CMYK vs RGB: Choosing the Right Colour Model for Digital Printing

When preparing artwork for print, the colour model you choose can make a significant difference in the final output. While screens display vibrant colours using the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) model, professional printing requires the use of CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black). Understanding the differences between these two models ensures your prints come out exactly as you envision.

Why CMYK is Essential for Print

CMYK is the industry-standard colour model used in printing. Whether it’s business cards, flyers, posters, or large-format banners, all professional printers rely on CMYK to produce accurate, high-quality colour reproduction.

When you submit artwork in RGB, it must be converted to CMYK before printing. This conversion process can dull bright and neon colours, resulting in prints that may not look as vibrant as they appeared on screen. To avoid surprises, always design your artwork in CMYK from the start.

What is CMYK?

CMYK is a subtractive colour model that uses Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black inks to produce full-colour images on white substrates like paper, vinyl, and fabric. In this process, colours are created by subtracting varying degrees of light reflected off the surface. The more ink applied, the darker the result.

From leaflets to billboard banners, CMYK is the backbone of the print industry. Even your office printer likely uses individual cartridges for each of the four colours.

What is RGB?

RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue, and is an additive colour model used on screens and digital displays. It works by combining light in varying intensities to produce colours. This system is perfect for web design, video production, and anything meant to be viewed on a screen.

However, RGB colours can’t be replicated exactly in CMYK. That’s why designs created in RGB may look different—or dull—when printed.

Converting RGB to CMYK

If your artwork is submitted in RGB, we’ll convert it to CMYK automatically. However, this process may result in some colour shifts, particularly for bright or neon hues. To maintain colour integrity, we strongly recommend you convert your files to CMYK before submitting them.

Designing with Colour in Mind

When creating a logo or building a brand, it’s vital to choose colours that translate well in both RGB and CMYK. Some RGB colours fall outside the CMYK spectrum, making them impossible to reproduce accurately in print.

A great tip: Test your chosen brand colours in both formats to ensure consistency across digital and physical media.

10 Quick Colour Facts

1. CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black).
2. RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue.
3. CMYK is ideal for printed materials.
4. RGB is best for digital screens.
5. CMYK uses ink; RGB uses light.
6. CMYK is subtractive; RGB is additive.
7. Paper absorbs CMYK ink; screens emit RGB light.
8. More ink = darker print (CMYK).
9. More light = brighter display (RGB).
10. The human eye can detect around 10 million colours!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the difference between CMYK and RGB?

CMYK is used for print and is subtractive, meaning colours darken as ink is added. RGB is used for screens and is additive, where colours lighten with more light.

2. Why is CMYK preferred for digital printing?

CMYK produces accurate, consistent results on physical media and aligns with commercial print equipment capabilities.

3. Can I print RGB files?

Yes, but the colours will be converted to CMYK, which may alter their appearance. Always supply files in CMYK for best results.

4. How do I convert RGB to CMYK?

Most graphic design software like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop lets you convert colour modes easily. Check your software’s export or colour settings.

5. What colours don’t convert well from RGB to CMYK?

Vivid neons, electric blues, and highly saturated reds or greens often appear muted when converted.

6. Why don’t screen colours match printed colours?

Screens emit light, while prints reflect light. Calibration, colour profiles, and material type also influence the difference.

7. How can I maintain colour accuracy in printing?

Design in CMYK, calibrate your monitor, and use consistent colour profiles throughout your workflow.

8. What tools help with colour management?

ICC profiles, monitor calibration tools, and soft-proofing options in design software help ensure colour consistency.

9. What are the challenges of colour printing?

Issues like banding, colour shifts, and low-quality output often stem from poor file setup or printer limitations.

10. How do I troubleshoot colour issues in print?

Check for correct colour modes, use calibrated screens, ensure high-resolution files, and consult your printer about their specs.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to digital printing, CMYK should be your go-to colour model. While RGB is perfect for on-screen visuals, it’s not designed for print and can result in unexpected colour shifts. Designing in CMYK from the beginning ensures the printed piece meets your expectations, saving time, cost, and disappointment.

Need help setting up your artwork? Our team at UK Printing Company is here to help ensure your files are print-ready and colour-perfect.