What is the difference between LAB and XYZ color spaces?

LAB (CIELAB) is a perceptually uniform color space designed to represent colors as humans perceive them, with L* representing lightness and a*, b* representing color opponents. XYZ (CIE XYZ) is the foundational color space in color science, using mathematical primaries that cannot be displayed but serve as a reference for all other color spaces. LAB is device-independent and perceptually uniform, while XYZ is also device-independent but not perceptually uniform.

Why use D65 illuminant for LAB to XYZ conversion?

D65 represents average daylight with a color temperature of 6500K and is the standard illuminant for sRGB color space. Using D65 ensures that your XYZ values are compatible with digital displays, ICC profiles, and most color management systems. This makes the conversion results practical for both digital and print applications.

What are the valid ranges for LAB values?

L* (Lightness) ranges from 0 to 100, where 0 is black and 100 is white. The a* and b* channels theoretically range from -128 to +127, but in practice, most colors fall within -100 to +100. Negative a* values represent green colors, positive a* represents red, negative b* represents blue, and positive b* represents yellow.

How accurate is the LAB to XYZ conversion?

The conversion uses the official CIE mathematical formulas with double precision calculations, ensuring scientific accuracy suitable for professional applications. The tool handles edge cases and ensures XYZ values stay within valid ranges while maintaining precision to two decimal places.

When would I need to convert LAB to XYZ?

You need LAB to XYZ conversion when working with color management systems, print production, color science research, quality control, or any application requiring device-independent color values. XYZ serves as a bridge between different color spaces and is essential for ensuring color consistency across devices and media.

Can I convert XYZ back to LAB?

Yes, XYZ can be converted back to LAB using the inverse mathematical transformation. However, this tool focuses specifically on LAB to XYZ conversion. For reverse conversion or other color space transformations, you would need additional tools designed for those specific conversions.

LAB to XYZ Converter

Convert CIELAB (LAB) color values to CIE XYZ color space with scientific precision using D65 illuminant standard. Essential tool for color science, print design, and professional color management workflows for transforming perceptually uniform LAB colors to device-independent XYZ coordinates.

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Quick Presets

Preset LAB values for testing XYZ conversions

Input

Enter LAB values to convert to CIE XYZ color space.

Lightness (L*)

a* (Green–Red)

Green (-128)Red (+127)

b* (Blue–Yellow)

Blue (-128)Yellow (+127)

How it works: Converts CIELAB to CIE XYZ using the D65 illuminant and reference white point (X=95.047, Y=100.0, Z=108.883). LAB is perceptually uniform — equal numerical differences correspond to equal visual differences.

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