HEX to CMYK Converter

Q: Why can't my bright web color be matched perfectly in CMYK?

The range of colors (gamut) that can be displayed on a screen is larger than what can be reproduced with ink. Screens use light and can create very vibrant colors that CMYK inks cannot physically mix. The tool provides the closest possible match.

Q: Why do I need a converter tool for this?

While design software can convert colors, a dedicated online tool is much faster for quick conversions. You don't need to open a large program just to find a single color code, making your workflow more efficient.

Q: How do I give these CMYK values to a printer?

You can provide the values as percentages for each of the four inks, for example: C=79%, M=53%, Y=0%, K=12%. Our tool provides a convenient copy button to get the values in a standard format.

Tools

HEX to CMYK Converter

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Enter a Color

HEX Color Code

Cyan (C)

Magenta (M)

Yellow (Y)

Key (K)

100%

Copy CMYK Values

About the HEX to CMYK Converter

Our HEX to CMYK Converter is a free online tool for designers and developers who need to bridge the gap between digital and print design. It quickly translates web-safe HEX color codes into the CMYK values required for physical printing projects like business cards, brochures, and merchandise.

We created this tool to make color workflow simple. Whether you are finalizing a design that started on-screen or just need to provide the correct print colors to a client, this converter gives you the CMYK values you need instantly. This helps ensure your brand's colors remain as consistent as possible across both web and print media.

How to Use This Tool

Use the Color Picker: Click the color swatch next to the text field to open your browser's native color picker. As you select a color, the HEX and CMYK values will update instantly.
Enter a HEX Code: Type or paste your hexadecimal color code (e.g., #3498DB) into the input field. The CMYK values and color preview will update as you type.
Get the CMYK Values: The tool will display the converted Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black) percentages in the output boxes.
Copy the Result: Click the "Copy CMYK Values" button to copy the values in `cmyk(C%, M%, Y%, K%)` format, ready to be sent to a printer or used in design software.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a HEX color code?

A HEX code is a six-digit hexadecimal number used in HTML and CSS to represent a color. It follows the format #RRGGBB, where RR is red, GG is green, and BB is blue. It is part of the RGB color model, which is an additive model designed for digital screens, where colors are created by adding light.

Why can't my bright web color be matched perfectly in CMYK?

The range of colors (called a "gamut") that can be displayed on a screen (RGB/HEX) is larger than what can be reproduced with ink on paper (CMYK). Screens create color with light, so they can produce very bright, vibrant colors that CMYK inks cannot physically mix. Our tool provides the closest possible mathematical match, but some super-bright colors will appear slightly duller in print.

When should I use CMYK instead of HEX or RGB?

You should always use CMYK for projects that will be physically printed. This includes things like business cards, posters, books, and packaging. For anything that will be viewed on a digital screen, like a website, app, or social media graphic, you should use HEX or RGB.

Why do I need a converter tool for this?

Design software like Adobe Photoshop can convert colors, but a dedicated online tool is much faster when you just need a quick conversion. You don't need to open a large program just to find a single color code. Our tool is free, instant, and available on any device, making your workflow more efficient.

How do I give these CMYK values to a printer?

You can provide the values in the format `C=Cyan%, M=Magenta%, Y=Yellow%, K=Black%`. For example: C=79%, M=53%, Y=0%, K=12%. You can also use the "Copy CMYK Values" button, which copies them in a CSS-friendly format like `cmyk(79%, 53%, 0%, 12%)` that is easy to read and share.