Color Hex Converter
Convert between HEX, RGB, HSL, and CMYK color formats
Disclaimer: Color conversions are mathematical approximations. For critical color matching, use physical color measurement devices under controlled lighting conditions.
Tip: Click on color boxes to copy values. Use the color picker for precise selection.
Color Information
Color Harmonies
Complementary
Analogous
Triadic
Accessibility
Color Names
Understanding Color Formats
HEX Color
HEX codes are 6-digit hexadecimal numbers representing RGB values (e.g., #RRGGBB). Widely used in web design, they're concise and easy to copy. The first two digits represent red, next two green, and last two blue values (00-FF in hexadecimal).
RGB vs HSL
RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is additive color for screens. HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness) is more intuitive: Hue (0-360° color wheel), Saturation (0-100% intensity), Lightness (0-100% brightness). HSL is easier for creating color variations.
"While HEX and RGB are device-dependent (look different on various screens), CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) is used for print and depends on ink mixing and paper quality."
Color Conversion Best Practices
Web Design
Use HEX or RGB for web projects. Check WCAG contrast ratios (at least 4.5:1 for normal text). Remember that color perception varies across devices - test on multiple screens. Use HSL when you need to programmatically lighten/darken colors.
Print Design
Always convert to CMYK for print projects. RGB colors often look dull when converted to CMYK due to narrower gamut. For brand-critical colors, use Pantone spot colors instead of process CMYK for consistent results.
Accessibility
Approximately 8% of men and 0.5% of women have color vision deficiency. Avoid red/green combinations. Use tools to simulate color blindness. Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background colors.
Pro Tip: When converting between RGB and CMYK, you'll often lose some color vibrancy. For critical print work, start in CMYK mode rather than converting at the end of your design process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert HEX to RGB?
Each HEX pair represents red, green, and blue components. Convert each 2-digit hexadecimal value (00-FF) to decimal (0-255). For example, #3B82F6 becomes R:59, G:130, B:246. Our calculator does this automatically.
Why do my colors look different in print?
RGB (screen) uses additive color with light, while CMYK (print) uses subtractive color with ink. CMYK has a narrower gamut, especially with bright blues and greens. Always proof print colors using Pantone guides or printed samples.
What's the difference between HSL and HSV?
HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness) and HSV (Hue, Saturation, Value) are similar. HSL is symmetrical around lightness 50%, while HSV maxes out at full brightness. HSL is generally more intuitive for color adjustments in design.
How do I choose accessible color combinations?
Use our contrast checker to ensure at least 4.5:1 for normal text (AA rating). For better accessibility, aim for 7:1 (AAA). Avoid color-only information - use patterns or text labels too. Test with color blindness simulators.
Can I convert Pantone to HEX?
Pantone colors are proprietary spot colors, while HEX is for screen RGB. Conversions are approximate. Our tool provides closest matches, but for exact matches, consult Pantone's official color bridge guides or digital libraries.