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WCAG Contrast Checker

Verify WCAG 2.1 & 2.2 accessibility compliance for AA and AAA standards

WCAG 2.1 & 2.2 Accessibility Engine

17.06 : 1

Grade: AAA

Standard guidelines require at least 4.5:1 for regular text (AA) and 7.0:1 for enhanced readability (AAA).

Try Presets:
Normal Text (AA)
Minimum 4.5:1
Body copy & standard inputs
✓ PASS
Normal Text (AAA)
Minimum 7.0:1
Enhanced accessibility rating
✓ PASS
Large Text (AA)
Minimum 3.0:1
18pt (24px) or 14pt (18.5px) bold
✓ PASS
Large Text (AAA)
Minimum 4.5:1
18pt or 14pt bold enhanced
✓ PASS
UI Components
Minimum 3.0:1
Buttons, borders, icons, controls
✓ PASS

Live Interface Readability Simulation

Design Systems with Accessible Color Contrast

This preview reflects your exact foreground and background colors in real time.

Color contrast measures the difference in perceived luminance between two colors. High contrast ensures content is legible for people with moderate low vision or color deficiencies without relying on assistive technology.

Interactive Pill Badge

About WCAG Contrast Checker

Validate color contrast against official WCAG 2.1 and 2.2 guidelines for Level AA and Level AAA across normal text, large text, and UI components with automatic accessible color suggestions.

Key Capabilities & Features

  • Evaluates compliance against all 5 WCAG criteria: Normal Text AA (4.5:1), Normal Text AAA (7.0:1), Large Text AA (3.0:1), Large Text AAA (4.5:1), and UI Components (3.0:1)
  • Automated luminance adjuster proposing the closest WCAG-compliant color alternative
  • Live simulated UI card with buttons, badges, and heading readability previews
  • Real-time relative luminance calculation following ISO 9241-306 standards
  • Instant copy for approved accessible color codes

How to Use WCAG Contrast Checker

1

Enter Color Pairings

Input the text color and background color to evaluate.

2

Inspect Compliance Cards

Review the individual pass/fail badges for AA, AAA, large text, and UI controls.

3

Apply Accessible Suggestion

Click 'Auto-Fix to AA' or 'Auto-Fix to AAA' to immediately bring your color into compliance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as 'Large Text' under WCAG?

Large text is defined as at least 18pt (24px) normal weight or at least 14pt (18.5px) bold weight.

Are graphical UI components required to meet contrast rules?

Yes, under WCAG 2.1 Success Criterion 1.4.11, active user interface components (such as form field borders and button outlines) require at least a 3.0:1 contrast ratio against adjacent colors.