Soft whites are some of the most difficult colors to compare because the differences are subtle, although they can be impactful. Two often-considered options are Eider White and American White.
Both paint colors are muted, sophisticated whites — but their undertones and overall feel differ more than you might expect. Here’s how they compare.
Overall Color Tone
Sherwin-Williams Eider White (SW 7014)
- Soft off-white
- Noticeable gray undertone
- Slight purple/violet influence in certain lighting
- Eider White feels a bit more muted and complex
Benjamin Moore American White (2112-70)
- Cool-leaning white
- Subtle gray-blue undertone
- Clean but not stark
- American White feels cooler and slightly crisper.
Undertones: The Biggest Difference
Eider White Undertones
- Gray base
- Subtle violet/pink undertone
- Can shift slightly depending on light
- In some rooms, Eider White may show a faint warmth or softness because of that violet influence
- If you want softer and slightly warmer → Eider White
American White Undertones
- Cool gray base
- Very subtle blue undertone
- Cleaner overall appearance
- American White tends to stay more consistently cool
- If you want cleaner and cooler → American White
LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
With a similar LRV, both colors reflect a similar amount of light, therefore lighting will strongly influence both.
- Sherwin-Williams Eider White LRV: 73
- Benjamin Moore American White LRV: approximately 72
However:
- Eider White can feel slightly more muted
- American White can feel a touch brighter in cooler light
How They Look in Different Lighting
North-Facing Rooms
- Sherwin-Williams Eider White may emphasize its gray-violet undertone
- Benjamin Moore American White may appear cooler and slightly blue
South-Facing Rooms
- Eider White softens and feels warmer
- American White becomes brighter and more neutral
Warm Artificial Light
- Eider White can feel cozy
- American White may balance out and appear less cool
Testing samples is especially important with these subtle whites.
Best Uses for Eider White
Sherwin-Williams Eider White works well in:
- Bedrooms
- Living rooms
- Transitional interiors
- Homes with soft gray furnishings
It pairs nicely with:
- Light greige accents
- Soft taupes
- Brushed nickel finishes
Best Uses for American White
Benjamin Moore American White shines in:
- Modern interiors
- Rooms with cooler finishes
- Spaces with marble or quartz
- Minimalist design styles
It pairs well with:
- Crisp white trim
- Black accents
- Cool-toned flooring
- Decorative plasters and finishes
Which One is More Versatile?
- Eider White may feel more forgiving because of its softness.
- American White is ideal when you want a cool, fresh white without going stark.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Eider White if:
- You prefer a muted, slightly softer white
- Your home has warmer or mixed finishes
- You want subtle depth
Choose American White if:
- You prefer a cooler white
- You have modern finishes
- You want a clean, crisp feel
What This Means for Homeowners
These two colors may look similar on a screen, but undertones will determine how they feel in your space.
Before deciding:
- Sample both colors on multiple walls.
- View them morning and evening.
- Compare them against flooring and trim.
- Visit one of our local paint stores near you for advice from our trained team members.