Gray vs Dim Gray

Gray #808080 View details →

Dim Gray #696969 View details →

What is the difference between Gray and Dim Gray?

A side-by-side study of Gray (#808080) and Dim Gray (#696969) presents distinct choices for graphic layouts. Both shades match closely in terms of color richness and saturation profile. Gray behaves as a lighter and more luminous tone. A subtle hue shift of 0° creates a blended and harmonious transition.

Design recommendations for Gray vs Dim Gray

Integrating Gray and Dim Gray requires balancing dark and light elements. Utilize the depth of Dim Gray to provide strong contrast and visual structure, and pair it with Gray on card backgrounds or subtle link accents to keep the user interface fresh and readable.

✦ Readability & Contrast Testing

Visual test showing black and white text overlay readability on both colors.

Gray Typography

Preview of dark and light text elements rendered over a solid Gray background canvas.

White Text: 3.95:1 Black Text: 5.32:1

Dim Gray Typography

Preview of dark and light text elements rendered over a solid Dim Gray background canvas.

White Text: 5.49:1 Black Text: 3.83:1

⚙ Technical Specifications Comparison

Format / Value	Gray	Dim Gray	Delta / Difference
HEX Code	`#808080`	`#696969`	-
RGB Channels	`rgb(128, 128, 128)`	`rgb(105, 105, 105)`	`R:-23 \| G:-23 \| B:-23`
HSL Values	`hsl(0°, 0%, 50%)`	`hsl(0°, 0%, 41%)`	`H:0° \| S:0% \| L:-9%`
CMYK (Print)	`cmyk(0%, 0%, 0%, 50%)`	`cmyk(0%, 0%, 0%, 59%)`	-

◉ Individual Color References

Gray Reference Sheet HEX, RGB, HSL and print codes

Dim Gray Reference Sheet HEX, RGB, HSL and print codes