Sherwin Williams vs Benjamin Moore VS Behr paints
Are you getting ready to tackle a home painting project? You have painted your room or house growing up, maybe helped friends paint their homes. It would be nice to hire a paint contractor to get it done, but there is something about re-painting a room that is relaxing and satisfying.
You have decided on your paint colors.
You cleared your schedule for this weekend.
But… those buts are always getting in the way. What kind of paint should you buy?
Today, we created a short guide about 3 types of paint. we’ll break down the differences between these three leading paint brands in terms of quality, price, performance, and color selection to help you make an informed choice. What sets each brand apart from each other? Knowing some of these differences will give you the confidence to select the right paint for your needs.
What Are the Differences Between Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Behr?
Quality and Durability
When it comes to paint, people will usually reference quality as the best coverage, nicest finish, and how long it will last. This is where the major differences between Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Behr become apparent.
- Sherwin-Williams is known for producing high-end, professional-grade paints. Their paints offer exceptional durability and finish. Its paints provide excellent coverage, which often means fewer coats are required. Sherwin-Williams’ Emerald and Duration lines are the high end of their paint lines and are considered to be some of the best in the market for interior and exterior use. These paints are resistant to fading, cracking, and mildew.
- Benjamin Moore is another top-tier brand, offering premium paints that are highly durable. These paints are typically referenced by interior designers (from our experience). Their Aura line, for instance, offers superior coverage and washability, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas. Their exterior Line of Aura paint also holds up well in tough climates, making it a solid option for both interior and exterior projects. Benjamin Moore is praised for its ability to produce rich colors.
- Behr, sold primarily at Home Depot, is often regarded as a more DIY, budget-friendly option compared to Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore. However, Behr has a solid reputation for producing paints that deliver good coverage and durability at a lower price point. Behr’s Marquee line, for example, claims to offer one-coat coverage for many colors. (do not assume this for whites-see our article on why) While it may not match the professional-grade finish of Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore, it still performs well for everyday use.
Quick Summary, When it comes to Sherwin Williams vs Benjamin Moore VS Behr paints, Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore are a step above Behr, with Sherwin-Williams often considered the gold standard by many professional painters.
Price Comparison of Sherwin, Benjamin and Behr
For most homeowners, price is a key factor in deciding which paint to choose. Here’s how the three brands compare:
- Sherwin-Williams is on the more expensive end of the spectrum. High-end lines like Emerald or Duration can cost upwards of $60 to $80 per gallon. While expensive, many homeowners and professionals believe the quality is worth the price, especially for long-term projects like exterior painting. (watch for their sales!! they have events of up to 35-40% off)
- Benjamin Moore is similarly priced to Sherwin-Williams, though it offers a wide range of products to fit different budgets. For instance, the premium Aura line will cost around $70 per gallon, while more budget-friendly options like Ben cost between $40 and $50 per gallon.
- Behr is significantly more affordable. A gallon of Behr’s Marquee costs around $40, and their more basic lines, like Premium Plus, can be found for under $30 per gallon. For homeowners on a budget or tackling smaller projects, Behr offers a good balance of affordability and performance.
We will say-Behr offers the most affordable pricing for decent quality. Lower end paints from Sherwin Williams such pro mar 200 and Benjamin Ultra spec are really good paints that will go toe to toe with brands such as Behr. However, if you’re willing to spend more for premium results, Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore are worth the extra cost.
Color Selection between Sherwin Williams, Benjamin Moore and Behr
Color is one of the most important factors for homeowners when choosing paint. Having a wide range of colors, as well as color-matching technology, is essential.
- Sherwin-Williams boasts a vast array of over 1,700 colors and has excellent color-matching technology. Their ColorSnap app is designed to help homeowners visualize how a color will look in a room or on the exterior of their home, making the selection process easier.
- Benjamin Moore is known for its rich and vibrant color palettes, offering over 3,500 colors. Their Color Portfolio app, combined with their Personal Color Viewer tool, allows users to experiment with different shades and combinations digitally before committing to a paint choice.
- Behr also offers a wide range of colors, though their selection is more limited compared to Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore. Behr’s ColorSmart app provides a similar function, helping homeowners visualize colors before making a purchase.
A few things to note: Benjamin Moore offers the most diverse and curated selection of colors, making it ideal for those seeking a specific or unique shade. Sherwin-Williams comes in a close second, with slightly fewer color options but excellent technology to help with the selection process. Behr has some of the most vibrant white available in paint.
We have found more times than not, If you have a color from Sherwin use sherwin paint, same for the other brands.
See another article on issues using paint chips
Best Uses of Each Paint Brand
Each brand has its strengths and is suited for different types of projects.
- Sherwin-Williams is ideal for both interior and exterior projects that require professional-quality results. Their premium lines are excellent for high-traffic areas, exterior walls, and surfaces that need to withstand extreme weather.
- Benjamin Moore is also great for both interior and exterior use, but its paints, especially Aura, excel in rooms where you need rich colors and durable finishes, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas like hallways. They also have more options for no or low VOC paints. (read more here)
- Behr is a solid choice for DIY projects, including basic interior painting and smaller exterior jobs. While it may not be the top choice for professional painters, it performs well for most residential projects where budget is a concern.
From our experience – Sherwin-Williams for overall versatility and durability, Benjamin Moore for vibrant interior colors, and Behr for specific colors is DIY-friendly, an has great affordable paint sample pints!
The Pros and Cons of Different Paint Brands
- Sherwin-Williams
- Pros: Professional-grade quality, excellent durability, wide color range, superior coverage.
- Cons: Expensive, especially for premium lines.
- Benjamin Moore
- Pros: Rich color options, high durability, eco-friendly options available, low VOC.
- Cons: Very Pricey, slightly longer drying time for some products.
- Behr
- Pros: Affordable, widely available at Home Depot, good performance for price, DIY-friendly.
- Cons: Limited color range compared to the other brands, may require more coats for full coverage.
Which Paint Brand Should You Choose?
When deciding on Sherwin Williams vs Benjamin Moore VS Behr paints- consider the specifics of your project and your budget. If you’re aiming for professional results and don’t mind spending extra, Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore are both excellent options that will provide you with long-lasting, durable finishes. For homeowners on a tighter budget or working on smaller DIY projects, Behr usually is the pick. Location also plays a factor too- some areas have a easy and local paint store but not access to some of the other brands.
Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance between quality, cost, and project needs. And remember, no matter which brand you choose, investing in high-quality paint will pay off in the long run with better coverage, durability, and a more beautiful home.
For more detailed information about these brands and their specific product lines, you can visit their respective websites:
