#505050
- RGB
- 80, 80, 80
- Brightness
- 80.0
- HSL (°,%,%)
- 0°, 0%, 31%
- HSV V %
- 31%
- Lab
- 34.0, 0.0, 0.0
- CMYK (%)
- 0%, 0%, 0%, 69%
- PNG size
- 4.6 KB
- Tone / Feel
- dark, muted warm hue
Black text
2.60:1
Fail (normal) · Fail (large)
White text
8.06:1
AAA (normal) · AAA (large)
Recommended text: White (8.06:1 — AAA / AAA)
Color Profile: #505050
Common Name: Slate Neutral
RGB: 80, 80, 80
HSL: 0°, 0%, ~31%
Contrast vs White (#FFFFFF): Ratio 8.6:1 – Passes WCAG AA/AAA
Contrast vs Black (#000000): Ratio 2.2:1 – Fails WCAG AA
Mood & Cultural Context:
A precise and professional shade, #505050 projects discipline and modern clarity. Often chosen for its non-intrusive neutrality, it anchors visuals with a quiet authority. In digital palettes and physical materials, it subtly suggests refinement without flash, much like a backstage light in a black box theater—supporting, never stealing the show.
Top Named Matches:
- Exact Match: NCS S 7500-N – Natural Color System (ΔE=0.00)
- Exact Match: RAL Design 000 35 00 – RAL Design (ΔE=0.00)
- Behr PPU24-22 - Shadow Mountain (ΔE=1.27)
- Dunn-Edwards DE6364 - Cavernous (ΔE=0.87)
- Pantone 19-3912 TPG - Volcanic Ash (ΔE=0.89)
- Why Designers Use It.
Designers reach for #505050 when control and neutrality are key—especially in interface elements, UX wireframes, industrial product casing, or modern architectural visualizations. Its lack of hue allows it to sit comfortably beside vibrant tones or other neutrals, avoiding emotional distraction.
In manufacturing, it's prevalent in coatings for tools, electronics, safety components, and aircraft interiors. As it nears the visual midpoint between black and light grey, it works brilliantly in lighting-critical environments. In military and tactical design, this tone is close to shades used for camouflaging gear. Also found in automotive trim, designer cookware, and urban architecture—its appearance hints at mineral graphite or aged steel.
Notably, it appears in global standards—used in both RAL and NCS systems—and sees popularity in Nordic, German, and industrial design communities where understated functionality is revered. While not a trend color, it’s a backbone. Always useful, rarely loud.