#161618 Hex Color
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This ultra-dark, muted charcoal provides a sophisticated alternative to pure black. Because it retains subtle gray undertones, #161618 feels less harsh on the eyes in dark mode UI design. It functions perfectly as a dominant background color, offering an 18.1:1 contrast ratio with white text. Use this hex code to establish a stable, grounded mood in minimal branding projects without overwhelming the viewer.
Questions about #161618
What is #161618 in RGB, HSL and CMYK?
In RGB, #161618 is rgb(22, 22, 24), in HSL hsl(240, 4%, 9%) and in CMYK 8%, 8%, 0%, 91%.
Why is #161618 better than pure black for UI design?
#161618 provides a softer, more natural contrast against white text than absolute black, which can cause eye strain on screens. This muted charcoal is easier to view for long periods while maintaining a clean, professional aesthetic for modern digital interfaces.
What color palettes work best with #161618?
Because #161618 functions as a neutral foundation, it pairs effectively with high-contrast accent colors like electric blue or vivid orange. You can also layer it with soft cool grays to create a subtle, monochromatic depth that feels grounded and high-end.
Is #161618 readable on white or black?
#161618 has a 18.07:1 contrast ratio on white and 1.16:1 on black. WCAG asks for 4.5:1 for body text and 3:1 for large text, so on white it works for body text and on black it is too faint for text. Try other pairs in the contrast checker.