Verify your color combinations meet WCAG 2.1 accessibility standards. Enter any two colors to get an instant contrast ratio with AA and AAA pass/fail results.
12.92:1
The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.
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| Level | Normal text | Large text |
|---|---|---|
| AA | 4.5:1 | 3:1 |
| AAA | 7:1 | 4.5:1 |
WCAG 2.1 Level AA requires a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Level AAA requires 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text. A higher ratio means better readability for all users, including those with low vision or color blindness.
WCAG AA is the baseline accessibility standard most regulations require. It mandates 4.5:1 contrast for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (18px+ regular or 14px+ bold). WCAG AAA is an enhanced level providing better readability: 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text. Most organizations aim for AA compliance as a minimum.
To fix low contrast text: (1) Darken the text color if it is on a light background, or lighten it on a dark background. (2) Use this contrast checker to verify the new ratio meets at least 4.5:1 for normal text. (3) Consider increasing font size above 18px or making text bold to qualify for the relaxed 3:1 large-text threshold. (4) Use the 'Suggest accessible alternative' button for an automatic fix.
In WCAG 2.1, 'large text' is defined as text that is at least 18 points (24px) for regular weight, or at least 14 points (approximately 18.66px, often rounded to 18px in CSS) for bold (700+ weight). Large text has relaxed contrast requirements because larger characters are inherently easier to read.
A color contrast checker tests individual color pairs against WCAG requirements. A full UX audit, like those provided by VertaaUX, automatically scans every text element on your page, identifies all contrast violations in context, checks WCAG 2.2 compliance across multiple criteria, and provides prioritized recommendations. Use a contrast checker for quick spot-checks during design, and a full audit to ensure comprehensive accessibility across your entire site.
A single-pair contrast checker is great for spot checks. To audit every text element across your whole site for WCAG 2.2 compliance, run a free UX audit with VertaaUX.
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