WCAG Guideline 1.4.4: Resize Text Explained
Estimated read time: 6–7 minutes
Guideline 1: Perceivable
The Perceivable principle ensures that all users can access and understand content, regardless of their sensory abilities. This includes making sure that text remains readable when resized.
Guideline 1.4: Distinguishable
Guideline 1.4 focuses on making content easier to see and hear. Users with low vision often need to increase text size to read comfortably.
What Is Guideline 1.4.4 Resize Text?
"Except for captions and images of text, text can be resized without assistive technology up to 200 percent without loss of content or functionality."
Guideline 1.4.4 Resize Text is a requirement in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) .
- Users must be able to increase text size to 200% without losing content or functionality.
- Applies to all text except captions and images of text.
- Ensures layouts remain usable and readable when zoomed.
For more, see the W3C's Resize Text Techniques .
Why Does It Matter?
- Readability: Many users need larger text to read comfortably.
- Inclusivity: Supports users with low vision or reading difficulties.
- Legal Compliance: Resize Text is a Level AA requirement in WCAG 2.2.
- Usability: Responsive text improves experience for all users, especially on mobile.
What Needs to Support Accessible Text Resizing?
- Body text and headings
- Buttons and links
- Form fields and labels
- Navigation menus
All must remain readable and functional when text is resized.
How to Meet Guideline 1.4.4
- Use relative units (em, rem, %) for font sizes and layout
- Avoid fixed pixel heights/widths for containers
- Test your site at 200% zoom in browsers
- Ensure no content is cut off or overlaps
- Avoid images of text where possible
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using fixed pixel sizes for text or containers
- Content that disappears or overlaps when zoomed
- Images of text that do not scale
- Not testing with browser zoom or user stylesheets
Differences Between A, AA, and AAA for Guideline 1.4.4 in WCAG 2.2
- Level A: No specific requirement for resizing text.
- Level AA: Requires text can be resized up to 200% without loss of content or functionality.
- Level AAA: Requires text can be resized up to 200% and all functionality remains (see 1.4.8 for more advanced requirements).
For more, see the W3C’s official documentation for 1.4.4 Resize Text .
Quick Checklist
- All text can be resized up to 200%
- No loss of content or functionality when zoomed
- No fixed pixel sizes for text or containers
- Tested at 200% zoom in browsers
Summary
Guideline 1.4.4 ensures users can read and interact with content at larger text sizes. Use relative units and test your site at 200% zoom to ensure accessibility.
Accessibility means everyone can read your content—make sure it scales!