SCI and SCE are two ways a compatible spectrophotometer can handle specular reflection—the mirror-like component reflected from a surface. SCI includes that component and generally reduces the influence of gloss and texture differences on measured color; SCE excludes it and is more sensitive to surface appearance.
What SCI and SCE mean
SCI means specular component included. In a compatible d/8° measurement method, the regular surface reflection is included with the diffuse reflected light. SCE means specular component excluded: the regular reflection is removed from the color measurement, commonly with a light trap.
Specular reflection is not a gloss-unit reading
SCI and SCE change how surface finish influences a color reading. They do not replace a gloss meter or describe every appearance attribute, such as haze, orange peel or sparkle.
Why the two modes can give different answers
| Mode | What is included | Practical consequence |
|---|---|---|
| SCI | Diffuse reflection plus the specular component. | Gloss and texture changes generally have less influence on the reported color, helping color-control methods compare material color across variable finishes. |
| SCE | Diffuse reflection; the specular component is excluded. | The result is more sensitive to finish and surface appearance, so changes in gloss or texture can create a larger color difference. |
For example, two panels may have close SCI values yet different SCE values after a gloss change. That does not prove the pigment color changed; it tells you that the measurement condition is responding to finish as well as color.
How to choose SCI or SCE
Use SCI when the method needs less finish sensitivity
SCI is commonly used for colorant, formulation or incoming-material control where gloss and texture variation should have less effect on the color result. Use the agreed method—do not assume SCI is available on every instrument.
Use SCE when surface appearance is part of the decision
SCE can be useful when a finish change should affect the color assessment. It is still a color measurement, not a complete visual-appearance evaluation.
Lock the condition before comparing color
The correct choice is the one named by the customer, product specification or validated internal method. Record SCI or SCE with geometry, aperture, illuminant, observer, color-difference formula and sample presentation. Changing any of them changes what the result means.
For the optical context, read how an integrating sphere works; for the wider finish decision, read gloss and color measurement. Konica Minolta’s SCI/SCE explanation and X-Rite’s sphere-geometry note provide useful technical background.
Frequently asked questions
Does SCI measure gloss?
No. SCI includes the specular component in a color measurement. It can reduce the effect of gloss variation on reported color, but gloss units require a dedicated gloss method.
Does SCE represent exactly what the eye sees?
No single geometry reproduces every viewing condition. SCE is more sensitive to surface finish because it excludes specular reflection; validate it against the appearance decision your specification requires.
Last reviewed 21/09/2026 · Level: Fundamental
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