Color Contrast Checker Guide
Check WCAG 2.1 AA and AAA color contrast ratios for text and UI components to guarantee digital accessibility.
Overview
Verify text and interface color combinations against official Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) Level AA and AAA standards with real-time pass/fail ratings.
When to Use Color Contrast Checker
Use Color Contrast Checker during UI design, front-end development, and accessibility audits to ensure digital products meet international legal accessibility standards (ADA / Section 508 / EN 301 549).
Inputs, Formats & Specifications
- Accepted Inputs
- Foreground color (HEX/RGB) and background color (HEX/RGB)
- Output Formats
- Mathematical contrast ratio (1:1 to 21:1), WCAG AA & AAA pass/fail ratings for Normal Text, Large Text, and UI Components
- Supported Standards
- HEX (#RGB, #RRGGBB), RGB
- Browser Limits & Scope
- Calculates contrast between solid color pairs; for text over gradients or photography, test the lowest-contrast section of the background.
How to use Color Contrast Checker
- Enter your text foreground color and background color using HEX codes or the color pickers.
- View the calculated contrast ratio instantly (e.g. 8.5:1) according to WCAG 2.1 standards.
- Check compliance status for WCAG Level AA and Level AAA across Normal Text, Large Text, and Graphical UI Components.
- Use the real-time preview card to evaluate reading comfort across different font weights and sizes.
Real-World Examples
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum contrast ratio for WCAG AA compliance?
WCAG 2.1 Level AA requires a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal body text (under 18pt regular or 14pt bold) and 3:1 for large text and interactive UI elements.
What is required for WCAG AAA?
Level AAA (the highest standard) requires a minimum ratio of 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text.
What is considered 'Large Text' under WCAG?
Large text is defined as at least 18pt (24px) regular weight or at least 14pt (18.66px) bold weight.
Privacy & Data Security
Color Contrast Checker is designed to run in the browser. Review outputs before sharing them with any external service or workflow.