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Contrast sensitivity test online
See how well you read faint, low-contrast letters. Reduced contrast vision can be an early sign of cataract, glaucoma and retinal disease.
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A screening aid, not a diagnosis. Screens, lighting and distance affect results. If something looks wrong, or your vision changes suddenly, see an eye-care professional. Medical disclaimer
Why contrast matters in real life
The world rarely looks like black letters on a white chart. Night driving, reading a faded receipt, seeing steps in dim light or recognizing a face in shadow all depend on contrast vision. People with reduced contrast sensitivity often say things look washed out or foggy even when their glasses are up to date.
How this check works
One large letter appears at a time and gets fainter at each level, from full black down to under 1% contrast. Pick the letter you see from four choices. You need two correct answers to move down a level. Your score is shown as an approximate log contrast sensitivity, the scale clinics use with charts such as the Pelli-Robson chart.
What lowers contrast vision
- Cataract, which scatters light inside the eye
- Glaucoma and other optic nerve conditions
- Macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease
- Dry eye and a poor tear film
- Dirty or scratched glasses, and glare
If faded vision or glare is affecting your driving at night, mention it at your eye exam even if you read the chart well.
Questions people ask
What is contrast sensitivity?
It is your ability to see objects that do not stand out sharply from their background, such as a grey car in fog or a kerb at dusk. It is different from the sharpness measured by an eye chart.
Can I have 20/20 vision and poor contrast sensitivity?
Yes. Early cataract, glaucoma, dry eye and some retinal problems can reduce contrast vision before they affect the eye chart score.