Strong White vs Calm
Farrow & Ball Strong White No.2001 compared with Benjamin Moore Calm OC-22
Strong White and Calm are practically the same color; most people can't tell them apart on a wall. Both have a warm yellow undertone. They're close enough (ΔE 0.7) that most people won't see a difference on a wall, so one can usually stand in for the other.
ΔE 0.7 · Nearly identical
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, Calm reflects more light (LRV 78).
Side by side
| Strong White | Calm | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Farrow & Ball | Benjamin Moore |
| Code | No.2001 | OC-22 |
| LRV | 76 | 78 |
| Undertone | yellow | yellow |
| Family | White | Gray |
| HEX | #E4E2DC | #E6E4DF |
| Good for | whole-house walls, living rooms | open-plan living areas, hallways |
Questions
What is the difference between Strong White and Calm?
Strong White and Calm are practically the same color; most people can't tell them apart on a wall. Both have a warm yellow undertone. They're close enough (ΔE 0.7) that most people won't see a difference on a wall, so one can usually stand in for the other.
Which is lighter, Strong White or Calm?
Calm is lighter, with an LRV of 78 against 76.
How does Strong White compare to Calm in a north-facing room?
Strong White has a cool undertone that north light will push cooler and grayer; warm white trim helps balance it. Calm may lean slightly gray in north light; check a sample on the north wall before committing.
Based on published color values. Screens vary, so always check a physical sample before buying.

