How to Change Opacity in Figma

Opacity is a powerful visual tool in Figma that allows designers to control the transparency of objects, text, frames, and layers. Whether you’re creating overlays, faded backgrounds, or subtle UI elements, knowing how to adjust opacity quickly and precisely can elevate your design work. Let’s walk through how opacity works in Figma and how you can use it effectively.

🔍 What Is Opacity in Figma?

Opacity determines how transparent or opaque an element is. A setting of 100% means the layer is fully visible, while 0% makes it completely invisible. Values in between let background elements show through, allowing for layered effects and depth in design.

✏️ How to Change Opacity

There are two main ways to change opacity in Figma:

1. Using the Opacity Field

Select the object, text layer, or group you want to adjust.
Look in the top-right properties panel. You’ll find an Opacity (%) field.
Type a number (e.g., 75) or drag the slider to change transparency.

2. Using Keyboard Shortcuts

Press any number key (1–9) while an object is selected:
- 1 sets opacity to 10%
- 5 sets opacity to 50%
- 0 sets opacity back to 100%

To set exact percentages:

Press two numbers in quick succession: 25 for 25%, 80 for 80%, etc.

🎯 When and Why to Use Opacity

Background Overlays: Use 40–70% opacity to dim screens beneath modal windows.
Hover Effects: Set a lower opacity for disabled or hover-state elements.
Depth and Layers: Use transparency to imply visual hierarchy without overusing shadows or colors.

⚠️ Notes and Tips

Opacity affects the entire layer, including strokes, fills, and effects.
If you want to adjust only a fill’s opacity (not stroke or effects), use the Fill color section’s built-in opacity setting instead.
You can stack layers with different opacities for rich, layered effects.

✅ Wrapping Up

Changing opacity in Figma is fast and flexible, allowing you to fine-tune how visible each design element appears. Whether you’re designing interactive states or creating subtle emphasis, mastering opacity gives you greater control over your design’s tone and clarity. Try using it with other properties like blend modes and gradients for more creative power.