1. Enter a value
Type a number in the input field. You can use a period or comma as the decimal separator.
Convert RGB to CMYK
This converter converts RGB color values to CMYK percentages. Enter values and the result appears instantly.
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When do you need to convert RGB to CMYK?
RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is the additive color model used by screens. CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) is the subtractive model used by printers. Colors look different in each model because they work differently.
Converting RGB to CMYK is essential when preparing digital designs for print. Without conversion, bright screen colors may appear dull or shifted when printed.
Not all RGB colors can be reproduced in CMYK — the CMYK gamut is smaller. Vivid neon greens, bright blues, and saturated oranges are particularly affected.
All calculations run locally in your browser — nothing is sent to any server.
How to use the converter?
2. Read the result
The conversion result appears instantly in the field next to it – no clicking required.3. Copy or reverse
Click Copy result or use the Reverse button to convert in the opposite direction.
When is this converter useful?
Print Preparation
Check CMYK values before sending a design to the printer.Color Verification
Is the RGB color within the CMYK gamut? Check before printing.Branding Materials
Match brand colors for print: business cards, flyers, catalogs.Photography
Convert photos from RGB to CMYK before printing photo books.
What makes this converter different?
Complete privacy
All calculations run locally in your browser. No data is sent to any server.Real-time results
The result updates instantly as you type – no need to click any button.Bidirectional conversion
The Reverse button lets you convert in both directions with one click.Reference table
A ready-made table with commonly converted values and contextual descriptions.
How does RGB to CMYK conversion work?
First, normalize RGB to 0–1 range: R'=R/255, G'=G/255, B'=B/255. K = 1 − max(R', G', B'). C = (1−R'−K)/(1−K). M = (1−G'−K)/(1−K). Y = (1−B'−K)/(1−K).
This is a mathematical conversion. Actual printed results depend on ink, paper, and ICC profiles. For production printing, use ICC profile-based conversion in Photoshop or InDesign.
This converter provides a mathematical estimate. For critical color work, always use proper ICC profiles and get a proof print.
Practical tips
- Pure black: RGB(0,0,0) = CMYK(0,0,0,100). Rich black for print: CMYK(60,40,40,100).
- Pure white: RGB(255,255,255) = CMYK(0,0,0,0).
- Bright colors lose vibrancy in CMYK. Design with CMYK gamut in mind from the start.
- Total ink coverage should not exceed 300% for most printing processes.
RGB vs CMYK – comparison
| Feature | RGB | CMYK |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Additive (light) | Subtractive (ink) |
| Used for | Screens, web | Print, packaging |
| Gamut | Wider (more colors) | Narrower |
| Black | R=0, G=0, B=0 | K=100% |
| White | R=255, G=255, B=255 | No ink (paper) |
RGB
- Model
Additive (light) - Used for
Screens, web - Gamut
Wider (more colors) - Black
R=0, G=0, B=0 - White
R=255, G=255, B=255
CMYK
- Model
Subtractive (ink) - Used for
Print, packaging - Gamut
Narrower - Black
K=100% - White
No ink (paper)
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