Color Code Converter
Convert between hex, RGB, HSL, HSV, CMYK, and LAB color formats. Perfect for web designers, graphic artists, and developers working with colors.
How to Use the Color Code Converter
- Choose Input Format: Select the color format you're converting from (HEX, RGB, HSL, etc.)
- Enter Color Values: Type or paste your color code in the input field
- View Conversions: All equivalent color codes display automatically
- Copy Results: Click any output value to copy it to your clipboard
- Use Color Picker: Alternatively, use the visual picker to select colors
Color Formats Explained
HEX (Hexadecimal)
Hex codes use six characters preceded by # to represent colors. The format is #RRGGBB where RR (red), GG (green), and BB (blue) each range from 00-FF. For example, #FF0000 is pure red. Web developers and designers use hex codes most frequently because they're compact and universally supported in CSS and HTML.
RGB (Red, Green, Blue)
RGB expresses colors as three numbers (0-255) for red, green, and blue light. Written as rgb(255, 0, 0) for red. Screens and digital displays use RGB because they emit light. This format makes it easy to adjust individual color channels and works well for programmatic color manipulation.
HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness)
HSL represents colors as hue (0-360°), saturation (0-100%), and lightness (0-100%). Written as hsl(0, 100%, 50%) for red. This format is more intuitive for humans because you can easily create color variations by adjusting saturation and lightness while keeping the same hue.
CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black)
CMYK uses percentages of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink. Printers use CMYK because they mix ink pigments rather than light. When preparing designs for print, convert your colors to CMYK to ensure what you see on screen matches the printed output.
When to Use Each Color Format
For Web Development
For Design and Print
Practical Color Conversion Tips
Common Scenarios
- Brand colors often come as HEX codes from designers, but you might need RGB for image editing software
- Converting web colors to CMYK before sending designs to print shops prevents color shift
- HSL is perfect for creating lighter or darker versions of a base color for hover states
- Some vibrant RGB colors can't be accurately reproduced in CMYK print
Color Workflow Best Practices
- Save your brand colors in all formats for easy reference across projects
- Test print colors on actual printers before large print runs
- Use color contrast checkers alongside conversions to ensure accessibility
- Document your color palette in a style guide with values in multiple formats
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do colors look different on screen vs print?
Screens use RGB (additive color from light) while printers use CMYK (subtractive color from ink). RGB can produce brighter, more vibrant colors that CMYK cannot replicate. Always convert to CMYK and review print proofs before final printing.
What's the difference between HSL and HSV?
Both use hue and saturation, but differ in the third value. HSL uses lightness (0% = black, 50% = pure color, 100% = white). HSV uses value/brightness (0% = black, 100% = pure color). HSL is more intuitive for creating color variations.
Can I use HEX codes with transparency?
Yes, 8-digit hex codes support transparency. The format is #RRGGBBAA where AA represents alpha/opacity (00 = transparent, FF = opaque). For example, #FF000080 is red at 50% opacity. However, RGBA is more widely supported and easier to read.
Which color format is best for CSS?
HEX is most common for static colors. Use RGB/RGBA when you need transparency. Use HSL when creating color schemes or need to programmatically adjust colors. All three work in modern CSS, so choose based on your specific needs.
How accurate are these conversions?
Conversions between RGB, HEX, and HSL are mathematically precise. CMYK conversions are approximations because CMYK has a smaller color range (gamut) than RGB. Professional print work should use color-calibrated monitors and test prints.