What is an image accessibility checker?

An image accessibility checker tests whether images and text-over-image elements meet WCAG contrast and readability standards to ensure they're accessible to everyone.

How do I check text over an image for accessibility?

You can upload an image to our free text over image accessibility checker and drag the text to test different contrast levels and see instant WCAG results.

What contrast ratio should images meet for WCAG compliance?

Small text must have at least a 4.5:1 contrast ratio, while large text needs 3:1 to meet WCAG AA standards.

Why is image contrast important for accessibility?

Proper image contrast ensures that text and visual elements are readable by everyone, including users with low vision or color blindness.

Is the image accessibility checker free to use?

Yes, the tabnav image accessibility checker is completely free to use for testing color contrast and text readability on images.

Free Image Accessibility Checker

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WCAG

AA: Pass AAA: Fail

Contrast Ratio

8.42 Very good

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Image Accessibility Checker - WCAG Contrast Compliance Guide

Ensuring proper image contrast is essential for both accessibility and readability. Balanced contrast helps users clearly distinguish text and visuals, especially when layered over complex backgrounds.

Tabnav image accessibility checker helps you test text-over-image visibility, overlays, and background contrast to meet WCAG and global accessibility standards. Whether you're checking graphics, buttons, or text on images, this free image accessibility checker ensures full compliance across your designs.

Contrast Ratio Requirements Explained

Small Text - 4.5:1 contrast with the background

Any regular-sized text (below 24px or 19px bold) placed over an image must have at least a 4.5:1 contrast ratio to be readable.
This ensures clarity even on complex or textured backgrounds.

Large Text - 3:1 contrast with the background

Large text (at least 24px or 19px bold) only requires a 3:1 contrast ratio, as larger font sizes improve readability.
This allows for more flexibility in color choices while maintaining accessibility.

Decorative Elements - No contrast requirement

Purely decorative images that do not contain essential text do not have specific contrast requirements.
However, they should not interfere with readability when placed near text.

Graphical Objects - 3:1 contrast for key information

Icons, buttons, or graphs must maintain a minimum contrast of 3:1 against their background if they provide important information.
If an image includes text or key visual elements, it must meet standard contrast guidelines for accessibility.

Key Considerations

Readable Text - Ensure that text over images remains clearly visible at all times. Use our text over image accessibility checker to test clarity on different backgrounds.
Use Overlays Wisely - Adding semi-transparent backgrounds can improve color contrast and readability.
Avoid Color Dependence - Make sure information isn't communicated by color alone; use symbols or labels for accessibility.
Scalability Matters - Check that contrast and visibility stay consistent across all screen sizes using the image accessibility checker.

Learn more on tabnav WCAG Academy: SC 1.4.3 - Contrast (Minimum)

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Frequently Asked Questions About Image Accessibility Checker

An image accessibility checker tests whether images and text-over-image elements meet WCAG contrast and readability standards to ensure they're accessible to everyone.
You can upload an image to our free text over image accessibility checker and drag the text to test different contrast levels and see instant WCAG results.
Small text must have at least a 4.5:1 contrast ratio, while large text needs 3:1 to meet WCAG AA standards.
Proper image contrast ensures that text and visual elements are readable by everyone, including users with low vision or color blindness.
Yes, the tabnav image accessibility checker is completely free to use for testing color contrast and text readability on images.

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tabnav team is committed to taking your feedback and working on improvements.

Image Contrast Checker