Best Accessibility Testing Tools: A Must Have Toolkit

Reading Time: 10 minutes

Accessibility is not just a good practice—it’s a legal and ethical necessity.

With more people relying on digital content than ever before, ensuring your website or application is accessible to users with disabilities is crucial. That’s where best accessibility testing tools come in.

These tools are essential for identifying and fixing issues that prevent users with visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments from accessing your digital products.

Whether you’re a developer, designer, or compliance officer, having the right tools in your kit can make a world of difference.

In this Design Journal guide, we explore the best accessibility testing tools in 2025, covering both free and premium solutions that cater to different needs.

What are accessibility testing tools?

Accessibility testing tools are specialized software solutions designed to evaluate the usability of digital content, such as websites, web applications, and mobile apps, by people with disabilities. 

These tools help ensure compliance with accessibility standards, including the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), Section 508, and the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

They operate by scanning code, interfaces, and user flows to identify and flag issues that may hinder access for users with visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments. These issues can include:

• Missing or improperly labeled alternative text on images
• Insufficient color contrast between foreground and background elements
• Form fields without associated labels
• Broken keyboard navigation
• Dynamic content that screen readers cannot interpret

18 best accessibility testing tools

When designing for inclusivity, it’s essential to use reliable web accessibility testing tools that not only identify accessibility issues but also provide actionable insights to fix them. 

Below is a comprehensive list of the best accessibility testing tools, featuring both automated and manual testing capabilities, as well as free and paid options, suitable for developers, designers, and testers.

1. BrowserStack Accessibility Tool

BrowserStack’s Accessibility Testing Tool is part of its cross-browser testing platform. It supports real-time testing on actual devices and browsers, making it easy to replicate real-world user experiences. 

With automated scans based on WCAG 2.1 guidelines, this tool identifies accessibility violations across various platforms.

The tool enables integration into CI/CD pipelines and supports audits using Axe-Core. Developers can run quick tests or schedule automated scans. 

Its detailed reports help prioritize issues, making it one of the best accessibility testing tools for agile teams focused on rapid delivery and compliance.

2. WAVE: Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool

WAVE by WebAIM is one of the most popular free accessibility testing tools available.

It visually represents accessibility issues directly within the webpage’s user interface, highlighting problems such as missing alt text, low color contrast, and improperly labeled form elements.

The tool is available as a browser extension and is particularly useful during the design and quality assurance (QA) phases.

It doesn’t just report issues—it explains why each problem matters, helping teams build a deeper understanding of web accessibility best practices.

3. EqualWeb

EqualWeb offers a powerful combination of AI-driven automation and manual auditing.

It automatically detects accessibility issues and enables real-time remediation through its overlay solution, making it ideal for enterprises requiring rapid deployment.

Beyond automation, EqualWeb also provides expert-led audits and compliance certification services.

This makes it not only a web accessibility testing tool, but a complete solution for companies targeting WCAG 2.1, ADA, and Section 508 compliance.

4. Tenon–Level Access

Tenon is a developer-focused tool designed to integrate seamlessly into your development workflow. It offers API access, browser testing plugins, and integration with various project management tools.

Tenon identifies issues based on WCAG, Section 508, and other compliance standards.

The tool’s detailed reports provide information on issue severity, location, and suggested fixes.

For teams adopting test-driven or continuous development, Tenon is among the best accessibility testing tools that scale well in enterprise environments.

5. SortSite

SortSite is a one-click, desktop-based accessibility scanner that checks entire websites for accessibility issues.

It covers over 1,200 checkpoints, including WCAG guidelines, broken links, and browser compatibility.

Its audit reports are visually intuitive and categorized by priority, helping teams quickly resolve issues.

Ideal for content-heavy sites and agencies, SortSite also supports SEO and usability checks, providing an all-in-one auditing experience.

6. AChecks Accessibility Checker

AChecks offers both quick and detailed content validation for WCAG and Section 508 compliance.

You can input live URLs or paste HTML code to run checks, making it suitable for spot testing during development.

The tool is easy to use and doesn’t require installation or advanced configuration. While the interface is minimal, AChecks is ideal for teams looking for fast, on-demand assessments with clear pass/fail outcomes.

7. Accessibility Insights

Created by Microsoft, Accessibility Insights offers both rapid scans and in-depth assessments. It’s available as a Chrome and Edge extension, offering guided workflows that walk you through each accessibility requirement.

It breaks down complex WCAG guidelines into understandable steps, providing screenshots, code snippets, and recommendations for fixes.

The tool is invaluable for teams new to accessibility testing but looking to meet high compliance standards.

8. IBM Equal Access Accessibility Checker

IBM’s tool is open-source and built for scalability. As a browser extension, it performs real-time scans on websites and applications, checking against IBM’s internal accessibility guidelines as well as WCAG 2.1.

It provides detailed reports that pinpoint precisely where the issue lies in the code, making it ideal for development teams.

It can also be integrated into automated test pipelines for consistent enforcement of accessibility throughout the build process.

9. Google Accessibility Developer Tools

This Google Chrome extension enhances Chrome DevTools with accessibility audits. It helps developers identify issues like missing ARIA attributes, poor focus indicators, and keyboard navigation flaws.

It’s lightweight, easy to use, and ideal for developers who want a quick snapshot of accessibility flaws during local development.

For Google-centric teams or those already using DevTools extensively, it’s a natural extension.

10. Pa11y

Pa11y is a command-line tool that’s perfect for automating accessibility testing in CI/CD workflows.

It utilizes the Axe-Core engine to scan pages and generate reports in formats such as HTML or JSON.

Developers can set up scheduled tests and integrate them into deployment cycles, catching issues early.

It’s one of the best free accessibility testing tools for technical teams who prefer scriptable, customizable tools over graphical interfaces.

11. aDesigner

aDesigner is a Windows application developed by IBM that simulates the experience of visually impaired users when interacting with web content.

It helps designers and developers understand accessibility barriers beyond code-level issues.

The tool supports the simulation of low vision and blindness scenarios, providing teams with a user-centered lens for accessibility.

It’s ideal for usability testing and training internal teams on the real-world impact of inaccessible design.

12. Firefox Accessibility Inspector

Built into Firefox Developer Tools, this tool allows detailed inspection of accessibility tree structures.

It displays semantic information, ARIA roles, and focus order, enabling developers to debug complex accessibility issues.

It also supports keyboard testing and screen reader emulation, making it valuable for cross-checking behavior without leaving the browser. For teams that prefer open-source environments, this is one of the top web accessibility testing tools.

13. Dyno Mapper

Dyno Mapper combines accessibility testing with content planning tools. It offers sitemap creation, content inventory, and detailed WCAG-based accessibility scans, making it an excellent fit for content-heavy or multi-page websites.

Its reports are easy to share with stakeholders and include visual indicators of where issues occur.

Teams seeking a comprehensive content and accessibility management suite will find Dyno Mapper efficient and user-friendly.

14. NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)

NVDA is a free screen reader for Windows that allows developers and testers to experience a website as a visually impaired user would.

It supports speech and Braille output, helping teams validate accessibility from the user’s perspective.

Professionals widely use it for screen reader testing, and it is frequently recommended in conjunction with JAWS.

NVDA is also open-source, making it one of the most accessible free accessibility testing tools available.

15. JAWS (Job Access With Speech)

JAWS is one of the most widely used screen readers, especially in professional environments. It provides comprehensive navigation, speech synthesis, and Braille support for Windows users.

While it’s a premium tool, testing with JAWS is essential for ensuring your digital content is accessible to real-world users who rely on assistive technologies. Many organizations use it to validate final releases.

16. VoiceOver (macOS)

VoiceOver is Apple’s built-in screen reader for macOS and iOS. It provides full gesture-based and keyboard-based navigation for apps, websites, and documents, making it essential for testing within the Apple ecosystem.

Because it’s pre-installed, designers and developers can easily test mobile and desktop accessibility.

It also includes a rotor for faster navigation through headings, links, and form elements—helpful for validating logical content structure.

17. ChromeVox (Chrome OS)

ChromeVox is the native screen reader for Chrome OS. It’s designed specifically for Chromebook users and integrates deeply with Chrome’s browser and system-level functions.

It’s a key tool for testing how accessible your product is for users in educational or budget-conscious environments, where Chromebooks are commonly used.

18. Cynthia Says

Cynthia Says is a web-based validator by HiSoftware, designed to help non-technical users test single pages for WCAG and Section 508 compliance.

It presents results in plain language, making it accessible for content creators and marketers.

While it’s not suitable for large-scale audits, it’s ideal for quick checks or training non-developer teams about the basics of accessibility compliance.

It’s also a helpful entry point for anyone exploring the field of digital inclusion.

Criteria for accessibility testing (ADA) compliance

To ensure your digital content meets ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, it’s essential to evaluate your site or app using a defined set of accessibility criteria. 

Most web accessibility testing tools follow the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), which are widely accepted as the standard for ADA compliance.

Key areas include:

• Perceivability: Content must be presented in ways that users can perceive, such as including text alternatives for non-text content, captions for videos, and proper color contrast.
• Operability: Your interface must be usable by all users, including those who navigate with keyboards or assistive technologies. This includes ensuring focus indicators, logical tab orders, and sufficient time for reading and interaction.
• Understandability: Information should be readable and predictable. This includes using simple language, straightforward navigation, and consistent functionality.
• Robustness: Your content must be compatible with current and future user agents, including assistive technologies like screen readers.

To pass ADA compliance checks, use the best accessibility testing tools that validate these criteria, such as checking keyboard accessibility, screen reader support, ARIA usage, and dynamic content behavior.

How to choose the best accessibility testing tool?

With so many web accessibility testing tools available, choosing the right one depends on your team’s needs, technical skill level, and project scope. Here are some key considerations:

• Type of Testing Needed: Determine whether you need automated scans, manual testing support, or screen reader simulations. For example, tools like Pa11y are great for automation, while NVDA or JAWS are ideal for testing screen readers.
• Compliance Coverage: Ensure the tool checks for WCAG 2.1, Section 508, and ADA standards. Look for detailed reporting and guidance for remediation.
• Ease of Use: Some of the best free accessibility testing tools, such as WAVE or Accessibility Insights, offer user-friendly interfaces that are ideal for beginners. More advanced tools, such as Tenon or Axe-Core, are better suited for development teams.
• Integration and Workflow: If you’re working within a CI/CD pipeline, opt for tools that support API access and command-line usage. For content teams, browser extensions and cloud platforms may be more efficient.

Ultimately, the best accessibility testing tools are those that seamlessly integrate into your workflow, provide reliable and up-to-date WCAG validations, and enable your team to build more inclusive digital products.

Conclusion

Creating accessible digital experiences isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about ensuring everyone can access, use, and benefit from your product.

With rising legal requirements and increasing awareness around inclusivity, using the best accessibility testing tools has become a standard practice in modern development.

Whether you’re looking for web accessibility testing tools that integrate into your development process or the best free accessibility testing tools for quick checks and simulations, the key is to start testing early and often.

By making accessibility a continuous part of your workflow, you don’t just meet compliance—you build a better experience for all users.

Frequently asked questions

Which tool is best for accessibility testing?

The best accessibility testing tool depends on your specific needs. For comprehensive automated testing, Accessibility Insights and axe-core (via Pa11y or Tenon) are excellent options.

If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly tool, WAVE is among the best free accessibility testing tools, which visually highlights issues on webpages.

For screen reader simulation, NVDA and JAWS are industry standards, while BrowserStack Accessibility Tool is excellent for real-device testing across browsers.

What are the four types of accessibility?

The four main types of digital accessibility are:

1. Visual – For users with low vision or blindness; includes screen readers, high contrast, and scalable text.
2. Auditory – For users who are deaf or hard of hearing; includes captions and transcripts.
3. Motor – For users with limited mobility, this feature includes keyboard navigation, switch access, and voice commands.
4. Cognitive – For users with learning or memory challenges, this approach includes simple layouts, clear instructions, and consistent navigation.

Practical web accessibility testing tools evaluate all four areas to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.

How to test accessibility?

Accessibility testing can be performed through both automated tools and manual techniques:

• Automated Testing: Use tools like WAVE, Pa11y, or SortSite to scan for WCAG compliance and highlight common issues.
• Manual Testing: Includes keyboard navigation checks, screen reader usage (like NVDA or VoiceOver), and evaluating ARIA roles and semantic HTML.

How to use NVDA for accessibility testing?

To use NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) for testing:

• Download and install NVDA from the official website (nvaccess.org).
• Launch NVDA, then open the webpage or application you want to test.
• Navigate using arrow keys, Tab, Shift+Tab, and other screen reader commands.
• Listen to how elements are described—check if buttons, headings, links, and labels are read clearly and logically.
• Test forms, popups, and dynamic aspects for proper announcements.

NVDA helps developers experience content from a non-visual user’s perspective and is one of the best free accessibility testing tools available.