Skip to content
the printed item.

CMYK vs RGB: Which Colour Mode for Print?

By The Printed Item editorial team · Updated

Quick answer

Print uses CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow and black) inks, while screens display RGB light. Supply print artwork in CMYK — RGB files are converted, and bright screen colours can look duller in print.

Why colours shift

RGB can display some very bright colours that CMYK inks can't reproduce. Converting RGB to CMYK yourself lets you see the shift before printing.

Spot colours

If your brand uses Pantone colours, tell us. Litho printing can use true Pantone inks; digital printing simulates them in CMYK.

Rich black

Large black areas often print better in a 'rich black' mix rather than 100% black only. Small text should stay 100% black for sharpness.

This guide gives general information about commercial printing. Specifications and availability vary between production partners; we'll confirm the details for your project in your quotation. Request a quote.

Related print products

Have a print project in mind?

Tell us what you're planning and let's find the right way to print it.

Request a Quote