RGB to CMYK and CMYK to RGB Converter

Historical Background

The RGB and CMYK color models are fundamental in digital and print design. RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is used in electronic displays, while CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black) is essential for printing. Understanding how to convert between these models is critical for achieving consistent colors across mediums.

Calculation Formula

RGB to CMYK:

\[ C = \frac{1 - R'}{1 - K}, \quad M = \frac{1 - G'}{1 - K}, \quad Y = \frac{1 - B'}{1 - K}, \quad K = 1 - \max(R', G', B') \] Where \( R', G', B' \) are normalized RGB values (\( \text{Value} / 255 \)).

CMYK to RGB:

\[ R = 255 \times (1 - C) \times (1 - K), \quad G = 255 \times (1 - M) \times (1 - K), \quad B = 255 \times (1 - Y) \times (1 - K) \]

Example Calculation

• RGB to CMYK: For \( R = 255, G = 100, B = 50 \):
  \[ K = 1 - \max(1, 0.39, 0.19) = 0 \] \[ C = 0, M = 0.61, Y = 0.81, K = 0 \]

• CMYK to RGB: For \( C = 50, M = 30, Y = 20, K = 10 \):
  \[ R = 114, G = 159, B = 183 \]

Importance and Usage Scenarios

• Digital Design: RGB ensures vibrant on-screen visuals.
• Print Design: CMYK is necessary for color-accurate printing.
• Cross-Medium Consistency: Accurate conversions maintain brand colors across mediums.

Common FAQs

1. Why are RGB and CMYK different?
   RGB is additive (light-based), and CMYK is subtractive (ink-based).

2. Why do colors look different after conversion?

   The RGB gamut is larger than CMYK, leading to potential color loss.

3. What’s the best format for digital-to-print projects?
   Design in RGB but convert to CMYK for final printing.