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RGB ↔ CMYK Color Converter

Convert colors between RGB, CMYK and HEX — check web colors as print CMYK and print colors as screen RGB.

#2F5BEA
HEX
RGB (0–255)
CMYK (0–100%)

Copy as

  • HEX#2F5BEA
  • RGBrgb(47, 91, 234)
  • CMYKcmyk(80%, 61%, 0%, 8%)
  • HSLhsl(226, 82%, 55%)

CMYK values use the standard formula without an ICC color profile, so they are approximations. Printed color depends on paper and press — convert print files in your design software with the profile your printer specifies.

Guide

Key points

  • Screens use RGB (light); print uses CMYK (ink).
  • Conversions use the standard formula and are approximations of printed color.
  • Convert print files with the ICC profile your printer specifies.

RGB vs. CMYK

  • RGB mixes light (additive): red, green and blue, each 0–255. Used on screens, the web and video.
  • CMYK mixes ink (subtractive): cyan, magenta, yellow and black, each 0–100%. Used for print.
  • A HEX code such as #1E90FF is just RGB written in hexadecimal, common on the web.

The formula

With R′ = R/255 (same for G and B):

  • K = 1 − max(R′, G′, B′)
  • C = (1 − R′ − K) / (1 − K), and likewise for M and Y
  • Back to RGB: R = 255 × (1 − C) × (1 − K)

Why print looks different

  • CMYK covers a smaller range of colors than RGB, so very vivid greens, blues and oranges print duller.
  • The same CMYK values look different on coated vs. uncoated paper and on different presses.
  • This tool uses the standard formula without an ICC color profile, so treat results as approximations. For print-ready files, convert in your design software using the profile your printer specifies (for example FOGRA39 or Japan Color 2001 Coated).

Using black

  • Use K100 only for small text and thin lines — mixed inks blur if the plates are slightly misaligned.
  • Large black areas can look grayish in K100 alone, so printers use a “rich black” with some CMY added. Ask your printer for their recommended mix and total ink limit.

FAQ

Why do printed colors look different from my screen?

CMYK can't reproduce the most vivid RGB colors, and paper, ink and press all change the result.

What is a HEX code?

RGB written in hexadecimal (#RRGGBB), common on the web and in design tools.

Should black be K100 only?

Yes for small text and thin lines. Large areas usually use a rich black with some CMY — follow your printer's recommended mix.