What is Delta E and why is it important?

Delta E (ΔE) measures the perceptual difference between two colors using the CIEDE2000 formula. It's crucial for color matching, quality control, and ensuring consistent colors across different mediums like print and digital displays. Lower Delta E values mean colors appear more similar to the human eye.

What Delta E values are considered acceptable?

For most applications: Delta E under 1.0 is imperceptible, 1-2 is barely perceptible, 2-10 is clearly perceptible but acceptable for many uses, and over 10 is very different. Critical applications like brand colors may require Delta E under 1.0, while general applications can tolerate 2-5.

Why does the calculator show different results than my eye?

The CIEDE2000 formula approximates human color perception, but individual variations in color vision, lighting conditions, and display calibration can affect perceived differences. The calculator provides scientific measurements, while actual perception can vary between people and viewing conditions.

Can I use this for print color matching?

Yes, Delta E is widely used in printing for quality control. However, remember that RGB to CMYK conversion can introduce additional color shifts. Always convert to CMYK first if your final output will be printed, then calculate Delta E between your digital and print samples.

What colors work best for Delta E calculations?

Any RGB colors work, but the tool is most effective when comparing colors in the same color space and gamut. Avoid comparing very dark colors or colors near the edge of the RGB gamut, as these may produce less reliable results due to display limitations.

How accurate is the CIEDE2000 formula?

CIEDE2000 is the current international standard for color difference calculation and provides excellent correlation with human color perception. It's more accurate than older formulas like Delta E 1976 or Delta E 94, especially for colors with low chroma or in blue regions.

Delta E Calculator

Calculate perceptual color difference between two colors using CIEDE2000 formula. Professional-grade color analysis tool essential for quality control, color matching, and ensuring consistent brand colors across digital and print mediums.

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Quick Presets

Pre-selected color pairs to test Delta E calculations

Input

Enter RGB values for two colors to compare

Color 1

Red (R)

Green (G)

Blue (B)

Color 2

Red (R)

Green (G)

Blue (B)

How it works: Calculates the perceptual color difference using the CIEDE2000 formula — the industry standard for measuring how differently two colors appear to the human eye. Values below 1.0 are imperceptible, while values above 49 indicate completely different colors.

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