WCAG 2.1 · Level AA · Perceivable

WCAG 1.4.11 — Non-text Contrast

UI components and meaningful graphics need at least 3:1 contrast against adjacent colors.

WCAG 1.4.11 at a glance

Level AA · Principle: Perceivable · Added in WCAG 2.1. Level AA is the conformance target for the ADA, EAA, and Section 508.

What it means

UI components and meaningful graphics need at least 3:1 contrast against adjacent colors.

Who it helps

Low-vision users who must locate controls and understand graphics.

Common failures

  • Faint input borders or button edges
  • Low-contrast focus indicators
  • Chart segments hard to tell apart

How to meet WCAG 1.4.11

  1. Ensure controls, states, and graphics clear 3:1
  2. Strengthen focus and border colors

How to test it

Partly automatable; some judgment needed for which graphics are “meaningful”.

Frequently asked questions

Is WCAG 1.4.11 Level A or AA?
WCAG 1.4.11 (Non-text Contrast) is a Level AA success criterion, introduced in WCAG 2.1. Level AA is the standard required by the ADA, EAA, and Section 508.
How do I test WCAG 1.4.11?
Partly automatable; some judgment needed for which graphics are “meaningful”.

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