What WCAG contrast requirements does this tool check?

The tool checks contrast ratios against WCAG 2.1 Level AA and Level AAA standards. AA requires a minimum ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. AAA requires 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text. AA compliance is the legal standard in most accessibility regulations.

What counts as large text for contrast purposes?

Under WCAG guidelines, large text is defined as 18pt (24px) or larger for regular weight text, or 14pt (approximately 18.67px) or larger for bold text. Text smaller than these thresholds must meet the stricter 4.5:1 contrast ratio for AA compliance.

My color combination fails AA — how do I fix it?

Darken the foreground text color or lighten the background until the contrast ratio reaches 4.5:1. The tool updates the ratio in real time as you adjust colors. A common fix is switching from medium gray text on white to a darker shade — #767676 is the lightest gray that passes AA on a white background.

Search 110+ free tools… (e.g. json, vpn, password) ⌘K

Generators

Color Contrast Checker

Check contrast ratios against WCAG AA and AAA accessibility standards. Test any foreground/background color combination.

Contrast Ratio

—

The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog

Foreground (Text)

Background

Quick pairs:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is WCAG AA compliance?

WCAG AA (Level 2) requires a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (18pt or 14pt bold). This is the standard required by most accessibility laws including the ADA, EN 301 549 and WCAG 2.1.

What is WCAG AAA compliance?

WCAG AAA (Level 3) is the highest standard, requiring 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text. While ideal, AAA is not always achievable for all text and is not legally required.

What counts as large text?

Text is considered large if it is 18pt (24px) or larger, or 14pt bold (approximately 18.67px bold) or larger. Large text has lower contrast requirements because it is inherently easier to read.