RGB vs CMYK: Know the Difference

1. What They Are

• RGB
  • Stands for Red–Green–Blue
  • An additive color model: combining red, green, and blue light produces white, absence of light is black 
  • Used on digital screens—monitors, phones, tablets 
• CMYK
  • Stands for Cyan–Magenta–Yellow–Key (Black)
  • A subtractive color model: inks absorb (subtract) light; layering all inks creates black 
  • Used in printing—flyers, posters, packaging

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2. How They Work

Feature	RGB	CMYK
Mixing process	🔆 Light-based; add colors to brighten	🖨 Ink-based; subtract colors from white
Primary colors	Red, Green, Blue	Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black
Color output	Up to 16.7 million vibrant hues	About 16,000 printable shades
File size	Generally smaller	Usually larger due to extra ink data

3. When to Use RGB

• Best for digital projects: web design, apps, social media graphics, GIFs, videos 
• Ideal for vivid visuals that “pop” on screens
• Easier to manipulate and upload due to smaller file sizes

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4. When to Use CMYK

• Essential for printing: business cards, brochures, posters, packaging, apparel prints 
• Ensures accuracy in printed color—printers interpret CMYK directly, avoiding color shifts

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5. Common Pitfalls & Tips

Don’t start with RGB if final output is print!

• Converting RGB→CMYK late may mute colors and distort your design 
• Always work in the final medium’s color mode: RGB for screens, CMYK for print

Check the mode in your software:

• In Photoshop: Image → Mode
• Illustrator: File → Document Color Mode
• InDesign: Window → Color 

Need to convert?

• Use color-managed conversions with appropriate ICC profiles—or better yet, work in CMYK from the start to avoid surprises

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Why It Matters

• Brand consistency: Colors must look as intended, whether on-screen or in-print
• Don’t disappoint clients: Online-looking artwork can appear dull when printed
• Save money & time: Avoid reprints due to unexpected color issues

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Quick Reference

• 🖥️ RGB = Digital + screen + light + vibrant
• 🖨️ CMYK = Print + physical + ink + realistic

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Visual Breakdown

1. Venn-style comparison of RGB vs CMYK
2. Side-by-side circle mixing diagrams (light vs ink)
3. File export workflow each mode
4. Real-world applications: web vs print

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Suggested Blog Structure

1. Intro – Why you must choose the right color model
2. Definitions – Clear show, don’t just tell
3. Technical walkthrough – How each mixing model works
4. Practical advice – When to use which
5. Tools check – Where to verify your color mode
6. Conversion tips – Handling mode changes gracefully
7. Conclusion – Smart color = smarter design

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Suggested Visual Assets

• Infographic summarizing key differences (use provided carousel images)
• Color mixing diagrams: light + pigment visuals
• Real design previews: how RGB designs print vs digital