Black HEX Code
The HEX code for pure black is #000000. Black represents the complete absence of light in the RGB color model, with all three color channels at zero. In print (CMYK), black is typically achieved using the Key (K) channel for deeper, richer blacks.
Black Color Values
| Format | Value | HEX#000000 RGBrgb(0, 0, 0) HSLhsl(0, 0%, 0%) CMYKC:0 M:0 Y:0 K:100
Black Shades and Near-Blacks
Pure black (#000000) can feel harsh. Designers often use softer near-black shades:
ShadeHEXDescription Black#000000Pure black Rich Black#0A0A0ASlightly softer Soft Black#111111Common for text Charcoal#1A1A1ADark gray-black Off-Black#1C1C1CWarmer feel Dark Gray#222222Popular for dark mode Jet#343434Named dark shade | Onyx | #353839 | Blue-tinted black |
Black in Design
Black conveys:
- Elegance: Luxury brands, fashion
- Power: Authority, sophistication
- Mystery: Dramatic, edgy designs
- Formality: Professional, corporate
Using Black for Text
``css
/* Pure black - high contrast but harsh */
.text-harsh {
color: #000000;
}
/* Softer black - easier on eyes */
.text-soft {
color: #1A1A1A;
}
/* Dark gray for body text */
.text-body {
color: #333333;
}
``
Rich Black in Print
For printing, pure K:100 black may look washed out. Use "rich black" for deeper, more saturated blacks:
| Type | CMYK | Use Case | Pure BlackC:0 M:0 Y:0 K:100Text, fine details Rich BlackC:60 M:40 Y:40 K:100Large solid areas Cool BlackC:60 M:0 Y:0 K:100Blue-tinted black Warm BlackC:0 M:60 Y:60 K:100Red-tinted black
Dark Mode Best Practices
For dark mode interfaces, avoid pure black backgrounds:
ElementRecommended Color Background#121212 or #1A1A1A Surface#1E1E1E or #252525 Card#2C2C2C Text#E0E0E0 (not white)
This reduces eye strain and creates better visual hierarchy.
Brand Blacks
BrandHEX Apple#000000 Nike#111111 Prada#000000 Chanel#000000