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N
NAdler
Participant
October 24, 2024
Question

Difference between "Process color"/"CMYK" "(click to convert)" in color panel

  • October 24, 2024
  • 1 reply
  • 189 views

I have created a swatch:

- Color Mode: CMYK

- Color Type: Process Color

 

When I apply the (global) color to an element I see this in the color panel:

 

What is the difference between the two rectangular buttons below the "100%"?

left button:

right button:

Both lead to the same result:


What are they converting? The color already is CMYK and it already is a process color…

This topic has been closed for replies.

1 reply

Anubhav M
Community Manager
Anubhav MCommunity Manager
Community Manager
October 24, 2024

Hello @8959873 Adler,

Spot colors are valuable in standard CMYK printing workflows, as they ensure that no other colors will alter the applied color during printing.

If a document is converted from another color mode (like RGB), Illustrator may prompt you to confirm the conversion to CMYK. Since your swatch is already in CMYK and defined as a process color, clicking either option won't change its appearance. This prompt is mainly to prevent ambiguity, which is useful in complex documents where color conversion could lead to discrepancies. It’s safe to click "Process Color" for conversion, but in most cases, you can leave it as is, especially if the color values remain unchanged. Illustrator includes this prompt as an additional measure to ensure color accuracy.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need assistance. We'd be happy to help.

 

Anubhav

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