Pantone has been dominating the color industry for 60 years, offering tools that ensure color consistency across various printed materials worldwide. Designers and printers rely heavily on Pantone for its precision and accuracy, but many are starting to question the high costs associated with the brand. Some Pantone products can even exceed $1,000, leaving many wondering if there is a more affordable alternative.
Despite the steep prices, Pantone’s level of control and reliability have cemented its position as a staple in the design and printing world. The proprietary system behind Pantone colors ensures that the colors printed match the intended shade perfectly. This level of consistency is crucial for designers and businesses looking to maintain their brand image and message across various platforms and materials.
One key factor contributing to the high cost of Pantone colors is the process of mixing ink. Unlike the CMYK printing process, where colors are created by mixing cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks, Pantone colors are pre-mixed to achieve the exact shade desired. This level of precision and attention to detail adds to the overall cost of Pantone products.
The split between Adobe and Pantone has also prompted designers to explore other color matching options. However, many continue to rely on Pantone for its shared language and consistent results. The importance of maintaining color consistency in branding and design cannot be understated, making Pantone colors a valuable asset despite their high price tag.
As designers and businesses continue to weigh the costs and benefits of using Pantone colors, the debate over their expense and necessity rages on. While some may seek out more affordable alternatives, Pantone’s longstanding reputation for color accuracy and reliability may be challenging to replace.
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Video “Why Pantone Colors Are So Expensive | So Expensive | Business Insider” was uploaded on 04/19/2025 to Youtube Channel Business Insider