Contrast Checker
Checks colour pairs against WCAG accessibility contrast ratios for text and UI elements.
What Contrast Checker does
The Coolors Contrast Checker calculates the contrast ratio between a foreground and background color to determine if they meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) standards for readability. Users input two colors and receive an immediate ratio score, with the tool indicating whether the pairing satisfies Level AA or AAA requirements for normal and large text. This provides a quick way to validate color choices for digital interfaces before implementation. On Coolors, the Contrast Checker is integrated into a broader color design ecosystem. While the core function of calculating ratios and checking WCAG levels is consistent with other tools, its interface sits within a palette generator environment, allowing users to seamlessly transition from checking contrast to exploring, saving, or adjusting related colors from the same platform. The inclusion of explanatory text about WCAG AA and AAA levels directly on the check interface adds immediate context for users.
How to use the Coolors Contrast Checker
- 1
Enter a foreground (text) color value
- 2
Enter a background color value
- 3
View the calculated contrast ratio score
- 4
Check the indicators for WCAG AA and AAA compliance for normal and large text
Best for
Designers and developers who already use Coolors for palette creation and want to validate accessibility without leaving the platform.
Limitations
- No unit switching between hex, RGB, or HSL inputs
- Results depend on accurate color input
- Focused solely on contrast, not broader accessibility factors
Contrast Checker FAQ
- What contrast ratio is needed for normal text to be WCAG compliant?
- A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text to meet WCAG Level AA standards.
- What is the difference between WCAG AA and AAA contrast levels?
- WCAG AA requires a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text, while AAA requires a higher standard of 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text.
- Can this tool check contrast for images or non-text elements?
- The Coolors Contrast Checker is designed for text and UI element color pairs; it calculates ratios between a foreground and background color to assess readability standards.
- Does the tool provide guidance on how to fix low contrast pairs?
- The tool indicates whether a color pair meets AA or AAA thresholds; users can adjust the input colors within the interface to find a compliant combination.
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