CMYK to RGB Explained: From Print Colour to Screen Colour
Print and screen use opposite colour models. This guide explains CMYK, how it converts to RGB, and why proofs still matter.
What is the CMYK to RGB Converter?
CMYK is the colour model used in printing, where inks subtract light, while RGB is the model used on screens, where light is added. This tool converts a CMYK colour to its screen RGB channels and hex code. All four inputs must be percentages between 0 and 100. The conversion is a standard approximation, so a printed result can still differ from the screen colour because printers, paper and inks vary.
How to use it
- Enter the cyan, magenta, yellow and key percentages.
- Keep every value between 0 and 100.
- Press the button to see the RGB values and hex code.
Worked example
Cyan 0, magenta 100, yellow 100 and key 0 converts to red 255, green 0, blue 0, which is hex #FF0000.
What CMYK gives pure red on screen?
Cyan 0, magenta 100, yellow 100 and key 0 converts to RGB 255, 0, 0, the screen version of red.
Frequently asked questions
What does K stand for in CMYK?
K stands for key, which is the black ink. It is called key rather than B to avoid confusion with blue.
Will the printed colour match the screen exactly?
Not necessarily. The conversion is an approximation, and real printers, paper and inks shift colours, so always proof important print work.