Colors & Contrast

This page gathers four free tools for working with interface colors. Color blindness simulator shows a colour as three deficiencies perceive it, Color contrast measures the WCAG contrast between two colors, and HEX to HSL converts a HEX color into HSL. Color palette generates light and dark variants. They help designers and developers check readability and consistency. Everything stays in your browser, with no sign-up.

Choose based on your question. Color blindness simulator checks how several deficiencies may perceive a colour. Color contrast tests the WCAG ratio between two shades. HEX to HSL translates a HEX code into a model that is easier for adjusting lightness and saturation. Color palette creates light and dark variants. For an accessibility review, start with contrast and then test with the simulator. To build a range, begin with HEX to HSL or the palette.

How to use

  1. Start with Color contrast to measure the WCAG ratio between text and its background before making aesthetic choices.
  2. Then test a combination with Color blindness simulator to spot shades that become hard to distinguish.
  3. Move to HEX to HSL when you need to adjust lightness or saturation of a precise color code.
  4. Use Color palette to generate light and dark variants that stay consistent with the starting shade.

Frequently asked questions

What is WCAG contrast used for?

Color contrast measures the WCAG contrast between two colors. This check helps you see whether text and its background remain readable. The tool is free and requires no sign-up, and it runs in your browser.

Does the simulator replace real testing?

No. Color blindness simulator shows an approximation for three deficiencies. It helps spot problematic combinations, but it does not replace feedback from affected people. Use it alongside Color contrast for a fuller check.

How can I create variants of a color?

Color palette generates light and dark variants. If you start from a HEX code, HEX to HSL can first help you understand hue, saturation, and lightness. Both tools are free and require no sign-up.

In what order should I check an accessible interface?

Check Color contrast first on text and backgrounds. Then test combinations with Color blindness simulator. If a shade needs adjustment, use HEX to HSL, then Color palette to propose consistent variants. This order puts readability before style.

When should I use HEX to HSL instead of Color palette?

Use HEX to HSL when you start from a HEX code and want to understand or change its hue, saturation, and lightness. Choose Color palette when you need light and dark variants around a base. The two tools can support each other.

Tools in the same category