Accessibility testing tools help web designers and developers identify and fix issues that make a website difficult to use for people with disabilities. These tools check whether a site meets legal standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). From color contrast checks to screen reader simulations, these tools ensure digital content is inclusive for users with visual, auditory, or mobility impairments. Without accessibility testing, you risk excluding a significant portion of your audience—and may even face legal consequences.

These tools can be used during the design phase, before launch, or continuously as part of ongoing maintenance. Their main goal is to flag any barriers that might prevent someone from navigating or interacting with your website effectively.

Common features of accessibility testing tools

Most accessibility testing tools include automated scans that detect missing alt text, poor color contrast, and form input issues. Some offer browser extensions that let you test pages on the fly, while others integrate into your code editor or CI/CD pipeline for continuous monitoring. Many tools also simulate how a screen reader would interpret your content.

Another useful feature is reporting—most tools generate detailed reports with suggestions for fixing any accessibility problems. Some even provide code snippets or documentation to help developers resolve the flagged issues faster.

Popular accessibility testing tools to try

There are many accessibility tools available—some free, some paid. WAVE is a browser-based tool that highlights problems visually on the page. axe DevTools offers robust automated checks and integrates with Chrome. Lighthouse, built into Chrome DevTools, includes accessibility as one of its audit categories. For more advanced needs, Deque’s axe-core can be integrated into test environments for automation.

Choosing the right tool depends on your workflow, whether you’re building pages manually or using a website builder. Many developers use a combination of tools to get the most thorough results.

Why accessibility matters for SEO and user experience

Accessibility doesn’t just help users with disabilities—it improves the experience for everyone. Clear headings, alt text, and semantic HTML can all make content easier to understand and navigate. These improvements can also benefit your SEO by making your site more indexable by search engines.

When you test for accessibility, you’re also testing for usability. A better experience typically means longer site visits, more conversions, and stronger customer trust. Accessibility tools help make that improvement measurable and actionable.

When to use accessibility testing tools

You should use these tools early and often—during design, development, and even after launching your site. Fixing problems before a page goes live is more efficient than retrofitting later. If you regularly publish new content or update features, schedule recurring accessibility checks.

Accessibility is not a one-time task. Think of these tools as part of a continuous improvement loop for your site, just like regular updates to your blog or design.

FAQs about accessibility testing tools

What are accessibility testing tools?

These are software tools or browser plugins that help identify elements on a website that may not be usable by people with disabilities. They test compliance with standards like WCAG and suggest improvements.

Do I need to know how to code to use them?

Not necessarily. Some tools like WAVE or axe DevTools are beginner-friendly and require no coding knowledge. Others that integrate with development environments may be better suited for technical users.

Are accessibility tools only for large websites?

No. Any site—whether it’s a small business homepage or a complex platform—can benefit from accessibility testing. In fact, small businesses often gain a competitive edge by offering a more inclusive experience.

How often should I test my site for accessibility?

Ideally, run tests before launching any new page or feature, and then periodically as part of your website maintenance routine. This ensures that updates don’t introduce new accessibility barriers.

Are accessibility testing tools free?

Many are. Tools like WAVE, axe DevTools (basic version), and Lighthouse are free to use. Some advanced tools and integrations may have premium versions with additional features.

Keep your site accessible and professional

Accessibility testing tools are a key part of building a functional and user-friendly site. They help you uncover issues you might otherwise miss and ensure your site is inclusive for all users. If you’re using a platform like the B12 AI website builder, it’s smart to layer on accessibility checks for best results. Ready to create a site that works for everyone? Get started today with B12.