Slate Gray vs Gray

What is the difference between Slate Gray and Gray?

Comparing Slate Gray (#708090) and Gray (#808080) reveals interesting optical contrasts. Evaluating saturation levels, Slate Gray displays a significantly higher color purity. They share almost the same luminance, meaning their brightness level is equivalent. Their hue coordinates represent a contrasting relationship, offering a high-energy pairing.

Design recommendations for Slate Gray vs Gray

From a design standpoint, these colors serve different layout roles. The darker Slate Gray is excellent for text elements, borders, and structural divs to anchor the page, whereas the more luminous Gray works best for highlights, background sections, or notification badges. Ensure contrast checks are verified for text readability.

Readability & Contrast Testing

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

Slate Gray Typography

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

White Text: 4.05:1 Black Text: 5.18:1

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

Technical Specifications Comparison

Format / Value Slate Gray Gray Delta / Difference
HEX Code #708090 #808080 -
RGB Channels rgb(112, 128, 144) rgb(128, 128, 128) R:+16 | G:0 | B:-16
HSL Values hsl(210°, 13%, 50%) hsl(0°, 0%, 50%) H:-210° | S:-13% | L:0%
CMYK (Print) cmyk(22%, 11%, 0%, 44%) cmyk(0%, 0%, 0%, 50%) -

Individual Color References

Slate Gray Reference Sheet HEX, RGB, HSL and print codes
Gray Reference Sheet HEX, RGB, HSL and print codes
Copied!