You may have noticed that laptop or computer screens look different when printed since they use different colour systems, which is why there are different schemes on the market such as CMYK and RGB.
Both have different colour systems. RGB (Red, Green, and Blue) on screens, and CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black) on printers.
These two colour systems function in essentially different ways. Screen colours look more bright than printed colours.
Why Do Screens Use RGB?
The RGB colour system, Is a combination colour model, which means it generates colours by combining light.
The more light you use, the brighter the colour becomes.
For example:
The combination of red and green light creates yellow.
White combines all three colours (red, green, and blue).
RGB is great for digital displays as it produces light directly and creates rich, vibrant colours.
Why Do Printers Use CMYK?
CMYK is known as the subtractive colour model, it creates colour by absorbing light from the reflection of the paper.
For example:
Cyan and magenta ink combine to make blue.
Mixing all three primary inks (cyan, magenta, yellow) creates a dull brown, so black ink (Key) is added for depth and detail.
CMYK works well in printers to reproduce colours more accurately on physical materials like paper or fabric.
Why Can’t Printers Use RGB?
Because RGB works great for screens like computers, laptops, mobile phones, television etc. and not for printers.
Different Color Creation Methods : RGB adds light to create colours, while CMYK uses ink to subtract light.
Limited Reproducibility : The vibrant colours seen in RGB, such as neon shades, cannot always be duplicated in CMYK because of changes in colour ranges (gamut).
This is why graphics made in RGB on a screen often look duller or less colourful when printed until they are converted to CMYK.
Why Printing Relies on CMYK
Accurate Color Reproduction:
Whereas RGB is great for digital screens, it cannot be converted well into physical prints. CMYK is designed to represent how colours appear when ink interacts with paper, and it produces more accurate results.
Cost-Effective and Practical:
Using CMYK inks is efficient and cost-effective for printers. It covers a wide range of colours without requiring additional specialized inks.
Better for Printed Media:
CMYK is the best in printing high-quality graphics, especially for things like brochures, posters, and packaging. You don't need to worry because It guarantees that colours are consistent and professional across all materials.
What is CMYK Best Suited For?
The CMYK colour model is best for any printed media. Here are some examples:
Business Cards and Flyers: Crisp, vibrant colours that stand out.
Magazines and Books: High-quality prints with accurate tones.
Posters and Banners: Bold, eye-catching visuals for promotions.
Packaging: Consistent colour quality for branding.
For any project where physical printing is involved, CMYK guarantees the final product matches the design as closely as possible.
Final Thoughts
The CMYK colour system means that what you design on your screen looks great on paper. remember while creating print designs, always use CMYK to get better outcomes.
Whether you go for business cards, banners, or magazines, CMYK printing is the standard choice for producing bright, colourful, and accurate prints.
Now that you understand the difference, you're ready to make your next printed project a success!
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