Delta E 76 Color Difference

Compute the CIE76 (Delta E 1976) difference between two sRGB hex colors via CIELAB.

Description

Calculate CIE76 Euclidean color difference between two sRGB hex colors after conversion to CIELAB.

Delta E 76 Color Difference calculate CIE76 Euclidean color difference between two sRGB hex colors after conversion to CIELAB.

Use this for quick color-distance comparisons, regression tests, palette diagnostics, and learning how device RGB values map into a perceptual color space.

When to use Delta E 76 Color Difference

Use this for quick color-distance comparisons, regression tests, palette diagnostics, and learning how device RGB values map into a perceptual color space.

How it works

Each hex color is linearized from sRGB, converted through D65 XYZ to CIELAB, then compared with Euclidean distance across L*, a*, and b*.^[1]

Interpreting the result

Keep the input units, direction conventions, encoding, and ordering rules visible when reusing the result. Preserve the full returned value for downstream calculations and round only for presentation.

Assumptions and limitations

CIE76 is simple but perceptual uniformity is imperfect, especially for some hues and larger differences. Display profiles, viewing conditions, alpha, and newer Delta E formulas are not included.

References

Colorimetry, 4th Edition — International Commission on Illumination