Designing something for print or digital? Choosing the right color system can make or break the final result.
If your logo looks off, your flyer prints too dark, or your packaging doesn’t match your branding – you’re likely dealing with a color mismatch.
Let’s break it down once and for all: RGB vs. CMYK vs. Pantone – what they are, when to use them, and how to make the right choice.
RGB: Best for Screens
Use RGB for:
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Websites
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Social media graphics
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Digital ads
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Presentations
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Anything staying online or on-screen
RGB (Red, Green, Blue) is the additive color model used for digital displays.
It creates bright, vibrant colors by combining light. But it doesn’t work for printing – those same colors often shift or dull when ink is involved.
CMYK: The Industry Standard for Print
Use CMYK for:
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Brochures
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Business cards
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Flyers
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Menus
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General printing
CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) is the subtractive color model used by printers. It uses ink layered on paper, and it’s the standard for most print projects.
However, it has a more limited color range than RGB – so colors may look slightly less vibrant.
Pantone (PMS): For Precise Brand Colors
Use Pantone for:
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Logos
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Packaging
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Brand identity
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Specialty projects
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High-volume or high-precision printing
Pantone colors are pre-mixed spot colors – each with a unique formula. If you need exact color consistency across print jobs, locations, or materials, Pantone is the most reliable system.
It’s also used for specialty inks like metallics or fluorescents.
Not Sure Which One to Use?
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Use Case | RGB (Digital) | CMYK (Print) | Pantone (Exact) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Website / Social Media | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Business Cards / Brochures | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Best for Branding |
| Product Packaging | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ For Consistency |
| Logos / Brand Colors | ❌ Not Ideal | ✅ Acceptable | ✅ Best Option |
| High-End Specialty Printing | ❌ Not Used | ✅ Often Used | ✅ Premium Choice |
Want to Get It Right from the Start?
Choosing the right color system isn’t just technical, it’s strategic. It affects how your audience perceives your brand, how confident your materials feel, and how consistent your visuals appear across platforms.
I help clients across Bergen County and New Jersey navigate color modes, prep files for print, and create custom design work that translates flawlessly from screen to paper.
Call or text 201.753.1677
Let’s make your next design look exactly how you intended – every time, everywhere.