How to Read HEX Codes: A Guide
Feb 5, 2025
·
2 min read
Understanding colors is essential for any UI designer, and a key skill is learning how to read HEX codes. These codes represent colors in the RGB system and are vital for creating precise, consistent designs.
In this article, you’ll discover the meaning behind HEX codes, how to analyze them, and how to use this knowledge effectively in your work.
What is a HEX code
A HEX code represents the levels of red, green, and blue in a color. It’s a shorthand method for encoding RGB values in web and UI design.
Hexadecimal numeral system
HEX codes use a hexadecimal numeral system, which represents large numbers with fewer digits. This system is efficient and widely used in digital design.
RGB color systems
In RGB color systems, each color has 16 × 16 = 256 possible values, making it possible to represent a lot of color variations.
RGB values range from 0 (no color) to 255 (full color).
RGB systems in screens
Our screens use the RGB (additive) color system. Each pixel has three sub-pixels—red, green, and blue—that emit light. When all three sub-pixels emit their maximum value (255), the result is white.
Analyzing and reading HEX codes
#FF0000: Red FF is the highest value (255), while Green and Blue are at the lowest (00). The result is a vivid red without any green or blue.
#00FFFF: Red is at the lowest (00), while Green and Blue are at the highest (FF). The result is a mix of green and blue, creating cyan.
Sneaky math formula
To learn how to read HEX codes, you need to analyze the pairs step by step:
Multiply the first number by 16.
Multiply the second number by 1.
Add them together for the final value.
For example, a HEX code with red values of E2 (226/255) has a lot of red. Repeat this process for the green and blue pairs to determine the color’s shade accurately.
Can you guess which color is represented by this HEX code?
Conclusion
Learning how to read HEX codes is a valuable skill for any UI designer. By mastering the structure, math, and logic behind these codes, you can create more accurate and consistent designs. Start practicing today, and you’ll find HEX codes becoming an integral part of your design workflow.
What is a HEX code
A HEX code represents the levels of red, green, and blue in a color. It’s a shorthand method for encoding RGB values in web and UI design.
Hexadecimal numeral system
HEX codes use a hexadecimal numeral system, which represents large numbers with fewer digits. This system is efficient and widely used in digital design.
RGB color systems
In RGB color systems, each color has 16 × 16 = 256 possible values, making it possible to represent a lot of color variations.
RGB values range from 0 (no color) to 255 (full color).
RGB systems in screens
Our screens use the RGB (additive) color system. Each pixel has three sub-pixels—red, green, and blue—that emit light. When all three sub-pixels emit their maximum value (255), the result is white.
Analyzing and reading HEX codes
#FF0000: Red FF is the highest value (255), while Green and Blue are at the lowest (00). The result is a vivid red without any green or blue.
#00FFFF: Red is at the lowest (00), while Green and Blue are at the highest (FF). The result is a mix of green and blue, creating cyan.
Sneaky math formula
To learn how to read HEX codes, you need to analyze the pairs step by step:
Multiply the first number by 16.
Multiply the second number by 1.
Add them together for the final value.
For example, a HEX code with red values of E2 (226/255) has a lot of red. Repeat this process for the green and blue pairs to determine the color’s shade accurately.
Can you guess which color is represented by this HEX code?
Conclusion
Learning how to read HEX codes is a valuable skill for any UI designer. By mastering the structure, math, and logic behind these codes, you can create more accurate and consistent designs. Start practicing today, and you’ll find HEX codes becoming an integral part of your design workflow.
If you aren't following us on Instagram already, you're seriously missing out! Become a part of our ever-growing community and learn something new from the field of product design every. single. day.
Happy designing! 🥳
andrija & supercharge design team
If you aren't following us on Instagram already, you're seriously missing out! Become a part of our ever-growing community and learn something new from the field of product design every. single. day.
Happy designing! 🥳
andrija & supercharge design team