What is WCAG Contrast Checker?
WCAG Contrast Checker is a free online tool that verifies color contrast ratios meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 standards. It calculates the contrast between foreground and background colors, displays compliance for AA and AAA levels, and suggests accessible color alternatives. Essential for creating inclusive, accessible web designs that work for users with visual impairments or color blindness.
Common Use Cases
UI Design
Ensure text and interactive elements have sufficient contrast for readability and accessibility compliance.
Brand Colors
Validate brand color combinations meet WCAG standards before implementation.
Legal Compliance
Meet ADA, Section 508, and WCAG requirements to avoid legal issues and ensure equal access.
Design Systems
Build accessible color palettes and design tokens that guarantee compliant contrast ratios.
How to Use This Tool
- Select or enter your foreground (text) color using the color picker or HEX input
- Select or enter your background color
- View the calculated contrast ratio and compliance status
- Check pass/fail indicators for WCAG AA and AAA levels
- Click suggested alternatives to find accessible color options
- Use the swap button to reverse foreground and background colors
Related Tools
Learn More
- WCAG 2.1 Guidelines The official W3C quick reference to the WCAG guidelines that define AA and AAA contrast thresholds.
- Understanding Contrast (WCAG 2.1) The official W3C explanation of the contrast-minimum requirement and how it is computed.