The Difference Between HEX, RGB, CMYK, and Pantone (and Why It Matters)

Emily Steel
Jun 25
3 min read

Written by Emily Steel, Marketing Manager at Omega High-Impact Print Solutions

If your brand colors look great on your website but off in print, you're likely using the wrong color mode for the medium. Each color format—HEX, RGB, CMYK, and Pantone—is designed for a specific purpose. Using the right one keeps your branding consistent across everything from emails and signage to packaging and websites.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what each color system is, what it’s used for, and why it matters:

Grid of 20 HEX colored squares with labels like COLOR #F6A1A5. Each square has a distinct color, arranged on a light gray background.

HEX

Hexadecimal, a six-digit code used to define colors in web design.

Used for: Websites, emails, buttons, digital interfaces—anything coded in HTML or CSS
Example: A bright orange might be HEX #FF6600
Why it matters: HEX is a digital color system used only for screens. It’s based on RGB and doesn’t work for print, but it helps ensure color consistency in web development.

Omega Tip: Use HEX for web styling, but always convert to CMYK or Pantone when preparing for print.

RGB color wheel image with color circles, a Venn diagram showing Red, Green, and Blue overlap, and a gradient bar below. Bright colors.

RGB

Red, Green, and Blue, the light-based color system used on all digital displays.

Used for: Websites, social media graphics, digital ads, videos
Example: That same orange might be RGB (255, 102, 0)
Why it matters: RGB is optimized for screen brightness and vibrancy. Files in RGB often appear more vivid than what you’ll see in print. These must be converted to CMYK for accurate printed results.

Omega Tip: Always check the color mode before printing. RGB files should be converted properly to avoid surprises on press.

CMYK

Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black, the four ink colors used in full-color printing.

Used for: Business cards, brochures, signage, packaging—anything printed
Example: That same orange becomes CMYK(0%, 60%, 100%, 0%)
Why it matters: Print uses ink, not light, so color values must be adjusted for accurate reproduction on paper or other physical materials.

Omega Tip: Design in CMYK if you’re planning to print, or let us handle the conversion for press-ready results.

Colorful Pantone swatches fan out, displaying a gradient of hues from orange to green. Each strip is labeled with numbers.

Pantone (PMS)

The Pantone Matching System, a standardized color system used for exact ink matching.

Used for: Logos, uniforms, branded packaging, specialty print runs—when color accuracy is critical
Example: That orange might be Pantone 158 C
Why it matters: Pantone colors ensure consistency across print jobs, materials, and printers. They’re pre-mixed inks, not created from CMYK blends, making them ideal for strict brand color standards.

Omega Tip: If your brand uses a specific Pantone color, share the PMS code with us. We’ll help you match it as closely as possible—or print with true spot color if needed.

Why It Matters for Your Brand

If you're not using the right color format, your branding can become inconsistent and unprofessional. A red that looks bold online may appear maroon in print. A soft blue might turn teal in an email signature. These shifts create confusion and hurt brand recognition.

Understanding these color systems helps you:

Keep your brand colors consistent across all platforms
Communicate clearly with designers, printers, and developers
Avoid costly mistakes and reprints

Let Omega Handle It

We’ll make sure your files are set up correctly from the start. Whether you need help converting RGB to CMYK, selecting Pantone values, or cleaning up a brand kit, our team has the tools and experience to guide you.

Call 609-645-1940 or visit youromega.com to get started.