WCAG 2.5.5 Target Size (Enhanced)
AAA only: pointer targets should be at least 44 by 44 CSS pixels, larger than the AA minimum of 24 pixels, unless an exception applies.
Table of contents
What WCAG 2.5.5 Requires
AAA only: pointer targets should be at least 44 by 44 CSS pixels, larger than the AA minimum of 24 pixels, unless an exception applies.
How to Test It by Hand
Measure interactive elements and confirm they meet at least 44x44 CSS pixels, or qualify for one of the listed exceptions.
Common Failures
- A tap target is 32x32 pixels, meeting the AA 24px minimum but not the stricter AAA 44px target.
Testing WCAG 2.5.5 With AccessBell
This criterion depends on meaning or context, so it needs a person to judge. AccessBell's report lists it for manual review rather than marking it pass or fail automatically, so it is not missed.
Run a free scan to spot issues on your own pages.
Related Criteria in Input Modalities
- 2.5.1 Pointer Gestures (Level A, WCAG 2.1)
- 2.5.2 Pointer Cancellation (Level A, WCAG 2.1)
- 2.5.3 Label in Name (Level A, WCAG 2.1)
- 2.5.4 Motion Actuation (Level A, WCAG 2.1)
- 2.5.6 Concurrent Input Mechanisms (Level AAA, WCAG 2.1)
- 2.5.7 Dragging Movements (Level AA, WCAG 2.2)
- 2.5.8 Target Size (Minimum) (Level AA, WCAG 2.2)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does WCAG 2.5.5 require?
AAA only: pointer targets should be at least 44 by 44 CSS pixels, larger than the AA minimum of 24 pixels, unless an exception applies.
Can AccessBell test WCAG 2.5.5 automatically?
Not fully. This criterion needs a person to judge, so AccessBell's report lists it for manual review rather than marking it pass or fail on its own.
What level is WCAG 2.5.5?
Level AAA, added in WCAG 2.1. Level AAA is the highest, most demanding conformance level in WCAG.
Sources
- W3C: Understanding 2.5.5 Target Size (Enhanced) (opens in a new tab)
- W3C: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 (opens in a new tab)
This page explains a technical standard and is not legal advice. See our disclaimer.