SC 1.4.1 Use of color and links

[sarasuri]

Hello,

We have a question regarding the SC 1.4.1 Use of color and links.

On a web page, a link is distinguished by a different color and bold text within a block of content. However, a regular text within the same block is also bolded. The color contrast between the link and the surrounding text is below 3:1 (1.9:1). In this scenario, would this be considered a failure meeting the Success Criterion 1.4.1? The insufficient contrast and use of bold text for both links and regular text may make it difficult for some users to clearly distinguish between the two.

We would appreciate any feedback on this scenario.
Thank you!

[TestPartners]

It's a bit harsh in this specific case, but I would say it's a non-conformance.

[detlevhfischer]

I think you would need to look at the contrast difference between bold text bits and bold link text (because the difference between bold links and non-bold surrounding text would be clear by virtue of the bold style) -- and that contrast seems to be around 3:1 depending on which pixel you get... so maybe not a FAIL.

[sarasuri]

Thank you @TestPartners and @detlevhfischer for your quick responses.

@detlevhfischer, The contrast ratio between the bolded text and the bolded link is 1.9: 1.
Bolded regular text = #424242
Non bolded regular text = #424242
Bolded link = #436e95

[detlevhfischer]

@sarasuri ah ok, the dangers of pixel-picking. In that case I guess Steve is right, even though (depending on the page context) the issue seems minor.