What is WCAG and why is color contrast important?

WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) are international standards for web accessibility. Color contrast is crucial because it ensures text is readable for everyone, including people with visual impairments or color blindness. Proper contrast ratios make content accessible to a wider audience and are often legally required.

What's the difference between WCAG AA and AAA?

WCAG AA requires a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. WCAG AAA is stricter, requiring 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text. AA is the standard for most websites, while AAA provides enhanced accessibility for critical content or specialized audiences.

What contrast ratio should I aim for?

For most websites, aim for WCAG AA compliance (4.5:1 for normal text, 3:1 for large text). If your site serves users with visual impairments or you want to exceed standards, target WCAG AAA (7:1 for normal text, 4.5:1 for large text). Higher ratios are always better for readability.

What is considered 'large text' in WCAG?

Large text is defined as 18pt (24px) or larger for regular weight, or 14pt (18.5px) or larger for bold text. Large text has lower contrast requirements (3:1 for AA, 4.5:1 for AAA) because it's easier to read at lower contrast ratios.

Does this tool work for all color formats?

Yes! Our tool accepts colors in multiple formats: HEX (#RRGGBB), RGB (rgb(r,g,b)), and HSL (hsl(h,s,l)). The tool automatically converts between formats and calculates the contrast ratio regardless of which format you use.

Is my color data safe when using this checker?

Yes, absolutely! All color contrast calculations happen entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your color values never leave your computer or get sent to any server. This ensures complete privacy for your design work.

Accessibility

Color Contrast Checker

Check AA/AAA contrast ratios for text on backgrounds.

Colors

Input as HEX (#RRGGBB or #RGB) or rgb(r,g,b).

Contrast Result

WCAG thresholds for different text sizes.

Ratio

17.85:1

AA (Normal)Pass

AAA (Normal)Pass

AA (Large)Pass

AAA (Large)Pass

Preview

Live preview of text contrast.

The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.

How to Use Color Contrast Checker

Check WCAG compliance in three simple steps

1
Enter Your Colors
Input your foreground (text) color and background color using HEX, RGB, or HSL format. You can type the values or use the color picker for easy selection.
2
View Contrast Ratio
The tool instantly calculates the contrast ratio and shows whether it passes WCAG AA and AAA standards for both normal and large text.
3
Adjust if Needed
If your colors don't meet accessibility standards, adjust them until you achieve the required contrast ratio. The tool updates in real-time as you change colors.

Common Use Cases

Web Design

Ensure your website text colors meet accessibility standards before launch, creating inclusive designs for all users.

UI/UX Design

Test color combinations in your design system to ensure all text elements are readable and accessible.

Mobile Apps

Verify color contrast in mobile app designs to ensure readability on various screen sizes and lighting conditions.

Accessibility Audits

Check existing websites and applications for WCAG compliance during accessibility audits and remediation.

Brand Guidelines

Validate that brand colors meet accessibility requirements and create accessible color palettes for your brand.

Documentation

Ensure documentation and content sites have readable text colors for all users, including those with visual impairments.