What Are Automation Testing Tools? 9 Types & Examples
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It’s a simple question with a simple answer: What are automation testing tools?
Test automation is the process of testing various parts of new software with little to no human involvement. Essentially, it makes sure every aspect of a software design works without a human sitting in front of a computer devoting hours to manual tests.
According to the 2020 State of Testing survey, 96.5% of recipients listed functional testing automation and scripting as an important or very important QA skill to have for success in the industry.
Now, let’s turn our attention to automation testing tools, including a closer look at what they do, the benefits, and more.
Here’s what I’ll cover:
- What Are Automation Testing Tools?
- Benefits of Automation Testing
- 9 Types of Automation Testing
- Test Automation Frameworks
- 6 Top Automation Testing Tools
What Are Automation Testing Tools?
An automation testing tool is a piece of software that lets you define testing tasks and then takes over to perform the tests for you. Ideally, this happens with minimal human oversight.
There is a wide range of automation testing tools to test across multiple platforms, including smartphones, mobile devices, and desktop computers. Through testing automation, performance testing can run without human intervention, which provides the ability to test code 24 hours a day if needed, speeding up the test execution process.
But that’s not the only thing automation testing tools can do. Let’s take a closer look at why using an automated testing tool is often the best approach.
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Benefits Of Automation Testing
Automated testing has many benefits over manual testing, but some cases really exemplify its worth, including:
- Multilingual sites
- Test cases that are repeated
- Tedious cases
- Cases that are broad and expansive
While these tests can be performed by a human, they are quite complex and are therefore prone to errors. For example, someone testing a site in a foreign language is bound to make mistakes, especially if the site is sizable. In instances like this, it's easy to see why automation testing is the right option.
That said, there are some instances where manual testing is better, including:
- New test cases that have not yet been executed manually
- Test cases where the criteria are always changing
- Test cases that are not routine
In these instances, you can see why it would be beneficial to have a pair of human eyes on the testing. For example, the first time a test code is written, it should be run manually to ensure that it delivers the expected result. Once this is verified, it can then be used as an automated solution.
In the cases where automation testing is appropriate, you’ll see some specific benefits, (perhaps even more so if you are already using AI in test automation) including:
- Speed
- Wider test coverage
- Consistency
- Cost savings
- Frequent and thorough testing
- Faster time to market
Now that you know when to use an automation tool and the reasons why you should, let’s look at how to choose the right tool for your needs.
9 Types Of Automation Testing
Generally, there are two types of testing. Functional testing tests the real-world applications of the software while non-functional testing tests different software requirements, like security and data storage.
Many specific types of testing fit into these categories, and some of them may overlap. The types of automated testing include:
1. Unit Testing
Unit testing is testing small, individual components of the software. It’s the first stage of testing, and while it’s usually done manually, it can be automated, so I wanted to include it here.
2. Smoke Tests
A smoke test is a functional test that determines whether or not a build is stable. It verifies the function of essential features to make sure the program can endure further testing. The name comes from the idea that this test prevents the program from catching fire if it’s not ready for additional testing.
3. Integration Tests
These functional tests make sure that all of the individual pieces of software test are well when operating as a whole.
4. Regression Tests
Regression tests are both functional and non-functional, ensuring that no part of the software has regressed after changes are made.
5. API Testing
The application programming interface or API acts as the conduit between all the other systems that your software needs to function. It’s usually tested after software development to make sure that everything is working together as it should.
6. Security Tests
Security tests are also functional and non-functional. Their purpose is to check everything for security weaknesses that can be exploited.
7. Performance Tests
Non-functional performance tests evaluate stability and responsiveness. They ensure that the software can handle stress and deliver a better and more reliable user experience.
8. Acceptance Tests
Acceptance tests are functional tests that try to determine how end-users will respond to the final product. This test must be passed successfully before the product can be released to end-users.
9. UI Tests
User interface tests are one of the last tests in the process. This test is designed to accurately replicate a typical user experience. It ensures that the end product that users interact with works as it should.
Test Automation Frameworks
Once you know what kind of automated testing you need to do, the next step is to choose a framework to organize the testing process.
The biggest benefit of doing this is that it standardizes the testing process, which provides a structure so that everyone applying automated testing to the project is on the same page.
Some of the most common types of test automation framework are:
Linear Framework
This type is sometimes called Record and Playback. Testers create a test script for each test case. It’s a very basic approach that’s more suited to a small team that doesn’t have a lot of experience with test automation.
Modular Based Framework
This framework organizes each test case into small, independent modules. Each one has a different scenario, but they are all handled by the framework’s single master script. This approach is very efficient, but a lot of planning is required, and it’s best used by testers who have experience with automation testing tools.
Library Architecture Framework
Library Architecture Framework is an expansion of the modular-based approach, with a few differences. In a Library Architecture Framework, tasks are grouped within the test script according to common objectives.
These functions are then stored in a library so they can be quickly accessed when needed. This framework is very flexible, but creating the scripts takes time, so experience in automated testing is beneficial.
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Top 7 Automation Testing Tools
60% of North American project teams report that they struggle to apply test automation at appropriate levels for Agile development. Employing the appropriate automation testing tool is one way to make sure your team doesn’t hit this roadblock.
There are countless automation testing tools out there. Which one is right for you depends on what you’re working on and what you need the tool to do. Here are a few of my favorites:
DeviQA
Best for startup testing needs
DeviQA offers a wide range of software testing and quality assurance services, focusing on QA outsourcing, managed testing, and dedicated QA teams. They primarily serve industries like healthcare, fintech, eCommerce, and real estate, catering to both startups and enterprises.
Why I picked DeviQA: DeviQA excels in providing tailored testing solutions for startups, making them an excellent choice for new businesses. Their use of advanced testing frameworks like Playwright and Selenium ensures efficient and thorough testing. With a team dedicated to quality, DeviQA can handle complex testing needs, helping startups deliver bug-free software quickly.
Standout Services: DeviQA's managed test automation service allows your team to automate repetitive tests efficiently, addressing the need for frequent software updates. Their QA consulting service offers expert guidance tailored to your project, ensuring your testing strategy aligns with your business goals.
Target industries: Healthcare, fintech, ecommerce, real estate, and SaaS
Specialties: Functional testing, performance testing, security testing, accessibility testing, and API testing
Integrations include Selenium, Appium, Jenkins, JIRA, TestRail, Postman, Git, BrowserStack, Sauce Labs, and Docker.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Advanced testing frameworks used
- Flexible cooperation models
- Global service availability
Cons
- May not suit very small projects
- Limited industry-specific specialization
Testlio
Best for global app testing
Testlio provides a range of software testing services, including manual, automated, and fused testing, catering primarily to industries like commerce, finance, and healthcare. They serve a diverse client base, from startups to large enterprises, with a focus on enhancing software quality.
Why I picked Testlio: Testlio's strength lies in its global reach and ability to test across numerous devices and payment methods, which is crucial for global app testing. Their network of 10,000 testing experts ensures your app is thoroughly vetted in real-world conditions. The integration with tools like Atlassian Jira facilitates smooth collaboration and feedback loops for your team.
Standout Services: Testlio's manual testing service allows your team to ensure software quality with real-world human insights, addressing the need for thorough user experience evaluation. Their fused testing combines manual and automated approaches, providing a balanced and efficient testing strategy for complex projects.
Target industries: Commerce, finance, healthcare, media, and education
Specialties: Manual testing, test automation, fused testing, global app testing, and device coverage
Pros and cons
Pros
- Extensive device coverage
- Flexible service options
- Integrates with popular tools
Cons
- May not suit small-scale projects
- Limited focus on niche industries
QA Wolf
Best for full testing coverage
QA Wolf offers automated QA testing services, focusing on achieving high test coverage for web and mobile applications. They serve a diverse range of industries, including fintech, healthcare, and eCommerce, catering to both startups and established companies.
Why I picked QA Wolf: QA Wolf's approach delivers full testing coverage by utilizing their hybrid platform and service, ensuring your web and mobile apps meet quality standards. Their AI-driven testing allows for rapid test creation and execution, significantly reducing QA cycles. The emphasis on test coverage over labor hours provides a cost-effective solution for your team.
Standout Services: QA Wolf's human-verified bug reports ensure that your team receives accurate and actionable feedback, addressing core quality assurance needs. Their unlimited parallel test runs feature allows you to execute multiple tests simultaneously, optimizing your testing process and reducing time to market.
Target industries: Fintech, healthcare, eCommerce, Gen AI, and mobile apps
Specialties: iOS app testing, Android app testing, performance testing, accessibility testing, and AI-driven testing
Pros and cons
Pros
- High test coverage quickly achieved
- AI-driven test creation
- No vendor lock-in policy
Cons
- Requires integration with CI/CD tools
- Focused on test coverage
TestMatick
Best for tailored testing solutions
TestMatick provides a variety of software testing services, including functional, performance, and security testing, serving businesses of all sizes. They cater to industries such as finance, healthcare, and eCommerce, offering customized solutions to meet specific client needs.
Why I picked TestMatick: TestMatick excels in providing tailored testing solutions, adapting their services to fit your unique project requirements. Their expertise in multiple testing types ensures that your application is thoroughly evaluated from different angles. By focusing on customized testing strategies, they help your team address specific challenges efficiently.
Standout Services: TestMatick's security testing service helps your team identify vulnerabilities, ensuring your application is safe from potential threats. Their usability testing evaluates the user experience, providing insights to improve your application's interface and functionality.
Target industries: Finance, healthcare, eCommerce, education, and media
Specialties: Functional testing, performance testing, security testing, usability testing, and mobile app testing
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide range of testing services
- Focus on client-specific needs
- Flexible engagement models
Cons
- May require an initial setup time
- Limited focus on niche industries
Owlity
Best for autonomous test generation
Owlity is an autonomous quality assurance (QA) solution that uses an AI-driven approach for testing web applications. By analyzing your app's behavior and user flows, it generates and executes test cases without the need for manual intervention.
Why I picked Owlity: I picked Owlity because it uses AI to generate test cases automatically by analyzing your app’s behavior and user flows. This helps cover critical paths without writing manual scripts. Its self-healing test scripts also adapt to app changes, cutting down on test maintenance. These features reduce the workload on your QA team while improving test coverage and accuracy. Owlity’s automation-first approach makes it a strong fit for continuous deployment environments.
Standout Services: Owlity also offers AI-driven test prioritization, which assesses the importance of each test case and assigns priority levels such as high, medium, or low. Additionally, Owlity offers network request monitoring and validation, gathering and reporting any 4xx or 5xx errors during application analysis.
Target industries: Ecommerce, fintech, healthcare, SaaS, edtech, logistics
Specialties: Autonomous test case generation, self-healing test scripts, AI-driven test prioritization, and end-to-end testing.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Automatically adjusts tests with application changes
- Provides detailed and comprehensive test reports
- No coding or QA expertise needed
Cons
- Customization options may be limited compared to manual testing
- Advanced users may desire more complex features
Netdata
Best for real-time monitoring
Netdata offers real-time performance monitoring and troubleshooting solutions for applications and IT infrastructure. They serve businesses across various industries, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
Why I picked Netdata: Netdata provides real-time monitoring capabilities that allow your team to quickly identify and address performance issues. With their scalable architecture, you can monitor thousands of metrics per second, ensuring your systems are always performing optimally. Their open-source model offers flexibility and customization to fit your specific monitoring needs.
Standout Services: Netdata's cloud monitoring service allows your team to track cloud-based resources, ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency. Their distributed monitoring feature helps you monitor multiple systems from a single interface, simplifying management and enhancing visibility across your IT infrastructure.
Target industries: Technology, finance, healthcare, eCommerce, and education
Specialties: Real-time monitoring, troubleshooting, cloud monitoring, distributed monitoring, and open-source solutions
Pros and cons
Pros
- Real-time performance insights
- Open-source flexibility
- Scalable architecture
Cons
- Advanced features may require setup
- High resource consumption
New Relic
Best for developer integration
New Relic provides observability and monitoring solutions, helping businesses track application performance and infrastructure. They serve a wide range of industries, focusing on improving system reliability and user experience.
Why I picked New Relic: New Relic excels in developer integration, offering tools that seamlessly fit into your existing development workflows. Their platform provides real-time insights into application performance, allowing your team to quickly identify and resolve issues. With extensive integrations, New Relic ensures your development process remains uninterrupted while enhancing system observability.
Standout Services: New Relic's infrastructure monitoring offers real-time visibility into your IT infrastructure, helping your team maintain optimal performance and prevent downtime. Their application performance monitoring provides detailed insights into app behavior, enabling you to optimize user experience and troubleshoot issues effectively.
Target industries: Technology, finance, healthcare, retail, and media
Specialties: Application performance monitoring, infrastructure monitoring, real-time analytics, cloud monitoring, and developer tools
Pros and cons
Pros
- Extensive developer integrations
- Real-time performance insights
- Supports multiple programming languages
Cons
- Can be complex for new users
- Requires integration effort upfront
Conclusion
QA is trending more toward automated testing so that teams can focus more resources on more nuanced and involved projects instead. With the help of automation testing tools, it’s possible to remove some—or all— of the grunt work associated with repetitive or expansive testing.
Don't forget, you can also outsource your testing to automation testing services through vendors like A1QA, TestGuru, and TestingXperts. Some companies find that this increases the quality of their tests and quickens time-to-market.
Looking for even more tools but you're not quite ready to make the investment? Here's our list of the 10 Best Free Test Management Tools For 2023.
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