MOBILE APPs for COLOR SCANNING
1. Color Identifier: Color Picker (iOS)
Lets you detect the color of any pixel in an image—simply upload or take a photo, zoom in, and tap to see RGB, CMYK, HEX, and color names.
Recent update (Sep 3, 2025) introduced a feature to preview how colors will look painted on your walls using a room photo.
Ratings: 4.6 (1.5K reviews). Subscription options available.
2. Color Identifier・Match Scanner (iOS)
Real-time color detection using your camera or photos, delivering names, HEX, and RGB values.
Allows multi-color detection per image, saving to history, and easy sharing. Free with optional in-app purchases; 4.6 stars (44 ratings).
3. Color Scanner (Android)
Scan surfaces (like walls or cars) and the app calculates the average color in an adjustable rectangle. Save colors and get detailed info; share via image or social media.
4. Color Identification Tool (Android)
Detect hues from images with live recognition. Converts to RGB, HEX, CSS codes, and even RAL standards. Updated mid-2024; rating ~3.5 from 2.8K reviews.
Bluetooth-ConnectedColor-Matching Devices
For professional-grade accuracy, pair a mobile app with a dedicated hardware device.
Datacolor ColorReader Series
Connects via Bluetooth and delivers highly precise color measurements (RGB, HEX, CMYK, RAL, etc.) and paint matches. Features include palette creation, history, and brand-specific matches.
Versions:
- ColorReader EZ – Simple and compact with CIE Lab, RGB, HEX, and RAL support.
- ColorReader – Adds CMYK, LCH, LRV, and extended brand matching.
- ColorReader Pro – On-device LED display, advanced ΔE accuracy, palette tools, QC mode, and Samplize integration.
What People Say (From Reddit)
Users recommend Color Grab (Loomatix):
“Had anyone used this app? … As a R/G colorblind painter, it has been invaluable to me. Just point at the color you want to identify.”
Other mentions include standalone tools like Color Capture, or device-aided matchers such as NIX or Sherwin-Williams tools.
Product Recommendations (Devices)
Here are a few color-reader devices you can consider:
Note: Prices listed are approximate and may vary.
Summary & Recommendations
- Quick, simple color matching: Color Identifier or Match Scanner (iOS)
- Android-based scanning and codes: Color Scanner or Color Identification Tool
- Highest accuracy and paint matching: Datacolor ColorReader (EZ or Pro)
- Assistance for color-blind users: Color Grab (Loomatix)
Final Thoughts
For a free app that works on the go, Color Identifier (iOS) and Color Scanner (Android) are reliable choices. For professional-level precision, go with a ColorReader device (EZ for basics, Pro for full features). If you're color-blind, many users on Reddit recommend Color Grab for its accessibility and ease of use.
Comments