RGB vs CMYK: Why Colors Look Different in Print

Have you ever designed a beautiful book cover on your computer with bright, vibrant blues and neon greens, only to feel disappointed when the printed version arrives looking slightly darker or “dull”?

Don’t worry, your printer isn’t broken. This is a common issue caused by the difference between light (screens) and ink (paper).

At BookPrintCanada, we want your books to look amazing. Understanding the difference between RGB and CMYK is the key to getting predictable results from our professional digital presses.

What is RGB? (Light)

RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue.

This is the color mode used by computer monitors, smartphones, and TVs.

• How it works: Screens project light directly into your eyes. By mixing red, green, and blue light, screens can create millions of bright, neon, and saturated colors.
• The Problem: Paper cannot project light; it can only reflect it. Therefore, it is physically impossible to print some of the super-bright electric colors you see on a screen.

What is CMYK? (Ink)

CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black).

This is the color mode used by all professional printers (including us).

• How it works: We layer four colors of toner/ink onto the white paper to create images.
• The Reality: The range of colors (gamut) that ink can produce is smaller than what a screen can show.

The “Neon” Problem

The biggest shifts happen with:

1. Bright Blues: On screen, they look electric. In print, they often turn purplish or navy.
2. Neon Greens: On screen, they glow. In print, they look like forest green.

Since we use CMYK digital printing, we cannot print “white ink” or special neon spot colors. We have to mix C, M, Y, and K to approximate your color.

How to Avoid Surprises

The good news is that you can fix this before you send us your file!

1. Design in CMYK Mode: If you use Adobe InDesign or Photoshop, set your document color mode to CMYK before you start designing. This forces the screen to show you a “preview” of what is physically printable.
2. Convert Before Exporting: If you use Canva or Word (which are RGB only), try to use a “PDF for Print” export setting if available.
3. Trust the Proof: If color accuracy is critical for your photography book or corporate manual, always ask us about a hard-copy proof.

Summary

• Screens (RGB) use light and are brighter.
• Printers (CMYK) use ink and are naturally slightly darker.

By preparing your file correctly, you ensure that the masterpiece on your screen translates perfectly to the paperback in your hands.

Need help converting your file?
Check out our guide on [How to Prepare a Print-Ready PDF]