WCAG 2.0 · Level AA · Perceivable
WCAG 1.4.3 — Contrast (Minimum)
Text needs a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background (3:1 for large text).
WCAG 1.4.3 at a glance
Level AA · Principle: Perceivable · Added in WCAG 2.0. Level AA is the conformance target for the ADA, EAA, and Section 508.
What it means
Text needs a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background (3:1 for large text).
Who it helps
Low-vision users, colorblind users, and anyone on a bright screen.
Common failures
- Light-gray text on white
- Low-contrast placeholder and caption text
- Text over busy background images
How to meet WCAG 1.4.3
- Darken text or lighten background to clear 4.5:1
- Define accessible color tokens in your design system
How to test it
Highly automatable — scanners and contrast checkers calculate the ratio.