UI Design

How to Read HEX Codes: A Guide

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.

A 3D illustration of a colorful abacus, symbolizing counting and calculations, set against a dark gradient background.

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.

Text representation of a hex code (#218FFC) with individual color values highlighted in red, green, and blue.

Each hex code breaks into red, green, and blue values

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.

A comparison table showing the decimal and hexadecimal number systems, with annotations explaining the representation of values.

Hexadecimal numeral system

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.

Bar charts for red, green, and blue, with gradients from 0 to 255, illustrating color intensity variations.

RGB values range from 0 (no color) to 255 (full color)

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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.

A Venn diagram of red, green, and blue lights combining to form white in the center, with a caption explaining their primary color roles in UI design.

Red, green, and blue are the primary colors for UI design

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.
Two hex codes (#FF0000 and #00FFFF) with corresponding red and cyan colors, along with annotated explanations of their RGB values.

How to analyze and read HEX codes

Sneaky Math Formula

To learn how to read HEX codes, you need to analyze the pairs step by step:

  1. Multiply the first number by 16.
  2. Multiply the second number by 1.
  3. 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.

Step-by-step visual breakdown of converting a hex code (#E211FF) into decimal values for each RGB component.

Can you guess which color is represented by this HEX code?

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.

For other valuable educational resources, explore our Learn section. Here, we offer heaps of courses, workbooks, and other resources that will help you improve your skills in UX/UI.
Happy designing! 🤗

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