CMYK to RGB Color Converter

Color Picker

0%, 100%, 100%, 0%

Color Shades

Color Combinations

About CMYK and RGB Colors

CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) and RGB (Red, Green, Blue) are fundamental color models used in different media - CMYK for print and RGB for digital displays.

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

CMYK is a subtractive color model used in color printing. It works by partially or entirely masking colors on a lighter background (usually white). The CMYK model mixes these four ink colors in varying percentages (0-100%) to create a wide range of colors. For example, pure red is typically represented as (0%, 100%, 100%, 0%) in CMYK. This model is essential for professional printing as it directly relates to the ink mixing process. CMYK colors often appear more muted than their RGB counterparts due to the physical limitations of ink.

RGB (Red, Green, Blue)

RGB is an additive color model that represents colors as combinations of red, green, and blue light intensities, each ranging from 0 to 255. It's widely used in digital displays, photography, and design because it aligns with how screens emit light. By mixing these three primary colors in varying intensities, RGB can produce millions of colors. For example, pure red is (255, 0, 0), while white is (255, 255, 255). RGB has a wider color gamut than CMYK, which is why some bright colors that can be displayed on screens can't be perfectly reproduced in print.

CMYK to RGB Conversion Process

  1. Convert CMYK percentages (0-100%) to decimal values (0-1) by dividing by 100
  2. Calculate the RGB values using the formula: R = 255 × (1-C) × (1-K)
  3. Repeat the calculation for green and blue components
  4. Round the results to the nearest integer (0-255)

Example #1

Convert pure red CMYK (0%, 100%, 100%, 0%) to RGB:

CMYK = (0%, 100%, 100%, 0%)

R = 255 × (1-0) × (1-0) = 255

G = 255 × (1-1) × (1-0) = 0

B = 255 × (1-1) × (1-0) = 0

RGB = (255, 0, 0)

Example #2

Convert rich black CMYK (70%, 50%, 30%, 90%) to RGB:

CMYK = (70%, 50%, 30%, 90%)

R = 255 × (1-0.7) × (1-0.9) = 8

G = 255 × (1-0.5) × (1-0.9) = 13

B = 255 × (1-0.3) × (1-0.9) = 18

RGB = (8, 13, 18)

Common CMYK to RGB Examples

  • (0, 0, 0, 100) → (0, 0, 0) (black)
  • (0, 0, 0, 0) → (255, 255, 255) (white)
  • (100, 0, 0, 0) → (0, 255, 255) (cyan)
  • (0, 100, 0, 0) → (255, 0, 255) (magenta)
  • (0, 0, 100, 0) → (255, 255, 0) (yellow)
  • (0, 100, 100, 0) → (255, 0, 0) (red)
  • (100, 0, 100, 0) → (0, 255, 0) (green)
  • (100, 100, 0, 0) → (0, 0, 255) (blue)

RGB is the standard color model for digital displays, web design, and digital photography. Understanding CMYK to RGB conversion is essential when preparing print designs for digital presentation or when creating designs that will be used across both print and digital media.

CMYK to RGB FAQ

Why do CMYK colors look different when converted to RGB?

CMYK and RGB use different color models (subtractive vs. additive) and have different color gamuts. CMYK has a smaller gamut than RGB, so some CMYK colors can't be perfectly represented in RGB. This is especially noticeable with bright, vibrant colors that can be displayed on screens but are difficult to reproduce with ink.

How can I ensure color consistency between print and digital?

For best results, work in RGB when designing for digital media and convert to CMYK only when preparing for print. Use color profiles and calibration tools. Our converter helps bridge the gap between these color spaces, but for professional work, consider using specialized color management software.

Are there CMYK colors that can't be converted to RGB?

All CMYK colors can be converted to RGB, but some may appear differently because RGB can display more vibrant colors than CMYK can produce. The conversion process will find the closest possible RGB equivalent, but there may be some color shift, especially with bright cyans and yellows.

When should I use CMYK to RGB conversion?

This conversion is essential when taking designs from print to digital media, such as when creating digital versions of printed materials, designing for both print and web, or when you need to match print colors in digital presentations. It's also useful for designers who primarily work in print but need to occasionally create digital assets.