Top 8 Image Accessibility Tools for Developers

Image accessibility is a critical aspect of web development, ensuring that visual content is usable for individuals relying on assistive technologies like screen readers. This article highlights eight tools that help developers generate effective alt text, check compliance with accessibility standards like WCAG and ADA, and improve the overall user experience. Here's a quick overview of the tools covered:

• AltReadable: AI-driven alt text generation with multilingual support and integration into workflows via REST API.
• axe DevTools: Browser extension for automated accessibility testing, ideal for CI/CD pipelines and early issue detection.
• WAVE: Visual feedback tool for identifying accessibility issues directly on web pages.
• Google Lighthouse: Free tool for assessing webpage performance and accessibility.
• Microsoft Accessibility Insights: Combines automated and manual testing with GitHub integration for detailed accessibility audits.
• Siteimprove Accessibility Checker: Real-time browser extension with enterprise-level reporting.
• Tota11y: Open-source tool for visualizing accessibility issues during development.
• ARC Toolkit: Chrome extension offering detailed insights and WCAG compliance mapping.

Each tool caters to different needs, from simple checks to advanced compliance reporting. Whether you're looking for AI-powered alt text or comprehensive audits, these tools can help you make your digital content more accessible.

Accessible images - alt text

1. AltReadable

AltReadable simplifies the process of creating alt text, making image accessibility easier and faster. This AI-driven platform transforms what used to be a time-consuming task into an automated workflow that fits seamlessly into existing development processes.

AI-powered alt text generation

AltReadable uses context-aware AI to analyze images and generate alt text that's tailored to their purpose. Instead of generic descriptions, it considers the surrounding context to produce meaningful alt text that's helpful for users relying on screen readers.

The platform supports a variety of image formats, handling everything from simple icons to detailed infographics. This flexibility makes it a valuable tool for developers working on a wide range of projects, whether it's an e-commerce site filled with product images or a content-rich platform with editorial visuals.

A standout feature of AltReadable is its multilingual support, which allows developers to generate alt text in multiple languages without extra setup. This is especially useful for teams creating international websites or applications for global audiences. All these features integrate effortlessly into modern development workflows.

Integration with development workflows

AltReadable connects to existing workflows through a REST API, automating alt text generation during image uploads or processing.

It works seamlessly with popular CMS platforms like Magento, Shopify, and WooCommerce, eliminating the need for developers to jump between tools or manually handle accessibility tasks.

For developers who need quick fixes, the single image upload feature offers a fast solution. Meanwhile, the website-wide scanning capability is ideal for larger accessibility audits. This combination caters to both ongoing development needs and comprehensive accessibility reviews. Additionally, AltReadable doesn't just integrate - it actively audits your site for accessibility issues.

Scanning and reporting image accessibility issues

AltReadable's scanning feature reviews websites to identify missing or inadequate alt text. It systematically checks all images on a site, flagging those that lack alt text or contain unhelpful descriptions.

The platform provides detailed, actionable insights to improve accessibility. Instead of just listing issues, AltReadable gives specific recommendations, helping development teams prioritize and address problems more efficiently.

This proactive approach helps teams catch potential compliance issues early, reducing the risk of legal challenges and improving the user experience. By embedding accessibility checks directly into the development process, AltReadable supports the growing emphasis on making websites more inclusive.

Meeting accessibility standards (WCAG, ADA)

AltReadable ensures that the alt text it generates complies with WCAG and ADA standards. Its AI is trained to create descriptions that meet these guidelines, ensuring they are both meaningful and user-friendly for assistive technologies.

The platform goes beyond just meeting the minimum requirements. It focuses on creating alt text that genuinely improves the experience for users with disabilities, avoiding the common mistake of producing technically compliant but unhelpful descriptions.

For development teams with tight deadlines, AltReadable's automated compliance checks remove the guesswork from accessibility efforts. By handling the technical details, the tool allows developers to focus on other aspects of their projects, making accessibility more manageable for teams of all sizes and skill levels.

2. axe DevTools

axe DevTools is a browser extension designed to streamline automated accessibility testing for developers. Created by Deque Systems, this tool has become a popular choice, boasting over 400,000 users and a 3.9-star rating on the Chrome Web Store. It's particularly effective at identifying and addressing image accessibility issues early in the development process.

Integration with Development Workflows

This tool seamlessly integrates with Chrome and Firefox browsers and supports task runners like Selenium, Cucumber, and Jasmine, making it an excellent fit for continuous integration (CI) pipelines.

In 2025, a leading e-commerce platform reported a 40% reduction in accessibility issues after incorporating axe DevTools into its CI workflow. By catching problems early, the development team maintained WCAG compliance more effectively, avoiding the higher costs and complexity of post-deployment fixes.

As accessibility testing becomes a standard part of CI pipelines, tools like axe DevTools are proving essential. They help teams address issues proactively, saving time and resources while improving the overall user experience.

Scanning and Reporting Image Accessibility Issues

One of axe DevTools' standout features is its ability to quickly identify images missing descriptive alt text, which is crucial for users with visual impairments. The tool can detect up to 80% of common accessibility issues during development.

Its emphasis on reducing false positives ensures that developers spend less time sifting through unnecessary alerts. Detailed reports and practical recommendations further simplify the remediation process, making it easier to fix problems without slowing down development.

"Using axe DevTools to proactively find and fix accessibility issues significantly reduces the need for manual testing, giving you quick and easy wins without disrupting your development velocity." - Deque Systems

The Intelligent Guided Testing (IGT) feature takes this a step further by offering a structured, question-and-answer format to help developers better understand and resolve image accessibility issues. This is especially helpful for teams still building their expertise in accessibility.

By addressing these issues early, axe DevTools contributes directly to achieving broader accessibility compliance.

Supporting Accessibility Standards (WCAG, ADA)

axe DevTools is designed to help teams meet WCAG and ADA standards by identifying violations and providing actionable solutions. This reduces the reliance on manual testing later in the process, saving both time and money.

In February 2025, a case study highlighted how a major e-commerce platform improved its accessibility compliance by 30% in just three months after adopting axe DevTools. John Doe, the platform's Accessibility Lead, noted that early testing made it easier to catch and resolve issues during the development cycle.

"Implementing the recommendations from axe DevTools not only helps you comply with legal requirements but also demonstrates a commitment to providing a positive user experience for all visitors." - Deque Systems

axe DevTools' effectiveness is underscored by its adoption by 8 of the top 10 US banks. In Q4 2025, Deque Systems was recognized as a leader in the Forrester Wave™ for Digital Accessibility Platforms, cementing the tool's reputation in the industry.

For teams of all sizes, axe DevTools offers a free version through browser extension stores, with advanced features available in the Pro version. This makes it an accessible starting point for improving image accessibility practices. Up next, we'll take a closer look at how Microsoft Accessibility Insights builds on these capabilities.

3. WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool

WAVE takes a visually focused approach to identifying accessibility issues on web pages. Created by WebAIM, it overlays icons and indicators directly onto the page being tested, making it simple to pinpoint problems in their actual context.

Identifying and Reporting Image Accessibility Issues

One of WAVE's strengths is its ability to flag missing alt text for images, a common challenge for developers. When you run a scan, the tool places visual markers on images that need attention and generates detailed reports summarizing all identified accessibility problems.

For example, in June 2025, a design team at a mid-sized tech company used WAVE to evaluate their new website prototype. They uncovered and fixed over 30 accessibility issues, including missing alt text, which helped them align with WCAG standards. This not only improved the experience for users relying on screen readers but also contributed to a smoother website launch and positive user feedback.

"WAVE is great for quick scans of wireframes or early mockups. It highlights errors visually on the page, making it easy to see how different issues affect users." - WebAIM

This hands-on feedback makes it easier for teams to integrate accessibility checks into their development process.

Seamless Integration with Development Workflows

WAVE works seamlessly as a browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, allowing teams to test web pages directly within their browsers. This is particularly useful during the prototyping stage, where catching accessibility issues early can save time and effort down the line.

For larger projects, WAVE offers more advanced options. A paid API and stand-alone engine can be integrated into CI/CD pipelines, enabling automated, site-wide scans. Additionally, the WAVE Runner Service provides subscription-based scanning and reporting, making it an excellent choice for enterprise-level development teams.

Supporting Accessibility Standards (WCAG, ADA)

WAVE doesn't just identify issues - it connects them to specific Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) criteria, including WCAG 2.2 standards. This mapping helps developers understand what needs fixing and why, creating an opportunity to learn and improve accessibility skills.

Unlike tools that attempt to generate AI-powered alt text, WAVE emphasizes identifying accessibility gaps and encourages developers to write meaningful, context-specific alt text themselves. By doing so, it promotes a deeper understanding of accessibility best practices.

4. Google Lighthouse

Google Lighthouse is a free, open-source tool designed to assess the quality of web pages, including their accessibility. One of its key features is identifying whether <img> and <video> elements have appropriate alt attributes, helping developers spot missing or insufficient alt text quickly. Up next, we'll look at how Microsoft Accessibility Insights takes accessibility auditing a step further.

5. Microsoft Accessibility Insights

Microsoft Accessibility Insights is a browser extension available for Chrome and Microsoft Edge that helps developers identify and fix accessibility issues effectively. It supports both automated and manual testing, making it a versatile tool for accessibility evaluations.

Integration with Development Workflows

This tool integrates directly with GitHub, allowing accessibility checks to become a part of CI/CD pipelines. By embedding these checks early in the development process, developers can catch image accessibility issues before deployment. This proactive approach helps maintain consistent accessibility standards across projects while reducing the risk of overlooking critical errors.

Scanning and Reporting Image Accessibility Issues

Microsoft Accessibility Insights uses two main testing approaches to detect image accessibility problems. The "FastPass" feature quickly identifies common, high-impact issues, making it ideal for quick checks during development. For more in-depth evaluations, the "Full Accessibility Audit" assesses web pages against WCAG guidelines, offering detailed, step-by-step instructions for resolving issues.

The tool automatically checks compliance with around 50 accessibility requirements and provides clear guidance for fixing any problems. While it doesn't use AI to generate alt text, its WCAG audit ensures that alt text is used correctly and effectively.

Supporting Compliance with Accessibility Standards (WCAG, ADA)

The "Full Accessibility Audit" is particularly valuable for ensuring compliance with WCAG standards. This is essential for meeting legal requirements like the ADA, reducing compliance risks while improving overall accessibility.

One standout feature of Microsoft Accessibility Insights is its ability to guide users through manual testing processes. Accessibility expert Karl Groves highlights this advantage:

"One of the most powerful features of Accessibility Insights is its ability to guide users through manual testing. This makes it a great option for teams who want to go beyond automated checks and perform a more thorough evaluation of their site's accessibility."

This manual guidance is especially critical for image accessibility, where human judgment is often needed to evaluate context and meaning. By combining automated scans with guided manual testing, the tool provides a well-rounded approach to making images accessible to all users.

6. Siteimprove Accessibility Checker

Siteimprove Accessibility Checker adds another layer to your accessibility toolkit by focusing on real-time testing directly in your browser. It's especially helpful for developers who need immediate feedback while working, making it a practical choice during the development process.

Integration with Development Workflows

This browser extension fits right into the daily routine of developers, offering instant accessibility feedback as they work. It's available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, allowing developers to identify and address issues without stepping away from their projects.

For teams using agile methods, this tool is a game-changer. Instead of waiting for dedicated testing phases, developers can run quick accessibility checks during sprint cycles. This immediate feedback ensures that potential issues are caught and resolved early, keeping workflows efficient and uninterrupted.

Scanning and Reporting Image Accessibility Issues

The tool excels at identifying and addressing image accessibility problems. It automatically flags missing or incorrect alt text and highlights decorative images that should have empty alt attributes. By scanning all images on a page, it provides detailed recommendations to address each issue.

Its color-coded alerts make prioritizing fixes easier. For instance, missing alt text is flagged as a high-priority issue, while less critical problems, like overly detailed descriptions, are marked lower on the list.

The checker also spots complex images - such as charts, graphs, or infographics - that might need more than just standard alt text. It alerts developers when long descriptions or alternative text formats are necessary, ensuring these elements are accessible to all users.

Supporting Compliance with Accessibility Standards (WCAG, ADA)

Beyond identifying issues, Siteimprove Accessibility Checker helps teams align their work with WCAG 2.1 Level AA guidelines. It explains each violation in detail, linking it to specific WCAG criteria, such as Success Criterion 1.1.1 (Non-text Content), which governs how images should be accessible to screen readers.

The tool doesn't just point out problems - it educates. By offering context and explaining the principles behind the fixes, it helps developers understand why these changes matter for users with disabilities.

Its compliance reporting feature is another standout. These reports summarize accessibility findings and link them to WCAG criteria, making them ideal for audits or legal documentation. This feature ensures organizations can demonstrate their efforts toward meeting accessibility standards and ADA requirements. With its focus on real-time feedback and compliance, the tool emphasizes the value of ongoing accessibility efforts.

7. Tota11y

Tota11y is an open-source tool designed to help developers visually identify accessibility issues on webpages. It provides visual cues, such as highlighting missing or inadequate alternative text, making it easier to spot potential problems. However, its documentation is somewhat limited, which may require users to explore its features through hands-on use.

Integration with Development Workflows

Tota11y is browser-compatible, which means developers can quickly review webpages directly within their browser. This ease of use makes it a handy, informal tool for catching accessibility issues during the development process. While it's not a deeply integrated solution, it works well as a quick-check option.

Identifying Image Accessibility Issues

One of Tota11y's key features is its ability to flag potential problems with images, particularly by highlighting areas where alternative text might be missing or insufficient. This visual feedback encourages developers to revisit and improve image descriptions. However, the tool doesn't provide detailed guidance on distinguishing between decorative images and those critical to content, leaving some room for interpretation.

Role in Accessibility Standards Compliance

Tota11y's focus is more on raising awareness of accessibility issues than on ensuring full compliance with standards like WCAG or ADA. It's best viewed as a supplemental tool that helps developers identify and address basic problems, rather than a comprehensive compliance-testing solution.

Next, we'll take a closer look at ARC Toolkit as we round out our list of top eight tools.

8. ARC Toolkit

ARC Toolkit rounds out our list as a browser-based accessibility testing tool designed to simplify the process for developers. Created by The Paciello Group (now part of TPG Interactive), it provides detailed insights, complete with screenshots and actionable steps to address accessibility issues.

Integration with Development Workflows

This tool seamlessly integrates into your workflow through its Chrome extension. Developers can test any webpage directly in the browser without extra hassle. It also supports exporting detailed reports, making it easier for teams to review and address issues collaboratively. Whether you're working on localhost, staging, or production sites, ARC Toolkit helps spot accessibility problems early, keeping agile development on track. Plus, it's particularly good at pinpointing image-related issues.

Identifying and Reporting Image Accessibility Issues

When it comes to images, ARC Toolkit is thorough. It scans webpages to flag images that lack alternative text or misuse alt attributes for decorative purposes. Alongside identifying these issues, the tool generates detailed reports with screenshots and step-by-step guidance, making it easier for teams to fix problems during accessibility audits.

Ensuring Compliance with Accessibility Standards

ARC Toolkit is built to support compliance with WCAG 2.1 and Section 508 standards. It maps detected issues to specific WCAG success criteria - like 1.1.1, 1.4.5, and 4.1.2 - explaining how these issues affect users and offering practical solutions. The compliance reports it generates are also designed to meet legal and regulatory documentation requirements, ensuring teams stay aligned with accessibility guidelines.

Tool Comparison Chart

Choose a tool that aligns with your development goals, budget, and workflow. The chart below offers a side-by-side comparison of features, helping you decide which tool fits your specific needs.

Tool Name	AI Alt Text Generation	Bulk Processing	Platform Integrations	Accessibility Reporting	Pricing (USD)
AltReadable	✅ Advanced AI	✅ Website-wide scanning	Magento, Shopify, WooCommerce, REST API	Basic compliance tracking	Free trial (15 images), $9-$79/month
axe DevTools	❌	❌	Browser extensions, CI/CD pipelines	✅ Comprehensive WCAG reporting	Free basic, $42/month Pro
WAVE	❌	❌	Browser extension, API available	✅ Visual accessibility feedback	Free web version, $10/month API
Google Lighthouse	❌	❌	Chrome DevTools, CI/CD integration	✅ Performance + accessibility scores	Free
Microsoft Accessibility Insights	❌	❌	Windows applications, web extensions	✅ Detailed compliance mapping	Free
Siteimprove Accessibility Checker	❌	✅ Site-wide analysis	Enterprise CMS platforms	✅ Detailed enterprise reporting	Contact for pricing
Tota11y	❌	❌	JavaScript bookmarklet	✅ Interactive visualization	Free
ARC Toolkit	❌	❌	Chrome extension	✅ WCAG 2.1 compliance reports	Free

For simple accessibility checks, free tools like Google Lighthouse, WAVE, and Tota11y are great starting points. If you're looking for AI-powered alt text generation, AltReadable stands out with its context-aware capabilities. On the other hand, enterprise teams working on large-scale projects may find advanced tools like axe DevTools or Siteimprove Accessibility Checker more suitable for their needs.

Conclusion

Making images accessible is a crucial step toward creating digital spaces that everyone can use, regardless of ability. Adding proper alt text not only improves usability for visually impaired users but also ensures your content aligns with accessibility standards.

Following ADA-inspired guidelines helps reduce the risk of legal issues and safeguards your reputation. The tools discussed here tackle different challenges in image accessibility. Free options like Google Lighthouse, WAVE, and Tota11y are great for spotting basic issues. Meanwhile, AI-driven tools such as AltReadable help streamline the process of generating alt text, and enterprise-level solutions provide in-depth reporting for more complex needs.

Incorporating accessibility into your workflow from the start is essential. Regular testing improves the overall user experience, but don't stop there - combine automated tools with manual reviews and feedback from real users to ensure your content is genuinely inclusive. By making these tools a part of your development process, you can prioritize accessibility as a core element of your strategy.

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