WCAG AA requires a 4.5:1 contrast ratio for normal text. Pass the checker, ship the code. But designing to the minimum is not designing for users.
The Problem With Pure Contrast Ratios
Contrast ratios measure luminance difference, not perceived readability. A text colour that passes 4.5:1 can still be difficult to read if fonts are thin, backgrounds have texture, or users view the screen at an angle.
Going for AAA
WCAG AAA requires 7:1 for normal text. This is worth targeting for body copy and critical information. Users with low vision, aging users, and users in bright environments benefit disproportionately from higher contrast.
