Touch Target Size
What does touch target size mean?
Touch target size refers to the minimum amount of space interactive elements need so users can tap or select them accurately, especially on mobile devices.
How do touch target sizes work?
According to WCAG 2.2, touch targets should be at least 24 by 24 CSS pixels or surrounded by enough spacing to prevent mis-taps. This requirement ensures buttons, icons, and links are usable by people with limited dexterity, motor impairments, or larger fingers.
Why is touch target size important?
Poorly sized targets can frustrate users, lead to mistakes, and even block people from completing basic tasks. Following WCAG guidelines reduces these barriers and improves usability for everyone, particularly on mobile devices where screen space is limited.
FAQs about touch target size
No. While it’s most noticeable on phones and tablets, users with touchscreens or assistive tech on desktops can also benefit from larger, well-spaced targets.
Yes. WCAG allows sufficient padding around smaller targets to meet requirements if resizing isn’t possible.
WCAG 2.2 introduces Success Criterion 2.5.8, which sets minimum expectations for target sizes.
Yes. Inline text links or legally required small elements may be exempt, but organizations are encouraged to optimize where possible.
Accessibility testing tools and browser extensions can analyze button and link dimensions, but manual checks remain important.