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Level AAAWCAG 2.0

1.4.6 Contrast (Enhanced)

Text and images of text have a contrast ratio of at least 7:1, except large-scale text and images of large-scale text, which require at least 4.5:1.

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026

Understanding 1.4.6

This is the AAA-level counterpart to 1.4.3, providing a higher contrast margin for users with more significant low vision who still don't rely on assistive technology such as screen magnifiers. The higher ratios reduce eye strain and improve reading accuracy for a broader range of visual impairments than the AA minimum addresses.

How to Meet It

Check every text/background pairing with a contrast calculator and target 7:1 for normal-size text (under 18pt regular or 14pt bold) and 4.5:1 for large-scale text. Incidental text (in inactive UI components, purely decorative text, or text that is part of a logo) is exempt. Because AAA-wide compliance across an entire site is difficult to achieve, many organizations apply this ratio only to specific high-priority content.

Code Examples

INCORRECT
.body-text { color: #767676; background: #ffffff; } /* Ratio ~4.54:1 - passes AA but fails AAA (7:1) */
CORRECT
.body-text { color: #595959; background: #ffffff; } /* Ratio ~7.0:1 - passes AAA */

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AAA contrast a legal requirement?

Most legal and regulatory frameworks (ADA-related litigation, EN 301 549, most Section 508 agency policies) reference WCAG Level AA, not AAA. AAA is best practice for content aimed at users with significant low vision, but organizations are rarely required to meet it site-wide.

Can a site mix AA and AAA contrast in different places?

Yes, that is common and reasonable. WCAG explicitly acknowledges that full AAA conformance isn't achievable for all content types, so many teams apply the 7:1 target selectively to body copy while leaving other elements at the AA minimum.

Related Success Criteria

1.4.1 Use of Color1.4.2 Audio Control1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum)1.4.4 Resize Text

Quick Facts

  • Criterion1.4.6
  • LevelAAA
  • IntroducedWCAG 2.0

Automate Compliance

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