Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

For most React projects, the simplest way to add Chromatic visual tests is to connect Chromatic to Storybook: create a Chromatic project and token, install the Chromatic CLI, then publish your Storybook. The first build establishes visual baselines; later builds compare new snapshots with them. If your UI states already live in Vitest, Playwright, or Cypress tests, Chromatic also documents runner-specific integrations.

Choose the source of your visual test states

Chromatic’s CLI uses Storybook by default, and it can also capture a UI archive while Vitest, Playwright, or Cypress tests run. Pick the path that matches where your team already defines the UI states worth checking; the official setup material does not establish one runner as best for every React project.

Path Best fit Setup note
Storybook Components and states represented as stories Default CLI mode; the documented quickstart requires Storybook 6.5 or later. Check its current Node guidance before setup.
Vitest UI states represented by existing Vitest tests Use Chromatic’s Vitest integration, not the Storybook-only command. Its setup page lists Vitest 4.0.0 or later and the @vitest/browser-playwright provider as requirements.
Playwright UI states exercised by existing browser tests Use the --playwright mode and follow the runner-specific setup documentation.
Cypress UI states exercised by existing Cypress tests Use the --cypress mode and follow the runner-specific setup documentation.

For Storybook, Chromatic uses the existing setup and tests; its overview describes capturing a snapshot for each test. For the other runners, the CLI captures a UI archive during test execution and uploads it for visual testing. See the Chromatic documentation for the current runner-specific configuration.

Set up the Storybook route

  1. Create the Chromatic project. Sign in to Chromatic, create a project for your React app, and copy its project token. The token identifies the project used by the CLI and CI.
  2. Install the CLI as a development dependency.
    npm install --save-dev chromatic

    Chromatic’s CLI guide also documents Yarn and pnpm installation commands.

  3. Publish the first build.
    npx chromatic --project-token <your-project-token>

    The CLI uses the project’s Storybook build by default, uploads it to Chromatic’s cloud infrastructure, and starts publishing and visual testing. The initial run establishes baselines.

  4. Review later builds. After subsequent changes, inspect the build results in Chromatic to review snapshots against the existing baselines.

Confirm the current Storybook and Node requirements on Chromatic’s quickstart before adopting a fixed version: support guidance can change.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

Use an existing Vitest, Playwright, or Cypress suite

When the project already defines visual states in a test runner, use Chromatic’s matching integration rather than adding duplicate Storybook stories solely for capture. The documented CLI options are --vitest, --playwright, and --cypress. Consult the relevant setup page for that runner’s package installation and test changes.

Vitest

Chromatic’s Vitest setup page lists Vitest 4.0.0 or later and the @vitest/browser-playwright provider as requirements. Verify those requirements against the current integration guide before changing dependencies.

Playwright and Cypress

Both are documented Chromatic runner modes. The GitHub Actions guide includes examples that run the test job, preserve its archive as an artifact, and then invoke Chromatic with the corresponding Action option. Follow those runner-specific examples so the archive produced by the test job is passed to Chromatic correctly.

Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Add Chromatic to GitHub Actions

Chromatic’s documented workflow uses full Git history, Node setup, dependency installation, and the Chromatic Action. The example below reflects the versions shown in Chromatic’s documentation accessed October 3, 2026; check the current guide before using them because Action tags and Node recommendations change.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
name: "Chromatic"

on: push

jobs:
  chromatic:
    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
    steps:
      - name: Checkout code
        uses: actions/checkout@v7
        with:
          fetch-depth: 0
      - uses: actions/setup-node@v7
        with:
          node-version: 24.20.0
      - name: Install dependencies
        run: npm ci
      - name: Run Chromatic
        uses: chromaui/action@latest
        with:
          projectToken: ${{ secrets.CHROMATIC_PROJECT_TOKEN }}
  1. In GitHub, open the repository’s Settings → Secrets and variables → Actions.
  2. Create the CHROMATIC_PROJECT_TOKEN repository secret and paste the project token from Chromatic.
  3. Add the workflow at .github/workflows/chromatic.yml and commit it.
  4. Push a change and inspect the workflow run and Chromatic build results.

For linked Git provider projects, Chromatic documents pull request status checks. Its CI guide also shows running Chromatic through a package script and configuring other CI services.

Choose how CI treats visual differences

Decide whether a visual difference should fail the job or be reviewed as a result. Chromatic’s CI documentation says UI Test or UI Review can return a nonzero exit code when changes are present. Its sample package script uses --exit-zero-on-changes:

Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
{
  "scripts": {
    "chromatic": "chromatic --exit-zero-on-changes"
  }
}

That option lets the job exit successfully despite changes; do not use it automatically if your merge policy requires a failing check. Choose the behavior that matches how your team handles review and merges.

Pin the Action deliberately

Chromatic documents using @latest, a major-version tag, or a full version tag. A floating tag follows updates; a major tag limits changes to that major line; a full version tag pins a specific release. Select an update policy that fits your CI maintenance practices and verify the current Action tags before committing the workflow.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Keep the project token out of source control

Use CI secret storage for the project token rather than placing it in a committed workflow or application file. GitHub does not make repository secrets available to workflows triggered by forked repositories, so fork pull requests need an explicit security decision.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft

Chromatic describes exposing a token as plaintext in workflow source as a possible workaround for forked pull requests, but warns that anyone with access to that file could run builds on the project and potentially use snapshots. Treat that as deliberate token exposure, not a routine fix. Chromatic says a compromised token can be reset.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Monorepos and large Storybook builds

Monorepos

Each Chromatic subproject needs its own token. Set the Action’s working directory to the correct project and ensure it has a build-storybook script, or specify the build script. If Storybook has already been built, Chromatic’s Action guide documents supplying the output directory with storybookBuildDir.

More than 5,000 files

Chromatic documents a 5,000-file limit for stories and assets and recommends the zip option if the project exceeds it. Check the current Action guide for the exact option syntax and use it when the build cannot be uploaded within that limit.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Troubleshoot common setup failures

  • Chromatic cannot identify the project: Check that the CLI or Action received the project token for the intended Chromatic project. In CI, verify the secret name matches CHROMATIC_PROJECT_TOKEN and that the secret is configured for the repository.
  • The first build cannot find Storybook: The default CLI route expects the project’s Storybook build. Confirm Storybook is installed and builds successfully, or use the appropriate runner mode if your states are maintained in Vitest, Playwright, or Cypress.
  • Vitest setup does not match the integration requirements: Check the current Chromatic Vitest setup documentation, including its listed Vitest version and browser provider requirements.
  • A fork pull request has no token: This is expected for GitHub repository secrets. Avoid solving it by committing a live token without assessing who can access the workflow file and run project builds.
  • A monorepo build uses the wrong project or directory: Verify the Action’s working directory, project-specific token, and Storybook build script or prebuilt directory.
  • Upload exceeds the file limit: Chromatic documents a 5,000-file stories-and-assets limit; its Action guide recommends the zip option for larger projects.
  • Visual changes do not fail the job: Review whether the workflow or package script uses --exit-zero-on-changes and whether UI Test or UI Review is enabled. Align the setting with the intended review and merge policy.
  • An Action or runtime version is unsupported: Recheck Chromatic’s current GitHub Actions and quickstart pages for supported tags and Node guidance rather than assuming the example versions remain current.

Or skip the browser setup

For a direct screenshot of a page rather than a Chromatic visual-testing workflow, ScreenshotNeo offers a one-request screenshot API and an MCP server for AI agents. This is not a replacement for Chromatic’s baseline review flow. One cURL request is:

curl -G "https://api.screenshotneo.com/v1/shot" -d access_key=YOUR_API_KEY --data-urlencode url=https://stripe.com -o shot.webp

See the ScreenshotNeo API documentation for request details. ScreenshotNeo accepts cookie or consent banners before capture and removes more than 60 known consent platforms, newsletter popups, and chat widgets; those steps can be turned off. Bot checks or CAPTCHAs, blank pages, timeouts, failed loads, and cache hits cost nothing, and responses identify the page verdict and billing status. Its MCP server gives Claude, Cursor, and other MCP clients screenshot, page-info, and PDF-capture tools. The free plan includes 1,000 shots per month with no card; paid plans start at $5 for 3,000 shots. Sign up for ScreenshotNeo’s free plan.

ScreenshotNeo: screenshotneo.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Chromatic run visual tests without Storybook?

Yes. Chromatic documents Vitest, Playwright, and Cypress runner modes in addition to its default Storybook route.

Do I need a separate Chromatic token for each app in a monorepo?

Each Chromatic subproject needs its own project token.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.