Large Heading Text (24px Bold)
This is a demonstration paragraph to evaluate color readability and WCAG accessibility standards. If the contrast ratio is too low, reading this text may become difficult for users.
Evaluate contrast ratios of text and background colors against WCAG standards.
Color Contrast Checker (WCAG) Guide
Check the accessibility and readability of foreground text against background colors. Ensure compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) standards.
How to Check Web Contrast Ratios:
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1
Input your foreground text color using a HEX code or the interactive picker.
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Input your background canvas color in the adjacent settings slot.
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View the calculated contrast ratio score and check if it passes WCAG requirements.
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Preview actual sample elements for small text, large text, and graphic elements under the accessibility results.
Design & Accessibility Checking Features:
WCAG 2.1 Math Engine
Computes contrast ratios between 1:1 (no contrast) and 21:1 (maximum contrast).
Contrast Validation Badges
Shows clear AA and AAA compliance statuses for normal and large text.
Dynamic Element Sandbox
Visual preview area showing text sizes over backgrounds in real-time.
Hex Code Auto-Corrector
Normalizes shorthand color entries (like #fff) into standard codes.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details / Limits |
|---|---|
| Contrast Standard | WCAG 2.1 Accessibility Rules |
| Required Ratio (AA) | 4.5:1 (Normal) / 3:1 (Large) |
| Required Ratio (AAA) | 7:1 (Normal) / 4.5:1 (Large) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum WCAG contrast ratio for AA compliance?
For normal text, the minimum contrast ratio is 4.5:1. For large text (18pt / 24px or bold 14pt / 18.67px and larger), the minimum ratio is 3:1.
What is AAA WCAG contrast compliance?
AAA compliance is the highest level of web readability. It requires a contrast ratio of at least 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text.
Why does color contrast matter?
Adequate color contrast ensures that content is readable for users with visual impairments, color blindness, or those viewing screens in bright environments (like direct sunlight).