Sherwin-Williams vs Benjamin Moore: The Ultimate Paint Brand Comparison
As professional painters serving Massachusetts since 2018, we've used thousands of gallons of paint from both Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore. Here's our honest, experience-based comparison to help you make the right choice.
Quick Overview
Sherwin-Williams: Strengths & Best Uses
Top Product Lines
Duration Exterior
Our go-to for Massachusetts exteriors. Exceptional durability against:
- Freeze-thaw cycles
- UV fading
- Moisture penetration
- Cracking and peeling
Emerald Interior
Premium interior line with:
- Excellent washability
- Superior coverage (often one coat)
- Low VOC
- Antimicrobial properties
SuperPaint
Great mid-range option offering:
- Solid durability
- Good coverage
- Reasonable price point
- Wide color matching
Where Sherwin-Williams Excels
- Exterior durability - Their exterior formulations are industry-leading
- Availability - 4,000+ stores nationwide, easy to get more paint if needed
- Pro programs - Better contractor pricing and support
- Consistency - Color matching is very reliable
Benjamin Moore: Strengths & Best Uses
Top Product Lines
Aura Interior
The gold standard for interior painting:
- Unmatched depth of color
- Self-priming
- Virtually no off-gassing
- Exceptional durability
Regal Select
Outstanding value for interior projects:
- Excellent coverage
- Mildew resistant
- Easy application
- Great touch-up
Advance
Specifically designed for cabinets and trim:
- Spray-like finish with brush application
- Levels beautifully
- Hard, durable cure
- Low odor
Where Benjamin Moore Excels
- Color accuracy - Industry's best color matching technology
- Interior finishes - Aura is considered the best interior paint available
- Cabinet painting - Advance is unmatched for furniture and cabinetry
- Color palette - Largest selection, many designer collections
Project-Specific Recommendations
Exterior House Painting
Winner: Sherwin-Williams Duration
For Massachusetts homes facing harsh winters, salt air, and intense summers, Duration provides superior protection. We've seen Duration exteriors look fresh after 10+ years.
Interior Walls
Winner: Benjamin Moore Aura or Regal Select
For living rooms, bedrooms, and common areas, Benjamin Moore's interior lines provide superior color depth and washability.
Kitchen Cabinets
Winner: Benjamin Moore Advance
Nothing matches Advance's smooth, self-leveling finish for cabinet work. It's what we use for all our cabinet refinishing projects.
High-Traffic Areas
Winner: Tie
Both brands offer excellent durability for hallways, kids' rooms, and busy spaces. Sherwin-Williams Emerald and Benjamin Moore Aura perform equally well.
Bathrooms
Winner: Tie (with mildew-resistant formulas)
Sherwin-Williams Bath paints and Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa both excel in humid environments.
Price Comparison (2025)
*Prices vary by region and store. Pro pricing is lower.*
Our Professional Approach
At JH Painting Services, we don't pick sides—we pick the right paint for your project:
- Exteriors: Typically Sherwin-Williams Duration
- Interiors: Usually Benjamin Moore Aura or Regal Select
- Cabinets: Always Benjamin Moore Advance
- Trim: Project-dependent, both work excellently
The Bottom Line
Both Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore are premium brands that produce excellent results when properly applied. The "best" paint depends on your specific project, but you can't go wrong with either.
What matters most is professional application. Even the best paint fails if not properly applied with correct surface preparation.
Get Professional Results
At JH Painting Services, we help you select the perfect paint for your project and apply it with the craftsmanship it deserves. Every project includes our 2-year workmanship warranty.
Call (508) 690-8886 for your free estimate and color consultation!
