What this criterion requires
The AAA contrast tier: at least 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text.
Who it helps
People with more significant low vision who need stronger contrast than the AA minimum.
Example: fails vs passes
Long-form article text at 4.6:1 on a page claiming AAA.
Reading surfaces at 7:1 (or a selectable high-contrast theme that reaches it).
AAA raises the bar to 7:1 normal / 4.5:1 large text.
How to meet and fix it
- Offer a high-contrast theme meeting 7:1 as an alternate presentation
- Target 7:1 for long-form reading surfaces
Common failures auditors find
- Assuming the AA 4.5:1 ratio satisfies a AAA claim
Automated scanning catches a share of these instantly - run a free check - and a manual audit covers the judgement calls a tool cannot make.
Sources
- W3C, Understanding 1.4.6: Contrast (Enhanced) - w3.org/WAI
- W3C, How to Meet 1.4.6 (quick reference) - w3.org/WAI/quickref
Last updated . Reviewed by the EqualWeb accessibility team.
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