Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are two of the most recognized paint brands in North America. Both offer a wide range of interior and exterior products, trusted by homeowners and professionals alike. But while they may seem similar on the surface, there are meaningful differences in how their paints perform, apply, and look on your walls.
If you’re trying to decide between Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams, here’s a clear breakdown of how they compare — and what those differences mean for your project.
Company Focus & Background
Both companies have long histories, but their business models are different.
Benjamin Moore has built its reputation around premium residential and commercial coatings and is sold primarily through independently owned paint stores. The company is known for focusing heavily on paint performance, color technology, and supporting professional painters and homeowners.
Sherwin-Williams is a massive global coatings company. In addition to residential paints, they manufacture industrial, commercial, and specialty coatings, and they sell through company-owned retail stores.
Both brands are respected, but Benjamin Moore is often viewed as more specialized in the residential paint category, while Sherwin-Williams operates across a broader coatings industry.
Paint Quality & Coverage
One of the biggest differences homeowners notice is how the paint covers.
Benjamin Moore paints are widely known for their high solids content, which often translates to:
- Better hide over previous colors
- Fewer coats needed in many situations
- A richer, more uniform finish
Sherwin-Williams also produces high-performing paints, especially in their premium lines. However, many professional painters find that comparable Benjamin Moore products can provide better coverage with less effort, particularly when making major color changes.
Fewer coats doesn’t just save time — it can reduce labor and overall project cost.
Application & Workability
How paint feels during application can make a big difference in the final result.
Many painters say Benjamin Moore paints:
- Flow and level smoothly
- Have a longer “open time” (giving you more time to work before the paint sets)
- Are more forgiving when cutting in and rolling large areas
- Reduce visible lap marks and create a smoother-looking finish, especially in rooms with lots of natural light where imperfections show more easily.
Sherwin-Williams paints can also perform very well, but application characteristics may vary more noticeably between product lines. For DIY homeowners, ease of use is often a deciding factor, and this is an area where Benjamin Moore frequently earns strong loyalty.
Color Technology & Selection
Both brands offer thousands of colors, but their approach to color is a little different.
Benjamin Moore is especially well known for:
- A vast, carefully curated historic and designer-focused color library
- Proprietary colorant technology for rich, consistent color
- Strong partnerships with interior designers and design professionals
- Many homeowners and designers feel that Benjamin Moore colors have exceptional depth and subtlety, especially with complex neutrals and off-whites.
Sherwin-Williams also offers an extensive color system and popular collections. Ultimately, both brands can match a wide range of shades, but Benjamin Moore is often considered a standout when color nuance and sophistication are top priorities.
Price Comparison
Pricing varies by product line, but in general:
- Both brands offer good, better, and best tiers
- Benjamin Moore’s premium products can be slightly more expensive per gallon than comparable Sherwin-Williams lines
However, price per gallon doesn’t tell the whole story. Paint that covers better and applies more easily can reduce the number of coats needed (which means less paint needed) and reduce the time spent painting.
Store Experience & Customer Support
Where and how you buy paint can influence your experience just as much as the product itself. Benjamin Moore paints are sold through independently owned retailers. These stores often offer:
- Personalized service
- Project-specific product recommendations
- Color guidance from experienced paint experts
For many homeowners, having access to knowledgeable staff who can help troubleshoot wall conditions, recommend primers, or guide color choices adds significant value to the project.
Sherwin-Williams paint is sold through company-owned stores that focus exclusively on their brand.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams make quality paints, and either can produce great results when the right product is used correctly. That said, many homeowners and professional painters lean toward Benjamin Moore when they want:
- Excellent coverage and hide
- Smooth, forgiving application
- Rich, nuanced color options
- Guidance from specialized paint retailers
If your goal is a premium-looking finish with strong long-term performance, Benjamin Moore is often the brand people trust for high-visibility interior spaces.
Get Expert Help Choosing the Right Paint
No matter which brand you’re considering, choosing the right product and finish for your specific space is key. Wall condition, lighting, room type, and color will all play a role in the final result.
Before you start your next project, visit a Loconsolo Paints store near you and talk with experienced paint experts. We’ll help you compare options and select the best paint for your home. The right advice upfront can make all the difference in how your finished room looks and holds up over time.