RGB to CMYK Converter
Convert RGB values (0‑255) to CMYK percentages for print. Enter values or use a preset.
Color Presets
CMYK Values
C: 0% M: 100% Y: 100% K: 0%
RGB: 255, 0, 0
Decimal (0‑1)
C:0.00 M:1.00 Y:1.00 K:0.00
Formula
K = 1 - max(R',G',B')
Notes
Device‑dependent; proof with printer.
RGB → CMYK Conversion
R' = R/255, G' = G/255, B' = B/255
K = 1 – max(R', G', B')
C = (1 – R' – K) / (1 – K) (if K < 1)
M = (1 – G' – K) / (1 – K)
Y = (1 – B' – K) / (1 – K)
When K = 1 (pure black), C = M = Y = 0.
CMYK values are given as percentages (0–100%) and decimals (0–1).
CMYK values are given as percentages (0–100%) and decimals (0–1).
People Also Ask
🎨 Why convert RGB to CMYK?
🖨️ Is CMYK used for printing?
🔢 What do the CMYK percentages mean?
⚠️ Why doesn't RGB to CMYK conversion give exact printer colors?
📐 How to convert CMYK back to RGB?
💡 What are RGB and CMYK color models?
Understanding RGB and CMYK
RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is an additive color model used for screens. Colors are created by adding light. CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) is a subtractive model used for printing. Colors are formed by subtracting (absorbing) light using ink on paper.
Conversion is not one‑to‑one
RGB has a wider gamut (range of colors) than CMYK. Some RGB colors cannot be reproduced exactly in print. The conversion is an approximation and depends on the specific printer, paper, and ink profile.
Common RGB & CMYK Approximations
| Color | RGB | CMYK (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Red | 255,0,0 | 0,100,100,0 |
| Green | 0,255,0 | 100,0,100,0 |
| Blue | 0,0,255 | 100,100,0,0 |
| Cyan | 0,255,255 | 100,0,0,0 |
| Magenta | 255,0,255 | 0,100,0,0 |
| Yellow | 255,255,0 | 0,0,100,0 |
| Black | 0,0,0 | 0,0,0,100 |
| White | 255,255,255 | 0,0,0,0 |
| Gray (50%) | 128,128,128 | 0,0,0,50 |
Detailed FAQs
How accurate is this conversion for professional printing?
This calculator uses the standard mathematical conversion, but professional printing uses ICC profiles specific to the printer/paper/ink combination. For accurate results, use a color‑managed workflow and soft‑proof with your printer's profile.
Why does pure black sometimes become rich black (C,M,Y not zero)?
In the conversion above, pure black (R=G=B=0) gives K=1, C=M=Y=0. However, many printers use "rich black" (adding other inks) for deeper black. That's a separate choice and not part of the basic conversion.