Homeowners often face the same question when starting a painting project: Sherwin Williams vs Benjamin Moore, which brand is better? Both are trusted names with a long history of quality, but the right choice depends on your budget, project type, and expectations.
The quick answer: Benjamin Moore is best for premium finishes and rich colors, while Sherwin Williams is more affordable, widely available, and durable enough for most projects.
Sherwin Williams vs Benjamin Moore Comparison
Here’s a side-by-side look at how Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore stack up in the areas that matter most to homeowners.
| Category | Benjamin Moore | Sherwin Williams |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Premium interior finishes, design-driven projects, deep colors | Budget-friendly projects, high-traffic durability, convenient access |
| Price Range | $40–$70 per gallon (Aura & Regal on the high end) | $40–$80 per gallon (Emerald/Duration high end, frequent sales bring cost down) |
| Coverage & Durability | Regal Select outperforms Duration in tests; Aura offers strong color retention | Emerald & Duration highly durable; some report needing more coats |
| Ease of Application | Smooth finish, fewer coats, but Aura can be thick and harder for DIY | Thicker consistency, more open time, DIY-friendly, Emerald self-levels |
| Color Selection | 3,500+ refined colors; strong reputation for vibrancy | 1,700+ colors; ColorSnap app with virtual consults |
| Availability | Independent retailers, service quality varies | 3,900+ corporate stores, consistent access, frequent promos |
| Eco-Friendly Options | Natura, Regal Select (low/zero VOC) | Harmony (low VOC) |
| Cons | Higher price, Aura can be harder to apply, store availability varies | Inconsistent coverage in some lines, premium pricing without sales, fewer colors |
Key Differences Beyond the Paint
Beyond what’s in the can, the buying experience sets these brands apart. Sherwin Williams operates corporate-owned stores nationwide, making their paints easier to find with consistent product access and sales events. Benjamin Moore relies on independent retailers, which can mean more personalized service but also variation in stock and advice.
Popular Product Lines
To understand the Sherwin Williams vs Benjamin Moore debate more clearly, it helps to look at some of their most popular paint lines. Each line is designed for different needs, from budget-friendly options to premium finishes.
Benjamin Moore
- Regal Select: Reliable coverage and durability, often outperforms Sherwin Williams Duration.
- Aura: Premium finish with vivid colors and moisture resistance, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Ben: A budget-friendly option with decent coverage, similar in performance to Sherwin Williams SuperPaint.
- Advance: Designed for trim and cabinets, leaving a furniture-like finish.
Sherwin Williams
- Emerald: Premium line known for stain resistance and a smooth, self-leveling finish.
- Duration: Durable and moisture-resistant, built for high-traffic areas.
- SuperPaint: Mid-range option that balances price and performance, often compared to Benjamin Moore Ben.
- Cashmere: Smooth finish with strong touch-up performance for interiors.
- Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel: Popular choice for cabinets and trim, known for durability.
Now that we’ve covered the popular product lines, let’s look closer at how they compare across key performance factors.
Coverage and Durability
Coverage is often the dealbreaker. Benjamin Moore Regal Select is a standout, covering more surface area with fewer coats than Sherwin Williams Duration. Aura holds its color well in demanding spaces like bathrooms and hallways.
Sherwin Williams shines in durability, especially with Emerald and Duration, both designed for high-traffic areas. They resist scuffs and stains, though some users report needing extra coats with deeper colors.
Ease of Application
If you’re a DIY painter, application matters just as much as durability. Benjamin Moore paints glide on smoothly and often require fewer coats, but their premium Aura line is thick and can challenge less experienced painters.
Sherwin Williams paints generally feel easier to control thanks to their thicker consistency and slower drying time. Their Emerald line self-levels, reducing brush marks and helping projects look more professional even without pro-level skills.
Price and Value
On average, Benjamin Moore costs a little more, with Regal and Aura ranging between $57 and $70 per gallon. Sherwin Williams averages around $53 per gallon, but the difference is that Sherwin Williams frequently offers 30–40% sales, which can make their premium lines much cheaper if you time your purchase.
For homeowners willing to pay for consistent quality without waiting for sales, Benjamin Moore holds strong appeal. For those looking to stretch a budget, Sherwin Williams is the better value.
Color Selection and Tools
If you’re chasing the perfect shade, Benjamin Moore’s 3,500+ colors have long been praised by designers for richness and vibrancy. Their Color Portfolio app and in-store consultations help refine choices.
Sherwin Williams offers about 1,700 colors and their ColorSnap app, which allows homeowners to visualize spaces before committing. They also provide free online consultations, with in-home options available for a fee.
Interior, Exterior, and Specialty Projects
Different projects call for different types of paint, and each brand has standouts designed for specific spaces.
- Interiors: Benjamin Moore Regal Select and Sherwin Williams Emerald are top performers for walls.
- Cabinets and Trim: Benjamin Moore Advance delivers a furniture-like finish, while Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is known for durability.
- Exteriors: Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior is highly rated for weather resistance.
- Bathrooms & Kitchens: Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa resists moisture, while Sherwin Williams Duration works well in humid environments.
Eco-Friendly Options
Both brands produce low-VOC and eco-friendly lines. Benjamin Moore Natura and Regal Select have won recognition for sustainability. Sherwin Williams Harmony is designed for better indoor air quality.
While both are strong choices, Benjamin Moore edges slightly ahead with broader eco-certified options.
Expert Advice on Choosing
As a local painting company with over 12 years of experience, we’ve worked extensively with both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams and know where each brand truly shines. Here are our recommendations.
If your priority is premium color depth, designer finishes, and long-term performance, Benjamin Moore is worth the investment.
If you want durable paint at a better price point, with easy access to stores and frequent promotions, Sherwin Williams is often the smarter pick.
For many homeowners, the decision comes down to this. Choose:
- Benjamin Moore for interiors where look and finish matter most.
- Sherwin Williams for high-traffic areas and large projects where durability and value are critical.
FAQs
Is Sherwin Williams paint better than Benjamin Moore?
Neither brand is outright better. It depends on your needs. Sherwin Williams is durable, affordable during sales, and widely available, while Benjamin Moore is praised for premium finishes and vibrant colors.
Which brand is more expensive, Sherwin Williams or Benjamin Moore?
On average, Benjamin Moore costs slightly more per gallon, especially for premium lines like Aura. Sherwin Williams prices are similar, but frequent sales often make it more affordable.
Does Sherwin Williams sell Benjamin Moore paint?
No, Sherwin Williams does not carry Benjamin Moore products. Benjamin Moore is sold through independent retailers, while Sherwin Williams has its own corporate stores nationwide.
Which paint is better for kitchen cabinets?
Benjamin Moore Advance is a top choice for cabinets, offering a smooth, furniture-like finish. Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is also excellent for durability and long-term wear.
Which paint covers better with fewer coats?
Benjamin Moore Regal Select often needs fewer coats than Sherwin Williams Duration, especially when covering darker colors or imperfections. Both brands’ premium lines perform well, but Regal Select is widely praised for strong hide and efficiency.
Which brand is best for bathrooms and high-moisture areas?
Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa is designed for superior moisture resistance and color retention. Sherwin Williams Duration is also a reliable option for humid spaces like bathrooms and kitchens.
Choosing the Right Interior Paint Brand
The choice between these two premium paints doesn’t have a single right answer. Both outperform budget alternatives and can deliver a finish that lasts when applied correctly.
At the end of the day, prep and proper application matter just as much as the brand you choose. And if you’d like a professional to guide you, New Direction Painting has over 12 years of experience working with both Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore.
We’ll help you choose the right product for your home and deliver a finish you’ll love. Contact us today to start planning your interior painting project. Reach us directly at (615) 673-5773 to talk through your interior painting needs.