What is the recommended minimum contrast ratio for normal text?

The recommended minimum contrast ratio for normal text is 4.5:1. This guideline is rooted in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which are designed to ensure that web content is accessible to people with varying levels of visual acuity. A contrast ratio of 4.5:1 ensures that the text is sufficiently distinguishable from the background, making it easier for individuals with low vision or color blindness to read and understand the content.

The rationale behind this specific requirement is that higher contrast generally enhances readability. A ratio of 4.5:1 strikes a balance between accessibility and visual appeal across a wide range of devices and browsers, ensuring that text can be read comfortably by most users.

Using a lower contrast ratio, such as 1.5:1 or 3:1, would not provide adequate visibility for normal-sized text, potentially leading to accessibility issues for individuals with visual impairments. Similarly, while a ratio of 5.5:1 might offer even better visibility, it exceeds the minimum standard set forth by WCAG and may not necessarily be necessary for normal text, since 4.5:1 sufficiently meets accessibility goals.