Colorplan

Iron Ore vs Pitch Black

Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore SW 7069 compared with Farrow & Ball Pitch Black No.256

Iron Ore and Pitch Black are very close, with only a subtle difference in undertone. Both have almost no visible 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 Iron Ore on the left and Pitch Black on the right
Iron Ore · Sherwin-WilliamsPitch Black · Farrow & BallPhoto: 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, Iron Ore reflects more light (LRV 6).

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Side by side

Iron OrePitch Black
BrandSherwin-WilliamsFarrow & Ball
CodeSW 7069No.256
LRV65
Undertoneneutralneutral
FamilyGrayBlack
HEX#434341#3D3C3C
Good foraccent walls, front doorsaccent walls, front doors

Questions

What is the difference between Iron Ore and Pitch Black?

Iron Ore and Pitch Black are very close, with only a subtle difference in undertone. Both have almost no visible 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, Iron Ore or Pitch Black?

Iron Ore is lighter, with an LRV of 6 against 5.

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

Iron Ore 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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