About

This tool converts Natural Color System (NCS) notations into digital color formats (RGB, HEX, HSL). Unlike simple mathematical color models, NCS is based on human perception, describing colors by their Blackness (s), Chromaticness (c), and Hue (φ).

Because NCS defines colors based on physical reference samples, converting them to screen values (RGB) requires algorithmic approximation. This tool uses a barycentric mixing model to simulate the mixture of pure Hue, White, and Black to generate the closest sRGB equivalent.

Formulas

The conversion approximates the color by mixing three components: White, Black, and the Pure Hue.

Color ≈ w ⋅ W + s ⋅ K + c ⋅ H100

Where:

s = Blackness percentage (from NCS code)
c = Chromaticness percentage (from NCS code)
w = Whiteness (100 − s − c)
W = RGB(255,255,255)
K = RGB(0,0,0)
H = RGB of the pure Hue (interpolated between primaries)

Reference Data

NCS Code	Approx. HEX	Description
S 0500-N	#FFFFFF	Pure White
S 9000-N	#000000	Pure Black
S 0580-Y10R	#FFC200	Standard Yellow
S 2060-R	#C43C45	Deep Red
S 2060-B	#399BD6	Strong Blue
S 1060-G	#009F6B	Vibrant Green
S 5040-R90B	#3E3B68	Dark Purple
S 1040-G20Y	#93C572	Pistachio

Frequently Asked Questions

The "S" indicates the Second Edition (Standard) of the NCS system, introduced in 1995. It ensures the color matches the standardized physical samples.

NCS is a physical pigment standard, while RGB is light-based (screen). Some NCS colors fall outside the sRGB gamut and cannot be displayed perfectly on a monitor. This tool provides the closest mathematical approximation.

S = Standard. 2030 = 20% Blackness, 30% Chromaticness. Y90R = The hue is Yellow with 90% Red mixed in (almost Red).

Yes. Neutral colors like "S 2000-N" define pure greys. The code indicates 20% Blackness and 0% Chromaticness.