CSS Color: DarkGray
Named CSS color DarkGray — #A9A9A9 in HEX, rgb(169, 169, 169) in RGB, hsl(0, 0%, 66%) in HSL.
Color Values
| Format | Value | CSS Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Named | DarkGray | color: DarkGray; |
| HEX | #A9A9A9 | color: #A9A9A9; |
| RGB | rgb(169, 169, 169) | color: rgb(169, 169, 169); |
| HSL | hsl(0, 0%, 66%) | color: hsl(0, 0%, 66%); |
About DarkGray
DarkGray is one of CSS's most confusing named colors because it is actually lighter than Gray. At hex `#A9A9A9` (lightness 66%), it is brighter than Gray at `#808080` (lightness 50%). The naming comes from the X11 color system, where the gray scale naming conventions differ from intuitive expectations.
In web design, DarkGray works as a light-medium gray for secondary borders, background panels, and subtle text on dark backgrounds. Despite its misleading name, its actual value makes it useful for elements that need to be visible but not prominent.
For accessibility, DarkGray against white achieves approximately 2.6:1 contrast, which fails WCAG for text. Against black, it achieves about 8.0:1. Use it for decorative elements on light backgrounds, or for text on dark backgrounds where it provides good readability.
DarkGray falls between Silver and Gray in actual brightness. It pairs well with any design as a neutral element. In Tailwind CSS, `gray-400` or `zinc-400` are approximate matches.
FAQ
What is the hex code for DarkGray?
The CSS named color DarkGray has the hex code #A9A9A9. You can use it in CSS as color: #A9A9A9; or simply color: DarkGray;.
What is DarkGray in RGB?
In RGB notation, DarkGray is rgb(169, 169, 169). Use it in CSS as color: rgb(169, 169, 169);.
What is DarkGray in HSL?
In HSL notation, DarkGray is hsl(0, 0%, 66%). Use it in CSS as color: hsl(0, 0%, 66%);.
What color category is DarkGray?
DarkGray belongs to the Gray color family in the CSS named colors specification.
Can I use the name "DarkGray" directly in CSS?
Yes. All modern browsers support CSS named colors. You can write color: DarkGray; or background-color: DarkGray; directly in your stylesheet. Named colors are case-insensitive.
Try in Color Converter
Convert DarkGray to other formats, check contrast ratios, explore palettes, and find the closest Tailwind CSS class.
Open Color Converter →