How to Match a Behr Paint Color to Benjamin Moore (2026) – Accurate Methods Paint Stores Don’t Tell You

How to Match a Behr Paint Color to Benjamin Moore?

To match a Behr paint color to Benjamin Moore, bring a Behr color swatch or a painted sample to a Benjamin Moore retailer for color matching. Most paint stores use spectrophotometer technology to scan the color and create a close Benjamin Moore equivalent. While an exact match isn’t always guaranteed due to different formulas and pigments, testing a small sample on your wall helps confirm accuracy before painting the entire area

What “matching Paint Colors” Really Means

Matching paint colors means finding a shade from one brand that looks very close to another brand’s color. It does not guarantee a perfect identical color. Each paint brand uses different formulas, pigments, and bases.

• Colors may vary slightly due to differences in paint ingredients.
• The paint finish (matte, satin, gloss) affects how the color looks.
• Lighting conditions change the perception of color.

Why Traditional “color Matching” Often Fails (the Science Of Metamerism)

Traditional color matching fails due to a phenomenon called metamerism. This means two colors look the same under one light source but different under another. Paint colors can appear to change based on:

1. Daylight
2. Incandescent light
3. Fluorescent light

Paints have pigments that reflect light differently. A machine match may not account for how colors react under various lighting. This causes surprises after painting.

Here is a simple comparison of metamerism effects:

Light Source	Color Appearance
Daylight	Colors appear natural and true
Incandescent	Colors look warmer or yellowish
Fluorescent	Colors may look cooler or bluish

Professional advice helps avoid metamerism problems. They test colors under your home lighting to ensure a better match. This step is vital for perfect color results.

Tools For Color Matching

Matching a Behr paint color to a Benjamin Moore shade can be tricky without the right tools. Tools for color matching help find the closest equivalent between these two popular brands. They reduce guesswork and save time. Using the proper tools ensures paint colors look consistent on your walls. This section covers three main tools: paint sample cards, digital color matching apps, and spectrophotometers. Each tool offers a different approach to get accurate results.

Using Paint Sample Cards

Paint sample cards are the most basic and accessible tool for color matching. Both Behr and Benjamin Moore provide these cards at their stores. Each card shows a range of colors with names and codes. You can compare cards side by side to find similar shades.

Steps for using paint sample cards:

1. Pick a Behr color you like from a sample card.
2. Find a Benjamin Moore card and look for colors with close visual match.
3. Compare colors under natural light to avoid distortion.
4. Note down the Benjamin Moore color name and code.

Advantages of paint sample cards:

• Easy to find and use in-store.
• No technology needed.
• Good for quick, rough matches.

Pros	Cons
Simple and low cost	Colors may look different under varied lighting
Wide range of colors available	Hard to find exact matches
Portable and easy to compare	Requires good lighting conditions

Paint sample cards give a visual guide but may not be precise. Use them for initial matching before testing actual paint samples.

Digital Color Matching Apps

Digital color matching apps use your phone’s camera and software to identify paint colors. These apps scan a color and find the closest match in major paint brands like Behr and Benjamin Moore. They offer a quick, modern way to compare colors.

Popular features of color matching apps:

• Scan any surface or sample card for color.
• Get instant match suggestions from multiple brands.
• Save favorite colors and create palettes.
• See how colors look in a virtual room.

Tips for using digital apps effectively:

1. Use natural light to scan colors accurately.
2. Hold the phone steady while scanning.
3. Check multiple app results for best match.
4. Test paint samples before final purchase.

Advantages of digital apps include convenience and speed. They reduce the need to carry physical cards. Apps may not always be perfectly accurate due to lighting and camera limits. Use them as a helpful guide rather than a final answer.

Behr E600 and Glidden Premium are both mid-range interior paints, but they differ in performance and finish quality.

Spectrophotometer

A spectrophotometer is a professional device that measures color scientifically. It reads the color’s light reflection and creates a precise color formula. Paint stores and professionals use this tool for exact color matching.

How a spectrophotometer works:

1. Place the device on the painted surface or sample.
2. The device scans the color using light sensors.
3. It generates a color code that matches paint brands.
4. Staff can mix paint using this code to match perfectly.

Benefits of using a spectrophotometer:

• Highly accurate color readings.
• Matches colors even from aged or faded surfaces.
• Works with many paint brands and finishes.
• Reduces human error in color selection.

This paper highlights that while handheld devices have reached 96%+ accuracy, the Delta E ($\Delta E$) variance remains high in “complex whites” due to the chemical composition of the titanium dioxide used in premium bases.

Step-by-step: Match Behr Paint Color To Benjamin Moore

Matching a Behr paint color to a Benjamin Moore shade can be tricky. Each brand has unique formulas and color names. This step-by-step guide helps you find the closest Benjamin Moore match to your Behr paint. Follow clear instructions to get accurate results. The process saves time and money before buying new paint.

“To get an exact match when moving from Behr to Benjamin Moore, you must use a physical sample at least 1-inch square. Digital names are unreliable because each brand uses a different ‘white base’ which acts as the foundation for all tints.” — The Hive Painting Expert Review.

Step 1 — Identify Your Behr Color Code

Start by locating the exact Behr color code. This code is usually on the paint can label or receipt. It looks like a combination of letters and numbers, such as PPU18-09 or MQ3-41. Knowing this code is vital for precise matching.

If you do not have the can, try these options:

• Check your purchase history online with Behr
• Use a photo of the painted area for color reference
• Visit a store with a sample chip or paint swatch

Keep a note of the color name if available, but the code offers more accuracy. Below is an example of a Behr color label:

Label Part	Example	Importance
Color Name	Oceanfront	Helpful but less precise
Color Code	MQ3-41	Essential for matching

To protect your walls from blistering you should read the guide.

Step 2 — Scan The Color (physical Or Digital)

Next, capture the Behr color using a scanner or digital device. This step helps convert the color into digital data for comparison.

Options include:

• Color Scanner: Use a handheld color scanner at home or in a store.
• Smartphone Apps: Apps like ColorSnap or ColorSmart can scan colors from photos or surfaces.
• High-Quality Photo: Take a photo in good light. Avoid shadows or reflections.

The goal is to get accurate RGB or HEX values from the Behr color. These values describe the color in numbers.

Example:

RGB: (102, 153, 204)
HEX: 6699CC

Save these values for the next step.

Step 3 — Compare Outputs To Benjamin Moore Database

Use the scanned color data to find a close match in Benjamin Moore’s color collection. Most paint brands have online tools or apps for color matching.

Here is how to proceed:

1. Open Benjamin Moore’s color matching tool or a third-party color comparison site.
2. Enter the RGB or HEX values from the Behr scan.
3. Browse suggested Benjamin Moore colors ranked by closeness.
4. Note down the top 3–5 closest matches.

The matching tool compares color formulas and light reflectance. It may not be 100% exact but narrows choices quickly.

Example table of close matches:

Benjamin Moore Color	RGB Value	Difference Score
Blue Hydrangea 2129-50	(104, 155, 210)	Low (Close match)
Ocean Air 787	(100, 150, 205)	Medium
Pale Smoke 2121-60	(110, 160, 215)	Higher

Step 4 — Evaluate In Real Conditions

Colors look different under various lights and surfaces. Check your selected Benjamin Moore colors in the room where you plan to paint.

Steps to evaluate:

• View colors at different times of day.
• Observe the effect under natural light and artificial light.
• Consider the room’s wall texture and finish type.
• Notice how nearby objects affect color perception.

Use printed color chips or swatches for this step. A color that seems perfect online may appear dull or too bright in your space.

Record your impressions and eliminate colors that don’t feel right.

Step 5 — Test Samples On Wall

Buy sample pots of your top Benjamin Moore color picks. Paint a few test patches on different walls of your room.

Tips for this stage:

• Paint areas at least 12×12 inches.
• Apply two coats for true color depth.
• Label each sample for easy reference.
• Wait 24 hours to see the full dry color.

Explains that two colors can be a mathematical match under lab lights but fail under residential LED ($\approx 3000K$) lighting because of different pigment spectral curves.

Testing Samples In Your Space

After painting samples, observe how each color changes over time and light.

Focus on:

• How the color looks in morning, afternoon, and evening light
• Any color shifts caused by shadows or reflections
• How the paint finish (matte, satin, gloss) changes appearance
• Comfort and mood created by the color

Invite family or friends for feedback. Sometimes others notice things you miss.

Keep notes on favorites and any issues. This care ensures you pick the Benjamin Moore color closest to your Behr paint.

Tips For Accurate Matching

Matching a Behr paint color to a Benjamin Moore shade takes more than just picking similar names. Accurate matching requires careful attention to details that affect how paint looks on your walls. Simple steps can help you find the closest color match and avoid surprises after painting. Follow these tips for accurate matching to get the perfect hue for your space.

Considering Lighting Conditions

Lighting plays a huge role in how paint colors appear. The same color can look very different under natural sunlight, incandescent bulbs, or LED lights. Always check paint samples in the actual room and lighting where you will use the paint.

• Natural Light: Shows true colors but changes throughout the day.
• Incandescent Light: Adds warm, yellow tones to colors.
• Fluorescent Light: Can make colors look cooler or bluish.
• LED Light: Varies depending on bulb type; some mimic daylight.

Test small paint patches on different walls and observe them at different times:

1. Morning natural light
2. Afternoon sunlight
3. Evening artificial light

Lighting Type	Effect on Paint Color	Best Practice
Natural Daylight	Shows true color, but varies with time	Observe samples at multiple times
Incandescent	Makes colors warmer/yellowish	Check for possible yellow tint
Fluorescent	Adds cool/blueish tint	See how color reacts under cool light
LED	Varies; some mimic daylight	Match light type to your bulbs

Remember: Lighting can change color perception, so never choose paint color based on photos alone.

Impact Of Paint Finish

Paint finish affects how colors look on walls. Different finishes reflect light differently, changing the color’s brightness and depth.

Common paint finishes include:

• Matte/Flat: No shine, hides surface imperfections, makes colors look softer.
• Eggshell: Slight sheen, smooth finish, shows color more clearly than matte.
• Satin: Moderate shine, durable, makes colors appear richer.
• Semi-gloss: Noticeable shine, highlights color brightness.
• Glossy: High shine, shows true color vibrancy, but can highlight flaws.

Finish	Light Reflection	Effect on Color
Matte/Flat	Low	Color looks softer, less bright
Eggshell	Low to medium	Colors appear clearer, gentle sheen
Satin	Medium	Colors look richer, more depth
Semi-gloss	High	Colors look brighter, shiny
Glossy	Very high	Colors pop, very vibrant

Match the finish type between Behr and Benjamin Moore paints for the most accurate color comparison. A satin Behr color may look different from the same color in a matte Benjamin Moore finish.

Discover effective techniques to test paint colors without committing to your walls. 

Adjusting For Undertones

Undertones are subtle colors beneath the main paint color. They affect the color’s mood and how it pairs with other colors. Matching paint between brands requires attention to undertones.

Benjamin Moore and Behr may use different formulas, which can shift undertones slightly. Common undertones include:

• Warm (yellow, red, orange)
• Cool (blue, green, purple)
• Neutral (balanced or subtle undertones)

Tips to adjust for undertones:

1. Compare paint chips side by side in natural light.
2. Look for hints of warm or cool tones that may appear.
3. Choose a Benjamin Moore color with a similar undertone, even if the base color differs slightly.
4. Test samples on your wall to see how undertones interact with your room’s lighting.

Undertones can make or break a color match. Ignoring them may cause mismatched shades that clash with your decor.

Examples Of Common Behr → Benjamin Moore Matches

Matching a Behr paint color to a Benjamin Moore equivalent can help maintain consistency across brands. Many homeowners and designers prefer Benjamin Moore but find Behr more accessible or affordable. Knowing common color matches simplifies this choice. This section highlights typical Behr to Benjamin Moore color matches across popular categories.

Neutrals & Grays

Neutrals and grays create calm and versatile backgrounds. Both Behr and Benjamin Moore offer a wide range of these shades. Some Behr grays lean cooler or warmer than their Benjamin Moore counterparts. It’s important to consider lighting and room size when matching.

• Behr Silver Drop is a soft gray with a hint of warmth. Benjamin Moore’s Classic Gray is a close match, with a slightly lighter tone.
• Behr Dolphin FinStonington Gray shares a similar cool undertone.
• Behr FlagstoneRevere Pewter offers a comparable balanced neutral.

Here is a quick comparison:

Behr Color	Benjamin Moore Match	Notes
Silver Drop	Classic Gray (OC-23)	Soft, warm gray
Dolphin Fin	Stonington Gray (HC-170)	Cool mid-tone gray
Flagstone	Revere Pewter (HC-172)	Warm gray-beige

Whites & Off-whites

Whites and off-whites brighten spaces and add a clean feel. Both brands offer shades with subtle undertones like cream, gray, or pink. Matching whites requires attention to these undertones.

Common Behr whites and their Benjamin Moore equivalents include:

• Behr Ultra Pure WhiteChantilly Lace. Both are crisp, bright whites.
• Behr Swiss CoffeeWhite Dove.
• Behr CottonSimply White.

Choosing the right white depends on natural light and room purpose. Soft whites warm up a space. Pure whites keep it fresh and modern.

Greens / Colors

Greens range from muted sage to vibrant emerald. Both Behr and Benjamin Moore have popular green hues that work well in various rooms.

Some common Behr to Benjamin Moore green matches include:

• Behr Sage Green LightSaybrook Sage. Both have a muted, earthy tone.
• Behr Hunter GreenHunter Green for a deep, classic green.
• Behr EnvyLeafy.

Using a matched green can create harmony in your home’s color scheme. Consider the mood you want: calm and natural or bold and energetic.

Quick Reference Table (hex / Lrv / Δe)

A quick reference table helps compare Behr and Benjamin Moore colors by HEX, Light Reflectance Value (LRV), and color difference (ΔE). These data points clarify how close the colors truly are.

Behr Color	Benjamin Moore Match	Behr HEX	BM HEX	Behr LRV	BM LRV	ΔE (Color Difference)
Silver Drop	Classic Gray (OC-23)	C9C6BD	D3D0C6	58	65	2.5
Ultra Pure White	Chantilly Lace (OC-65)	F1F1F1	F5F8FA	92	94	1.8
Sage Green Light	Saybrook Sage (HC-114)	A3B0A4	A2A88F	43	42	3.2

Lower ΔE values indicate closer matches. Values under 3 are generally indistinguishable to the human eye. This table aids in confident color selection across brands.

When To Consult Professionals

Matching a Behr paint color to a Benjamin Moore shade can be tricky. The colors may look similar but are rarely exact matches. Knowing when to consult professionals helps save time and ensures a better result. Professionals have tools and expertise to handle complex color issues. This section explains key moments to seek expert help and what to expect from their services.

Using Store Color Match Services

Many paint stores offer color matching services. They use special machines to scan your sample and mix a paint that looks close to it. This service is quick and affordable, making it a good first step.

• Bring a clean, flat paint chip or object for the best scan results.
• Store machines compare color under their own lighting, which may differ from your home lighting.
• Some stores offer free matching, while others charge a small fee.

Store color matching works well for simple color needs. It is less reliable for matching complex or textured finishes. Always test the matched paint on a small wall area before buying a large amount.

Pros	Cons
Fast and usually affordable	May not be exact under all lighting
Convenient with many stores offering the service	Limited accuracy on glossy or textured paints

Hiring A Color Consultant

A color consultant offers personalized help for matching paint colors. They bring professional knowledge about paint brands and color theory. Consultants review your space, lighting, and design needs before recommending colors.

• They use tools like spectrophotometers for precise color analysis.
• Consultants help blend colors to get closer matches.
• They guide you on how different paints look in various lighting conditions.

Hiring a consultant saves frustration when exact color matching is critical. They can also suggest complementary colors to enhance your decor. Consultants usually charge a fee but offer value by reducing mistakes and improving results.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Match Behr Paint To Benjamin Moore Colors?

Use a color matching tool or app to compare both brands. Visit a paint store with a Behr sample and ask for a Benjamin Moore equivalent. Always test samples on your wall before committing to a full purchase.

Are Behr And Benjamin Moore Paint Colors Interchangeable?

They are not perfectly interchangeable due to different formulas. However, many similar shades exist, and matching tools help find close Benjamin Moore equivalents to Behr colors.

What Tools Help Match Behr Paint To Benjamin Moore?

Color matching apps, paint store scanners, and online color comparison charts help. These tools analyze pigment formulas and offer the closest Benjamin Moore match for Behr colors.

Does Lighting Affect Matching Behr And Benjamin Moore Paints?

Yes, lighting can change how paint colors appear. Always test matched Benjamin Moore samples in your room’s lighting before finalizing your choice to ensure an accurate match.

Conclusion

Matching Behr paint colors to Benjamin Moore is easier with some tips. Use color samples and compare them in different lights. Visit stores to see real paint chips side by side. Take notes on undertones and finishes to find the best match.

Test small paint areas on your wall before buying more. This careful approach helps you get the color you want. Enjoy your painting project with confidence and style.