A color cathode ray tube comprising a panel, an outer surface of which is flat and an inner surface of which has a designated curvature. Since the panel has a thickness (CFT) of a central portion thereof satisfying the range of 9.0 mm≦CFT≦10.9 mm, and a light transmittance (Tp) of the central portion thereof satisfying the range of 50%≦Tp≦65%, the color cathode ray tube reduces the weight of the panel and thermal damage generated in a color cathode ray tube manufacturing process, and improves brightness of the panel.