can I use laravel/nova-devtool for testing custom Nova tools?
- Absolutely. The Workbench sandbox isolates your Nova components, making it perfect for testing tools, plugins, or admin panels. Use `php artisan nova:devtool` commands to manage dependencies and DevTools without affecting your main app.
- Are there alternatives to laravel/nova-devtool for Nova development?
- For basic Nova setup, you could use Laravel Breeze or Jetstream for auth + custom Nova components. However, laravel/nova-devtool specializes in Workbench integration, Vue DevTools, and dependency management—ideal for teams heavily extending Nova’s UI or building SaaS admin panels.
- How do I upgrade laravel/nova-devtool to a newer version?
- Run `composer update laravel/nova-devtool` and check the changelog for breaking changes. If upgrading Nova versions, follow the package’s migration guide for `nova.mix.js` and Webpack 5 compatibility. Test thoroughly in a staging environment first.
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