Mocha vs Chromatic: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Mocha and Chromatic comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Mocha
JavaScript test framework for Node.js
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Mocha is a JavaScript test framework running on Node.js and browsers
- • It provides flexible testing with async support, hooks, and reporter options
Chromatic
Visual testing for Storybook
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need ui/ux design features specifically
- • Chromatic is a visual testing platform that catches UI bugs by comparing component screenshots
- • It integrates with Storybook to automate visual regression testing across browsers and viewports
| At a Glance |  Mocha |  Chromatic |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | UI/UX Design |
Rating | 80/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Mocha | Chromatic |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsTesting & QA | UI/UX DesignTesting & QA |
How Mocha and Chromatic Compare
Mocha
JavaScript test framework for Node.js
Free · 80/100 score
Chromatic
Visual testing for Storybook
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Mocha is a ide & code editors tool. Chromatic is in ui/ux design.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Mocha is free. Chromatic is freemium.
Go with: Mocha
Want the highest-rated option?
Mocha: 80/100. Chromatic: 85/100.
Go with: Chromatic
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Chromatic
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Mocha is free. Chromatic is freemium. Go with Mocha if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Mocha is a ide & code editors tool. Chromatic is in ui/ux design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Chromatic scores higher: 85/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Chromatic
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Mocha
- Completely free
- Better fit for ide & code editors
The Bottom Line
Chromatic (85/100) is our pick. That said, Mocha is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mocha or Chromatic better?
Chromatic scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Mocha is free and Chromatic is freemium.
What are Mocha and Chromatic used for?
Mocha: JavaScript test framework for Node.js. Chromatic: Visual testing for Storybook.
What does Mocha cost vs Chromatic?
Mocha is completely free. Chromatic is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.