Operable · Level AAA · Introduced in WCAG 2.1
WCAG 2.5.5: Target Size (Enhanced)
Published by whatisADA / Grow Wild Agency · Updated
What this criterion means
At Level AAA, pointer targets are generally at least 44 by 44 CSS pixels, with specified exceptions for equivalent controls, inline targets, unmodified browser controls and essential presentation.
A practical example
A dense toolbar uses 20-pixel icons with tiny click areas. Increase the actual button boxes to at least 44 by 44 CSS pixels, preserving enough space between functions and keeping the visual labels understandable.
How to check it
- Measure the actual interactive bounding boxes in CSS pixels.
- Review small targets against each defined exception, including equivalent controls on the same page.
- Test the layout at narrow widths and enlarged text so larger targets remain operable without overlap.
What can be missed
An icon can be smaller than its target if the surrounding padding is interactive. Physical device pixels are not CSS pixels, and the AA spacing exception for 2.5.8 should not be imported here.
Record your test
Use this worksheet to record what you actually checked. Notes stay on this device when you choose Save; they are not sent to us. Avoid personal or confidential information on shared devices.
These are your observations, not automated results or a conformance certificate. A complete evaluation needs appropriate scope, supported technologies, all applicable criteria and relevant page states.
Primary sources and scope
This is independent implementation guidance with original examples. The linked standard contains the full definitions, exceptions and conformance requirements. A criterion or checklist alone does not establish legal applicability or whole-site conformance.