Color Contrast Checker

Understanding Color Contrast Checker

A Color Contrast Checker is an essential accessibility tool that validates whether your color combinations meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. It ensures your designs are readable and accessible to users with visual impairments, including color blindness.

WCAG Compliance Levels

• AA Level - Minimum standard for accessibility compliance
• AAA Level - Enhanced accessibility for better user experience
• Normal Text - Regular body text and UI elements
• Large Text - Text 18px+ or 14px+ bold (easier to read)

Contrast Ratio Requirements

• AA Normal Text - 4.5:1 contrast ratio minimum
• AA Large Text - 3:1 contrast ratio minimum
• AAA Normal Text - 7:1 contrast ratio minimum
• AAA Large Text - 4.5:1 contrast ratio minimum

Key Features

• Real-time Preview - See how colors look together instantly
• WCAG Validation - Automatic compliance checking
• Multiple Text Sizes - Test both normal and large text
• Font Weight Support - Account for bold text requirements
• Color Picker - Visual color selection with hex input
• Detailed Results - Clear pass/fail status with explanations
• Export Options - Copy results or download reports
• Accessibility Focus - Designed with accessibility in mind

Why Contrast Matters

• Visual Impairments - Helps users with low vision read content
• Color Blindness - Ensures text is readable regardless of color perception
• Screen Readers - Better contrast improves overall readability
• Mobile Devices - Important for outdoor viewing and bright screens
• Legal Compliance - Required for ADA and accessibility regulations
• User Experience - Better contrast improves overall usability
• Brand Consistency - Maintains professional appearance
• SEO Benefits - Accessibility improvements boost search rankings

Use Cases

• Web Design - Validate color schemes for websites
• UI/UX Design - Ensure interface elements are accessible
• Brand Guidelines - Create accessible color palettes
• Documentation - Check readability of text and graphics
• Email Templates - Validate email design accessibility
• Print Materials - Ensure printed content is readable
• Mobile Apps - Test app interface accessibility
• Accessibility Audits - Comprehensive compliance checking

How to Use the Contrast Checker

Select your foreground (text) and background colors using the color pickers or hex inputs. Choose the appropriate font size and weight for your content. Click "Check Contrast" to see if your color combination meets WCAG standards for both normal and large text.

Best Practices

• Always test both normal and large text scenarios
• Aim for AAA level compliance when possible
• Test with different font weights and sizes
• Consider users with various visual impairments
• Use high contrast for important information
• Test on different devices and screen types
• Document your color choices for team consistency
• Regularly audit existing designs for compliance