Accessible Link Style Checker
Test whether your link styling meets WCAG — contrast against the background, distinction from body text, and a non-color cue — with a live preview.
Make links obvious to everyone
An inline link that's only distinguished by a slightly different color is invisible to many people with color vision deficiency — and it fails WCAG. Accessible links have to clear three bars: the link text must contrast enough with the background to be readable (4.5:1), it must differ enough from the surrounding body text if color is the distinguisher (3:1), and there should be a non-color cue such as an underline.
This checker evaluates all three at once. Set your link color, body text color, and background, toggle whether links are underlined, and it grades each requirement while showing a realistic paragraph so you can see the effect. The safest, most recognizable pattern remains a clearly contrasting color plus an underline for inline links.
Accurate and private
Contrast uses the official WCAG luminance formula, computed entirely in your browser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t links rely on color alone?
WCAG requires that links are distinguishable by more than color, because people with color blindness may not perceive the difference. An underline (or other non-color cue) is the standard solution.
What contrast do links need?
Link text needs at least 4.5:1 against its background like any text. Additionally, if color is the only thing separating a link from surrounding text, that color difference should be at least 3:1.
Is underlining links required?
Not literally, but an underline is the most reliable non-color indicator, especially for inline links within a paragraph. Navigation and buttons can use other cues like position and styling.
Is this tool free and private?
Yes. All checks run in your browser — no sign-up and nothing uploaded.
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