Free Color Contrast Checker (WCAG AA & AAA)
Instantly test color contrast against WCAG 2.2 AA & AAA standards. Hex & RGB, live preview, ADA/Section 508 ready. Free for designers & devs — no signup.
Text Color
Background Color
The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.
This is how your text will look with the selected colors.
WCAG AA
WCAG AAA
About This Tool
Our free color contrast checker helps you test text and background combinations against WCAG 2.2 accessibility standards. Ensuring sufficient contrast is critical for ADA compliance and Section 508 requirements in the US. Avoid legal risks and build inclusive designs for all users by testing hex codes in real-time.
How to Use This Tool
- 1
Enter the Hex code for your foreground color (text).
- 2
Enter the Hex code for your background color.
- 3
Use the interactive color pickers to adjust colors visually and watch the contrast ratio update in real-time.
- 4
Check the compliance status boxes showing PASS or FAIL for WCAG AA and AAA standards.
- 5
Examine the live text rendering sample to preview how the colors read in practical scenarios.
Why Choose Color Contrast Checker?
WCAG Compliance
Instantly check against official WCAG guidelines for both normal and large text requirements.
Real-Time Previews
See visual text samples dynamically render as you input colors or drag the slider.
Inclusive UX
Ensure your websites, designs, and content are readable for visually impaired users.
No Installation
Runs instantly in any browser without plugins, extensions, or design software requirements.
Common Use Cases
UI/UX Web Design
Test interface elements, buttons, and text fields during the design phase for accessibility.
Digital Content Auditing
Audit existing website brand color palettes to identify low-contrast areas that need improvement.
Brand Guidelines Definition
Select brand colors that are both visually appealing and compliant with modern accessibility laws.
What Is the WCAG Color Contrast Ratio Requirement?
WCAG 2.2 Level AA requires a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (18pt+ or 14pt+ bold). Level AAA requires 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text. Use our free contrast checker to test your colors against WCAG standards instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What contrast ratio passes WCAG AA?
For Level AA compliance, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text, and 3:1 for large text (18pt or 14pt bold). Incidentals and logos have no contrast requirements.
What is the difference between AA and AAA?
Level AA is the standard legal target for web accessibility, requiring a 4.5:1 ratio. Level AAA is the enhanced standard requiring a 7:1 ratio for normal text. AAA provides better readability for users with low vision.
Does contrast matter for ADA compliance?
Yes. In the United States, web accessibility falls under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508. Using a color contrast checker ensures your site is compliant, protecting you from legal risks and ensuring inclusivity.
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