#404040 Hex Color

A stable dark grey for clean interfaces

Hex color #404040 graphic
This dark, neutral grey provides a stable foundation for minimal and professional interfaces. It offers enough depth to anchor a layout without the harshness of pure black. Because #404040 supports white text with high readability, it works well as a background for clean typography. This hex code is a practical choice for moody designs, though avoid using it for fine details where it might appear muddy.

Questions about #404040

What is #404040 in RGB, HSL and CMYK?
In RGB, #404040 is rgb(64, 64, 64), in HSL hsl(0, 0%, 25%) and in CMYK 0%, 0%, 0%, 75%.
Does #404040 work better than pure black for text?
Yes, #404040 is significantly easier on the eyes than pure black for long-form reading and interface design. It provides high contrast against light backgrounds while reducing visual fatigue, making it the preferred choice for modern professional typography and minimal user interfaces.
What colors pair well with #404040?
This neutral tone pairs exceptionally well with muted earth tones and vibrant, high-contrast accents. For a balanced, professional look, combine it with sage or deep navy to create depth without introducing the intensity of primary colors.
Is #404040 readable on white or black?
#404040 has a 10.36:1 contrast ratio on white and 2.02:1 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.