axe-core vs Welcoming Web

axe-core is a free, open-source accessibility testing engine for websites and other HTML-based interfaces. It is designed to run beside functional tests in unit, integration, browser, and other testing environments. Its rules cover WCAG 2.0, 2.1, and 2.2 at A, AA, and AAA levels, along with additional best practices. Deque says automated checks find an average of 57% of WCAG issues, while uncertain findings are marked for manual review. Installation is documented through npm or pnpm, with tests calling the axe.run() API. The API lists Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Apple Safari; Internet Explorer 11 is deprecated. Chrome and Firefox are tested on every pull request. JSDOM support is limited, and color-contrast checks do not work there. axe-core uses the Mozilla Public License 2.0. Security updates are available for minor lines up to 18 months old. Vulnerabilities are requested by email, with a stated 24-business-hour response and no bug bounty.

Welcoming Web is a website accessibility management platform combining a visitor-facing widget, automated audits, remediation support, and ongoing monitoring. The widget lets visitors change text size, contrast, spacing, and motion, and offers profiles for common accessibility needs. Teams can use guided fixes and AI-assisted remediation suggestions, with manual review tools and reports. Welcoming Web says it supports WCAG 2.2, ADA Title III, EN 301 549, and the Equality Act 2010, but does not issue or guarantee compliance certification. Listed website integrations include WordPress, Shopify, Wix, Squarespace, Webflow, Drupal, Magento, Joomla, WooCommerce, React, Angular, and Vue.js; workflow connections include GitHub, Jira, Slack, and CI/CD pipelines. Setup options are an embedded script, Google Tag Manager, or API. Scans are read-only, and the first free browser scan checks one page. The Free plan includes the core widget and basic features. Pro starts at $19/month with traffic-based pricing and adds remediation, reports, analytics, and priority email support.