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Color Contrast Checker

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Color Contrast Checker

Verify that your text and background color combinations meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) accessibility standards. Ensure your designs are readable for all users, including those with visual impairments.

WCAG Contrast Requirements

LevelNormal TextLarge TextUI Components
AA4.5:13:13:1
AAA7:14.5:1Not defined
Large text is defined as 18pt+ or 14pt+ bold.

How to Use

1. Enter your foreground (text) color 2. Enter your background color 3. View the contrast ratio 4. Check pass/fail for each WCAG level

Understanding Contrast Ratios

RatioRatingReadability
21:1MaximumBlack on white
7:1+ExcellentAAA compliant
4.5:1+GoodAA compliant
3:1+MinimumLarge text only
<3:1FailAccessibility issue

Common Contrast Issues

IssueProblemFix
Light gray on whiteLow contrastDarken the gray
Yellow on whiteVery low contrastUse dark text
Blue on blackCan be lowCheck specific shades

Why Accessibility Matters

  • Legal compliance: Many countries require accessible websites
  • User experience: ~15% of users have some visual impairment
  • SEO: Accessibility impacts search rankings
  • Reach: Don't exclude potential users
Test your color combinations to ensure WCAG compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is WCAG?

WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) are international standards for web accessibility, including color contrast requirements.

What contrast ratio do I need?

4.5:1 minimum for normal text (WCAG AA), 7:1 for enhanced accessibility (WCAG AAA).

Why does contrast matter?

Sufficient contrast ensures text is readable for users with visual impairments, color blindness, or in poor lighting.

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