RGB vs CMYK: Which Colour Mode to Use for Print | Valenna

RGB vs CMYK: Which Colour Mode to Use

Use CMYK for print artwork whenever your design software allows it. RGB is designed for light on screens, while CMYK describes the ink used for printing.

🎨 Compared

RGBCMYK
Made forScreens (light)Printing (ink)
If you supply itMust be converted for production. Bright blues, greens, oranges and neons may become less saturated or shiftMore predictable colour preparation
📝 Note: CMYK reduces surprises, but not all variation. Monitor brightness, paper colour, coating, finish and the printing process all change how colour looks, so a screen cannot guarantee the printed result.

✅ Best practice

  • Design in CMYK from the beginning where possible.
  • Use 300 DPI images at final size.
  • Do not use a phone screenshot as a colour standard.
  • Order a physical sample on the intended material when colour is critical.

See screen colour vs printed colour and why print colours vary between orders.

❓ Frequently asked questions

My design is already in RGB. What now?

It will be converted for production, and bright colours may shift. If colour matters, convert to CMYK yourself, review the result and order a sample.

Does Canva export CMYK?

Check your tool's export options. Where CMYK is not available, expect some colour shift and order a sample.

👉 Related guides and next steps