"in contrast to" is a perfectly acceptable phrase to use in written English. It is used to express the opposite of, or to contrast with, something that has just been stated. For example: "The job was physically demanding, in contrast to the previous job which had been largely desk-based."

When you want to highlight contrast or distinguish between two opposing concepts, using an “in contrast” sentence can be a powerful tool. “In contrast” is a phrase commonly used to introduce a sentence that contrasts with or contradicts the information presented in the previous sentence.

You should use “by contrast” when including the subject of the sentence after the phrase. You should use “in contrast” when including “to” and then the subject after the phrase. Both phrases have the same meaning; it’s only the usage that changes.