Level AAAWCAG 2.1

2.5.5 Target Size (Enhanced)

The size of the target for pointer inputs is at least 44 by 44 CSS pixels, except when an equivalent alternative target is available, the target is in a sentence or block of text, the presentation is essential, or the size is determined by the user agent.

Last reviewed: September 9, 2026

Understanding 2.5.5

Small tap targets are hard to hit accurately for people with tremors, reduced dexterity, or arthritis, and for anyone using a device in a non-ideal situation such as a moving vehicle. This enhanced (AAA) version of target size sets a generous 44x44 CSS pixel minimum, substantially reducing the error rate of accidental taps on the wrong control compared to typical default-sized controls.

How to Meet It

Size clickable/tappable controls (buttons, icon buttons, links styled as buttons, form controls) to at least 44x44 CSS pixels, using padding to expand the hit area if the visual icon is smaller. The exceptions allow: an inline link within a sentence of text, a control where an equivalent same-function target elsewhere already meets the size, cases where the small size is essential to the information being conveyed (e.g., a precise point on a map), or targets whose size is set by the user agent/browser and not modified by the author.

Code Examples

INCORRECT

/* 20x20px icon button - well under the enhanced target size */
.icon-button {
  width: 20px;
  height: 20px;
  padding: 0;
}

CORRECT

/* Meets the 44x44 CSS pixel minimum via padding around the icon */
.icon-button {
  min-width: 44px;
  min-height: 44px;
  display: inline-flex;
  align-items: center;
  justify-content: center;
}

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this different from 2.5.8 Target Size (Minimum)?

2.5.8 is the AA-level requirement introduced in WCAG 2.2 and sets a 24x24 CSS pixel floor with a spacing exception. 2.5.5 is the older, stricter AAA-level requirement at 44x44 CSS pixels with narrower exceptions. Meeting 2.5.5 automatically satisfies 2.5.8, but not vice versa.

Related Success Criteria

2.5.1 Pointer Gestures 2.5.2 Pointer Cancellation 2.5.3 Label in Name 2.5.4 Motion Actuation

Quick Facts

Criterion2.5.5
LevelAAA
IntroducedWCAG 2.1

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