Colorplan

Classic Gray vs Strong White

Benjamin Moore Classic Gray OC-23 compared with Farrow & Ball Strong White No.2001

Classic Gray is a touch darker (LRV 75 vs 76), a touch warmer and a touch more colorful than Strong White. Both have a warm yellow undertone. They're close enough (ΔE 1.4) that most people won't see a difference on a wall, so one can usually stand in for the other.

Living room painted Classic Gray on the left and Strong White on the right
Classic Gray · Benjamin MooreStrong White · Farrow & BallPhoto: Pipcke / Unsplash

ΔE 1.4 · Very 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, Strong White reflects more light (LRV 76).

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Side by side

Classic GrayStrong White
BrandBenjamin MooreFarrow & Ball
CodeOC-23No.2001
LRV7576
Undertoneyellowyellow
FamilyGrayWhite
HEX#E3E0D7#E4E2DC
Good foropen-plan living areas, hallwayswhole-house walls, living rooms

Questions

What is the difference between Classic Gray and Strong White?

Classic Gray is a touch darker (LRV 75 vs 76), a touch warmer and a touch more colorful than Strong White. Both have a warm yellow undertone. They're close enough (ΔE 1.4) that most people won't see a difference on a wall, so one can usually stand in for the other.

Which is lighter, Classic Gray or Strong White?

Strong White is lighter, with an LRV of 76 against 75.

How does Classic Gray compare to Strong White in a north-facing room?

In north light Classic Gray will look a little cooler and grayer than on the chip. Strong White has a cool undertone that north light will push cooler and grayer; warm white trim helps balance it.

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

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