Color Rendering Index (CRI)

Color Rendering Index (CRI)

How lighting affects the true appearance of colors in your space

The Color Rendering Index (CRI) measures how accurately a light source reveals colors compared to natural daylight.

The higher the CRI value, the more natural and vibrant colors appear. Lower CRI values make colors look dull and less accurate.

Low CRI

Colors appear dull and inaccurate.

Medium CRI

Acceptable color rendering for everyday applications.

High CRI

Natural, vivid and highly accurate colors.

Common CRI Ratings

  • CRI 70: Industrial and outdoor lighting.
  • CRI 80: Suitable for general lighting applications.
  • CRI 90+: Ideal for homes, retail stores and premium spaces.

Where Is High CRI Important?

  • Living rooms and bedrooms.
  • Clothing and fashion stores.
  • Showrooms and display areas.
  • Photography and video studios.

Summary

A higher CRI provides better lighting quality and allows colors to appear closer to their true natural appearance.