Kendall Charcoal vs Iron Ore
Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal HC-166 compared with Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore SW 7069
Kendall Charcoal is noticeably lighter (LRV 14 vs 7) and a touch cooler than Iron Ore. Kendall Charcoal has a green-yellow (khaki) undertone, while Iron Ore has a warm yellow undertone. They look clearly different (ΔE 12.8), so they create a different feel rather than being substitutes.
ΔE 12.8 · Very different
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, Kendall Charcoal reflects more light (LRV 14).
Side by side
| Kendall Charcoal | Iron Ore | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Benjamin Moore | Sherwin-Williams |
| Code | HC-166 | SW 7069 |
| LRV | 14 | 7 |
| Undertone | green-yellow | yellow |
| Family | Gray | Gray |
| HEX | #686B65 | #4D4842 |
| Good for | accent walls, front doors | accent walls, front doors |
Questions
What is the difference between Kendall Charcoal and Iron Ore?
Kendall Charcoal is noticeably lighter (LRV 14 vs 7) and a touch cooler than Iron Ore. Kendall Charcoal has a green-yellow (khaki) undertone, while Iron Ore has a warm yellow undertone. They look clearly different (ΔE 12.8), so they create a different feel rather than being substitutes.
Which is lighter, Kendall Charcoal or Iron Ore?
Kendall Charcoal is lighter, with an LRV of 14 against 7.
How does Kendall Charcoal compare to Iron Ore in a north-facing room?
Kendall Charcoal will read even deeper in north light: great for a cozy, enveloping room, less so if you want it bright. The same goes for Iron Ore.
Based on published color values. Screens vary, so always check a physical sample before buying.

