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Choosing the right paint brand can feel overwhelming. It’s more than just picking a color you like. You’re deciding what will protect your investment, elevate your home’s look, and stand the test of time. For most homeowners, the real debate boils down to this: is Benjamin Moore better than Sherwin Williams?
This is a question that goes beyond personal preference. It’s about performance, value, and what truly works for your space. In this post, we’ll compare these two industry leaders across key factors like durability, coverage, color selection, cost, and environmental impact.
Performance and Durability
Paint isn’t just about making things look good. It protects your walls, trim, siding, and cabinets from all the daily dings, scuffs, and wear they go through. So how do these two brands compare when it comes to real-life durability?
Key Performance Areas
1. Washability
- Benjamin Moore Aura is one of the most washable paints on the market. You can scrub it without dulling the finish.
- Sherwin Williams Emerald holds up well in high-traffic zones but may show signs of dulling with repeated cleaning.
2. Scuff and Stain Resistance
- Benjamin Moore Scuff-X is engineered to withstand heavy abuse, making it ideal for kids’ rooms, stairways, and entryways.
- Sherwin Williams Cashmere has a smooth finish but tends to scuff more easily than its Benjamin Moore counterpart.
3. Fade Resistance
- Regal Select from Benjamin Moore maintains rich color even in rooms with heavy sunlight.
- Duration by Sherwin Williams is also fade-resistant but may not hold up as long outdoors compared to Aura or Regal Select.
So, is Benjamin Moore better than Sherwin Williams in terms of durability? If you want fewer repaints over time, Benjamin Moore edges out ahead.
Coverage and Application
Coverage is about more than just how many coats you need. It affects the amount of paint you buy, how much labor is involved, and how long the job takes.
Application Experience
Benjamin Moore
- Known for high-hide formulas that cover. better in fewer coats
- Slower drying time makes it easier to correct brush strokes.
- Excellent for detail work, trims, and cabinetry.
Sherwin Williams
- Lighter formulas, ideal for spraying large areas quickly.
- May require an extra coat, especially in lower-tier lines.
- Quick drying for faster project turnaround.
Contractor and Homeowner Feedback
Professional painters often say Benjamin Moore is easier to control and yields a richer finish, especially for premium interiors. Sherwin Williams, however, is often preferred for larger-scale jobs where speed and consistency are key.
So is Benjamin Moore better than Sherwin Williams when it comes to application? For detailed, high-end work, Benjamin Moore is hard to beat. For fast production painting, Sherwin Williams is more practical.
Color Selection and Finish Variety
A well-chosen color transforms a room. But it has to be accurate, consistent, and flexible across lighting conditions. This is where color science meets creativity.
Color Systems Compared
Benjamin Moore
- Offers over 3,500 colors, many exclusive to the brand.
- Uses full-spectrum pigments in their “Color Stories” collection.
- Colors maintain consistency in different light environments.
Sherwin Williams
- Offers roughly 1,700 colors.
- Broad support from design software and visualization apps.
- Widely used by commercial designers and architects.
Both brands offer tools for visualizing colors in your space, but Benjamin Moore is known for richer, more saturated options, especially in their Aura line.
Sheens and Finishes
- Flat/Matte: Great for hiding imperfections.
- Eggshell: Most popular for walls.
- Satin/Pearl: Ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Semi-gloss: Common for trim and cabinetry.
- Gloss: Rare, but available for accents and durability.
Benjamin Moore’s finishes tend to appear smoother and richer, especially under natural light. Sherwin Williams provides a more uniform appearance across different product lines.
Still wondering is Benjamin Moore better than Sherwin Williams for color? If rich tones and sophisticated depth matter to you, Benjamin Moore takes the lead.
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Price vs. Value
Let’s talk numbers. Paint pricing varies depending on the line, sheen, and location. But as a general rule, Benjamin Moore comes in slightly higher per gallon than Sherwin Williams.
Price Breakdown (Per Gallon)
Product Type
Entry-Level Interior
Mid-Tier Interior
Premium (Aura/Emerald)
Benjamin Moore
$45–$55
$65–$75
$80–$95
Sherwin Williams
$40–$50
$60–$70
$75–$90
Discounts and Availability
- Sherwin Williams frequently offers 30–40% off sales, especially for contractors.
- Benjamin Moore products are primarily available through independent retailers and are less frequently discounted.
In terms of raw price, Sherwin Williams is usually more affordable. But when it comes to value, longer-lasting color, better touch-up ability, and higher hide, Benjamin Moore often delivers more bang for your buck in the long run.
So is Benjamin Moore better than Sherwin Williams in value? If you’re playing the long game and prioritizing fewer repaints, the answer is yes.
Environmental & Health Considerations
Modern homeowners care about indoor air quality and environmental sustainability. Thankfully, both brands offer eco-conscious products.
Low- and Zero-VOC Options
Benjamin Moore
- Eco Spec and Natura lines are zero-VOC and asthma/allergy friendly.
- Products meet Green Seal and LEED standards.
- Low odor, even during application.
Sherwin Williams
- Harmony is their zero-VOC line, with added odor-eliminating technology.
- Emerald also meets green building standards.
- Good for commercial and healthcare spaces.
Safety for Indoor Use
Both brands are safe for children’s rooms, nurseries, and enclosed areas. If you’re extra sensitive or have health concerns, Benjamin Moore’s Natura line is a standout.
In this case, is Benjamin Moore better than Sherwin Williams? Both brands are pretty eco-friendly, but Benjamin Moore gets the nod for going the extra mile with certifications.
Pros Opinion vs. Homeowner Experience
You’ve seen the specs, but what do real people say?
Professional Feedback
- Contractors often lean toward Sherwin Williams for volume discounts and speed.
- High-end residential painters swear by Benjamin Moore Aura for its finish and longevity.
Homeowner Reviews
- Many homeowners praise Benjamin Moore for delivering vibrant colors that endure over time and for its impressive resistance to stains and everyday wear.
- Sherwin Williams is appreciated for accessibility and service through retail locations.
Which Paint Brand Is Right for Your Home?
Choosing between Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams comes down to what matters most to you. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are go-to brands that pros and homeowners have trusted for years. But they’re not identical, and the best choice depends on the priorities of your specific painting project.
Are you focused on long-term durability and premium finishes? Or are you looking for wide availability and competitive pricing? Let’s break it down based on your needs.
Why Homeowners Prefer Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore tends to be the top choice for homeowners who are looking for:
Exceptional color depth and range
- The brand offers over 3,500 colors, including full-spectrum options that give rooms a sophisticated look.
Superior coverage and finish quality
- Benjamin Moore paints often cover better in fewer coats, saving time and effort during application.
High-performance durability
- Paint lines like Aura and Regal Select are built to last and withstand scrubbing, scuffing, and fading.
Environmentally friendly options
- The Eco Spec and Natura lines are ideal for households focused on low-VOC, safe products.
If you value richness of color, elegance in finish, and premium performance, Benjamin Moore is likely your best investment.
When Sherwin Williams Might Be the Better Fit
Sherwin Williams remains a strong contender for many painting projects, especially when:
Budget is a factor
- Regular sales and professional discounts can make Sherwin Williams a more economical option.
Speed and accessibility matter
- With more than 4,000 stores nationwide, it’s easy to find a location and get what you need quickly.
Large-scale or commercial projects are involved
- Sherwin Williams products are ideal for builders, contractors, and multi-room repaints where time and consistency are key.
You prefer quick-drying paint for fast turnarounds
- Their Emerald and Duration lines dry quickly while still offering solid durability.
If convenience, pricing, and wide availability are top priorities, Sherwin Williams delivers strong value and reliability.
Conclusion
So, is Benjamin Moore better than Sherwin Williams?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But here’s a practical way to decide:
- Go with Benjamin Moore if you’re looking for lasting durability, stronger color coverage, and a smoother, more refined finish, especially for interior spaces where appearance and performance matter over time.
- Choose Sherwin Williams if your project needs to move fast, stay on budget, and benefit from widely available supplies.
The truth is, both brands perform at a high level. What makes one better than the other depends on your priorities, your space, and your goals. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or repainting your entire house, the paint you choose should reflect your standards, not just your budget.
