Color Contrast Checker – Test text and background color accessibility with WCAG standards
The color contrast checker calculates the contrast ratio between two colors and verifies if they meet WCAG 2.1 accessibility standard requirements. Enter hex color codes and instantly see if the standard passes or fails the combination.
WCAG AA level requires at least 4.5:1 contrast ratio for normal text and 3:1 for large text. AAA level requires 7:1 and 4.5:1. The tool shows which levels the color pair passes and suggests corrections if needed.
Why is color contrast important on websites?
Poor contrast makes text difficult to read, especially for users with visual impairments, low vision, and color blindness. Many countries require public sector websites to meet WCAG AA level standards. Many companies also follow the standard for responsibility and accessibility reasons.
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Browse all tools →The color contrast checker evaluates the contrast ratio between text and background according to WCAG accessibility standards. An essential tool for web designers and developers creating accessible websites.
Enter text and background color codes, and the tool calculates the contrast ratio and tells you if it meets WCAG requirements.
- Calculate contrast ratio between two colors (e.g., 4.5:1).
- Check if the combination meets WCAG AA or AAA level requirements.
- Preview text readability with your chosen colors.
The WCAG standard defines minimum contrast ratios – higher is always better.
- AA level: normal text 4.5:1, large text 3:1 – minimum requirement.
- AAA level: normal text 7:1, large text 4.5:1 – best practice.
- Contrast ratio 1:1 means identical colors – 21:1 is black on white.
Good contrast improves readability for everyone – even in bright light and on small screens.
- About 8% of men and 0.5% of women have some form of color vision deficiency.
- Accessibility isn't just an ethical obligation – in many countries it's also a legal requirement.
- The tool works in your browser – your color codes aren't stored.