Color space: sRGB vs Adobe RGB - these are the differences

Which of the two color spaces sRGB and Adobe RGB is the better is a hotly debated question among photography enthusiasts. We show you the differences between the two and who should use which color space in our practical tip.

Adobe RGB color space: Larger color space compared to sRGB

• With an RGB color space, color perceptions are simulated by mixing the primary colors red, green and blue.
• The Adobe RGB color space was defined by Adobe in 1998. Compared to the sRGB, created in 1996 by a cooperation between Hewlett-Packard and Microsoft, it offers a larger number of colors that can be treated and used.
• Especially in the area of ​​green tones, the displayable color range has been significantly improved.

Adobe RGB vs. sRGB: application in photography

• When taking photos, you can choose between the Adobe RGB color space and sRGB. Even if Adobe RGB forms a larger color space, this does not necessarily mean that you should choose it.
• Most screens (computers, televisions and cameras) can only display the sRGB color space. Most photo laboratories also expect files with the sRGB color space.
• Color displays can often be distorted if images in the Adobe RGB color space are displayed on such screens.
• So if you plan to display the image files on normal screens, on the Internet or order images from a normal photo laboratory, you won't get any quality improvements with Adobe RGB. On the contrary, there are more color errors in the display.
• You can display the extended Adobe RGB color space with suitable monitors and print it on paper with high-quality inkjet printers.

You can find a detailed explanation on the subject of color spaces in our technology lexicon. In another practical tip, we will show you how you can set great color accents, especially for black and white images.