Color Contrast Checker
Free WCAG 2.1 Compliance Testing Tool
Instantly check color contrast ratios and ensure your text and background color combinations meet WCAG AA and AAA accessibility standards. Create inclusive, readable designs that everyone can enjoy.
Minimum ratio 4.5:1
Enhanced ratio 7:1
Preview
Large Heading
Perfect for main headings and hero text (24px+)
Subheading Example
This is how your body text will look. The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. Make sure the contrast is sufficient for comfortable reading. (16px)
Small text example - Pack my box with five dozen liquor jugs. (14px)
Used for captions, footnotes, and supporting text (12px)
Why Color Contrast Matters for Accessibility
WCAG Compliance Requirements
Meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA and AAA guidelines to ensure your websites and applications are accessible to users with visual impairments, including color blindness and low vision. Proper contrast ratios are legally required in many jurisdictions.
- Level AA: 4.5:1 contrast ratio for normal text (minimum)
- Level AAA: 7:1 contrast ratio for normal text (enhanced)
- Large text: 3:1 minimum (18pt+ or 14pt+ bold)
- Graphics: 3:1 for UI components and icons
Enhanced User Experience
High contrast color combinations improve readability for all users, not just those with disabilities. Better contrast ratios lead to easier reading in various lighting conditions, reduced eye strain, and improved comprehension.
- Better readability in bright sunlight and outdoor conditions
- Improved mobile and tablet screen visibility
- Reduced eye fatigue during extended reading sessions
- Faster text scanning and information processing
How to Use the Contrast Checker
Select Your Colors
Choose your background color and text (foreground) color using the color pickers or enter HEX codes directly.
Check Contrast Ratio
Our tool instantly calculates the contrast ratio and shows whether it passes WCAG AA and AAA standards.
Preview & Adjust
See a live preview of your text on the background. Adjust colors until you achieve the desired accessibility level.
Who Uses This Contrast Checker?
UI/UX Designers
Ensure design systems meet accessibility standards
Web Developers
Test color combinations during development
Accessibility Testers
Audit websites for WCAG compliance
Product Managers
Validate designs meet legal requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good contrast ratio?
For normal text, aim for at least 4.5:1 (WCAG AA) or 7:1 (WCAG AAA). For large text (18pt+ or 14pt+ bold), 3:1 is the minimum. Higher ratios provide better accessibility for users with visual impairments.
What is the difference between AA and AAA?
WCAG Level AA is the minimum legal standard for most websites, requiring 4.5:1 for normal text. Level AAA is the enhanced standard with stricter requirements (7:1 for normal text), providing maximum accessibility for users with severe visual impairments.
Does this tool check color blindness?
While this tool focuses on luminance contrast ratios, proper contrast also benefits users with color blindness. Always avoid relying solely on color to convey information, and ensure sufficient contrast between text and background.
Can I use this for buttons and UI elements?
Yes! WCAG 2.1 requires a 3:1 contrast ratio for UI components, graphical objects, and visual indicators. Use this tool to test button text against button backgrounds, icon colors, and other interactive elements.