Colorplan

Black Magic vs Pitch Black

Sherwin-Williams Black Magic SW 6991 compared with Farrow & Ball Pitch Black No.256

Black Magic and Pitch Black are practically the same color; most people can't tell them apart on a wall. Both have almost no visible undertone. They're close enough (ΔE 1.0) that most people won't see a difference on a wall, so one can usually stand in for the other.

Living room painted Black Magic on the left and Pitch Black on the right
Black Magic · Sherwin-WilliamsPitch Black · Farrow & BallPhoto: Pipcke / Unsplash

ΔE 1.0 · Nearly identical

How different the two colors look. Under 2.5 is very hard to tell apart on a wall; over 5 is clearly different.

Which to choose

For a small or dim room, Pitch Black reflects more light (LRV 3).

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Side by side

Black MagicPitch Black
BrandSherwin-WilliamsFarrow & Ball
CodeSW 6991No.256
LRV23
Undertoneneutralneutral
FamilyBlackBlack
HEX#2B2B2B#2E2E2E
Good foraccent walls, front doorsaccent walls, front doors

Questions

What is the difference between Black Magic and Pitch Black?

Black Magic and Pitch Black are practically the same color; most people can't tell them apart on a wall. Both have almost no visible undertone. They're close enough (ΔE 1.0) that most people won't see a difference on a wall, so one can usually stand in for the other.

Which is lighter, Black Magic or Pitch Black?

Pitch Black is lighter, with an LRV of 3 against 2.

How does Black Magic compare to Pitch Black in a north-facing room?

Black Magic will read even deeper in north light: great for a cozy, enveloping room, less so if you want it bright. The same goes for Pitch Black.

Based on published color values. Screens vary, so always check a physical sample before buying.

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