Contrast Sensitivity
Contrast sensitivity measures how well you can distinguish an object from its background, even when the difference between them is subtle — it’s a different skill from visual acuity, which tests sharpness at full black-and-white contrast. This matters in everyday situations like driving at night, seeing in fog, or reading text on a dim screen. A common way to test it is with letters that stay the same size but fade in contrast against the background, similar to the Pelli-Robson chart used by eye care professionals. As the letters get fainter, the point at which you can no longer identify them reflects your contrast sensitivity.
For an accurate at-home screening:
- Set your screen brightness to a normal indoor level — not maxed out or dimmed
- Avoid glare or reflections on the screen
- Test in a room that isn’t overly bright or dark
- Test one eye at a time, covering the other without pressing on it
Keep in mind that results are heavily influenced by screen quality and lighting, and are intended for awareness only — not a medical diagnosis.
Contrast Sensitivity Test
This test checks how well you can make out letters as they fade against the background — a different skill from sharpness (visual acuity). It takes about 2 minutes and tests each eye separately.
How This Works
You'll see groups of three letters, all the same size. Each new group will be printed a little fainter than the last. Keep going for as long as you can still make out the letters — even if they look faint or blurry.
Can you still read these letters?
Look at the group below. If you can identify the letters — even faintly — click "Yes." Keep going until you truly can't tell what they are.