4.5:1
Normal text · AA
The minimum for body text, links and labels. This is the level most accessibility requirements refer to.
Free tool
Color contrast checker
Check if your text is easy to read for everyone. See instantly if two colors meet WCAG AA and AAA – and fix them with one click.
Small textAA
Large textAAA
Meets accessibility – good
WCAG requires a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Pick two colors to check them instantly.
The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.
The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.
What the results mean
Three numbers to remember.
WCAG 2.2 defines minimum contrast ratios. The higher the ratio, the easier text is to read.
3:1
Large text & UI · AA
For text from 24px (or about 19px bold) and visual information needed to identify icons, controls and their states.
7:1
Enhanced · AAA
The stricter text contrast level. Recommended for long texts and readers with low vision.
Let AI make your website accessible. Live in 2 minutes.
Start for freeFAQ
Contrast questions, answered.
The difference in brightness between text and its background. It’s shown as a ratio from 1:1 (no contrast) to 21:1 (black on white). Higher contrast generally makes text easier to distinguish.
For level AA: at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Visual information needed to identify interface controls, their states and meaningful graphics generally needs at least 3:1 against adjacent colors. Focus indicators also have requirements beyond color contrast.
Text that is at least 24px (18pt) in regular weight, or at least about 19px (14pt) in bold.
AA is the level commonly targeted by website accessibility requirements. AAA has stricter text contrast thresholds: 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text. Passing the contrast test alone does not establish AA or AAA conformance for a whole website.
Text that is part of a logo, purely decorative elements and inactive controls are exempt from these contrast requirements. Meaningful icons, such as a search or close icon, generally need at least 3:1 against adjacent colors.
WCAG compares the relative luminance of both colors: (lighter + 0.05) ÷ (darker + 0.05). This checker uses that formula for opaque sRGB colors. Transparency, images and gradients need to be assessed against the actual background.
Since 28 June 2025, national laws implementing the European Accessibility Act apply to specified products and services, including many e-commerce services. Exceptions apply, including an exemption for microenterprises providing services. Contrast is part of the relevant accessibility requirements; EN 301 549 and WCAG help assess it. The obligations for a particular website depend on the service, applicable national law and any exemptions.