Convert Any Image Into OKLAB (L*a*b*) Values
OKLAB is a perceptually uniform color space designed for predictable adjustments and color algorithms. Upload an image and HexPickr generates accurate L*, a*, b* values — plus HEX, RGB, HSL, CSS variables, and OKLCH for comparison.
Precise numeric color control
OKLAB exposes raw L*, a*, b* channels for algorithmic manipulation and fine-grained adjustments.
Predictable visual results
Small changes in OKLAB coordinates map to smooth, consistent shifts in perceived color.
Ideal for color algorithms
Great for generative art, shading systems, perceptual blending, and advanced UI theming.
Use OKLAB for advanced color math and design systems
HexPickr gives you OKLAB values directly from any image, along with OKLCH, HEX, RGB, HSL, and CSS variables. Use OKLAB when you need raw perceptual data, precise color relationships, or algorithm-ready values.
- ✓Ideal for generative color systems
- ✓Great for shading, blending, and interpolation
- ✓Works with CSS oklab() syntax
- ✓Produces stable color differences
:root {
--brand-primary-oklab: oklab(0.72 0.05 -0.12);
--brand-accent-oklab: oklab(0.65 -0.03 0.21);
}
.card {
background-color: var(--brand-primary-oklab);
}Try the OKLAB color extractor
Drop an image, pick your palette size, and explore raw OKLAB values alongside OKLCH, HEX, RGB, HSL, CSS variables, and JSON outputs.
Precise numeric color control
OKLAB exposes raw L*, a*, b* channels for algorithmic manipulation and fine-grained adjustments.
Predictable visual results
Small changes in OKLAB coordinates map to smooth, consistent shifts in perceived color.
Ideal for color algorithms
Great for generative art, shading systems, perceptual blending, and advanced UI theming.
Use OKLAB for advanced color math and design systems
HexPickr gives you OKLAB values directly from any image, along with OKLCH, HEX, RGB, HSL, and CSS variables. Use OKLAB when you need raw perceptual data, precise color relationships, or algorithm-ready values.
- ✓Ideal for generative color systems
- ✓Great for shading, blending, and interpolation
- ✓Works with CSS oklab() syntax
- ✓Produces stable color differences
:root {
--brand-primary-oklab: oklab(0.72 0.05 -0.12);
--brand-accent-oklab: oklab(0.65 -0.03 0.21);
}
.card {
background-color: var(--brand-primary-oklab);
}Try the OKLAB color extractor
Drop an image, pick your palette size, and explore raw OKLAB values alongside OKLCH, HEX, RGB, HSL, CSS variables, and JSON outputs.
Drop an image. Get OKLAB palettes instantly.
Generated by HexPickr — hexpickr.com
Palette history
Output
HexPickr exports extracted image colors as ready-to-use CSS variables, Tailwind color configs, and JSON for direct use in modern frontend projects. Includes OKLCH/OKLAB for modern color workflows
:root{
/* OKLCH */
}theme: { extend: { colors: { } } }{"colors": {
}
}HexPickr
Color palette
Developer snippets
:root{
}theme: { extend: { colors: { } } }Advanced features for color engineers
Algorithm-ready color values
Use OKLAB for precise interpolation, shading, elevation, and generative color systems.
Compare OKLAB and OKLCH
See both raw and cylindrical values to choose the right model for your workflow.
Token-friendly outputs
Export OKLAB values as CSS variables or JSON tokens for design systems.
Works with modern CSS color
Use OKLAB directly in color: oklab(...) for browser-native rendering.
How it works
Upload a reference image
Works with brand assets, UI mockups, photos, and more.
Inspect raw OKLAB values
Review L*, a*, b* values along with OKLCH, HEX, RGB, and HSL.
Export tokens or CSS variables
Copy OKLAB values into design systems or color-processing algorithms.
Extract OKLAB Colors from Any Image for Professional UI Balance
Professional color management is the foundation of a premium user interface. Our OKLAB Color Extractor provides the technical precision required for high-end digital products. By transforming any image into an OKLAB color palette, you gain access to a perceptually uniform color space that eliminates the distortions found in traditional RGB or HEX workflows.
Why does this matter? Traditional color spaces are non-linear; a numeric change in red doesn't necessarily result in the same perceived change as the same numeric change in blue. OKLAB corrects this by mapping colors according to how they are processed by the human brain. This makes it the ideal model for creating smooth gradients and consistent UI theming that feels natural and high-end across all devices.
The Power of Perceptual Uniformity
Development teams use OKLAB to build sophisticated design systems that scale. Because OKLAB separates lightness from the color opponent axes, you can programmatically adjust a palette's brightness without accidentally shifting its hue. This is a game-changer for UI theming, where maintaining brand integrity while generating accessible contrast is a constant challenge.
By deriving your color tokens directly from high-quality imagery or brand guidelines, you ensure that every part of your application feels intentional. Whether you're building a content-heavy dashboard or a minimalist marketing site, OKLAB extraction allows you to capture the 'soul' of an image and translate it into a mathematically coherent design language.
Built for Advanced Color Engineering
We understand that modern front-end development requires more than just a list of HEX codes. Our extractor is built to empower color engineers with the data they need for production-grade handoffs:
- ✓Precise Interpolation: Generate perfectly smooth gradients without the 'gray dead zones' found in RGB interpolation.
- ✓Stable Color Differences: Use OKLAB coordinates to calculate Delta-E values for brand compliance and accessibility.
- ✓Multi-Format Synergy: Get OKLCH, HEX, RGB, and HSL values simultaneously for backwards compatibility.
- ✓Seamless Export: Copy production-ready CSS variables or structured JSON to keep your entire stack in sync.
"OKLAB is the missing link between visual inspiration and technical perfection. We bring that precision to your browser."
OKLAB Color Extractor FAQ
What is OKLAB and how does it differ from traditional LAB?
OKLAB is a perceptually uniform color space designed to fix the hue-shift issues found in traditional CIELAB. It represents colors in three axes: Lightness (L), a (green to red), and b (blue to yellow). It is optimized for computer screens and provides superior results for color gradients and algorithmic generation compared to older models.
How do I implement OKLAB values in my CSS variable system?
You can copy the oklab() function directly into your CSS. For example: --brand-primary: oklab(0.6 0.1 -0.05);. This allows you to leverage the mathematical precision of OKLAB for your design tokens while keeping your stylesheets clean and modern.
Which image formats can I use with the OKLAB extractor?
Our engine supports all major image formats, including JPEG, PNG, WebP, AVIF, and SVG. The extraction happens locally in your browser, ensuring both speed and security for your professional design assets.
How many colors can I generate from a single image in OKLAB?
HexPickr allows you to extract between 5 and 24 dominant color swatches. This range is perfect for creating everything from simple brand palettes to complex data visualization themes and UI elevation levels.
Does HexPickr store or publish my uploaded images?
We prioritize your privacy. The color data is processed instantly in your browser session. We do not intentionally store, share, or publish your images on our servers for the color extraction tool, making it a safe choice for agency and professional client work.
Is OKLAB better than OKLCH for my project?
It depends on your workflow. OKLAB is a Cartesian system (L, a, b), which is often preferred for color math and interpolation. OKLCH is the cylindrical equivalent (Lightness, Chroma, Hue), which is more intuitive for designers. HexPickr provides both so you can choose the best tool for the job.
Explore more HexPickr tools
Generate Tailwind configs, CSS variables, OKLCH palettes, JSON tokens, and much more — all from a single image.
Try the full HexPickr experience →