Back to all colors

Steel Blue

#4C81AA

A balanced, moderate steel blue — sophisticated balance of hue and saturation that conveys composure and subtle refinement, well-suited to modern, minimalist design.

Psychology

Blue is the world's most-preferred color across age, gender, and culture. It lowers heart rate, conveys stability and trust, and reads as professional almost regardless of context.

Meaning

Trust, authority, and depth — which is why it anchors finance, healthcare, government, and big-tech logos. Lighter blues feel airy and aspirational; navy and midnight feel established.

Applications

Foundational for SaaS, fintech, and enterprise interfaces. Mix with warm accents to avoid the corporate-blue trap of looking like every competitor.

Conversion

HEX
4C81AA
RGB
76, 129, 170
HSL
206, 38%, 48%
HSB
206, 55%, 67%
CMYK
55, 24, 0, 33
LAB
52, -9, -28
LCH
52, 29, 252
OKLCH
0.58, 0.09, 243
XYZ
18, 20, 41
LUV
52, -23, -40
HWB
206, 30%, 33%
Pantone
Cool Gray 8 C

Harmonies

Analogous
Complementary
Split Complementary
Triadic
Tetradic
Square

Shades & tints

Similar named colors

Browse every named blue on shades of blue, or all families on colors.