WCAG Guideline 1.4.11: Non-text Contrast Explained
Estimated read time: 7–8 minutes
Guideline 1: Perceivable
The Perceivable principle ensures that all users can access and understand content, regardless of their sensory abilities. This includes making sure that all visual elements—not just text—are distinguishable.
Guideline 1.4: Distinguishable
Guideline 1.4 focuses on making content easier to see and hear. Non-text Contrast ensures that user interface components and graphical objects are easy to identify.
What Is Guideline 1.4.11 Non-text Contrast?
"The visual presentation of user interface components and graphical objects has a contrast ratio of at least 3
against adjacent colors."
Guideline 1.4.11 Non-text Contrast is a Level AA requirement in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) .
- UI components (buttons, form fields, controls) must have a 3 contrast ratio with adjacent colors.
- Graphical objects (icons, charts, focus indicators) must also meet this contrast ratio.
- Ensures all users can identify and use interactive elements.
For more, see Harvard University: Technique – Non-text contrast .
Why Does It Matter?
- Accessibility: Low contrast makes controls and icons hard to see, especially for users with low vision.
- Inclusivity: Ensures everyone can use interactive elements.
- Legal Compliance: Non-text Contrast is a Level AA requirement in WCAG 2.2.
- Usability: Good contrast improves user experience for all.
For more, see WebAIM’s Non-text Contrast Checker .
What Needs to Support Non-text Contrast?
- Buttons and controls
- Form fields and input borders
- Icons and graphical objects
- Focus indicators
- Charts and data visualizations
All must meet the minimum 3
contrast ratio with adjacent colors.How to Meet Guideline 1.4.11
- Use a contrast ratio checker for UI elements and graphics
- Ensure all controls and icons have at least 3 contrast
- Test focus indicators and active states
- Avoid using color alone to indicate state
- Test in different lighting conditions and with colorblind simulators
For more, see the W3C's Non-text Contrast Techniques .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- UI controls with borders or backgrounds that blend into the page
- Icons or charts with insufficient contrast
- Focus indicators that are hard to see
- Not testing with real users or tools
Differences Between A, AA, and AAA for Guideline 1.4.11 in WCAG 2.2
- Level A: No specific requirement for non-text contrast.
- Level AA: Requires 3 contrast for UI components and graphical objects.
- Level AAA: No additional requirements for non-text contrast.
For more, see the W3C’s official documentation for 1.4.11 Non-text Contrast .
Quick Checklist
- All UI components have at least 3 contrast
- All graphical objects meet 3 contrast
- Focus indicators are visible
- Tested with contrast checker tools
Summary
Guideline 1.4.11 ensures all users can identify and use controls, icons, and graphics. Use contrast checkers and always test your designs for accessibility.
Accessibility means every element is visible—don’t let low contrast hide your controls!