Charcoal Color: HEX Code, RGB and Meaning
Charcoal is a deep, dark gray, softer than black and the color of burnt wood.
HEX is one common value Last updated:
#343837rgb(52, 56, 55)hsl(165, 4%, 21%)cmyk(7%, 0%, 2%, 78%)Color definitions vary by source. The HEX above is one common value for "charcoal" from the open color-name-list dataset, not an official standard. CMYK is a simple conversion; printed results depend on ink and paper.
What charcoal means
Charcoal is the sensible dark. It gives the weight of black without the finality, so it feels modern, calm and composed. It is a neutral that rarely tires the eye.
The version shown here is a near-neutral dark gray with a slight cool-green cast, which keeps it from looking flat on screen.
Tints and shades of charcoal
Lighter tints are made by mixing with white and darker shades by mixing with black. Click a swatch to copy its HEX.
Charcoal color palettes
Charcoal is close to neutral, so it has little hue of its own. The partner colors below borrow a 160° hue at muted saturation; treat them as starting points.
Complementary
Two colors opposite each other on the color wheel: the strongest contrast.
Analogous
Three neighbors on the wheel: a smooth, low-contrast scheme.
Triadic
Three colors evenly spaced around the wheel: lively but balanced.
Colors that go with charcoal
- Yellow (#FFFF00): A bold, classic contrast.
- Blush (#F29E8E): Soft against the dark.
- Copper (#B87333): A warm metallic accent.
- White (#FFFFFF): Crisp and modern.
Similar named colors
Where charcoal is used
- Fashion. Charcoal suits, coats and knitwear are workhorses of business and winter wardrobes. They look sharper than gray and softer than black.
- Interiors. Charcoal walls, sofas and cabinetry add depth and make colors around them stand out. It is a popular choice for kitchens and home offices.
- Branding. Tech, architecture and design brands use charcoal for text and backgrounds where pure black feels too harsh.
Charcoal vs slate
Slate is lighter and bluer, like wet stone; charcoal is darker and more neutral. Slate has a distinct cool tint, while charcoal is closer to black.
If you want a dark color with a hint of blue, slate is the pick. If you want one that behaves like a soft black, charcoal is better.
Frequently asked questions
What color is charcoal?
A dark gray, a few steps lighter than black.
Is charcoal black or gray?
Gray. It is dark enough to look black in low light.
What goes with charcoal?
White, blush, yellow and copper all work.
Is charcoal a good wall color?
Yes, in rooms with good light. It can feel heavy in small, dim rooms.