Color Converter - HEX, RGB, HSL, CMYK Converter
Color Input
Color Values
Color Preview
Color Formats
HEX
#3B82F6
RGB
rgb(59, 130, 246)
HSL
hsl(217, 91%, 60%)
CMYK
cmyk(76%, 47%, 0%, 4%)
HSV
hsv(217, 76%, 96%)
Understanding Color Formats
Color conversion is a fundamental skill for designers, developers, and anyone working with digital or print media. Different platforms and applications use different color formats, making it essential to understand how to convert between them accurately.
Color Format Overview
HEX (Hexadecimal)
HEX codes use base-16 notation with values from 0-9 and A-F. Format: #RRGGBB where RR=red, GG=green, BB=blue. Example: #3B82F6. Widely used in web development and CSS.
RGB (Red, Green, Blue)
RGB is an additive color model using values 0-255 for each channel. Format: rgb(59, 130, 246). Perfect for digital displays, screens, and web design. Colors are created by adding light.
HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness)
HSL uses hue (0-360°), saturation (0-100%), and lightness (0-100%). Format: hsl(217, 91%, 60%). More intuitive for humans, making it easier to create color variations and harmonies.
CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key)
CMYK is a subtractive color model used in printing. Values are percentages (0-100%). Format: cmyk(76%, 47%, 0%, 4%). Essential for print design as it represents ink colors on paper.
HSV (Hue, Saturation, Value)
HSV uses hue (0-360°), saturation (0-100%), and value/brightness (0-100%). Format: hsv(217, 76%, 96%). Popular in color pickers and image editing software.
When to Use Each Format
- HEX: Web development, CSS, HTML, email templates
- RGB: Digital design, screen displays, web graphics, CSS rgba()
- HSL: Creating color schemes, adjusting brightness/saturation, CSS
- CMYK: Print design, brochures, business cards, magazines
- HSV: Image editing, color picking, graphics software
Color Theory Tips
- Use complementary colors (opposite on color wheel) for maximum contrast
- RGB values above 200 create light, pastel colors
- CMYK colors may appear different on screen vs. print—always test print samples
- HSL makes it easy to create lighter/darker versions by adjusting lightness
- For web accessibility, ensure sufficient contrast between text and background
Common Conversions
Our converter handles all common color format conversions instantly. Whether you're converting a HEX code from a design mockup to RGB for CSS, or converting RGB to CMYK for print, the tool provides accurate conversions with visual preview.