Contrast Ratio Checker
Ensure your website is accessible to all users. Calculate the exact color contrast ratio between your text and background to verify WCAG compliance.
How to use the Contrast Checker
What Color Contrast means
Color contrast ratio represents the mathematical difference in relative luminance between a foreground element (like text) and its background. It spans from 1:1 (no contrast, e.g., white text on a white background) up to 21:1 (maximum contrast, e.g., black text on a white background).
Ensuring adequate contrast is a fundamental requirement of web accessibility and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Proper contrast ensures your content remains legible for users with visual impairments, color blindness, or those viewing your website on low-brightness mobile screens in direct sunlight.
WCAG Contrast Guidelines Reference
Adhere to these specific compliance levels to guarantee your website meets legal and ethical accessibility standards.
| Element Type | WCAG Level AA | WCAG Level AAA |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Text (Paragraphs) | 4.5:1 Ratio | 7.0:1 Ratio |
| Large Text (Headers, 18pt+) | 3.0:1 Ratio | 4.5:1 Ratio |
| UI Elements (Buttons, Borders) | 3.0:1 Ratio | Not explicitly required |
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Book a free consultationFrequently Asked Questions
The tool converts your HEX colors to RGB, calculates the relative luminance of both colors using the WCAG formula, and divides the lighter value by the darker value.
Level AA is the standard legal baseline for accessibility compliance. Level AAA is the highest and strictest tier, typically reserved for specialized government or educational software.
No. Incidental text that is part of an active logo or brand name is explicitly exempt from the minimum WCAG contrast ratio requirements.
Low contrast reduces readability, which severely increases bounce rates. Fixing contrast ensures users can actually consume your copy and locate your call-to-action buttons.