Color Contrast Checker

Level Access's color contrast checker makes it easy to design digital content that meets Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) color contrast standards. Understand whether the colors that currently appear on your website have sufficient contrast, and experiment with different color combinations for new, accessible designs that align with your branding guidelines.

Simply enter a foreground and background color in #hex or RGB integer format to check contrast for accessibility. Press “enter” or “tab” after changing the value to update the color selection. You may also use the sliders or input fields to change individual RGB values.

Foreground color settings

Foreground color in hex:

Red:

Green:

Blue:

Background color settings

Background color in hex:

Red:

Green:

Blue:

Text size settings

Text size:

Sample: This is sample text

Contrast Ratio is

: 1

Compliance Level

N/A

Why should you use a color contrast checker?

Using a color contrast analyzer, like the Level Access color contrast checker, will help you determine whether a combination of foreground and background colors entered meets accessibility guidelines. To conform with WCAG 2.0 Level AA, the standard for Section 508 compliance, colors must have the following contrast ratios:

3:1 for text with a size of 18 points (14 points if in boldface) or larger
4.5:1 for text smaller than 18 points

To conform with WCAG 2.0 Level AAA, colors must meet higher contrast ratios:

4.5:1 for text 18 points (14 points if in boldface) or larger
7:1 for text smaller than 18 points

Start with a color contrast checker. Scale with an integrated solution.

Color contrast plays a crucial role in ensuring that your website is readable, easy to use, and inclusive. But it can be tricky to navigate, as web designers must ensure accessibility while staying true to their organization’s branding. This is where the Level Access color contrast checker comes in handy.

With the color contrast checker, you can set color values, review sample text, and get a color contrast ratio in seconds, making it a versatile tool at any stage of the design process.

However, adequate color contrast is just one consideration when designing accessible experiences. If you find Level Access’s color accessibility checker useful, consider exploring our complete accessibility solution for designers, including a Figma plugin and comprehensive design evaluations from experts.

The results provided by this tool are based on the text luminosity algorithm recommended in the WCAG 2.0 color contrast accessibility guidelines. This tool is for general assessment purposes only and not a guarantee of WCAG conformance or legal compliance.

FAQs

What are the benefits of observing correct color contrast?

Observing correct color contrast on websites enhances accessibility by ensuring that text and other elements are readable for users with disabilities, such as low vision and color blindness. It improves overall user experience by making content easier to read, reducing eye strain and allowing users to find relevant content and web elements faster. Additionally, proper contrast supports conformance with web accessibility standards like WCAG, which is crucial for reaching a wider audience and complying with applicable accessibility laws.

What is a color contrast ratio?

A color contrast ratio is a numerical value that represents the difference in luminance between two colors, such as text and its background. The ratio ranges from 1:1 (no contrast) to 21:1 (maximum contrast), with higher ratios enhancing readability. For reference, black text on a white background has a contrast ratio of 21:1.

How can I ensure that my website uses color contrast properly?

To ensure your website uses color contrast properly, follow WCAG, which recommends a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for regular text and 3:1 for larger text. Use online tools like the Level Access color contrast checker to evaluate your color choices. Additionally, prioritize simplicity by avoiding overly complex backgrounds that could reduce readability.

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