A11yScan vs AccessiBe
Compare A11yScan accessibility testing with AccessiBe's overlay widget to understand the fundamental differences in approach to web accessibility.
The Verdict
A11yScan and AccessiBe represent fundamentally different approaches to accessibility. A11yScan is a testing tool that helps you find and fix accessibility issues in your code. AccessiBe is an overlay that attempts to modify how your site displays without fixing the underlying code. The accessibility community has raised significant concerns about overlay tools, and sites using overlays continue to face ADA lawsuits. For genuine accessibility compliance, we recommend using testing tools like A11yScan to identify and fix the actual issues in your code.
AccessiBe Accessibility Overlay Overview
AccessiBe is an AI-powered accessibility overlay widget that adds a toolbar to websites, allowing users to adjust display settings like contrast, font size, and animations. A11yScan is an accessibility testing tool powered by axe-core that identifies accessibility issues in your code so they can be properly fixed. These represent fundamentally different approaches: overlays attempt to patch accessibility at the presentation layer, while testing tools help you fix the underlying issues in your code.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | A11yScan | AccessiBe |
|---|---|---|
| Core Approach | ||
| Identifies Code Issues | ||
| Fixes Underlying HTML/CSS | Guides remediation | Overlay only |
| Testing | ||
| axe-core Powered Testing | ||
| Standards | ||
| WCAG 2.1 AA Audit | Limited automated | |
| User Features | ||
| User Adjustment Toolbar | ||
| Assistive Tech | ||
| Screen Reader Optimization | Test compatibility | AI-based adjustments |
| Keyboard Navigation Support | Tests for issues | AI-based fixes |
| Setup | ||
| One-Line Installation | ||
| Services | ||
| Manual Audit Services | Available | |
| Support | ||
| Remediation Guidance | Detailed code fixes | Automated overlay |
| Technical | ||
| Works Without JavaScript | Tests static pages | Requires JavaScript |
Why Choose A11yScan
Free single-page accessibility scan
Powered by axe-core testing engine
Identifies actual code issues to fix
Fixes are permanent (in your code)
Works for users with JavaScript disabled
No ongoing dependency on third-party service
Manual audit services available
AccessiBe Strengths
Quick one-line installation
User-facing adjustment toolbar
No developer resources needed initially
Multiple language support (33+ languages)
Includes litigation support package
AccessiBe Limitations
Does not fix underlying accessibility issues
Controversial in accessibility community
Subject of class action lawsuits over compliance claims
May interfere with assistive technologies
Requires JavaScript to function
Ongoing subscription required
Automated AI cannot detect all WCAG issues
Sites using overlays still receive ADA lawsuits
Pricing Comparison
A11yScan Pricing
Free single-page scan; paid manual audits available
AccessiBe Pricing
Starting at $490/year for small sites; up to $3,490/year for enterprise features
Our Take
AccessiBe requires ongoing subscription for the overlay to function. A11yScan offers free single-page scans, and fixes you make to your code are permanent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are accessibility overlays like AccessiBe effective?
Accessibility overlays are controversial. Industry experts note that automated tools can only detect about 30% of WCAG issues, and overlays don't fix the underlying code problems. In 2024, 25% of ADA lawsuits specifically cited overlay widgets as barriers rather than solutions.
Why do accessibility experts criticize overlays?
Over 400 accessibility professionals signed an open letter urging companies to stop using automated overlays. Concerns include: overlays can interfere with screen readers, they don't fix actual code issues, and they create a false sense of compliance. Some overlay providers have faced lawsuits over their compliance claims.
Should I use AccessiBe or A11yScan?
If your goal is genuine accessibility compliance, use A11yScan to identify issues and fix them in your code. Those fixes are permanent and work for all users. AccessiBe's overlay approach is quicker to install but doesn't address the underlying accessibility barriers.
Can AccessiBe prevent ADA lawsuits?
Despite marketing claims, sites using AccessiBe and other overlays continue to receive ADA lawsuits. AccessiBe itself has faced class action lawsuits over alleged misrepresentation of compliance claims. Proper code-level accessibility remediation provides stronger legal protection.
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Ready to Try A11yScan?
Start with a free accessibility scan and see why teams choose A11yScan over AccessiBe.