RAL / HKS Finder

Convert a HEX color to the closest RAL Classic, HKS and NCS spot color in your browser. Useful for designers, architects and print reps — no signup, fully local.

Conversions
R128
G128
B128
HEX#808080
RGBrgb(128, 128, 128)
CMYKC:0% M:0% Y:0% K:50%
HSLH:0° S:0% L:50%
Nearest RALRAL 7037 – Dusty Grey
Nearest HKSHKS 90
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RAL / HKS Finder rating: 4.8 / 5.0 (25 reviews)

About RAL / HKS Finder

RAL / HKS Finder takes a digital color (HEX, RGB) and returns the nearest named matches in the RAL Classic, RAL Design, HKS K7 spot and NCS index systems. These are the spot-color libraries used when ordering paint, powder coating, plastics, and print ink: a designer specs RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey for window frames, a printer specs HKS 41 for a brand cyan, a wall specifier asks for NCS S-1502-Y for a clinic. The tool computes nearest-neighbour using Delta-E2000 in the CIE L*a*b* colour space, the same perceptual model used in proofing software, so the result matches what a human eye would pick. The reference tables are static and embedded; nothing is uploaded.

Best for

  • Translating a screen HEX into a RAL Classic spec for product finish order
  • Matching a brand HEX to the nearest HKS K7 spot for print ink pricing
  • Architects cross-referencing a paint chip's NCS code to the digital brand swatch

Pros

  • +RAL Classic, RAL Design, HKS K7 and NCS libraries handled with one input
  • +Delta-E2000 perceptual matching in CIELAB — same metric proofing suites use
  • +Offline after first load; brand colors never leave your device

Cons

  • −Pantone libraries require a paid license and are not bundled here
  • −Spot-color perceptual match is approximate; for production, verify with the physical chip

How to use RAL / HKS Finder

  1. 1

    Enter the source value, color code, or parameters in the input fields.

  2. 2

    Select the source and destination units or models from the option dropdowns.

  3. 3

    Watch the output update instantly in real-time as you type or adjust.

  4. 4

    Copy the converted results to your clipboard with a single click.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is RAL and why does it matter?
RAL Classic is the European standard spot-color system used in paint, powder coating, and plastic extrusion since 1927. RAL 9003 is the standard white for window frames, RAL 7016 the standard anthracite for modern facades. Specifying RAL means a supplier across the border can match the color print-exact.
Why does my screen color look a bit different from the physical chip?
Spot color libraries describe physical pigments, not sRGB values. The conversion maps your screen color to the nearest chip via Delta-E2000, but glossy substrates and ambient light will always drift a few shades from a screen swatch. Always confirm against a physical chip before ordering.
What is NCS and how do I read codes like S 1502-Y?
NCS (Natural Color System) codes start with S (standard), then saturation/blackness (15) and chromaticness (02), then hue family (Y = yellow). NCS is widely used in architecture in Scandinavia and across European paint shops.
Why isn't Pantone included?
Pantone libraries are licensed and cannot be redistributed. RAL, HKS and NCS use published sRGB references for the physical chips; that's enough of a starting point for many design-to-production workflows. For Pantone work, confirm in licensed designer software.
Are my color inputs uploaded anywhere?
No. The reference spot-color tables are embedded in the page; the matching runs as local JavaScript. Brand colors, client palettes and finish spec inputs never leave your device.

Related tools

FREE

100% Free

No hidden fees, no subscriptions, and no limits. Enjoy complete access to all features gratis.

SIGNUP

No Signup Required

Start converting immediately without creating an account or sharing email address.

PRIVACY

Private & Secure

Your files never leave your device. All processing is completed locally for maximum privacy.

BATCH

Batch Conversion

Convert multiple files simultaneously to save time. Fast and efficient multi-file queue.

LOCAL

Runs in Browser

Utilizes advanced client-side WebAssembly technology to process files directly inside your tab.

FORMATS

200+ Formats

Supports a wide variety of formats including images, documents, audio, video, and more.

USER REVIEWS

RAL / HKS Finder Quality Rating

4.8
25 reviews

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