What Is the 60-30-10 Rule in UX Design? | UX Color Guide
Learn what the 60-30-10 rule in UX design is, how it improves usability and conversions, and how to apply it to websites, apps, and landing pages.
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What Is the 60-30-10 Rule in UX Design?
The 60-30-10 rule in UX design is a color distribution principle used to create visual balance and hierarchy in interfaces.
It divides your color palette into three parts:
60% – Primary color
30% – Secondary color
10% – Accent color
This rule originated in interior design but has become a best practice in UX/UI design, especially for websites and apps where clarity and usability are critical.
By following this rule, designers ensure that no single color overwhelms the interface while still guiding user attention naturally.
Why the 60-30-10 Rule Matters for User Experience
A balanced color system directly impacts how users perceive, understand, and interact with a product.
The 60-30-10 rule improves UX by:
Clear visual hierarchy
Easy-to-scan interfaces
Reduced cognitive load
Stronger CTAs
Understanding the 60%, 30%, and 10% in UX Color Design
10% – Accent Color
The accent color is used sparingly to draw attention to key elements.
Common uses:
Call-to-action buttons
Icons
Links
Highlights
This 10% is what drives interaction and conversions.
30% – Secondary Color
The secondary color adds contrast and supports the primary color without overpowering it.
Common uses:
Cards and panels
Navigation bars
Side sections
60% – Primary Color
This is the dominant color used for backgrounds and large UI areas. It sets the overall tone and mood of the interface and should be neutral or easy on the eyes.
Common uses:
Page backgrounds
Main sections
Large containers
How to Apply the 60-30-10 Rule to Websites and Interfaces
Applying the 60-30-10 rule in UX design is straightforward:
1
Choose a primary color that aligns with your brand and works well as a background
2
Select a secondary color that contrasts but complements the primary color
3
Pick a bold accent color for actions and emphasis
4
Apply colors consistently across all pages and components
5
Test readability, contrast, and accessibility
This approach works especially well for landing pages, SaaS platforms, portfolios, and business websites.
Mistakes When Using the 60-30-10
Even though the rule is simple, designers often misuse it. Common mistakes include:
Using too many accent colors instead of one
Making the accent color too dominant
Ignoring contrast and accessibility standards
Applying the rule inconsistently across pages
Choosing colors that clash with brand identity
Remember, the goal is balance—not strict math.
How the 60-30-10 Rule Impacts Branding, Accessibility, and Conversions
When used correctly, the 60-30-10 rule strengthens:
Conversions
Accent colors guide users toward actions like sign-ups, purchases, and contact forms—directly improving conversion rates.
Branding
Consistent color usage reinforces brand recognition and trust.
Accessibility
Clear contrast improves readability for all users, including those with visual impairments.
Usability
Structured color usage helps users navigate interfaces more intuitively.
When to Break or Adapt the 60-30-10 Rule in UX Design
While the 60-30-10 rule is a strong guideline, it’s not a strict law.
You may adapt or break it when:
Designing minimal or monochrome interfaces
Working with data-heavy dashboards
Creating experimental or artistic layouts
Following strict brand color limitations
Experienced designers treat the rule as a foundation, not a limitation.
Why the 60-30-10 Rule Is a UX Essential
The 60-30-10 rule in UX design is one of the simplest ways to improve usability, clarity, and visual appeal.
It helps users navigate interfaces effortlessly while supporting branding and conversions.
Whether you’re designing a website, app, or landing page, mastering this rule will instantly elevate your UX decisions.
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Apply proven UX principles like the 60-30-10 rule to create websites that look great and perform even better.
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