Contrast Checker

Test foreground and background colors for WCAG contrast compliance, preview real text, and compare accessible Pantone color options.

Foreground Color

Background Color

Contrast Ratio

17.74:1
#111827 / #FFFFFF

Normal Text

WCAG AA 4.5:1
WCAG AA: Pass
WCAG AAA: Pass

Large Text

WCAG AA 3:1
WCAG AA: Pass
WCAG AAA: Pass

UI Components

WCAG AA 3:1
WCAG AA: Pass
WCAG AAA: N/A

Live Preview

Sample normal text for checking readable body copy.

Sample Large Text

Accessible Pantone Suggestions

This color pair already meets the selected contrast target.

How to Use the Contrast Checker

  1. Enter HEX colors or select Pantone colors for the foreground and background.
  2. Review the contrast ratio and WCAG AA or AAA pass results for normal text, large text, and UI components.
  3. Use the live preview, swap colors, copy CSS, or try accessible Pantone suggestions.

Contrast Checker Use Cases

  • Validate brand color pairs before using them in digital layouts.
  • Check buttons, forms, navigation, and other UI components for readable contrast.
  • Compare Pantone-inspired palettes before adapting print colors for screens.
  • Document WCAG contrast results for accessibility reviews and design handoff.

Color Contrast Checker for WCAG, UI, and Pantone Workflows

Use this color contrast checker when you need to confirm that a text color, background color, button state, or brand palette is readable before it goes into a website, app, presentation, or design system.

Read the WCAG contrast result correctly

The tool calculates the relative luminance of both colors and returns the contrast ratio used by WCAG. Normal body text usually needs 4.5:1 for AA and 7:1 for AAA, while large text and essential UI components have lower thresholds.

Bridge Pantone colors and digital accessibility

Pantone colors are often selected for brand and print work, but their screen equivalents still need accessibility checks. Search Pantone names or HEX values, preview the pair, and compare accessible alternatives before handing colors to design or development teams.

A practical workflow for designers and developers

Start with the exact HEX values from your design file, test both foreground and background directions, copy the CSS or report, and keep the passing color pair with the rest of your Pantone palette documentation.

Contrast Checker FAQ

What does this contrast checker measure?

It measures the luminance contrast ratio between a foreground color and a background color, then compares the result with WCAG thresholds.

What are WCAG AA and AAA contrast requirements?

WCAG AA requires at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text or UI components. WCAG AAA requires 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text.

Can Pantone colors be checked for web accessibility?

Yes. Pantone references can be converted to screen color values, then checked for digital contrast. Always verify final production colors in the medium where they will appear.

Contrast Disclaimer

Contrast results are calculated from digital color values and are intended for accessibility planning. Physical print output, materials, lighting, and display calibration can change perceived contrast.

Buy me a coffee