Benjamin Moore vs. Sherwin Williams: The essential choice for your next paint project is simpler than you think. Both offer quality, but understanding their differences—like coverage, durability, and color selection—helps you pick the perfect brand for professional, lasting results.
Picking the right paint can feel like a big decision. You want your walls to look fantastic, and you want the paint to last. Many DIYers and even seasoned pros face the same question: Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams? These two names are giants in the paint world, and for good reason. They both make great paint, but they aren’t exactly the same. This can make choosing feel a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry, though! We’ll break down what makes each brand special, so you can confidently choose the best paint for your home. Getting this right means a smoother painting experience and a finish you’ll love for years. Let’s dive in and make this paint decision easy!
Benjamin Moore vs. Sherwin Williams: A Beginner’s Guide
As your go-to guy for all things DIY and woodworking, I know that sometimes the simplest choices can feel the most complicated. When it comes to paint, the brands Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams pop up constantly. They’re the go-to choices for many, and for good reason – they’re known for quality. But what’s the real difference, and which one should you pick for your next project? It’s a common question, and the answer really depends on what’s most important to you. We’ll look at things like how well the paint covers, how tough it is, the colors available, and, of course, the cost. By the end of this, you’ll feel much more confident making your choice.
Why This Choice Matters for Your Project
Think of paint as the finishing touch on any project, whether it’s a whole room, a piece of furniture you’re refinishing, or even a small accent wall. The right paint doesn’t just add color; it protects your surfaces and can totally change the feel of a space. Choosing between Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams isn’t just about picking a color; it’s about investing in the longevity and appearance of your work. A good quality paint will apply smoothly, cover well (meaning fewer coats!), and resist scuffs and stains, saving you time and frustration down the road. For beginners, this can make a huge difference in the final outcome and your confidence in tackling future projects.
Understanding Paint Quality: What to Look For
Before we compare Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams directly, let’s talk about what makes any paint good. High-quality paint generally has more solids (like pigments and binders) and fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs). More solids mean better coverage, meaning you might need one less coat. Binders are what hold the pigment together and help the paint stick to the wall. Better binders lead to a more durable finish. When you’re looking at paint, consider these factors:
- Coverage: How much area can one gallon of paint cover? Higher coverage means fewer cans and less work.
- Durability: Can it withstand scrubbing, scuff marks, and general wear and tear? Essential for high-traffic areas.
- Finish/Sheen: This is how shiny or flat the paint looks (e.g., flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, high-gloss). Each has its pros and cons for different rooms and surfaces.
- Color Accuracy and Variety: How many colors are available, and do they offer the exact shade you’re looking for?
- Ease of Application: Does it go on smoothly with a brush or roller? Is it prone to drips or roller marks?
- VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds): Lower VOC paints are better for indoor air quality. You can learn more about VOCs and their impact on health from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Benjamin Moore: A Look at the Brand
Benjamin Moore has a long-standing reputation for producing premium paints. They are often seen as a go-to for homeowners and professional painters who prioritize meticulous color accuracy and a high-quality finish. You’ll typically find Benjamin Moore paints at independent, locally-owned paint dealers rather than big box hardware stores. This often means you get more expert advice and personalized service.
Popular Benjamin Moore Lines and Their Strengths
Benjamin Moore offers several paint lines, each designed for different needs and budgets. For beginners, understanding a couple of their most popular and accessible lines can be very helpful.
- Benjamin Moore Regal Select: This is a fantastic all-around paint. It’s known for its excellent coverage, durability, and scrubbability, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like living rooms, hallways, and kids’ rooms. It comes in various sheens and is a favorite for its smooth application and rich finish. It’s often recommended for both walls and trim.
- Benjamin Moore Aura: This is Benjamin Moore’s premium interior paint. It’s designed for superior color depth, durability, and stain resistance. Aura uses Color Lock® technology, which helps the color stay true and resist fading, even after repeated washing. It’s a bit more expensive but offers exceptional performance, especially for critical areas where you want the very best, like master bedrooms or living rooms where you plan to entertain.
- Benjamin Moore Super Spec: While Benjamin Moore emphasizes their premium lines, they also offer more budget-friendly options like Super Spec, often found in contractor-grade formulations. These are typically more basic but still deliver decent quality for everyday use, especially if budget is a primary concern or for less critical areas.
Pros and Cons of Benjamin Moore Paint
Like any brand, Benjamin Moore has its advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
| Pros of Benjamin Moore Paint | Cons of Benjamin Moore Paint |
|---|---|
| Excellent color selection and accuracy. Their color chips are very true to the final painted color. | Generally more expensive than many other brands, including some Sherwin Williams lines. |
| High-quality formulations lead to great coverage and a smooth finish. | Availability can be limited. You typically need to visit an independent paint dealer, not a big box store. |
| Durable and washable, especially premium lines like Aura and Regal Select. | Some of their more budget-friendly options might not offer the same premium feel as their higher-end lines. |
| Often has lower VOC options available, contributing to better indoor air quality. | Requires careful attention to detail when applying to achieve the best results due to its premium nature. |
Sherwin Williams: A Look at the Brand
Sherwin Williams is another powerhouse in the paint industry, known for its wide availability and comprehensive range of products. You can find Sherwin Williams paints in their own dedicated stores, as well as in many major home improvement retailers. This accessibility makes them a very popular choice for both DIYers and contractors.
Popular Sherwin Williams Lines and Their Strengths
Sherwin Williams also offers a variety of paint lines tailored to different needs. Here are some you’ll likely encounter:
- Sherwin Williams SuperPaint: This is one of their flagship interior paints, offering excellent durability, stain resistance, and washability. It’s a great all-around choice for various rooms, including kitchens and bathrooms, and comes in a wide range of sheens. It’s known for its good coverage and smooth application.
- Sherwin Williams Emerald: This premium interior paint is designed for enhanced durability and a beautiful finish. It boasts excellent coverage, superior stain resistance, and is formulated with low VOCs. Emerald truly pushes the boundaries for washability and scuff resistance, making it a top-tier option for demanding areas.
- Sherwin Williams Duration: Another excellent interior option, Duration is known for its “PermaLast®” technology, which provides exceptional durability and resistance to chalking and fading. It’s great for high-traffic areas and offers good coverage, often requiring fewer coats than lower-quality paints.
- Sherwin Williams HGTV Home® by Sherwin-Williams: Available at Lowe’s, this line offers a range of quality paints at competitive price points, often more accessible for DIYers. While not their top-tier professional line, many of these paints provide good performance and a wide color palette.
Pros and Cons of Sherwin Williams Paint
Sherwin Williams has its own set of benefits and drawbacks that are worth considering.
| Pros of Sherwin Williams Paint | Cons of Sherwin Williams Paint |
|---|---|
| Widely available in their own stores and major retailers like Lowe’s, making it easy to find. | Color accuracy can sometimes vary slightly between batches or compared to Benjamin Moore’s very precise chips. |
| Offers a broad range of price points, from budget-friendly to premium, with many lines offering great value. | Some of their less expensive lines may not offer the same level of coverage or durability as Benjamin Moore’s premium options. |
| Known for good durability and washability, especially in lines like Emerald and Duration. | Can sometimes be more prone to showing brush strokes if not applied carefully, though this varies by specific product line. |
| Often has sales and promotions, making their paints more affordable at times. | The sheer number of product lines can sometimes be confusing for beginners trying to pick the right one. |
Benjamin Moore Paint vs. Sherwin Williams Paint: Direct Comparison
Now, let’s put them head-to-head on the factors most important to you, the DIYer looking for great results without the professional fuss.
1. Color Palettes and Accuracy
This is often where Benjamin Moore shines brightest. They are renowned for their extensive and incredibly accurate color palettes. If you’ve seen a specific shade online or in a magazine and fell in love, Benjamin Moore often has a very close match, and their paint chips tend to be very predictive of the final color. Sherwin Williams also has a vast selection, including the popular HGTV Home line, but sometimes their colors can appear slightly different on the wall than on the chip, especially in different lighting conditions. However, Sherwin Williams offers a huge variety, and with their extensive fan decks and color consultation services, you can still find your perfect hue.
2. Paint Quality, Coverage, and Durability
Both brands offer excellent quality paints, but their top-tier lines are where they really compete. Benjamin Moore’s Aura and Regal Select are known for exceptional coverage, meaning fewer coats are often needed, saving you time and paint. Their formulas tend to be smoother and more forgiving. Sherwin Williams’ Emerald and Duration lines are also top performers, offering excellent durability, stain resistance, and washability, particularly for high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms. For sheer robustness and ease of repeated cleaning, both brands’ premium lines are hard to beat. For beginners, paints that offer good coverage often lead to a more satisfying and less frustrating experience.
3. Price and Value
Generally speaking, Benjamin Moore paints tend to be more expensive than comparable Sherwin Williams lines. While Benjamin Moore’s premium paints are a significant investment, many users find the value comes from their superior coverage and finish, meaning you might use less paint and achieve a better result. Sherwin Williams often offers a wider range of price points. Their premium lines (Emerald, Duration) are similarly priced to Benjamin Moore’s higher-end options, but their mid-tier and budget-friendly lines (like HGTV Home® by Sherwin-Williams) can offer excellent value for money. Keep an eye out for sales, as Sherwin Williams frequently has promotions.
4. Availability and Shopping Experience
This is a key differentiator. Sherwin Williams has a massive retail presence with dedicated Sherwin Williams stores across the country, plus availability in big-box retailers like Lowe’s. This makes it incredibly convenient to pick up paint, supplies, and get quick advice. Benjamin Moore primarily sells through independent paint dealers. While this might mean a bit more travel for some, these dealers often provide a more personal and expert level of service. Homeowners often appreciate the one-on-one attention they can get at a Benjamin Moore dealer.
5. Ease of Application for Beginners
For many DIYers, ease of application is paramount. Both brands offer paints that apply well, but there are slight nuances. Some users find Benjamin Moore paints, particularly Regal Select, to be exceptionally smooth and self-leveling, which can hide minor imperfections and make for a more uniform finish with less effort. Sherwin Williams paints also apply very well, and lines like Emerald are formulated for excellent flow and leveling. The key for beginners with either brand is proper preparation, using the right tools (good quality brushes and rollers), and applying the paint evenly. Always test your technique in an inconspicuous area!
Choosing the Right Paint Sheen
No matter which brand you choose, selecting the right sheen is crucial for both appearance and performance. Sheen refers to how shiny the paint finish is. Here’s a quick guide:
- Flat/Matte: Least reflective. Hides imperfections well. Best for ceilings and low-traffic adult bedrooms. Not washable.
- Eggshell/Satin/Low-Lustre: Slight sheen. More durable and washable than flat. Good for most walls in living rooms, dining rooms, and hallways.
- Semi-Gloss: Noticeable shine. Very durable and washable. Ideal for trim, doors, and cabinets, and often recommended for bathrooms and kitchens where moisture and frequent cleaning are factors.
- High-Gloss: Most reflective. Very hard and durable but highlights imperfections. Used for trim, furniture, and accent pieces where a dramatic look is desired.
Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams offer these sheens across their product lines. Consult your local paint dealer or Sherwin Williams store associate for specific recommendations based on the room and surface you’re painting.
When to Choose Benjamin Moore
You might lean towards Benjamin Moore if:
- Color is your absolute top priority: You need that exact shade, and you want the color on the can to be the color on your wall.
- You prefer shopping at independent dealers: You appreciate personalized advice and a more curated shopping experience.
- You’re willing to invest a bit more for perceived premium quality: You’re looking for a paint that feels luxurious and applies with a very fine finish.
- You value superior coverage and a smooth, forgiving application: You want the paint to do a lot of the work for you.
When to Choose Sherwin Williams
You might lean towards Sherwin Williams if:
- Convenience is key: You want to be able to easily pop into a store to buy paint and supplies.
- You’re looking for a wider range of price points: You need options that fit different budgets, from economical to premium.
- You want excellent durability and washability across many product tiers: You need paint that can stand up to daily life.
- You appreciate frequent sales and promotions: You’re looking to get great quality paint at a potentially lower cost.
Looking for more inspiration on color choices? The Apartment Therapy website often features popular colors and trends that can help you visualize your space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is Benjamin Moore paint better than Sherwin Williams?
It’s not a matter of one being definitively “better,” but rather which is better for your specific needs. Benjamin Moore is often praised for its color accuracy and premium feel, while Sherwin Williams is lauded for its wide availability, extensive product range, and frequent promotions. Both offer excellent quality in their premium lines.
Q2: Which brand covers better, Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams?
Both brands’ premium lines, such as Benjamin Moore’s Aura and Regal Select, and Sherwin Williams’ Emerald and Duration, offer excellent coverage. Many users find Benjamin Moore’s higher-end paints to be particularly efficient, often requiring fewer coats. However, this can also depend on the specific product and the color you are applying over.
Q3: Is Benjamin Moore more expensive than Sherwin Williams?
Typically, Benjamin Moore paints are priced higher than Sherwin Williams paints, especially when comparing their premium lines. However, Sherwin Williams offers a wider spectrum of price points, including more budget-friendly options, and frequently runs sales that can make their paints more competitive.
Q4: Can I color match Benjamin Moore colors at Sherwin Williams (or vice versa)?
Yes, most paint stores, including both Benjamin Moore dealers and Sherwin Williams stores, can perform color matching. However, it’s important to note that color matching is not always perfect. Benjamin Moore’s colors are known for their precision, so matching them at another store might result in slight variations.