Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams Paint Comparison

Picking paint can feel like a big decision, especially when you see names like Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams. Many people wonder, Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams: Which Paint Best? This is a common question for anyone starting a painting project. It’s easy to get lost in all the choices.

But don’t worry, we’ll make this simple. We will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the right paint for your home. Get ready to learn how to pick the perfect colors and finishes.

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Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams Paint Brands Explained

When you’re looking to refresh your home with a splash of color, two names often come up: Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams. These are some of the most popular and respected paint companies out there. They both offer a wide range of products designed for different needs and budgets.

Understanding what makes each brand unique will help you make a better choice for your project. We will explore what each brand is known for, their product lines, and what sets them apart. This will help you decide which brand is the right fit for your painting adventure.

Benjamin Moore Paint Quality and Offerings

Benjamin Moore is often seen as a premium brand. They are known for their high-quality formulas that offer excellent coverage and durability. Many professional painters prefer Benjamin Moore for its consistent results and beautiful color palettes.

Their paints are designed to go on smoothly and last a long time, resisting wear and tear. This makes them a great choice for high-traffic areas or spaces where you want a lasting finish.

The brand offers several popular paint lines. Aura is their top-tier interior paint, known for its richness of color and stain resistance. Regal Select is another well-regarded interior and exterior line, offering good coverage and a washable finish.

For budget-conscious projects, Benjamin Moore also has lines like Ben Moore & Co. which still deliver good performance at a more accessible price point. Their color selection is vast, with thousands of shades to choose from, including popular collections like the Benjamin Moore Color Stories.

Aura Interior Paint: This is Benjamin Moore’s best interior paint. It uses a special technology called Color Lock that helps colors stay true and resist fading. It is also very good at hiding imperfections on your walls and is easy to clean.

Many people love Aura because it covers surfaces in just two coats, saving time and effort. It comes in different sheens, from flat to high gloss.
Regal Select Interior/Exterior Paint: This is a very popular choice because it offers a great balance of quality and price. It is durable and easy to apply, making it suitable for both walls and trim, inside and outside your home. Regal Select has good coverage, meaning you often need fewer coats to get a solid color.

It is also washable, which is helpful for keeping your walls looking fresh.
ADVANCE Interior Paint: This line is specifically designed for trim, doors, and cabinets. It has a hard, durable finish that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. ADVANCE paint flows and levels out nicely, creating a smooth, professional look on woodwork.

It is also low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which means it has less of an odor.

One of the biggest advantages of Benjamin Moore is its color accuracy. When you pick a color, you can trust that it will look very similar on your wall as it does on the paint chip. This is because they use high-quality pigments and precise color-matching technology.

Sherwin-Williams Paint Quality and Offerings

Sherwin-Williams is another giant in the paint industry, known for its wide availability and diverse product range. You can find Sherwin-Williams paints in many locations, making it easy to pick up supplies. They are also recognized for their quality and performance, catering to both DIYers and professional contractors.

Sherwin-Williams offers a broad spectrum of colors and finishes to suit any project.

Their most famous interior paint is Emerald, which is praised for its durability and ability to resist stains and washability. Duration is another strong contender, offering excellent coverage and a lasting finish, especially for high-traffic areas. For a more budget-friendly option, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams offers good quality paints that are accessible.

Sherwin-Williams also has a vast color library, including popular collections like the ColorSnap system, which makes finding and organizing colors quite straightforward.

Emerald Interior Paint: This is Sherwin-Williams’ premium interior paint. It’s known for being very washable and stain-resistant, making it perfect for busy households with kids and pets. Emerald paint provides excellent coverage, often requiring just two coats.

It also has low VOCs and a smooth finish. It is available in a variety of sheens.
Duration Interior/Exterior Paint: This line is built for longevity. It’s incredibly durable and can handle tough conditions, both inside and out. Duration paint offers superior adhesion and resistance to peeling and cracking.

It’s a popular choice for areas that experience a lot of use or exposure to the elements. It also provides excellent coverage.
SuperPaint Interior/Exterior Paint: SuperPaint is another workhorse from Sherwin-Williams. It offers good durability and coverage at a slightly more accessible price point than Emerald or Duration. It’s designed to be easy to apply and provides a smooth, washable finish.

This makes it a solid all-around choice for many painting projects.

Sherwin-Williams also excels in color variety. Their ColorSnap system allows you to explore colors digitally and in-store. They have many unique shades and are very good at custom color matching if you have a specific hue in mind.

Key Differences Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams

When comparing Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams, several key differences stand out. These distinctions can influence your decision based on your priorities. We will look at factors like availability, price, color selection, and specific product performance.

Understanding these differences helps you see which brand might be a better fit for your needs.

Paint Availability and Accessibility

One of the most significant differences is how easily you can buy these paints. Sherwin-Williams has a much wider retail presence. They have thousands of company-owned stores across North America and many independent dealers.

This means you can usually find a Sherwin-Williams store or retailer close to your home, making it convenient to pick up paint, supplies, and get expert advice on the spot.

Benjamin Moore paints are sold through authorized Benjamin Moore retailers. These are often independent dealers. While they have a strong presence, they don’t have as many locations as Sherwin-Williams.

This means you might have to travel a bit further to find a Benjamin Moore store. However, many people find the experience at Benjamin Moore dealers to be more specialized and helpful, with staff who are very knowledgeable about their products.

A typical scenario for accessibility:

Sarah needs to paint her living room ASAP. She lives in a moderately sized town. She checks online and finds three Sherwin-Williams stores within a 10-mile radius. She also finds a Benjamin Moore dealer about 15 miles away.
John is working on a large renovation project in a more rural area. He discovers there are no Benjamin Moore stores within a 30-mile drive. However, there is a Sherwin-Williams store conveniently located in the nearest town.

This difference in store count can be a deciding factor for many homeowners, especially for quick projects or when living in less urban areas.

Price Point and Value

Generally, Benjamin Moore paints are considered to be in a higher price bracket than Sherwin-Williams, especially for their premium lines. For example, a gallon of Benjamin Moore Aura might cost more than a gallon of Sherwin-Williams Emerald. This higher price often reflects the perceived quality, pigment richness, and specific technologies used in Benjamin Moore products.

However, when you consider the overall value, the price difference can sometimes be less significant. Benjamin Moore paints are known for their excellent coverage, meaning you might need fewer coats. This can save you money on paint and labor in the long run.

They also tend to be very durable, meaning the paint job may last longer before needing a refresh.

Sherwin-Williams offers a broader range of price points, with lines like HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams providing more budget-friendly options. Their mid-range and premium paints, like Emerald and Duration, are competitively priced against Benjamin Moore’s offerings and provide excellent performance for their cost.

Here’s a look at how prices might compare (these are approximate and can vary by region and sales):

Paint Line	Brand	Approximate Price Per Gallon (USD)	Key Features
Aura	Benjamin Moore	$70 – $90	Superior coverage, durability, rich color, stain resistance
Regal Select	Benjamin Moore	$55 – $75	Good coverage, washable, durable
Emerald	Sherwin-Williams	$65 – $85	Excellent washability, stain resistance, durable
Duration	Sherwin-Williams	$60 – $80	High durability, excellent adhesion, long-lasting
SuperPaint	Sherwin-Williams	$50 – $70	Good durability and coverage, washable
HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams	Sherwin-Williams	$40 – $60	Good value, decent performance for price

When choosing, think about how long you expect the paint job to last and how much effort you want to put into application. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront for a paint that covers better and lasts longer is more cost-effective.

Color Palettes and Selection

Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams boast extensive color palettes, but they approach color selection a little differently. Benjamin Moore is often praised for its sophisticated and curated color collections. They have a reputation for producing some of the most popular and trendy colors in the market, like “Revere Pewter” and “Simply White.” Their paint chips are known for their clarity and accuracy, making it easier to visualize the final color.

Sherwin-Williams offers an equally vast selection of colors, with a strong emphasis on accessibility through their ColorSnap system. This system allows you to easily browse colors online, create digital palettes, and find corresponding paint chips in-store. They have a huge range of shades, from deep, rich tones to soft, subtle neutrals.

Their ability to custom match colors is also a significant advantage for those seeking a very specific shade.

Benjamin Moore’s Color Accuracy: Many users report that Benjamin Moore’s colors are very true to their swatches. This means less chance of disappointment when the paint is on the wall. Their popular colors often become design staples for a reason – they work well in many different lighting conditions and spaces.
Sherwin-Williams’ Color Range and Tools: The sheer number of colors available at Sherwin-Williams can be overwhelming, but their ColorSnap app and in-store displays make it manageable. They are also very good at translating colors from photos or other sources into paint. This makes them a great choice for people who have a very specific color in mind from inspiration photos.
Trend vs. Versatility: Benjamin Moore is often seen as setting trends, while Sherwin-Williams provides a massive library of versatile colors. Both brands excel in offering a wide array of finishes, from matte to high gloss, allowing you to achieve different looks and functionalities.

Consider visiting both brands’ websites or stores to explore their color offerings. Using their color visualization tools can also give you a better idea of how colors will look in your own home.

Paint Formulas and Performance

The actual paint formulas are where much of the difference in performance lies. Both brands use high-quality ingredients, but their specific technologies and compositions lead to variations in application, coverage, durability, and finish. Generally, premium lines from both companies offer excellent performance.

Benjamin Moore’s Aura paint, for instance, is celebrated for its “Color Lock” technology, which ensures rich, vibrant colors that resist fading and are highly scrubbable. Their ADVANCE line for trim is known for its exceptional leveling properties, resulting in a smooth, brush-stroke-free finish. Many professionals appreciate Benjamin Moore for its consistent, predictable results, especially when it comes to achieving a flawless finish with fewer coats.

Sherwin-Williams’ Emerald paint is formulated for superior stain resistance and washability, making it a favorite for busy homes. Their Duration line is built for exceptional durability, with enhanced adhesion that helps prevent peeling and cracking over time. Sherwin-Williams paints often have a slightly thicker consistency, which some painters find makes them easier to control, especially for beginners.

They are also very good at providing full coverage, often with two coats.

Let’s compare some common performance aspects:

Feature	Benjamin Moore (e.g., Aura)	Sherwin-Williams (e.g., Emerald)	Notes
Coverage	Excellent, often requiring fewer coats	Very good, typically two coats needed for full coverage	Both offer good coverage, but BM is often cited for slightly better
Durability	High, resists scuffing and wear	High, especially Duration line for toughness	Both are very durable for residential use
Washability/Stain Resistance	Excellent, Aura is highly scrubbable	Excellent, Emerald is known for stain removal	Key feature for both premium lines
Application	Smooth, good leveling, professional feel	Can be slightly thicker, good flow and control	Personal preference can play a role here
VOCs	Low VOC options available in many lines	Low VOC options available in many lines	Both brands are conscious of environmental impact

For example, consider a family with young children painting a playroom. They need a paint that can withstand crayon marks and frequent washing. Both Benjamin Moore Aura and Sherwin-Williams Emerald would be excellent choices.

Aura’s scrubbability means tough marks can be wiped away without damaging the paint finish. Emerald’s stain-repelling qualities would similarly protect the walls.

Another scenario involves painting an exterior front door. Durability against weather elements is crucial. Sherwin-Williams’ Duration exterior paint is specifically engineered for this, offering superior adhesion and resistance to fading and cracking.

Benjamin Moore’s exterior paints are also very high quality, with specific formulations for different exterior needs.

Choosing the Right Paint Finish and Sheen

Beyond the brand and color, selecting the right finish or sheen is vital. The sheen affects how the paint looks, how durable it is, and how easy it is to clean. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams offer a full spectrum of sheens for their various product lines.

Understanding these differences will help you make the best choice for each area of your home.

Understanding Paint Sheens

Paint sheens are essentially how much light the paint reflects. This reflection is what gives paint its “sheen” or “gloss.” The general rule is that the higher the sheen, the more durable and washable the paint. However, higher sheens also tend to highlight imperfections on the surface.

Flat/Matte: This finish has no shine and absorbs light. It’s great for hiding imperfections on walls and ceilings, making it ideal for low-traffic areas like bedrooms or formal living rooms. However, it is the least durable and hardest to clean.

Both brands offer excellent flat or matte finishes, often with improved durability in their premium lines.
Eggshell/Satin: These finishes have a slight sheen, similar to the shell of an egg (eggshell) or a satin fabric. They are more durable and washable than flat paint and are suitable for most rooms, including living rooms, dining rooms, and hallways. They offer a good balance of hiding imperfections and being cleanable.

Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams have popular eggshell and satin options that perform very well.
Semi-Gloss/Gloss: These finishes have a noticeable shine and are very durable and washable. They are ideal for high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, as well as for trim, doors, and cabinets. The higher the gloss, the more the surface imperfections will be visible.

Both brands offer excellent semi-gloss and gloss paints that create a hard, protective finish.

A common mistake beginners make is using a flat paint in a high-traffic kitchen. If a greasy splatter or food stain happens, it will be very difficult to clean off without leaving a mark on the flat surface. Opting for an eggshell or satin finish in this area would provide much better washability.

Consider this scenario for choosing sheens:

Master Bedroom: You want a soft, calming look. A Benjamin Moore Aura Matte or Sherwin-Williams Emerald Matte would be perfect. They hide imperfections well and give a sophisticated feel.

You don’t need extreme washability here.
Hallway and Staircase: These areas see a lot of foot traffic and potential scuffs. A Benjamin Moore Regal Select Eggshell or Sherwin-Williams Duration Satin would be a better choice. They offer good durability and can be wiped clean easily.
Bathroom Vanity: This area is prone to moisture and needs to be cleaned frequently. A Benjamin Moore ADVANCE Semi-Gloss or Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint Semi-Gloss would be ideal. These finishes are highly resistant to moisture and stains and are very easy to wipe down.

The choice of sheen can significantly impact the final look and practicality of your paint job. Always consider the room’s function and traffic levels when deciding.

Premium Lines vs. Budget-Friendly Options

Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams offer a range of products, from premium, high-performance paints to more budget-friendly options. The premium lines, like Benjamin Moore Aura or Sherwin-Williams Emerald, typically cost more per gallon but offer superior coverage, durability, and finishes. They are formulated with higher quality resins and pigments, which translate to a better and longer-lasting paint job.

For example, a premium paint often requires only two coats for full coverage, while a budget-friendly paint might need three or even four coats to achieve the same result. When you factor in the cost of extra paint and the additional labor time, the premium paints can be more cost-effective in the long run. They also tend to be more forgiving during application and offer better resistance to common household issues like stains and scuffs.

Budget-friendly options, such as Benjamin Moore’s Ben or Sherwin-Williams’ HGTV Home line, are great for less demanding projects, like painting a spare room that isn’t used often or for priming surfaces. While they might not offer the same level of performance as the premium paints, they still provide decent coverage and a presentable finish at a lower price point. It’s important to read reviews and understand the limitations of budget paints before committing to them for high-visibility areas.

Here’s a general comparison:

Premium Paints: Higher upfront cost, but better coverage, durability, and finish. Often require fewer coats. Best for high-traffic areas, accent walls, and when you want the best possible result.

Examples include Benjamin Moore Aura and Sherwin-Williams Emerald.
Mid-Range Paints: A good balance of quality and price. Offer good coverage and durability for most general home painting needs. Examples include Benjamin Moore Regal Select and Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint.
Budget-Friendly Paints: Lower upfront cost, but may require more coats and offer less durability and washability. Suitable for low-traffic areas, ceilings, or priming. Examples include Benjamin Moore Ben and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams.

The decision between premium and budget-friendly often comes down to the specific project and your expectations. For critical areas where appearance and longevity are paramount, investing in a premium paint is usually the wisest choice.

Making Your Final Decision

Deciding between Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams: Which Paint Best? really depends on your personal needs, budget, and priorities. Both brands are excellent and offer high-quality paints that will beautify your home.

Consider where you are shopping, how much you want to spend, and what kind of finish and durability you need for each room. Don’t forget to test colors in your space, as lighting can greatly affect how a paint looks. By weighing these factors, you can confidently choose the best paint for your project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Is Benjamin Moore paint better than Sherwin-Williams?

Answer: Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are top-quality brands. Benjamin Moore is often favored by professionals for its color accuracy and smooth application, while Sherwin-Williams is praised for its wide availability and durable finishes like Emerald. The “better” paint depends on your specific needs, budget, and project.

Question: Which paint brand is more expensive Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams?

Answer: Generally, Benjamin Moore’s premium lines like Aura tend to be priced higher than comparable premium lines from Sherwin-Williams, such as Emerald. However, both brands offer a range of price points, and Sherwin-Williams has more budget-friendly options.

Question: Which paint covers better Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams?

Answer: Many users report that Benjamin Moore paints, particularly their premium lines, offer slightly better coverage, often requiring fewer coats. However, Sherwin-Williams paints also provide excellent coverage, and both brands are known for good hiding power in their high-quality products.

Question: Are Sherwin-Williams paints good for DIYers?

Answer: Yes, Sherwin-Williams paints are very good for DIYers. They are widely available, and many of their formulas are designed for ease of application, with good flow and leveling. Their ColorSnap system also makes color selection simpler for beginners.

Question: Can I get custom paint colors matched by both brands?

Answer: Absolutely. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are excellent at custom color matching. If you have a specific color in mind from another brand or a photo, they can typically replicate it accurately using their advanced color-matching technology.

Summary

Choosing between Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams involves looking at price, availability, color selection, and performance. Both brands offer excellent quality. Consider premium lines for durability and coverage, and budget options for less critical areas.

Your final choice depends on your project’s unique demands and your personal preferences.

Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams Paint Comparison

Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams Paint Brands Explained

Benjamin Moore Paint Quality and Offerings

Sherwin-Williams Paint Quality and Offerings