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Why do printed colours differ from my screen?

RGB, CMYK, material and lighting explain why a display is not a colour proof.

Last reviewed: October 20, 2026

Visual check of file type, logo, text, QR code, colour and transparency

A screen creates colour with light (RGB); print reflects ambient light through ink and material. Brightness, profiles, paper, texture, coating and viewing light all affect the result.

Use the required profile where specified, avoid extremely bright RGB colours outside the printable gamut, and use a calibrated display and fixed colour values for critical work. An online preview checks content and placement; it is not a contract colour proof.

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