HKS is a color system similar to Pantone that uses pre-mixed inks and is mainly applied in offset printing , mostly in Europe, especially in Germany and Austria. How does HKS work?

• HKS stands for: H (Hostmann-Steinberg), K (K+E Druckfarben), S (Schmincke) – three ink manufacturers who jointly created the system.
• The system contains over 3500 predefined colors , each with a code, for example HKS 42 K.
• HKS colors are available for three main types of paper:
  • K – glossy (coated)
  • N – matte/uncoated
  • Z – newsprint

Why is the HKS system important in printing?

1. Accuracy and repeatability

• As with Pantone, HKS colors are produced with an exact recipe – this ensures they will look the same no matter where they are printed.

2. Specialized in offset printing

• HKS is strongly present in traditional printing (catalogs, packaging, books) in German-speaking countries and is well integrated with the printing industry there.

3. Better coverage and saturation than CMYK

• Many of HKS colors are brighter and more intense than those that can be achieved through CMYK printing.

4. Compatibility with printing standards

• The system is compatible with ISO offset printing standards and is often used in combination with process colors.

HKS vs Pantone vs CMYK

Conclusion

HKS may be the preferred system due to its local prevalence, reliability and compatibility with European standards. As with Pantone, HKS is the better choice when:

• Permanent company color;
• High brightness and purity of tones;
• Guaranteed reproduction of a specific color.

Category: Current

Previous

Topic: HKS , Printing , Color Science

Next

Recent Posts:

• Procedure for selecting a contractor with a Public Invitation
• Project #BG16RFPR001-1.004-2515
• How does the HKS color system work and why is it important for printing?
• How does the PANTONE color system work and why is it important for printing?
• How does the CMYK color model work and why is it important for printing?

CMYKHKSOPICPrintColorology