How to Use PMS vs CMYK Colors in Printing

As you embark on your design journey, you’ll come across the terms PMS, CMYK and RGB colors and printing. Let’s decode what they mean and how you can use them for stunning designs!

What are PMS, CMYK and RGB?

PMS stands for Pantone Matching System. It uses standardized, premixed ink colors identified by unique codes. PMS includes more 1000 various colors, each color linked a particular sample or number, and therefore we call it spot color, sometimes called solid color. This allows exact color matching across different printers.

CMYK refers to printing with 4 color inks - Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black. By adjusting ink percentages, a range of colors is produced.

RGB deals with mixing Red, Green and Blue light to generate colors for digital screens.

When Should Designers use CMYK and PMS?

CMYK printing is ideal for full color images like photographs. The blending of 4 inks can create almost any color, like mixing paints. But accuracy is limited compared to PMS.

PMS delivers precision coloring. Those unique Pantone numbered inks enable flawless color reproduction. Use PMS for logos, branding elements and projects where color consistency is critical.

What is the Difference Between PMS and CMYK?

PMS prints specific pre-mixed colors while CMYK mixes inks to create colors.

PMS needs the exact Pantone inks including coated and uncoated. CMYK requires just 4 standard process inks.

PMS has a larger color range for vivid, accurate printing. CMYK’s color gamut is more limited in comparison.

PMS is costlier but offers color precision, especially when the volume is small in offset printing. CMYK is affordable but color matching can be tricky.

When Should Designers Use PMS vs CMYK?

Need precise branding colors? Go with PMS. Designing colorful scenery? CMYK can handle that beautifully.

For packaging, PMS printing is ideal when accurate colors are needed - for logos on shopping bags, branding elements, and projects where consistency is critical. CMYK is better for full color images like photographs where precision is less important. The choice depends on the specific color needs and budget.

You can also combine both using PMS spot colors with CMYK backgrounds. The choice depends on your specific color needs and accuracy requirements.