Color Converter
Instantly convert colors between HEX, RGB, and HSL formats. Real-time preview, accessibility checker, and CSS-ready code snippets for designers and developers.
WCAG Guidelines:
• AA: 4.5:1 (normal text), 3:1 (large text)
• AAA: 7:1 (normal text), 4.5:1 (large text)
CSS: color: #3b82f6;
HTML: style="color: #3b82f6"
CSS: rgb(59, 130, 246)
CSS: hsl(217, 91%, 60%)
Understanding Color Conversion
Color conversion is a fundamental process in digital design, web development, and visual arts. It involves translating color values between different color models such as HEX, RGB, and HSL. Each model serves a unique purpose: HEX is widely used in web design for its compactness, RGB is the foundation for digital screens, and HSL offers a more intuitive approach for color manipulation. Mastering color conversion allows designers and developers to create visually appealing, accessible, and consistent user experiences across platforms.
HEX (hexadecimal) codes are six-digit representations of color, starting with a hash (#). RGB (Red, Green, Blue) values define color by mixing light in varying intensities, while HSL (Hue, Saturation, Lightness) describes color in terms of its shade, vibrancy, and brightness. Understanding how to convert between these models is essential for tasks like theming, branding, and ensuring color accessibility.
In addition to these, designers may encounter other color spaces such as CMYK (for print), LAB (for perceptual uniformity), and P3 (for wide-gamut displays). However, HEX, RGB, and HSL remain the most relevant for web and app development. This tool streamlines the conversion process, making it easy to switch between formats and apply colors in CSS, design tools, and codebases.
How This Tool Works
The Color Converter tool instantly translates color values between HEX, RGB, and HSL formats. When you input a value in one format, the tool automatically updates the other formats in real time. It uses precise mathematical formulas to ensure accuracy and supports edge cases such as shorthand HEX codes and out-of-range values. The live preview updates as you type, allowing you to see the color and its accessibility contrast ratios immediately.
The tool also features a contrast checker, which calculates the contrast ratio between your selected color and both white and black backgrounds. This is crucial for meeting accessibility standards (WCAG) and ensuring your designs are readable by everyone. All calculations are performed locally in your browser, ensuring privacy and speed.
Whether you are a designer, developer, or hobbyist, this tool simplifies color management and helps you create visually consistent and accessible interfaces.
Key Features
- Instant Conversion: Convert between HEX, RGB, and HSL formats in real time as you type.
- Live Color Preview: See your selected color applied instantly, with sample text for readability.
- Accessibility Checker: Automatic contrast ratio analysis for both white and black backgrounds, with WCAG compliance indicators.
- Copy to Clipboard: One-click copy for HEX, RGB, and HSL values, ready for use in CSS or design tools.
- Responsive Design: Optimized for desktop and mobile, with a clean, modern interface.
- Privacy First: All calculations are performed locally in your browser. No data is sent or stored.
- Educational Content: Includes technical references, color theory, and best practices for color usage.
- Free and Open: 100% free to use, with no registration required.
These features make the Color Converter an essential tool for web designers, developers, and anyone working with digital color.
Common Use Cases
- Web Design: Quickly convert and apply color codes in CSS, HTML, and design systems.
- Branding: Ensure consistent color usage across digital and print media by converting between formats.
- Accessibility Audits: Check color contrast ratios to meet WCAG guidelines for text and UI elements.
- UI/UX Prototyping: Experiment with color schemes and see instant results in real time.
- Mobile App Development: Convert color codes for use in iOS, Android, and cross-platform frameworks.
- Design Collaboration: Share color values with teammates, clients, or stakeholders in their preferred format.
- Learning & Teaching: Use the tool as an educational resource for understanding color models and conversions.
No matter your workflow, the Color Converter adapts to your needs and streamlines color management.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Enter a Color Value: Input a HEX, RGB, or HSL value in the respective field. The tool will automatically update the other formats.
- View the Live Preview: Instantly see your color applied to a sample area and text, with contrast ratios displayed.
- Check Accessibility: Review the contrast ratio results to ensure your color meets accessibility standards.
- Copy the Code: Use the copy buttons to grab HEX, RGB, or HSL values for use in your projects.
- Explore Educational Content: Scroll down for technical references, color theory, and best practices.
For best results, use the tool in a modern browser. All features are available on both desktop and mobile devices.
Technical Reference & Color Theory
HEX to RGB Conversion
R = parseInt(hex.substr(1,2), 16)
G = parseInt(hex.substr(3,2), 16)
B = parseInt(hex.substr(5,2), 16)
RGB to HSL Conversion
1. Normalize RGB values (0-1)
2. Find max and min values
3. Calculate lightness: L = (max + min) / 2
4. Calculate saturation and hue based on differences
Contrast Ratio Formula
(L1 + 0.05) / (L2 + 0.05)
Where L1 is the relative luminance of the lighter color and L2 is the relative luminance of the darker color
Common Color Spaces
sRGB: Standard web color space
Adobe RGB: Wider gamut for photography
P3: Modern display color space
Lab: Perceptually uniform color space