Contrasts
Contrasts: A focused Mac contrast checker with color previews, shortcuts, and export tools. Ranked #17 of 23 in Color Contrast Checker Software by our editors (6.6/10); pricing: Free plan · 7-day trial; best for mac users wanting a compact contrast utility.
At a glance
- Editor score6.6 / 10
- PricingFree plan · 7-day trial
- Best forMac users wanting a compact contrast utility
- Free planYes
- WCAG standards2.1
- Facts checked4 Oct 2026
Where it wins
- Checks WCAG 2.1 contrast for text, graphics, and UI components
- Accepts multiple color formats and color spaces
- Preview mode recolors the interface with selected colors
Where it doesn't
- Available only on macOS
- Plus pricing varies by plan and is not presented consistently
- Enterprise adds support and feature requests rather than broader listed tools
Our verdict on Contrasts
Contrasts is a macOS desktop utility for designers and developers checking color contrast in websites, apps, and other digital content. It calculates contrast ratings against WCAG 2.1 criteria and evaluates text, graphics, and UI components. Color values can be entered as text or selected with the macOS color picker, making the product a fit for solo practitioners and small teams who want a focused contrast checker rather than a broader design suite.
The free Basic tier includes WCAG 2.1 calculations, picker and text-input color selection, and shortcut support. Plus adds preview mode, color sharing and export, and a switch-colors control. The vendor homepage describes Plus as a one-time fee, while also referring to monthly and annual plans; the US App Store listing has monthly, yearly, and lifetime options, with prices that may vary by region. Enterprise includes Plus features, customer support, and priority feature requests. That mix makes it worth comparing the available purchase option in the storefront relevant to you before choosing a paid tier.
The standout workflow is lightweight: a keyboard shortcut opens Contrasts as a popover, and preview mode recolors its interface with selected colors to help assess combinations. Export and sharing extend the checker beyond a single on-screen result. Its narrow focus and macOS-only availability are meaningful constraints: teams needing a cross-platform tool should look elsewhere, as should buyers seeking a wider design or accessibility platform. For Mac users who want quick contrast checks and color-combination previews, Contrasts keeps the job centered on those tasks.
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Contrasts pricing
All 4 Contrasts plans and prices →
Contrasts fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| WCAG standards | 2.1 |
| Contrast modes | Text, graphics and UI |
| Contrast suggestions | Not verified |
| Design integrations | Not verified |
| Platforms | macOS |
| Batch color-pair checks | Not verified |
| Free trial | 7 days |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | macOS |
| Support | |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan · 7-day trial (source) |
| Website | contrasts.app |
| Facts checked | 4 Oct 2026 |
Alternatives to Contrasts
- WebAIM Contrast CheckerA free web checker for text and UI contrast, with a basic API and bookmarklet.9.1
- Acquia Color Contrast Checker (formerly Monsido Contrast Checker)A free web checker for reviewing color pairs against WCAG contrast thresholds.9.0
- Silktide Color Contrast CheckerA free Chrome extension for checking page text and interface contrast against WCAG.8.7
See all Contrasts alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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