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HEX, RGB, HSL and CMYK: Which Colour Format to Use

The same colour can be written half a dozen ways. Each format suits a different job.

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HEX to RGB, HSL, HSV and CMYK.Open tool →

HEX and RGB

Both describe the amount of red, green and blue from 0 to 255. HEX writes each as two base-16 digits: #19C6A6 is red 25, green 198, blue 166. They are interchangeable on the web.

HSL and HSV

Hue is the position on the colour wheel (0-360), saturation is intensity, and lightness or value is how bright. HSL is the easiest format for making a lighter or darker shade of the same colour by hand.

CMYK

Cyan, magenta, yellow and black inks for printing. Screens can show colours that ink can't, so treat converted CMYK values as a starting point and ask your printer for a proof.

Converting

Paste any code into the Color Converter to see every format at once. To grab a colour from a photo, use the Color Picker.

Frequently asked questions

What do 3-digit HEX codes mean?

Each digit is doubled: #0AF is #00AAFF.

What is the fourth value in RGBA?

Opacity, from 0 (transparent) to 1 (solid).

Which format should my brand guide list?

HEX and RGB for screens, CMYK and Pantone for print.

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HEX to RGB, HSL, HSV and CMYK.Open tool →

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