Colorplan

Soft Fern vs Softened Green

Benjamin Moore Soft Fern 2144-40 compared with Sherwin-Williams Softened Green SW 6177

Soft Fern is a touch lighter (LRV 58 vs 53), a touch cooler and a touch more muted than Softened Green. Both have a warm yellow undertone. The difference (ΔE 3.5) is visible side by side but subtle on a whole wall, so check samples together before swapping one for the other.

Living room painted Soft Fern on the left and Softened Green on the right
Soft Fern · Benjamin MooreSoftened Green · Sherwin-WilliamsPhoto: Pipcke / Unsplash

ΔE 3.5 · 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, Soft Fern reflects more light (LRV 58).

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Side by side

Soft FernSoftened Green
BrandBenjamin MooreSherwin-Williams
Code2144-40SW 6177
LRV5853
Undertoneyellowyellow
FamilyGreenGreen
HEX#C8CAB2#C5C1A5
Good forbedrooms, bathroomsbedrooms, bathrooms

Questions

What is the difference between Soft Fern and Softened Green?

Soft Fern is a touch lighter (LRV 58 vs 53), a touch cooler and a touch more muted than Softened Green. Both have a warm yellow undertone. The difference (ΔE 3.5) is visible side by side but subtle on a whole wall, so check samples together before swapping one for the other.

Which is lighter, Soft Fern or Softened Green?

Soft Fern is lighter, with an LRV of 58 against 53.

How does Soft Fern compare to Softened Green in a north-facing room?

Soft Fern's warmth balances the cool north light, which is why warmer colors are the safe pick for north rooms. The same goes for Softened Green.

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

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