What is WCAG color contrast?

WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) color contrast refers to the difference in luminance between foreground and background colors. It ensures text is readable for people with visual impairments, including color blindness and low vision.

What are AA and AAA compliance levels?

AA requires a 4.5:1 contrast ratio for normal text and 3:1 for large text. AAA is more strict, requiring 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text. AA is the legal standard in many countries, while AAA provides enhanced accessibility.

What is considered large text?

Large text is defined as 18pt (24px) or larger, or 14pt (18.5px) or larger if bold. These sizes have lower contrast requirements because they're easier to read at lower contrast ratios.

How is contrast ratio calculated?

Contrast ratio is calculated using the relative luminance of colors. The formula is (L1 + 0.05) / (L2 + 0.05), where L1 is the lighter color and L2 is the darker color. Ratios range from 1:1 (no contrast) to 21:1 (maximum contrast).

WCAG Color Contrast Checker

Test color accessibility compliance with WCAG standards. Check contrast ratios between foreground and background colors, get AA/AAA pass/fail results, and discover accessible color alternatives to improve your website's accessibility for all users.

Select Colors

Foreground Color (Text)

Background Color

Contrast Ratio Results

21:1

Contrast Ratio

AA Normal

4.5:1 Required

AA Large Text

3:1 Required

AAA Normal

7:1 Required

AAA Large Text

4.5:1 Required

Live Preview

Large Text (18pt+)

Normal Text (Regular size for body content and paragraphs)

Small Text (Used for captions and fine print)

Accessible Color Suggestions

Try these accessible color combinations:

🧾 What is WCAG Contrast Checker Tool?

The WCAG Contrast Checker Tool helps you verify whether the color contrast between your text and background meets accessibility standards set by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). This ensures your content is readable for everyone, including users with visual impairments.

✨ Why Use a Contrast Checker?

Good color contrast improves readability, accessibility, and overall user experience. Meeting WCAG standards is essential for compliance and making your website inclusive for all audiences.

🧭 How to Use WCAG Contrast Checker

Open the WCAG Contrast Checker tool.
Select your foreground and background colors.
Click “Check Contrast” to instantly see your contrast ratio.
Review whether your colors meet WCAG AA and AAA standards.
Adjust colors as needed to improve accessibility.

🚀 Benefits of Using Contrast Checker

Instant contrast ratio calculation
WCAG AA and AAA compliance check
Easy-to-use color picker
Free and browser-based — no downloads required
Enhances readability and accessibility

💡 Frequently Asked Questions

What is WCAG?

WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) are a set of standards designed to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities.

What is a good contrast ratio?

A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text to pass WCAG AA. For large text, a ratio of 3:1 is acceptable.

Does this tool support real-time checking?

Yes! As soon as you select colors and click “Check Contrast,” the result is generated instantly.

Is this tool free?

Absolutely. Our contrast checker is completely free, with no account or subscription required.