Color Converter
Convert colors between Hex, RGB, HSL, and CMYK formats instantly. Perfect for web design, graphic design, and print production.
Enter a color in any supported format (hex, rgb, hsl, cmyk)
What is the difference between RGB and Hex color codes?
RGB and Hex are two ways of representing the same colors. RGB uses decimal values from 0-255 for red, green, and blue channels (e.g., rgb(255, 87, 51)). Hex uses hexadecimal values from 00-FF for the same channels (e.g., #FF5733). Hex is more commonly used in web development (CSS), while RGB is often used in graphic design software. They are interchangeable: #FF5733 is identical to rgb(255, 87, 51). Each hex pair (FF, 57, 33) converts directly to decimal (255, 87, 51).
How do I convert CMYK to RGB for web design?
CMYK to RGB conversion requires complex formulas. First, convert CMYK to CMY: C = C×(1-K)+K, M = M×(1-K)+K, Y = Y×(1-K)+K. Then convert CMY to RGB: R = 255×(1-C), G = 255×(1-M), B = 255×(1-Y). CMYK values range from 0-100%, while RGB values range from 0-255. CMYK is ideal for print (subtractive color), while RGB and Hex are for digital screens (additive color). This converter handles all the math automatically.
What is HSL and when should I use it?
HSL stands for Hue, Saturation, and Lightness. Hue is a degree on the color wheel (0-360: 0=red, 120=green, 240=blue). Saturation (0-100%) controls color intensity (0%=gray, 100%=vibrant). Lightness (0-100%) controls brightness (0%=black, 50%=normal, 100%=white). HSL is intuitive for creating color schemes because you can adjust hue while keeping saturation and lightness constant. Designers often use HSL in CSS for creating accessible color palettes and theme systems.
Why do colors look different on screen vs in print?
Colors differ because screens use RGB (additive color mixing with light) while printers use CMYK (subtractive color mixing with ink). Screens can display millions of colors, but printers have a smaller CMYK gamut. Colors that look vibrant on screen may appear dull when printed. Convert to CMYK before sending to a printer to preview the result. Professional designers use color profiles (like sRGB, Adobe RGB, or Pantone) to maintain color consistency across devices and media.