Introduction
Source RGB Profiles (also known as Source Color Spaces) define the color space used when editing images. They act as a "color dictionary" that tells software how to interpret RGB values in your images.
Most Source RGB Profiles are available for free download online. We've compiled a collection of free Source RGB Profiles that you can download and use in your color management workflow.
Standard Color Spaces
sRGB IEC61966-2.1
The narrowest color gamut and the current default standard for the internet and most display devices. This is the most common color space for web images and digital displays.
Use cases:
- All images used only on the web (social media, web pages, e-commerce images)
- Images viewed on uncalibrated standard monitors
- Final output for web use
Note: Do not use as the initial editing space for RAW format photos, as it limits your color editing potential.
Adobe RGB (1998)
A wider color gamut than sRGB, especially in green and cyan areas. This is the standard for the printing industry, especially high-end art prints.
Use cases:
- Professional photography with print requirements
- Editing with professional wide-gamut monitors
- Print preparation workflow
Note: If your workflow is directed toward printing and your hardware and software support color management, Adobe RGB is an excellent choice.
ProPhoto RGB
An extremely wide color gamut, one of the largest color spaces available in digital imaging. It can encompass the vast majority of colors that camera sensors can capture.
Use cases:
- Professional photography post-processing with extremely high image quality requirements
- Landscape and commercial photography
- Situations requiring extensive, dramatic color adjustments
Important: Due to the extremely wide gamut, you may see "out-of-display" colors during editing. To avoid color banding, strongly recommend using 16-bit/channel bit depthfor editing.
Additional RGB Profiles
Display P3
Apple's adaptation of DCI-P3, using DCI-P3's color gamut but with sRGB's white point and gamma values. Common in macOS and iOS systems.
DCI-P3
A color gamut wider than sRGB but slightly narrower than Adobe RGB. It has richer red and green areas. This is the display standard for digital cinemas and many Apple devices.
How to Install Profiles
Windows
- Download the .icc or .icm profile file
- Right-click the file and select "Install Profile"
- Alternatively, copy the file to:
C:\Windows\System32\spool\drivers\color - Restart your software to use the profile
macOS
- Download the .icc or .icm profile file
- Double-click the file to open ColorSync Utility
- Click "Install" to add the profile to your system
- Alternatively, copy the file to:
~/Library/ColorSync/Profiles - Restart your software to use the profile
Using on RGBtoCMYK.net
On RGBtoCMYK.net, you can upload custom Source RGB Profiles directly in the conversion tool:
- Select "Custom" in the Source RGB Profile section
- Click "Upload" to select your .icc profile file
- The profile will be used for the conversion
- Note: Profiles are only used for conversion and are not stored on our servers
Profile Sources and Credits
These profiles are provided by official sources and standards organizations:
- International Color Consortium (ICC): Official website
- Adobe Systems: Adobe RGB and other professional profiles
- Apple Inc.: Display P3 and DCI-P3 profiles
All profiles listed here are free to download and use. They are provided by their respective standards organizations and manufacturers.
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are these profiles free to use?
A: Yes, all profiles listed here are free to download and use. They are provided by official standards organizations and manufacturers.
Q: Which profile should I use?
A: For web use, use sRGB. For print preparation, use Adobe RGB. For professional photography with extensive editing, use ProPhoto RGB (16-bit). See our Source RGB Profiles Guide for more details.
Q: Can I use these profiles on RGBtoCMYK.net?
A: Yes, you can upload any of these profiles (or any standard ICC profile) to RGBtoCMYK.net using the "Custom" option in the Source RGB Profile section.