RGB vs CMYK: The Ultimate Guide for Print vs Web Design
Master the difference between additive and subtractive color models. Learn when to use RGB for screens vs CMYK for printing, with step-by-step Photoshop conversion tutorials.
Convert HEX/RGB, Generate Palettes, and Check WCAG Contrast instantly.
Warm & Energetic
Bold & Electric
Professional & Trustworthy
Soft & Calming
Ensure your design is readable for everyone.
HEX is a 6-digit hexadecimal color code (e.g., #3B82F6) representing RGB values in base-16.
It's the most compact format for web development and is universally supported in CSS.
The format is #RRGGBB where each pair ranges from 00-FF (0-255 in decimal).
HEX is perfect for quick copy-paste in stylesheets and design handoffs.
RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is an additive color model for screens. Colors are created by emitting light—combining all creates white. CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) is subtractive for printing. Inks absorb light—combining all creates black. RGB has a wider gamut, so bright screen colors often can't be printed exactly.
HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness) is human-readable and intuitive. Hue is the color type (0-360°), Saturation is intensity (0-100%), and Lightness is brightness (0-100%). It's perfect for creating color variations programmatically—adjusting lightness creates shades/tints while maintaining hue.
In-depth tutorials from our design team to level up your color knowledge
Master the difference between additive and subtractive color models. Learn when to use RGB for screens vs CMYK for printing, with step-by-step Photoshop conversion tutorials.
Master WCAG 2.2 standards and design inclusive websites. Learn the 4.5:1 golden ratio, avoid common mistakes, and ensure your designs are accessible to everyone.
Colors influence 85% of purchase decisions. Learn what blue, red, green communicate to customers, plus real brand examples from Facebook, Netflix, and Starbucks.
📚 Want more color design knowledge? Bookmark these guides and level up your skills.
Extract palettes from images, generate shades & tints, find color names, and convert to CMYK for print.