Screen Reader Accessibility Testing Tools

Millions of people with disabilities rely on assistive technologies to navigate websites, applications, and digital content. Among these technologies, screen readers play a vital role in making digital platforms usable for individuals with visual impairments, cognitive disabilities, and other accessibility needs. Despite advancements in web development and design, many digital platforms still fail to accommodate users who depend on screen readers. Without proper accessibility testing, visually impaired users encounter significant barriers that prevent them from accessing information, completing transactions, or even performing basic online interactions. In this blog, we will explore the critical role of screen reader accessibility testing, the consequences of inadequate screen reader support, and the legal mandates that ensure digital inclusivity for all.

What Happens Without a Screen Reader?

For individuals who are blind or visually impaired, accessing digital content without a screen reader can be nearly impossible. Screen readers convert on-screen text, buttons, images, and other elements into speech or braille output, allowing users to navigate and interact with websites and applications. Without this assistive technology:

• Navigation Becomes Impossible: Users cannot “see” menus, buttons, or links, making it difficult to move through a website.
• Critical Information is Lost: Important content, such as descriptions of images, form labels, and error messages, is inaccessible.
• Online Interactions Become Challenging: Tasks like shopping, filling out forms, and accessing services require proper accessibility support.

Without screen reader support, digital exclusion becomes a reality, limiting independence and access to essential services.

How Testers Evaluate Websites Using Screen Readers

Testers play a crucial role in ensuring websites are accessible to individuals with disabilities by using the same screen reader tools that visually impaired users rely on. By testing digital platforms from an accessibility perspective, they identify barriers and ensure compliance with accessibility standards like WCAG, ADA, and Section 508.

Here’s how testers evaluate a website using screen readers:

• Text-to-Speech Verification: Testers use screen readers like NVDA, JAWS, and VoiceOver to check if all on-screen text is correctly converted into speech and read in a logical order.
• Keyboard Navigation Testing: Since many users rely on keyboard shortcuts instead of a mouse, testers verify that all interactive elements (menus, buttons, links) can be accessed and navigated using keyboard commands.
• Form Accessibility Checks: Testers confirm that screen readers correctly read out form labels, input fields, and error messages, allowing users to complete online transactions without confusion.
• Image & Alt Text Validation: Using screen readers, testers ensure that images have proper alt text and that decorative images do not interfere with navigation.

By incorporating screen reader testing into their accessibility audits, testers help developers create an inclusive experience where visually impaired users can navigate, interact, and access content effortlessly.

A sample video explains how to perform testing using screen readers.

(In the shared video, we identified a bug related to the list items on the page. There is a single list item enclosed within ‘ul’ and ‘li’ tags, which is unnecessary for the content. This should be changed to a ‘p’ or ‘span’ tag to better suit the structure and purpose of the content.)

List of Screen Reader Tools for Accessibility Testing

Different devices have built-in or third-party screen readers, each designed for their platform. Testers use these tools to check how well websites and apps work for visually impaired users. By testing navigation with keyboard shortcuts, touch gestures, and braille displays, they identify accessibility issues and ensure a smooth, inclusive experience across all platforms.

1. NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access)

NVDA is one of the most popular free and open-source screen readers available for Windows. It is widely used by individuals, developers, and testers to ensure digital accessibility. NVDA supports multiple languages and braille devices, making it a versatile option for users worldwide. The software is also highly customizable with add-ons that enhance functionality. NVDA is compatible with popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, allowing seamless web navigation.

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Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

• Ctrl + Alt + N: Open NVDA menu.
• Insert + Q: Exit NVDA.
• Insert + Space: Toggle between browse and focus modes.
• H: Navigate to the next heading.
• K: Navigate to the next link.
• D: Navigate to the next landmark.

2. JAWS (Job Access With Speech)

JAWS is a powerful commercial screen reader designed for Windows users. It provides advanced braille support, multiple language compatibility, and a highly responsive interface, making it ideal for professional and educational use. JAWS is widely adopted in workplaces and institutions due to its robust functionality and seamless integration with Microsoft Office and web browsers. It offers a free trial for 40 minutes, allowing users to test its capabilities before purchasing a license.

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Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

• Insert + F1: Open the JAWS help menu.
• Insert + Down Arrow: Read the current line.
• Insert + T: Read the title of the current window.
• H: Navigate to the next heading.
• B: Navigate to the next button.
• Ctrl: Stop speech.

3. VoiceOver

VoiceOver is Apple’s built-in screen reader, available on MacBooks, iPhones, and iPads. It is fully integrated into Apple’s ecosystem, ensuring smooth navigation across macOS and iOS devices. VoiceOver supports gesture-based navigation on iPhones and iPads, making it easy for users to interact with apps using touch gestures. On macOS, VoiceOver works with keyboard shortcuts and braille displays, providing a comprehensive accessibility experience.

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Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

• Cmd + F5: Turn VoiceOver on/off.
• Ctrl + Option + Arrow Keys: Navigate through elements.
• Ctrl + Option + Space: Activate the selected item.
• Ctrl + Option + H: Navigate to the next heading.

4. TalkBack

TalkBack is Android’s built-in screen reader, designed to help users with visual impairments navigate their devices through gesture-based controls. It provides audio feedback and spoken descriptions for on-screen elements, making it easier for users to interact with apps and perform tasks independently. TalkBack is compatible with third-party braille displays, expanding its accessibility features for visually impaired users who rely on tactile reading.

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Gestures:

• Swipe Right/Left: Move to the next/previous element.
• Double Tap: Activate the selected item.
• Two-Finger Swipe Down: Read all content on the screen.
• Swipe Down then Right: Open the TalkBack menu.

https://assistivlabs.com/assistive-tech/screen-readers/narrator

5. Narrator

Narrator is Microsoft’s built-in screen reader, available on all Windows devices. It provides basic screen reading functionality for users who need an immediate accessibility solution. While it lacks the advanced features of NVDA and JAWS, Narrator is easy to use and integrates seamlessly with Windows applications and web browsing. It also supports braille displays, making it a useful tool for users who prefer tactile feedback.

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• Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

• Caps Lock + Space: Activate the selected item.
• Caps Lock + Arrow Keys: Navigate through elements.
• Caps Lock + H: Navigate to the next heading.
• Caps Lock + M: Start reading from the cursor position.

6. Orca

Orca is an open-source screen reader designed for Linux users. It is highly customizable, allowing users to modify speech, braille, and keyboard interactions according to their needs. Orca is widely used in the Linux community, especially by developers and users who prefer an open-source accessibility solution. It supports braille displays and works well with major Linux applications and browsers.

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• Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

• Insert + H: Navigate to the next heading.
• Insert + Space: Toggle between browse and focus modes.
• Insert + S: Read the current sentence.
• Insert + Q: Exit Orca.

7. ChromeVox

ChromeVox is a lightweight screen reader developed specifically for Chromebooks and the Chrome browser. It is designed to provide a smooth web browsing experience for visually impaired users. ChromeVox is easy to enable with a simple keyboard shortcut and is optimized for Google services and web-based applications.

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• Few Basics Key Shortcuts:

• Search + A: Read from the current location.
• Search + Left/Right Arrow: Navigate to the previous/next element.
• Search + Space: Activate the selected item.
• Search + H: Navigate to the next heading.

Laws That Mandate Screen Reader Accessibility

Several global laws and regulations require digital accessibility, ensuring that people with disabilities can access online content without barriers. Some key legal frameworks include:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – USA mandates that businesses and organizations make their digital content accessible, ensuring equal access to websites, applications, and digital services.
• Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act – USA requires federal agencies to ensure that their electronic and information technology is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
• European Accessibility Act (EAA) – European Union mandates that digital services, including websites and mobile applications, be accessible to people with disabilities.
• UK Equality Act 2010 – United Kingdom ensures digital platforms are accessible, preventing discrimination against individuals with disabilities in accessing online content and services.

Many of these laws follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), a globally recognized standard that provides best practices for making digital content accessible. WCAG ensures websites and applications support screen readers, keyboard navigation, and proper color contrast, helping businesses create an inclusive online experience. Failure to comply with these laws and standards can lead to legal action, financial penalties, and reputational damage.

Conclusion

Each screen reader tool has its own unique capabilities, shortcuts, and strengths. Digital accessibility goes beyond just legal compliance—it is about fostering an inclusive and user-friendly experience for all. Screen readers are essential in empowering visually impaired users to navigate websites, interact with applications, and access digital content independently. By incorporating screen reader testing into the development process, businesses can enhance usability, expand their audience, and showcase their dedication to inclusivity.

Codoid, a leading software testing company, specializes in accessibility testing, ensuring that digital platforms are fully accessible. They help businesses optimize their websites and applications for screen readers such as NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. With expertise in WCAG compliance testing, keyboard navigation testing, and a blend of manual and automated accessibility testing, Codoid ensures seamless digital experiences for all users

Frequently Asked Questions

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