The Datacolor ColorReader series makes color measurement accessible. Through a compact sensor and smartphone app, you can instantly identify, match, and communicate colors — without expensive laboratory equipment.
Three Models
| Model | Target Audience | Core Function |
|---|---|---|
| ColorReader EZ | Consumers | Paint inspiration and color matching |
| ColorReader | Professionals | Point-of-sale color identification |
| ColorReader Pro | QC & industry | Pass/fail, storage, accuracy |
ColorReader EZ
"What color is this — and where can I find it?"
- Price: from €79.99
- Purpose: Color inspiration for consumers
- How it works: Scan a color, instantly see matches in paint fans
- App: iOS and Android (free)
Ideal for interior designers, DIYers, and anyone who wants to quickly identify a color.
ColorReader
"Professional color identification in the store"
- Price: from €119
- Purpose: Point-of-sale color matching for paint stores and retailers
- How it works: Scan, match, communicate — directly to the customer
- Integration: Linked to brand-specific paint fans
Designed for professional retail where customers bring in samples and want an immediate match.
ColorReader Pro
"Quality control and color communication in the field"
- Purpose: Industrial applications, QC, supply chain
- Features:
- LED screen on device
- Pass/fail assessment based on set tolerances
- On-device measurement storage
- Bluetooth connection with app for extended analysis
The Pro is intended for fieldwork where apps or phones aren't desired, but fast, repeatable measurements are necessary.
Comparison Table
| Feature | EZ | CR | Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color identification | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Paint fan matching | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Pass/fail QC | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| On-device screen | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| On-device storage | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| App integration | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Price | €79.99 | €119 | On request |
Specifications
| Specification | EZ | CR | Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Colorimeter | Colorimeter | Colorimeter |
| Measurement geometry | 45×/0 | 45×/0 | 45×/0 |
| Aperture | 4 mm | 4 mm | 4 mm |
| Illumination | LED | LED | LED |
| Power | Rechargeable battery | Rechargeable battery | Rechargeable battery |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth + standalone |
| Weight | ~50 g | ~50 g | ~80 g |
Important: colorimeter vs. spectrophotometer
The ColorReader series are colorimeters — not spectrophotometers. This means:
- ✅ Suitable for color identification and approximation
- ✅ Sufficient for color inspiration and basic QC applications
- ❌ Not suitable for formulation calculations or precise color specification
- ❌ Cannot generate spectral data
For applications where spectral accuracy and traceability are required, SNKI recommends the ColorReader Spectro.
SNKI as Supplier
SNKI supplies the Datacolor ColorReader series for the Benelux:
- Advice — which model fits your workflow?
- Delivery — fast with local support
- Training — learn to get the most from your device
- Service — for questions and support
