Color Converter – HEX, RGB, HSL, CMYK Color Code Conversion

Convert colors between HEX, RGB, HSL, CMYK, and other formats instantly. Our free color converter helps designers, developers, and digital creators work seamlessly across different color systems.

What Is a Color Converter?

A color converter transforms color values between different color models. Each model represents colors differently—HEX for web, CMYK for print, RGB for screens. Converting between them ensures consistent colors across different media and applications.

Color Formats We Support

Understanding Color Models

HEX (Hexadecimal)

Six-digit codes representing Red, Green, and Blue values in base-16. The web standard for CSS colors.

• Format: #RRGGBB or #RGB (shorthand)
• Range: 00-FF per channel (0-255)
• Example: #FF5733 (bright orange)

RGB (Red, Green, Blue)

Additive color model used by screens. Mixing light creates colors.

• Format: rgb(R, G, B) or rgba(R, G, B, A)
• Range: 0-255 per channel
• Example: rgb(255, 87, 51)

HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness)

Intuitive model based on how humans perceive color.

• Hue: 0-360° (color wheel position)
• Saturation: 0-100% (color intensity)
• Lightness: 0-100% (bright vs dark)
• Example: hsl(11, 100%, 60%)

CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black)

Subtractive model for print. Mixing inks creates colors.

• Format: C%, M%, Y%, K%
• Range: 0-100% per channel
• Example: cmyk(0%, 66%, 80%, 0%)

How to Use This Tool

Step 1: Choose Input Format

Select whether you're entering HEX, RGB, HSL, CMYK, or another format.

Step 2: Enter Color Value

Type your color code. The tool validates your input automatically.

Step 3: View Conversions

See your color instantly converted to all other formats.

Step 4: Copy Any Format

Click to copy the exact format you need.

Common Use Cases

Web Development

• Convert designer-provided CMYK to HEX for CSS
• Transform RGB to HSL for easier color manipulation
• Convert brand colors to web-safe formats

Print Design

• Convert screen colors (RGB) to print-ready CMYK
• Ensure brand consistency across digital and print
• Check color gamut compatibility

Brand Guidelines

• Document colors in all formats
• Ensure team consistency across platforms
• Create comprehensive style guides

CSS Development

• Convert between HEX and RGB for transparency
• Use HSL for easier lightness/saturation adjustments
• Generate CSS-ready color values

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do CMYK colors look different on screen?

Screens use RGB (light), while printers use CMYK (ink). The color gamuts don't perfectly overlap—some colors can't be reproduced in both systems.

Which format should I use for web?

HEX is most common for CSS. RGBA when you need transparency. HSL when you want to mathematically adjust colors.

Can I convert transparent colors?

Yes! RGBA and HSLA support alpha (transparency) values from 0 (invisible) to 1 (fully opaque).

Why does my CMYK value have decimals?

CMYK percentages often result in decimals when converted from RGB. Round to whole numbers for practical print use.

Are all RGB colors printable?

No. RGB has a wider gamut than CMYK. Very bright, saturated colors may appear duller in print. Always proof before final printing.

What's the difference between HSL and HSB?

Both use Hue, but differ in the third component:

• HSL: Lightness (0% = black, 100% = white, 50% = pure color)
• HSB/HSV: Brightness (0% = black, 100% = full color)

Color Conversion Reference

Common Color Values

Pro Tips

1. Use HSL for variations — Adjust lightness to create shades/tints easily
2. Check print gamut — Preview how RGB will look in CMYK before printing
3. Document all formats — Include HEX, RGB, and CMYK in brand guides
4. Consider accessibility — Ensure sufficient contrast in all conversions
5. Test on multiple screens — Colors render differently on various displays

Technical Details

Conversion Formulas

HEX to RGB:

• R = parseInt(hex.slice(1,3), 16)
• G = parseInt(hex.slice(3,5), 16)
• B = parseInt(hex.slice(5,7), 16)

RGB to HSL: Complex formula involving min/max RGB values and trigonometry.

RGB to CMYK:

• K = 1 - max(R', G', B')
• C = (1 - R' - K) / (1 - K)
• M = (1 - G' - K) / (1 - K)
• Y = (1 - B' - K) / (1 - K)

Related Tools

Explore more color and design tools:

• RGB to HEX — Direct conversion
• HEX to RGB — Reverse conversion
• Color Picker — Visual selection
• Gradient Generator — CSS gradients
• Contrast Checker — Accessibility

Convert colors between HEX, RGB, HSL, and CMYK above. Essential for designers and developers working across digital and print media.