What are CMYK, PMS, RGB, and HEX colors?

As you set up your brand across different platforms, you’ll need to provide your specific color in a few different formats. If your logo designer gave you a brand style guide, these should all be included there. But what are the differences and where do I use each of these?

CMYK

(Cyan / Magenta / Yellow / Black)

This is used for printed documents. These are the colors that printers use. These mix together to make all the printable colors.

If you use Canva for creating any printed documents in your brand colors, make sure your CMYK number has been added. If it prints from your HEX color, the color is unlikely to print accurately.

PMS

Pantone Matching System

Your logo may have designated Pantone colors. You don’t always use these, but when printing business cards or letterhead or t-shirts with a limited number of colors, it’s good to use these so you know that the colors will match from one use to the next. (there is a difference between coated/uncoated…add something about that as well)

RGB

Red/Green/Blue

This is used for digital documents - primarily for anything you’ll view from a computer screen or projector and anything you use online.

HEX/Web

Another color type you’re likely to see when setting up colors in online programs is HEX. These look something like #000000. These are used when setting up the branding for your website, email marketing system, calendar or scheduling platform, Canva account, etc.

If you want to read a little more detail about the difference between CMYK and RGB, check out this post on Shutterstock.