Color Contrast Checker

Calculate text and background contrast ratios and check WCAG requirements for readability.

FreeBrowser
Contrast ratio
17.74:1
AA normal
Pass
AA large
Pass
AAA normal
Pass
AAA large
Pass
Readable text preview

About Color Contrast Checker

Calculate the contrast ratio between foreground and background colors and inspect WCAG text contrast thresholds. Use the preview to compare a proposed text color across light and dark surfaces.

How to use Color Contrast Checker

  1. Enter the foreground and background colors.
  2. Review the contrast ratio and normal or large-text results.
  3. Adjust a color until the intended text size meets the target threshold.

Input and output example

Input and settings
Text: #000000
Background: #ffffff
Expected output
Contrast ratio: 21:1; meets the displayed text contrast thresholds.

When to use this tool

  • Check body text and button labels.
  • Evaluate a brand color on a dark background.

Limits to know before using it

A color ratio checks one aspect of accessibility. Gradients, image backgrounds, opacity and the full component states require separate evaluation.

Data handling and cost

The main operation runs in your browser; tool input is not uploaded for processing. The site can still use session cookies and collect operational or usage data as described in the privacy policy.

Free to use in your browser, with no sign-in needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

It uses the WCAG relative luminance contrast ratio formula and reports AA/AAA results for normal and large text.

No. Contrast is one important check, but accessible UI also depends on font size, weight, focus states, layout, motion, and context.

Yes. Paste or pick foreground and background colors to quickly see whether the pair is suitable for text.

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