Accessibility platform comparison
InclusiveWeb vs AccessiBe
InclusiveWeb fixes real HTML via DNS-proxy before delivery to the visitor. AccessiBe applies JavaScript/CSS changes on top of the page (overlay). Below is a detailed comparison of approaches, pricing and WCAG compliance.
Last updated: 06.04.2026
Comparison table
| Criterion | InclusiveWeb | AccessiBe |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | DNS-proxy (HTML fix) | Overlay (CSS/JS on top) |
| WCAG coverage | 90+ WCAG 2.1/2.2 AA rules | Partial coverage |
| Screen Reader | Native support (real HTML) | Problematic (overlay invisible to AT) |
| Starting price | from $29/mo | from $49/mo |
| When disabled | Original site works | All changes disappear |
| Customization | Per-site AI rules | Template approach |
| Code changes | Not required (1 DNS record) | Not required (1 script tag) |
| Audit | Built-in audit 90+ rules | Basic scan |
| Panel tools | 36 adaptation tools | ~15 tools |
| Support languages | UK/EN/PL/DE/RU | English |
| FTC violations | No violations | $1M FTC fine (2025) |
| NFB position | DNS-proxy — not an overlay | NFB opposes overlays |
Overlay vs DNS-proxy: technical difference
Overlay (AccessiBe)
- 1JavaScript is injected into the page
- 2CSS changes are applied on top of the page
- 3Visual effect exists, but DOM is unchanged
- !Screen reader reads the original DOM with errors
DNS-proxy (InclusiveWeb)
- 1DNS record routes traffic through the proxy
- 2HTML is parsed and fixed (<50ms)
- 3Fixed page is delivered to the visitor
- ✓Screen reader receives the correct DOM
Sources
- Overlay Fact Sheet — signed by 700+ accessibility specialists
- WebAIM Million 2025 — annual accessibility study of 1M sites
- W3C WCAG Overview — official standards page
- National Federation of the Blind — statement against accessibility overlays
Frequently asked questions
Does an overlay replace a real WCAG audit?
No. An overlay adds CSS/JS changes on top of the site but does not fix HTML code. Automatic overlays cover only part of WCAG criteria. Full compliance requires an audit + real code fixes (such as InclusiveWeb's DNS-proxy approach) or manual development.
Why does the NFB oppose accessibility overlays?
The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) published an official statement against overlay widgets, stating they create the appearance of accessibility but do not ensure real screen reader compatibility. Screen readers read the DOM/Accessibility Tree, while overlays only change the visual presentation.
How does DNS-proxy differ from an overlay?
Overlay: client-side JavaScript → CSS changes on top of the page → screen reader cannot see the changes. DNS-proxy (InclusiveWeb): interception at DNS level → HTML parsing → real DOM fix → delivery of the already-fixed page. Screen reader receives correct HTML.
How much does InclusiveWeb cost vs AccessiBe?
InclusiveWeb: from $29/mo (panel), from $69/mo (audit), from $149/mo (autofix). 35% discount with annual billing. AccessiBe: from $49/mo for small sites, up to $1,499/mo for large ones. InclusiveWeb also offers combo packages with discounts.
Does an overlay protect against ADA lawsuits?
No. According to UsableNet, 22.6% of ADA lawsuits in the first half of 2025 involved sites with overlay widgets installed. Courts do not recognize overlays as sufficient evidence of WCAG compliance. InclusiveWeb provides a full audit report as documentary evidence of remediation efforts.
How do I migrate from AccessiBe to InclusiveWeb?
1) Remove the AccessiBe script from your site. 2) Register in InclusiveWeb and add your domain. 3) Run an audit (3 pages free). 4) Connect the accessibility panel (1 line of code). 5) If needed — activate autofix (1 DNS record). The whole process takes 10-15 minutes.
Real fixes instead of an overlay
InclusiveWeb fixes your site's HTML via DNS-proxy. 7 days free, 3-page audit — no credit card.