Contrasts review
A focused Mac contrast checker with color previews, shortcuts, and export tools.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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.
Contrasts pros and cons
- 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
Contrasts fact sheet, pricing and score →
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