Color Formats Overview
Explore RGB, HEX, HSL, HSV, CMYK
Learn about the most widely used color formats in digital and print design. Discover how RGB, HEX, HSL, HSV, and CMYK work and when to use each.
Color formats are the language of visual design. Each format serves a different purpose depending on medium, technology, and user intent. This page introduces the 5 major color models used across the web, software, and print industries.
🎯 What You'll Learn
- •The difference between additive vs subtractive color
- •How colors are represented numerically in different formats
- •When to use RGB, HEX, HSL, HSV, or CMYK
- •Quick links to deep-dive format pages
🔍 Supported Color Formats
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RGB
Red, Green, Blue
- • Additive color model based on light
- • Used in screens, cameras, videos, and digital images
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HEX
Hexadecimal Code
- • Encoded RGB format (#RRGGBB)
- • Common in HTML, CSS, and design tools
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HSL
Hue, Saturation, Lightness
- • Perceptual color model for design/UI
- • Easily adjust brightness and tints
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HSV
Hue, Saturation, Value
- • Focuses on brightness/intensity
- • Common in creative software like Photoshop
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CMYK
Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key
- • Subtractive model for printing
- • Standard for magazines, packaging, and production
📅 How Did These Formats Evolve?
Explore the historical timeline of digital and print color systems
View Color Format Timeline