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#555553

Brightness
84.8
HSL (°,%,%)
60°, 1%, 33%
HSV V %
33%
Lab
36.1, -0.4, 1.2
PNG size
4.6 KB
Tone / Feel
dark, muted cool hue
Black text 2.81:1 Fail (normal) · Fail (large)
White text 7.47:1 AAA (normal) · AAA (large)

Recommended text: White (7.47:1 — AAA / AAA)

Color Profile: #555553

Common Name: Lead Grey

RGB: rgb(85, 85, 83)

HSL: hsl(120, 3%, 33%)

Contrast Ratio vs. White: 8.7:1 (AA Pass)

Contrast Ratio vs. Black: 1.6:1 (Fail)

Mood Blurb: Lead Grey offers a muted, calm presence with an understated elegance. It feels grounded and stable, lending itself to settings where neutrality and sophistication are key. Popular in professional and minimalist design spaces, this color’s soft yet rich tone feels at home in both modern and traditional settings.

Notable Matches:

  • Pantone FHI 19-0406 TPG - Chimera (#555551), ΔE=1.24
  • Australian Standard AS2700 N55 - Lead Grey (#5D5B57), ΔE=3.02
  • BS 2660-9101 - Charcoal (#676660), ΔE=7.42
  • Benjamin Moore 2134-30 - Iron Mountain (#585654), ΔE=1.05

Why Designers Use It:

  • Neutral Tone: Lead Grey is a versatile and balanced color, often used to create a neutral background that allows other design elements to pop. Its muted, subtle nature makes it ideal for creating calming environments in spaces like offices or upscale interiors.
  • Industry Use: Widely used in industries such as automotive design (interiors of high-end cars), fashion (neutral apparel), and architecture (building facades, especially in modern or industrial design). Its muted tone allows it to blend seamlessly into various environments without overwhelming the senses.
  • Materials & Associations: Often associated with metallic finishes, lead-based materials, or concrete, Lead Grey conveys a sense of durability and strength. It has historical associations with industrial and military applications, especially in uniforms or machinery.
  • Trendiness: While not a recent trend, Lead Grey has found a resurgence in minimalist design and retro-industrial aesthetics. It speaks to those seeking timeless sophistication without the brashness of brighter colors.

Palette neighbours