RGB to Pantone Color Converter - Find Closest Pantone Matches

Q: What is the difference between RGB and Pantone?

RGB is an additive color model for digital screens, creating colors with light. Pantone is a spot color system using specific, pre-mixed inks for printing to ensure brand consistency.

Q: Why isn't there an exact Pantone match for my RGB color?

The range of colors (gamut) displayable on a screen (RGB) is different from what can be reproduced with ink (Pantone). Bright, vibrant screen colors often don't have a direct equivalent. This tool finds the closest possible match.

Q: How does this converter find the closest match?

The tool compares your input RGB value against a database of Pantone colors and their official RGB equivalents. It uses a color difference formula to identify and rank the most visually similar Pantone colors.

Q: What does the 'C' in a Pantone name mean?

The 'C' stands for 'Coated,' indicating the color is for printing on glossy, coated paper. This makes colors appear more vibrant. There are also 'U' versions for uncoated paper, which results in a more muted look.

Q: Can I rely on this tool for professional print jobs?

This tool is a great starting point, but for professional work, you must verify the chosen color with a physical, official Pantone color guide. Screen displays are not color-accurate for print purposes.

Tools

RGB to Pantone Converter

Add to Favorites Remove from Favorites

Select a Color

Visual Color Picker

Or Enter RGB Values

Values must be between 0 and 255.

Red (R)

Green (G)

Blue (B)

Options

Number of Matches:

About the RGB to Pantone Converter

Our RGB to Pantone Converter helps you find the closest official Pantone colors to your digital RGB color values. When designing for screens, you work in the RGB color space. But for brand consistency in printed materials, you often need a specific Pantone color. This tool finds the nearest Pantone shades, helping you align your digital and physical brand colors.

We built this tool for designers and brand managers who need to translate on-screen colors to print-ready specifications. It provides a list of the closest Pantone colors, including their digital HEX and CMYK values, making it easy to maintain color accuracy across all mediums.

Disclaimer: This tool provides the closest mathematical color match, which is an excellent starting point. However, for critical projects, always confirm your color choice using an official physical Pantone swatch book, as screen representation and printed ink can vary.

How to Use This Tool

Use the Color Picker: Click the color swatch to visually select a color. The RGB input fields will update automatically.
Enter RGB values: Type your values (0-255) into the Red, Green, and Blue fields. The color picker will adjust to match your input.
See the Results: The tool instantly finds and displays a list of the closest Pantone colors based on your selection.
Review the Matches: Each match includes a color swatch, its official name, and its corresponding HEX and CMYK codes.
Copy the Name: Use the "Copy Name" button to quickly copy the official Pantone color name to your clipboard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between RGB and Pantone?

RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is an additive color model used for digital screens, where colors are created by combining different intensities of light. Pantone is a "spot color" system, where each color is a specific, pre-mixed ink formula used in printing to guarantee consistency. RGB is for screens; Pantone is for print.

Why isn't there an exact Pantone match for my RGB color?

The range of colors (gamut) that a screen can display using RGB is different from what can be reproduced with Pantone inks. Screens can create very bright, vibrant colors that may not have a direct equivalent in the Pantone system. Our tool finds the Pantone ink that is visually and mathematically closest, but a perfect match is not always possible.

How does this converter find the closest match?

The tool takes your input RGB value and compares it against a database of official Pantone colors and their corresponding RGB values. It uses a color difference formula to calculate which Pantone colors are most similar to your original color and lists them in order of closeness.

What does the "C" in a Pantone name mean?

The "C" at the end of a Pantone name, like "PANTONE 185 C," stands for "Coated." This indicates the color is intended for printing on coated paper, which is glossy and makes colors appear more vibrant. There are also "U" versions for uncoated paper, where colors look more muted and absorb more ink.

Can I rely on this tool for professional print jobs?

This tool is an excellent starting point for identifying potential Pantone colors. However, for any important print job, we strongly recommend that you verify the results with a physical, official Pantone color guide. The way colors appear on a screen can differ significantly from how they look when printed with ink.