Pantone Coated (C suffix): same Pantone code prints on coated (glossy/matte) paper. Coated paper reflects ink, colors appear vibrant.
Pantone Uncoated (U suffix): same Pantone code on uncoated paper. Uncoated absorbs ink, colors appear muted/matte.
Same logical color number, different printed result.
Example: PMS 186 C (red) on coated business card vs PMS 186 U on uncoated business card — visibly different shades.
Brand book MUST specify which (C or U) per use case:
- Business cards (typically uncoated stocks) → Pantone Uncoated
- Brochures with gloss finish → Pantone Coated
- Letterhead (uncoated) → Pantone Uncoated
- Premium gift packaging (coated) → Pantone Coated
Production implications: Vendor must use correct Pantone variant per substrate. If brand book says 'PMS 186' without C/U specifier — clarify before strike-off.
Delta-E tolerance: Achievable Delta-E ≤ 2.0 on coated; ≤ 2.5 on uncoated (uncoated absorbs ink less predictably).
Third option: PMS Textile (TCX/TPX) for fabric — different again. Use TCX for cotton, TPX for synthetics.