What is sRGB?

sRGB (standard RGB) is a color space commonly used in digital imaging to ensure color consistency across devices like monitors, printers, and cameras. It defines a specific range of colors - also called a gamut - that can be accurately displayed on most consumer electronics.

sRGB is the default color space for web content, digital photography, and print-on-demand design tools. Whether you're creating artwork or uploading designs to an ecommerce store, using sRGB ensures that your colors look consistent across different screens. For designers using tools like Canva or AI-generated images, sticking with sRGB is key to accurate previews. Learn how this applies in POD workflows with our AI tools for print-on-demand guide.

What’s the difference between RGB and sRGB?

While RGB refers to the broader color model using red, green, and blue light to mix and display colors, sRGB is a specific standard within that model. RGB is the foundation for how colors are displayed on digital devices, while sRGB defines an exact subset of those colors to ensure consistent color reproduction.

In short:

• RGB = Color model (broad)
  
  
• sRGB = Defined color space within RGB (narrow and standardized)
  
  

This standardization helps print-on-demand sellers maintain brand consistency when designing and uploading visuals to platforms like Shopify or Etsy. To learn more about choosing the right ecommerce platform, see our breakdown of Shopify vs Etsy.

What is sRGB mode?

sRGB mode refers to settings in your display, software, or design tools that limit color output to the sRGB color space. Activating this mode helps designers and sellers preview their work accurately, especially when preparing visuals for online display or POD catalogs. For POD sellers, enabling sRGB mode ensures that product previews reflect what customers will actually receive.

Can you convert sRGB to RGB?

Yes, but most digital applications already operate in sRGB by default. Converting sRGB to a generic RGB space is possible, though it rarely changes the visual output unless the source includes colors outside the sRGB gamut. For most ecommerce and POD scenarios, working in sRGB is ideal.

How does sRGB compare to CMYK?

sRGB is optimized for digital screens, while CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) is designed for printing. sRGB uses light to display color (additive model), while CMYK uses ink to reflect color (subtractive model). If you're preparing products for a POD platform like Podbase, it’s best to design in sRGB, as it's the standard for most print file previews and digital mockups.

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