Top Tools for Accessibility Testing
Accessibility compliance isn’t just a legal requirement, it’s a commitment to making digital spaces usable for all. While understanding the standards, such as Section 508, is important, knowing which tools to use for testing and improving your site experience is key.
In our Section 508 in the Digital Space article, we explored why accessibility and understanding the standards matters. Now, let’s look at the practical side: which tools can you use to help identify, test, and fix accessibility issues on your website.
There is no “magic bullet” for accessibility testing. Automated testing scans are powerful and will get you far, but they can’t replace the human context necessary to catch every issue. Below, I’ve broken down some of the best tools available, organized by budget, so you can choose the right mix for your needs.
Test With These Free Tools
WAVE
Best for visual learners who want page-specific, clear feedback
A user-friendly browser extension that visually separates confirmed issues from warnings, making it easy to understand accessibility problems. WAVE highlights each issue on the page and offers straightforward guidance for remediation.
- Pros: Provides visual, clear reports and is simple to use.
- Cons: Scans one page at a time. (Check out Pope Tech, an enterprise-level tool that removes the single-page limitation).
Axe Dev Tools
Best for developers who want code-level insights
Created by accessibility leader Deque, this browser extension runs a single-page scan and highlights each issue directly in your code, along with instructions for fixes.
- Pros: Developer-friendly, precise guidance.
- Cons: The free version limits you with single-page scans.
https://www.deque.com/axe-devtools-browser-extension-accessibility-testing/
Google Lighthouse
Best for multi-category audits
Google offers a built-in accessibility checker within the Chrome browser’s Developer Tools. It can run a variety of audits on your page – including SEO and performance – while highlighting what passes and what fails.
- Pros: Multi-faceted audits, no installation necessary.
- Cons: Steeper learning curve than other free tools.
Built in Screen Readers
Best for experiencing the site as a visually impaired user would
Both Windows and Mac have built-in screen readers as part of their operating system. While these tools have a steeper learning curve and don’t generate visual reports, they’re still incredibly insightful. Allowing you to navigate content exactly as a visually impaired user would, in real time.
- Pros: Offers first-hand insight into your user experience.
- Cons: No visual reports, steep learning curve and requires practice to use effectively.
Budget-Friendly Accessibility Tools
Accessibility Checker by Equalize Digital
Ideal for WordPress content teams
This plugin will scan your entire site and provide valuable assistance to editors as you write in the WordPress admin. Issues are flagged in real-time, making it easier to address issues before publishing.
- Pros: Real-time feedback, built into WordPress, site-wide scanning.
- Cons: Limited to WordPress
https://wordpress.org/plugins/accessibility-checker/
Enterprise Tools: Comprehensive & Then Some
Deque Testing Services
Best for organizations looking for expert-led, comprehensive audits
Deque is one of the leaders in digital accessibility and combines automated scanning with human testers using a range of accessibility technologies. They provide comprehensive reports, guidance and support to resolve identified issues.
- Pros: Tailored guidance, the human component fills in the gaps automation can’t catch.
- Cons: Enterprise-level costs, best suited for large or compliance-critical applications.
https://www.deque.com/solutions/audits-compliance-testing/
Siteimprove
Suited for ongoing compliance monitoring
Another industry leader, Siteimprove continuously scans your site and keeps your accessibility score updated in real-time. Beyond accessibility, their platform also provides additional scanning services, including SEO and quality assurance.
- Pros: Continuous monitoring, all-in-one platform.
- Cons: Enterprise-level costs.
Remember, no single tool can do it all. Pairing automated scans with the human touch will ensure context is never lost, while regular testing cadence will keep your site compliant as it grows and changes.
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