What are CMYK and RGB?
CMYK is the print colour model and stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). It’s a subtractive colour model used in colour printing. When you combine these inks, they subtract brightness from white paper to create the desired colour. This colour model is used for physical printing such as flyers, posters, packaging, business cards, etc. The colours are created by layering inks. The more ink you add, the darker the result.
RGB is the digital colour model and stands for Red, Green, and Blue. It’s an additive colour model used for digital screens and the colours are created by combining light in different intensities. RGB works best for digital displays like websites, social media, digital ads and presentations. The more light you add, the brighter the colour. When combining all three colours at full intensity you will get white.
Key Differences Between CMYK and RGB
| Feature | CMYK | RGB |
|---|---|---|
| Colour Model | Subtractive | Additive |
| Used For | Digital | |
| Colour Range | Narrower (less vibrant) | Wider (more vibrant) |
| Output | Physical (ink on paper) | Digital (light on screen) |
| File Formats | PDF, AI, EPS, TIFF | JPG, PNG, GIF, SVG |
Benefits of each model
CMYK Benefits:
- Accurate print colours: What you see is what you get on paper.
- Professional finish: Ideal for high-quality print materials.
- Standard for commercial printers: Ensures consistency across print runs.
RGB Benefits:
- Vibrant colours: Perfect for eye-catching digital visuals.
- Smaller file sizes: Great for web and mobile use.
- Wider colour range: More flexibility in design.
When to use CMYK vs RGB
| Project type | Recommended colour mode |
|---|---|
| Business cards | CMYK |
| Brochures & flyers | CMYK |
| Posters & banners | CMYK |
| Website graphics | RGB |
| Social media posts | RGB |
| Email newsletters | RGB |
At ACS Print we would always recommend designing your project in the colour mode that matches your final output. If you're designing for print, start in CMYK to avoid colour shifts when converting later. Choosing the right colour mode is crucial for ensuring your designs look their best, whether on screen or in print.