What is the difference between RGB and HEX?
RGB (Red, Green, Blue) expresses colors as three decimal values from 0-255, like rgb(30, 165, 76). HEX is the same color model but uses hexadecimal notation, typically written with a # symbol like #1ea54c. They represent exactly the same colors, just in different numeric bases. HEX is more compact and common in CSS.
When should I use HSL instead of RGB?
Use HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness) when you need to manipulate colors programmatically, create color variations, or adjust brightness. HSL makes it intuitive to create lighter/darker versions of a color by just changing the lightness value, or to create a monochromatic palette by keeping hue constant while varying saturation and lightness.
What is LCH and why is it useful?
LCH (Lightness, Chroma, Hue) is a perceptually uniform color space, meaning that the same numerical difference in LCH values corresponds to roughly the same perceived color difference regardless of which colors you are comparing. This makes LCH ideal for creating accessible color scales and ensuring consistent visual spacing between colors.
Can I trust the CMYK values for print?
The CMYK values provided are approximations converted from RGB color space. For professional print work, always use design software with proper color management and consult with your printer, as accurate RGB-to-CMYK conversion depends on specific printer profiles, paper types, and ink characteristics. Color Lab's CMYK values are useful for initial estimates and documentation.
What does HWB stand for?
HWB stands for Hue, Whiteness, Blackness. It is an alternative way to describe colors that some find more intuitive than HSL. Instead of saturation and lightness, HWB uses the amount of white and black mixed with the pure hue. HWB is supported in modern CSS (e.g., hwb(140 12% 35%)).