# Colour, Proofs and Pantone in Printing | Promax Help Center

> Why printed colour can look different from your screen, what CMYK and Pantone mean, and how digital proofs help you approve colour with confidence.

Source: https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/colour-proofs-and-pantone/
Updated: 2026-10-06

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Help center

# Colour, proofs and Pantone

Screens show colour with light (RGB), and printers use ink (CMYK), so colours can look different. Pantone is a colour matching system that gives an exact reference. A proof lets you check text and layout before printing.

Quick answer

Screens show colour with light (RGB), and printers use ink (CMYK), so colours can look different. Pantone is a colour matching system that gives an exact reference. A proof lets you check text and layout before printing.

## Why screen colour and print colour differ

Screens make colour with light, so they can look very bright. Printers use ink on paper, which cannot always reach the same brightness. This is normal in every print shop.

## What is CMYK?

CMYK means cyan, magenta, yellow and black. Most printing uses these four inks to make millions of colours.

## What is Pantone?

Pantone is a system of numbered colours. If your brand uses a Pantone colour, send us the number. It helps us match your colour closely.

## What is a proof?

A digital proof shows your layout, text and images before printing. It helps you check spelling, phone numbers and positions. We send a free digital proof with orders. A digital proof checks layout, not exact colour. For colour critical work, ask us about a physical sample.

## Tips for good colour

-   Send your brand colour reference (Pantone or CMYK values).
-   Use CMYK files for print.
-   Do not judge colour from a phone screen only.

FAQ

## Frequently asked questions

### Why does my print look darker than my screen?

Screens add light, while print uses ink on paper. Print often looks a little darker or calmer.

### Can you match my brand Pantone colour?

Send the Pantone number and we will match it as closely as the material allows.

Free quote

## Ready to start?

Not sure? Send us your idea and we will guide you.

 [WhatsApp](https://wa.me/971527105556?text=Hi%20Promax%20Digital%2C%20I%20would%20like%20a%20quote%20for%20my%20printing%20project.)[ +971 52 710 5556](tel:+971527105556)

-   Free digital proof
-   Low minimums
-   Delivery across the UAE

## More guides

-   [How to prepare artwork for printing](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/prepare-artwork-for-printing/)
-   [How to place an order](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/how-to-place-an-order/)
-   [Paper types and weights (gsm)](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/paper-types-and-weights/)
-   [Printing finishes: lamination, UV, foil and emboss](https://promaxdigitaluae.com/help/printing-finishes-guide/)

## Tell us what you need. Get your quote today.

Share your product, size and quantity. We reply with a clear quote and a free digital proof.

 [WhatsApp us](https://wa.me/971527105556?text=Hi%20Promax%20Digital%2C%20I%20would%20like%20a%20quote%20for%20my%20printing%20project.) [ +971 52 710 5556](tel:+971527105556)