Polychrom review
An open-source Figma plugin for APCA checks across complex layer backgrounds.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Polychrom is an open-source Figma plugin for designers checking contrast in interface text and colors. It uses the APCA method and is particularly suited to Figma users working with layered designs, where a selected layer’s visible background may be affected by opacity, multiple fills, or blend modes. It can compare a layer with its detected background, compare two selected layers, or list contrast values for multiple selected layers. That makes it a focused option for teams that want contrast analysis within a design workflow rather than a separate general-purpose checker.
Its layer-background detection is the standout capability. Instead of treating the background as a simple color pair, Polychrom accounts for those layer effects and provides contrast values for selected layers. It also recommends text sizes for regular and bold weights, and includes a color picker plus conversions to OKLCH, RGB, and HEX. Display P3 colors are supported. These tools make it useful when designers need to inspect several interface elements or tune colors in context; teams that only need a single color-pair check may find its Figma-centered workflow more than they need.
The main consideration is its method: Polychrom checks contrast with APCA, and does not claim WCAG 2.0, 2.1, or 2.2 conformance checks. Buyers whose review process specifically requires those WCAG checks should choose a tool that provides them. Polychrom is free and open source, with Figma as its listed integration. The plugin is linked through Figma Community; local plugin development requires Figma Desktop rather than the web version. Choose it for APCA-based analysis of layered Figma designs, but not as a substitute for a workflow that requires WCAG conformance results.
Polychrom pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Accounts for opacity, multiple fills, and blend modes when detecting backgrounds
- Compares selected layers singly or in batches
- Recommends text sizes and supports Display P3 color conversion
- Where it doesn't
- Uses APCA rather than WCAG 2.0, 2.1, or 2.2 conformance checks
- Designed for Figma workflows rather than standalone design tools
- Local plugin development requires Figma Desktop, not the web version
Polychrom fact sheet, pricing and score →
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