Color Contrast
What does color contrast mean?
Color contrast is the difference in brightness and hue between text and its background. It affects how easy it is to read and distinguish content.
How does color contrast work?
WCAG defines contrast ratios to measure accessibility. For normal text, the ratio should be at least 4.5:1. For larger text (18pt or 14pt bold), 3:1 is sufficient. Tools like contrast checkers help designers evaluate compliance.
Why is color contrast important?
Poor contrast makes reading difficult for people with low vision or color blindness. Accessible contrast not only helps people with disabilities but also improves readability in bright light or small screens.
FAQs about color contrast
No. While brand colors matter, adjustments or secondary palettes may be necessary to meet WCAG requirements.
Yes. Text in images must also meet minimum contrast standards.
Yes. Brand logos and purely decorative text do not need to follow contrast ratios.
Yes. Websites should test both light and dark themes to ensure ratios remain compliant.
Free tools like WebAIM’s Contrast Checker and integrated browser extensions can calculate ratios automatically.