Your monitor displays colors in RGB (Red, Green, Blue), an additive color model built on light emission. Printers use CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key/Black), a subtractive color model built on ink absorption. The two systems have different color ranges (gamuts).

Colors that look brilliant on screen: electric blues, neon greens, vivid oranges, often can't be reproduced accurately in CMYK. The print will look duller or shifted.

For DTG printing specifically: files are processed through RIP software that converts RGB to print instructions. Designing in RGB is fine and often preferred for DTG, but understand that some colors will shift. Proofing the print on your chosen garment color before a large run catches these shifts early.

For strict brand color matching (specific Pantone values), DTG has limits. Screen printing with Pantone-matched inks or embroidery with matched thread is the path to precision.

Practical approach: design in RGB (for better screen accuracy), request a physical or digital proof before committing to large quantities, and note any specific colors that must be exact.