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Why should our website have multiple contrast options?

Each person sees the screen differently. That is why having just one color option does not work for everyone.

People with low vision, color blindness, or light sensitivity need different visual adjustments. Offering multiple contrast options gives control back to the user. This way, they can choose the color and light that make reading easier and more comfortable.

What the rules say

The main accessibility standards in Brazil and the world, such as ABNT NBR 17225 and WCAG 2.2, require websites to have good contrast.

To measure this, the standards use a value called "contrast ratio". It works like this:

  • Normal text: the color difference between the letters and the background must be at least 4.5 to 1.
  • Large text and buttons: the difference must be at least 3 to 1.
  • The ideal (enhanced recommendation): the difference for text should reach 7 to 1.

What we should do in practice

To serve all users, the best solution is to add a visual adjustment panel (or an accessibility plugin) to the website with the following options:

  • Light high contrast: very light background and very dark text. It helps those with low vision or color blindness.
  • Dark high contrast: dark background and light text. Excellent for those with light sensitivity (photophobia).
  • Low saturation (less vivid colors): helps people with visual sensitivity or epilepsy.
  • Black and white screen (monochrome): makes reading easier for people with difficulty perceiving colors.
  • Custom colors: allows the user to choose the exact background and text colors to reduce eye strain.

Tools to help with the work

  • Contrast checkers: you can use free tools on the internet, like the WebAIM Contrast Checker or the Colour Contrast Analyser (CCA) app. They tell you instantly if your chosen colors pass the contrast rule.
  • Assistive tools: there are ready-made solutions (plugins) that you install on the website. They come with easy buttons for the user to turn on high contrast or change the screen colors with just one click.

Attention to the Law

Having good contrast is not just about making the site look nice; it is a user's right.

In Brazil, the Brazilian Inclusion Law (LBI) requires websites to be accessible to people with disabilities. In other countries, laws like the ADA (in the US) and the EAA (in Europe) also penalize companies with hard-to-use websites. Ensuring contrast means complying with the law and respecting people.