How to use the Color Code Converter
- 1. Type any colourHEX, rgb(), hsl(), hsv(), cmyk(), oklch() or a CSS name like teal.
- 2. ConvertSee the colour and every format side by side.
- 3. Check contrastUse the contrast numbers to decide if text can sit on it.
Worked example
Uncodemy's accent #FF5421 is rgb(255, 84, 33). In HSL that is hsl(14 100% 56.5%): hue 14° (red-orange), full saturation, just over half lightness. In HSV it is 14°, 87.1%, 100%, and the simple CMYK formula gives cmyk(0, 67, 87, 0). The modern CSS form is oklch(67.6% 0.215 35.9): 67.6% perceived lightness, a chroma of 0.215 and a hue angle of 35.9°.
Its contrast on white is 3.21:1, enough for large text and icons but below the 4.5:1 WCAG AA needs for body text. On black it reaches 6.54:1.
Which format to use where
- HEX for most web and design tools.
- RGB when you need transparency, as rgb(255 84 33 / 50%).
- HSL is easy to tweak by hand: change lightness for hover states.
- OKLCH is perceptually even, so equal lightness steps look equal; it is now supported in all major browsers.
- CMYK is for print, but real print values depend on the paper and colour profile, so ask your printer.
This tool goes beyond our quick HEX to RGB converter by reading and writing seven formats in one place. Conversions follow the CSS Color 4 formulas, checked against the culori library. Build tints and shades with the colour shades generator and test for colour blindness with the colour blindness simulator.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my colour look different in print?
Screens mix light (RGB) and printers mix ink (CMYK). Some bright screen colours cannot be printed exactly; a printer's colour profile decides the closest match.
Does it support transparency?
Yes, 8-digit HEX and rgba() alpha values are read and shown as RGBA.
Is the Color Code Converter free?
Yes, the Color Code Converter is free. The first time you see your first result, you are asked for your name and WhatsApp number once. After that, this and every other Uncodemy tool opens straight away without the form.