Convert CMYK values to LAB color space (L*, a*, b*) instantly — accurate, browser-based, no signup required.
How It Works
CMYK to LAB isn’t a direct formula — there’s no standard that maps ink percentages straight to LAB. This tool converts CMYK to RGB first, then RGB to XYZ (D65 illuminant), then XYZ to LAB, which is the same path professional color tools use. Because CMYK is device-dependent and this conversion uses standard sRGB, the LAB output is a close approximation, not a guaranteed print-accurate match.
FAQ
Why does CMYK to LAB need RGB as a middle step?
LAB is derived from CIE XYZ, and there’s no direct CMYK-to-XYZ standard formula — RGB is the common bridge every conversion tool uses, including this one.
Is CMYK to LAB conversion exact?
No — CMYK is device- and ink-dependent, so any CMYK-to-LAB conversion (including this one, which assumes standard sRGB) is an approximation, not a guaranteed print match.
What do the L, a, and b values mean?
L represents lightness from 0 (black) to 100 (white), a represents the green-red axis, and b represents the blue-yellow axis.