CMYK to RGB Converter

RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is an additive color model used by screens — combining all three at full intensity creates white. CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) is a subtractive model used in printing — combining all four inks creates black. The two systems represent different color gamuts with imperfect overlap.

The conversion uses standard mathematical formulas and produces accurate results for digital work. However, exact color reproduction between screen and print depends on many factors: monitor calibration, paper type, ink characteristics, and ICC color profiles. For critical print work, always use ICC profile-based conversion in professional software.

CMYK has a smaller color gamut than RGB — some vivid screen colors (bright blues, neon greens, electric purples) simply cannot be reproduced in print. When an RGB color falls outside the CMYK gamut, it gets mapped to the nearest printable color, which often appears duller or shifted.

The K channel represents black ink. While you could theoretically create black by mixing 100% cyan, magenta, and yellow, real inks produce a dark brown. Adding dedicated black ink produces true blacks, saves colored ink, creates sharper text, and provides better shadow detail in printed images.

Use RGB for anything displayed on screens: websites, apps, social media, digital presentations. Use CMYK for anything that will be printed: business cards, brochures, posters, packaging. Start your design in the color space of the final output to avoid color shifts during conversion.