RGB vs. CMYK: Why Your Colors Look Different in Print

If you want to know exactly how your print colors will look - Pick up a Pantone Book!

If you’ve ever designed something digitally and then printed it, you might have noticed that the colors don’t always match up perfectly. Maybe that vibrant blue on your screen turned into a duller shade when printed, or your bright red lost some of its punch. What gives?

The answer lies in the difference between RGB and CMYK color modes, and how colors are perceived in different environments. Let’s break it down so you can avoid any surprises when it’s time to print your designs.

RGB vs. CMYK: What’s the Difference?

RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is the color mode used for digital screens—think computers, phones, and TVs. It’s an additive color model, meaning colors are created by combining different intensities of red, green, and blue light. The more light you add, the brighter and more saturated the colors appear. This is why RGB colors often look super vibrant on your screen.

CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) is the color mode used for printing. It’s a subtractive color model, meaning colors are created by subtracting varying percentages of light reflected off the printed surface. Unlike RGB, CMYK colors tend to appear more muted or dull because they rely on ink rather than light to create color.

Key takeaway: RGB colors are designed for screens, while CMYK colors are optimized for print. If you’re designing something that will be printed, it’s best to work in CMYK from the start to avoid surprises later.

Why Digital Mockups Can Be Misleading

When you create a digital mockup of your design, you’re likely viewing it in RGB mode on a backlit screen. This can make colors appear more vibrant than they will in real life. If you don’t convert your design to CMYK before printing, you might be in for a shock when your bright, saturated colors come out looking a bit duller on paper or fabric.

Here’s an example:

A client sends us a digital mockup designed in RGB. When we convert it to CMYK for printing, the colors shift—sometimes dramatically. That electric blue might become a more subdued navy, or a neon green might lose its pop. This is completely normal, but it’s important to be aware of it before printing.

Other Factors That Affect Color Perception

Even if you’re working in CMYK, there are a few other factors that can influence how colors appear in the final product:

Garment Color: The color of the fabric you’re printing on can affect how the ink appears. A bright red ink on a white shirt will look different than the same red ink on a black shirt.
Lighting Conditions: Colors can look different depending on the lighting. A design viewed under fluorescent office lights might appear different when seen in natural daylight.
Screen Calibration: Not all screens are calibrated the same way. A color that looks one way on your laptop might look slightly different on someone else’s monitor.

The Pantone Solution

So, how do you ensure your printed colors match your vision? The best way is to use Pantone colors. Pantone is a standardized color matching system that allows designers and printers to communicate exact color specifications.

If you call out a Pantone color in your design, we can match it as closely as possible during the printing process. Keep in mind, though, that even Pantone colors can look slightly different depending on the material they’re printed on. The most foolproof method? Invest in a Pantone Coated book to see exactly how your colors will look in print.

Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead for Perfect Colors

Understanding the difference between RGB and CMYK is crucial for getting the results you want in print. If you’re designing something that will be printed, always work in CMYK, or at least convert your design before sending it to print. And if color accuracy is critical, consider specifying Pantone colors to ensure consistency.

At the end of the day, color is a tricky thing—it can change based on lighting, materials, and even how our eyes perceive it. But with a little knowledge and planning, you can avoid surprises and get the vibrant, accurate colors you’re looking for.

Need help with your next print project? We’re here to make sure your colors come out just right!

Why Your Colors Look Different in Print