XRGA and Open Standards: What You Need to Know
XRGA and Open Standards: What You Need to Know
Understanding XRGA
XRGA (X-Rite Graphic Arts) was introduced by X-Rite in 2010 as an internal reference model to align the measurement behavior of its legacy GretagMacbeth and X-Rite instruments. Following the merger of the two companies, XRGA helped harmonize their differing calibration methods to ensure consistency within the X-Rite product family.
It’s important to understand that XRGA is not an international standard. It is not governed by ISO, CIE, ASTM, or any independent standards body. Rather, it is a proprietary calibration alignment used exclusively within X-Rite’s ecosystem.
The Role of International Standards
In contrast, international standards such as ISO 13655 and CIE colorimetry guidelines define how color should be measured in a vendor-neutral, globally accepted way. These standards ensure that instruments from different manufacturers—when properly calibrated—can deliver consistent and comparable results.
Both TECHKON and X-Rite calibrate their instruments to the same NIST-traceable standards. This shared foundation means that TECHKON instruments measure color in alignment with XRGA-calibrated X-Rite devices. In fact, field tests have shown that TECHKON’s SpectroDens agrees with XRGA instruments within approximately 0.3 ΔE—well within the tolerance required for brand color control.
The Value of an Open Ecosystem
While XRGA serves a purpose within X-Rite’s internal workflows, it should not be mistaken for a universal benchmark. Positioning XRGA as a differentiator can be misleading. In reality, any high-quality instrument that adheres to ISO 13655 and is calibrated to NIST-traceable references—like those from TECHKON—will deliver the same level of accuracy and consistency.
TECHKON’s commitment to open standards ensures interoperability across the supply chain. Our instruments are designed to integrate seamlessly into multi-vendor environments, giving customers the flexibility to choose the best tools for their needs without being locked into a proprietary ecosystem.
Bottom Line
XRGA is not a global standard—it’s a proprietary alignment within the X-Rite family. TECHKON instruments, calibrated to the same NIST standards and compliant with ISO 13655, measure just like XRGA devices. The difference? TECHKON supports an open, flexible, and standards-based approach to color measurement—empowering customers with choice, compatibility, and confidence.
To learn more about how Techkon’s devices agree with XRGA devices, visit the following blog post: Field tests with print samples using XRGA and Techkon instruments
