Side by side
IBM Equal Access Accessibility Checker 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 Open source APIExtensionSelf-hosted+1
The checker offers browser-based and CI/CD options for identifying accessibility issues, with scan details that can help locate them. Its automated results are not a substitute for manual and screen reader testing.
Visit IBM Equal Access Accessibility Checker
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
| IBM Equal Access Accessibility Checker | WAVE | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Extension, Self-hosted, Web | API, Extension, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | See the plans |
| Plans published | 2 | 13 |
| Maker | Not published | WAVE |
| Website | ibm.com | wave.webaim.org |
| On accessibility testing software | #1 of 169 | #3 of 169 |
IBM Equal Access Accessibility Checker: what it does well
- Checks against accessibility standards including WCAG 2.2
- Available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge
- Offers Node, Cypress, and Java CI/CD packages
- Combines up to 50 scans in an Excel report
What to know first
- Automated checks cover only a subset of requirements
- Manual and screen reader testing should follow
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 IBM Equal Access Accessibility Checker Alternatives to WAVE The whole list