Accessibility
Contrast
Inclusive

Color Accessibility Best Practices

Create inclusive experiences with consistent contrast and color-independent cues.

David Park
10 min read
4.9
High-contrast palette showcasing accessible combinations
Checklist for color contrast ratios
Accessible UI component mockups

Designing for Everyone

Accessible color choices ensure users with low vision or color vision deficiency can still interact and understand your interface.

Contrast Ratios

  • Meet WCAG AA (4.5:1 for body text, 3:1 for large text)
  • Use tooling to measure ratios across states and themes
  • Avoid light-gray-on-white for core interactions

Beyond Color Alone

Pair color with iconography, patterns, or labels so meaning does not disappear when color perception differs.

Testing Workflow

  • Run manual checks with system-level color filters
  • Automate contrast audits in CI where possible
  • Include people with disabilities in usability studies
ColorIndicator