- What is a color picker and how does it work?
- A color picker is a tool that lets you choose a color visually or by entering values, and see it in different formats (HEX, RGB, HSL, CMYK). This one syncs all inputs in real time: change the native picker or type a HEX code and every other field and preview updates. You can copy any format, generate harmonies, and check contrast for accessibility.
- What is the difference between HEX, RGB and HSL?
- HEX is a compact way to write RGB as a single string (e.g. #ff0000 for red). RGB uses three numbers from 0 to 255 for red, green and blue. HSL describes color by Hue (0–360), Saturation (0–100%) and Lightness (0–100%), which many find easier for tuning shades and creating palettes. All three represent the same color; this tool converts between them instantly.
- What is CMYK and when do I use it?
- CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Key (black). It is used mainly for print, where inks are mixed. Screens use RGB; printers often use CMYK. If you are designing for both web and print, you may need to convert: this tool shows the CMYK equivalent of any color so you can match branding across media.
- What is WCAG contrast ratio?
- WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) defines minimum contrast ratios between text and background so text is readable. AA requires 4.5:1 for normal text (3:1 for large); AAA requires 7:1 (4.5:1 for large). This tool shows the ratio of your color on white and on black, and labels whether it passes AA or AAA for accessibility.
- What are color harmonies and how do I use them?
- Color harmonies are sets of colors that look good together: complementary (opposite on the wheel), analogous (neighbors), triadic (evenly spaced), split-complementary and tetradic. This tool generates these from your chosen color. Click any swatch to set it as the main color. Use them for palettes, UI, or brand colors.
- What are tints and shades?
- Tints are a color mixed with white (higher lightness); shades are mixed with black (lower lightness). This tool generates nine steps from 10% to 90% lightness, similar to Tailwind CSS scales. Use them for backgrounds, borders, or hover states while keeping the same hue and saturation.
- Can I use this color picker for web design and CSS?
- Yes. You get HEX, RGB, RGBA, HSL, HSLA and a CSS variable snippet (e.g. --color-primary: #1a2b3c). Copy any value into your stylesheet. The contrast check helps you pick accessible text colors. The harmonies and tints give you a full palette without leaving the tool.
- What is a CSS custom property (variable) for colors?
- CSS custom properties (variables) let you define a color once and reuse it: e.g. --color-primary: #1a2b3c; then use var(--color-primary) in your CSS. This tool shows the variable form so you can paste it into :root and keep your palette consistent and easy to change later.