Side by side
axe-core vs WAVE
Both stand on accessibility testing software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APIExtensionWeb
axe-core offers free automated accessibility rules that can be added to several kinds of test environments. Its stated coverage is partial, so flagged uncertainty and the JSDOM limitations matter when choosing a testing setup.
Visit axe-core
Free plan APIExtensionLinux+3
WAVE combines automated page checks with tools that support human evaluation. Its extension, scheduled scan, and API options cover different review workflows, though advanced API use can consume more credits.
Visit WAVEThe facts
| axe-core | WAVE | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Extension, Web | API, Extension, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | See the plans |
| Plans published | 1 | 13 |
| Maker | axe-core | WAVE |
| Website | github.com | wave.webaim.org |
| On accessibility testing software | #7 of 169 | #3 of 169 |
axe-core: what it does well
- Free under the Mozilla Public License 2.0.
- Covers WCAG 2.0, 2.1, and 2.2.
- Designed to integrate with existing test environments.
- API lists four supported modern browsers.
What to know first
- Automated checks find an average of 57% of issues.
- JSDOM support is limited.
- Color-contrast checks do not work in JSDOM.
- Internet Explorer 11 is deprecated.
WAVE: what it does well
- Browser extensions cover Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
- Can test password-protected and dynamic pages.
- Supports scheduled audits and mobile viewport checks.
- API results are available in JSON or XML.
What to know first
- Advanced API features may use two or three credits.
- Stand-alone API licenses start at $4,000 a year.
Alternatives to axe-core Alternatives to WAVE The whole list