Colorplan

Classic Gray vs Pale Oak

Benjamin Moore Classic Gray OC-23 compared with Benjamin Moore Pale Oak OC-20

Classic Gray is noticeably lighter (LRV 74 vs 68), a touch cooler and a touch more muted than Pale Oak. Both have a warm yellow undertone. The difference (ΔE 2.7) is visible side by side but subtle on a whole wall, so check samples together before swapping one for the other.

Living room painted Classic Gray on the left and Pale Oak on the right
Classic Gray · Benjamin MoorePale Oak · Benjamin MoorePhoto: Pipcke / Unsplash

ΔE 2.7 · Close

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, Classic Gray reflects more light (LRV 74).

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Side by side

Classic GrayPale Oak
BrandBenjamin MooreBenjamin Moore
CodeOC-23OC-20
LRV7468
Undertoneyellowyellow
FamilyGrayGray
HEX#E4DFD6#DDD6C9
Good foropen-plan living areas, hallwaysopen-plan living areas, hallways

Questions

What is the difference between Classic Gray and Pale Oak?

Classic Gray is noticeably lighter (LRV 74 vs 68), a touch cooler and a touch more muted than Pale Oak. Both have a warm yellow undertone. The difference (ΔE 2.7) is visible side by side but subtle on a whole wall, so check samples together before swapping one for the other.

Which is lighter, Classic Gray or Pale Oak?

Classic Gray is lighter, with an LRV of 74 against 68.

How does Classic Gray compare to Pale Oak in a north-facing room?

In north light Classic Gray will look a little cooler and grayer than on the chip. The same goes for Pale Oak.

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

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