Contrast Sensitivity Test

Test how well your eyes detect low-contrast details. 10 levels from high to nearly invisible contrast.

Sit about 50 cm from your screen in a well-lit room. Type the letter you see at each contrast level. The letters will get progressively harder to see.
Level 1 of 10
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Understanding Contrast Sensitivity

Contrast sensitivity measures your ability to distinguish an object from its background. Unlike visual acuity (which tests sharpness with high-contrast black letters on white), contrast sensitivity tests how well you see in real-world conditions where objects often blend with their surroundings.

Why Contrast Sensitivity Matters

Good contrast sensitivity is essential for daily activities like driving at dusk, navigating stairs in dim lighting, and reading text on colored backgrounds. People with reduced contrast sensitivity may have 20/20 visual acuity but still struggle in low-light or low-contrast situations.

Conditions That Affect Contrast Sensitivity

Cataracts are one of the most common causes of reduced contrast sensitivity, as the clouded lens scatters light. Other conditions include glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and optic neuritis. Even after LASIK surgery, some patients experience temporary contrast sensitivity changes.

How the Test Works

This test displays letters at 10 decreasing contrast levels. At level 1, the letter is clearly visible. By level 10, the letter is nearly invisible against the background. Your score reflects the lowest contrast level at which you can correctly identify the letter. Most people with normal vision can see levels 1 through 7 or 8.

Improving Contrast Sensitivity

If cataracts are the cause, surgery to replace the clouded lens typically restores contrast sensitivity. For other conditions, treating the underlying cause is key. Anti-glare coatings on glasses, yellow-tinted driving lenses, and proper lighting in your home and workspace can also help.

When to See a Doctor

If you score significantly below normal or notice a change in your ability to see in dim lighting, consult an eye care professional. Clinical contrast sensitivity tests like the Pelli-Robson chart provide precise measurements that guide treatment decisions.