Sherwin-Williams vs Benjamin Moore: Which Paint is Better?
Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore are the two giants of the paint industry, and choosing between them is one of the most common dilemmas homeowners face. Both brands offer premium quality, but they have distinct differences in color selection, pricing, availability, and performance that could influence your decision.
In this comprehensive comparison, we'll break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your project.
Compare Colors Side by Side
Use our AI visualizer to test both Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore colors in your actual room and see which looks best.
Try the Color VisualizerQuick Comparison Overview
| Category | Sherwin-Williams | Benjamin Moore | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color Selection | 1,700+ colors | 3,500+ colors | Benjamin Moore |
| Price Range (per gallon) | $35-$85 | $45-$90 | Sherwin-Williams |
| Coverage | 350-400 sq ft | 400-450 sq ft | Benjamin Moore |
| Availability | 4,000+ stores | Retailers only | Sherwin-Williams |
| Low-VOC Options | Harmony line | Natura line | Tie |
| Professional Preference | Very popular | Industry standard | Benjamin Moore |
Sherwin-Williams Overview
Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin-Williams is the largest paint company in North America, with over 4,000 company-owned stores. Their extensive retail presence means you can easily find stores, get expert advice, and take advantage of frequent sales (often 30-40% off).
Popular lines include Emerald (premium), Duration (exterior), Cashmere (smooth finish), and SuperPaint (best value). Their ColorSnap tool is one of the best color-matching apps available.
Pros
- More accessible with dedicated stores everywhere
- Frequent sales and contractor pricing
- Excellent customer service and color matching
- Strong warranty programs
- Great for large projects (bulk pricing)
Cons
- Smaller color selection than Benjamin Moore
- Quality varies more between product lines
- Some colors require more coats
Browse all Sherwin-Williams colors →
Benjamin Moore Overview
Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore is the paint of choice for professional painters and interior designers. Their proprietary Gennex colorant system produces exceptionally accurate, consistent colors that look the same from can to can.
Popular lines include Regal Select (premium interior), Aura (top-tier), Natura (zero-VOC), and Advance (cabinet paint). Their color accuracy is considered industry-leading.
Pros
- Superior color accuracy and consistency
- Larger color selection (3,500+ colors)
- Better coverage in fewer coats
- Preferred by professional painters
- Excellent self-leveling properties
Cons
- Higher price point
- Only sold through independent retailers
- Less frequent sales
- Harder to find in some areas
Browse all Benjamin Moore colors →
Popular Color Equivalents
Looking for the same color in both brands? Here are some popular colors and their closest equivalents:
Which Should You Choose?
The Verdict
Choose Sherwin-Williams if: You value convenience, want access to frequent sales, are working on a budget, or have a large project where contractor pricing matters. Their store network makes it easy to get color-matched samples and expert advice.
Choose Benjamin Moore if: You prioritize color accuracy, want the absolute best coverage, are willing to pay premium pricing, or want what professional painters use. Their color accuracy is unmatched, especially for complex colors.
Before You Buy: Test Colors First
Regardless of which brand you choose, the most important step is testing colors in your actual space. Paint looks different in every room depending on lighting, flooring, and surrounding colors.
Our AI room visualizer lets you upload a photo of your room and see exactly how any Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore color will look—before you buy a single sample pot.
Test Both Brands in Your Room
Upload a photo and compare Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore colors side by side in your actual space.
Try the Color Visualizer FreeRelated guides: