Tool guide
Quick answers, steps, and examples — for readers and search.
At a glance
- Purpose
- translate one color value across HEX, RGB, HSL, and CMYK.
- Input
- a color typed or picked in any of the four formats.
- Output
- the same color expressed in the other three formats, ready to copy.
- Best for
- CSS work, brand guideline documents, and pre-press color checks.
What it does
The tool parses the color you enter, applies standard color-space formulas, and displays every equivalent form side by side. Nothing leaves your device — the calculation runs locally in the browser, the same way CSS itself is interpreted on the client side without a server round trip.
How to use
- 1Paste a color (HEX, rgb(), hsl(), cmyk(), or a CSS name like teal) or pick one with the color swatch.
- 2Check the live preview and contrast hints so text on that background stays readable.
- 3Copy one format or use Copy all formats for your CSS, design file, or print spec.
Features
- Live preview with sample heading and body text on your color.
- HEX, RGB, RGBA, HSL, HSLA, and CMYK shown together with one-click copy.
- RGB channel breakdown and WCAG contrast notes for white and black text.
- Example chips and hex without # supported — everything runs locally in your browser.
Use cases
- Matching a HEX value from a design file to an hsl() token used in a CSS theme.
- Getting an approximate CMYK reading before sending artwork to a print shop, then confirming it against the shop's own ICC profile.
- Explaining to a teammate why the same blue looks slightly different on a screen and in a printed brochure.
Examples
#2563eb converts to rgb(37, 99, 235).hsl(221 83% 53%) corresponds to a HEX value commonly used for primary blue interfaces.
Common mistakes
- CMYK values on a screen are only an approximation; the printed result still depends on paper stock and the printer's ink profile.
- An eight-digit HEX code includes an alpha (transparency) channel, which some older software does not expect from a six-digit HEX field.
FAQ
Which format should I use in CSS?
HEX and hsl() are both common in modern CSS. HEX stays compact for static colors, while hsl() makes it easier to adjust lightness for hover and focus states. rgb() is equally valid syntax.
Is CMYK exact?
Not on a screen. Browser-based CMYK is an approximation for reference only; commercial printing should rely on the print shop's own ICC color profile.
Do you store my colors?
No color values are stored or uploaded. The conversion happens entirely inside your browser session.
Can I paste hex without the # symbol?
Yes. Values like 2563eb are treated as HEX. You can also use common CSS color names such as navy or teal.
Conclusion
One accurate source color, expressed correctly in every format a project needs — that consistency keeps developers, designers, and print vendors working from the same value instead of guessing at translations.
