What are the best tools to check for website accessibility issues?

Hey there! When it comes to ensuring your website is accessible to all users, there are some fantastic tools available to help you check for accessibility issues. Here are some of the best tools that I recommend:

1. WebAIM's WAVE: WAVE is a free online tool that allows you to enter the URL of your website and generates a detailed report of any accessibility issues it finds. It provides a visual representation of your web page, highlighting potential problem areas and offering suggestions for improvement.

2. axe: axe is an open-source accessibility testing tool developed by Deque Systems. It can be integrated into your development workflow and used to automate accessibility testing. axe provides detailed reports with actionable insights, making it easier for developers to identify and fix accessibility issues.

3. Lighthouse: Lighthouse is a powerful auditing tool built into Google Chrome's DevTools. It not only checks for accessibility issues but also evaluates other aspects of your website's performance, SEO, and best practices. Lighthouse generates a comprehensive report with suggestions for improvement.

4. Siteimprove: Siteimprove is a comprehensive web accessibility platform that offers automated testing, monitoring, and reporting. It provides detailed insights into accessibility issues and offers guidance on how to fix them. Siteimprove also includes features for content management, SEO, and analytics.

5. AChecker: AChecker is a free online accessibility checker that allows you to upload HTML files or enter the URL of your website for evaluation. It supports various accessibility standards, including WCAG 2.0 and Section 508. AChecker provides a detailed report with suggestions for improvement.

6. Tota11y: Tota11y is a JavaScript-based accessibility visualization toolkit developed by Khan Academy. It can be easily added to your website and provides visual overlays to highlight accessibility issues. Tota11y also offers guidance on how to fix the identified issues.

Remember, these tools are not meant to replace manual testing and human expertise. They are designed to assist in identifying common accessibility issues and provide guidance for improvement. It's always a good idea to combine automated testing with manual testing and involve users with disabilities in the evaluation process.

By using these tools, you can ensure that your website is accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. Happy testing!

Arthur Padberg

UX design, accessibility, user research

Arthur is a seasoned UX designer and an authority in the field of accessibility consultancy. With a proven track record of collaborating with a multitude of companies, he has significantly enhanced the accessibility of their products. Arthur is driven by a fervor for crafting user experiences that are all-embracing and inclusive.