OKLCH vs Hex

If you’ve been building websites for a while, you probably know and use hex codes like #FF5733 or #333333 to define colors in CSS. But have you heard of OKLCH? It’s the new kid on the block — and it’s changing the way designers and developers think about colors on the web.

Let’s break it down: what’s the difference between OKLCH and hex, and why might you want to use one over the other?

What is Hex?

Hex codes are a way of representing RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color values. They’re short and widely supported, but they don’t really say much about the color itself. For example, can you guess what color #1e90ff is just by looking at it? Probably not (it’s Dodger Blue, by the way).

What is OKLCH?

OKLCH is a newer color format that’s based on how humans actually see color. It stands for:

• OK (the color model it's based on)

• Lightness

• Chroma (color intensity)

• Hue (the color itself)

Instead of numbers that only computers understand, OKLCH uses values that make it easier to tweak how light or vibrant a color is. Want a lighter version of your brand color? Just adjust the lightness value, and you’re good to go — no guesswork.

Why Use OKLCH Instead of Hex?

Here are a few reasons developers and designers are switching to OKLCH:

• More intuitive: You can make smart color adjustments without messing with RGB math.

• Better accessibility: OKLCH helps maintain contrast and readability across UI elements.

• Future-ready: It supports a wider range of colors, especially on modern displays.

• Smoother gradients: If you use gradients a lot, OKLCH produces nicer transitions.

That said, hex is still everywhere — and for good reason. It’s easy, compatible with every browser, and has been the go-to for years. But for modern design systems that prioritize accessibility and flexibility, OKLCH is definitely worth learning.

Here’s why OKLCH is catching on:

• Intuitive Adjustments: Instead of fiddling with three RGB values, you can adjust the lightness, chroma, or hue separately. This makes it easier to create variations of a base color, such as lighter or more saturated versions.

• Enhanced Accessibility: Because OKLCH aligns more closely with how we perceive color differences, it can help designers create more accessible color schemes by ensuring adequate contrast between text and backgrounds.

• Future-Proofing: With browsers beginning to support more advanced color formats, OKLCH is poised to be an essential tool for modern web design.

So… Should You Switch?

If you’re just starting out, hex will do the job just fine. But if you’re building a serious design system, trying to ensure color accessibility, or want more control over how your UI feels — OKLCH could be a game changer.

Browser support is growing fast, and you can start using it today in modern browsers with a fallback for older ones.

Changes came with Tailwind v4

Tailwind CSS has always been on the cutting edge of design utility frameworks, and the latest v4 release is no exception. One of the exciting updates in Tailwind CSS v4 is the modernized P3 color palette, which embraces broader color gamuts and a more nuanced approach to color definition.

What’s New in Tailwind CSS v4?

• Modernized P3 Color Palette: The updated color palette now includes shades that tap into the Display P3 color space. This means richer, more vibrant colors that can make your designs pop on devices that support these gamuts.

• Support for OKLCH: With its intuitive approach to color, OKLCH fits perfectly into this modern setup. By using OKLCH, you can more easily create design systems that leverage these vibrant new palettes.

• Enhanced Accessibility Features: Tailwind v4’s updated system also emphasizes accessibility. By using perceptual color models like OKLCH, designers have more control over contrast ratios and overall legibility.

Tailwind CSS v4’s improvements are a clear nod to the future of web design. As browsers and displays continue to evolve, using color models that align with modern technology and human perception becomes crucial. OKLCH is a part of that future, offering a bridge between traditional methods (like hex) and the advanced capabilities needed for contemporary design systems.

Wrapping It Up

To sum up, while hex colors have long been a staple in web design, OKLCH offers a fresh, intuitive alternative that aligns with modern accessibility and design standards. Tailwind CSS v4 is at the forefront of this evolution, providing developers with a modernized color palette that embraces the full potential of today’s displays.

As the web continues to evolve, staying updated with the latest tools and techniques is essential. OKLCH, combined with Tailwind CSS v4’s innovative approach, represents a significant step forward in creating more dynamic, accessible, and visually engaging websites.