Colorplan

Pure White vs Alabaster

Sherwin-Williams Pure White SW 7005 compared with Benjamin Moore Alabaster OC-129

Pure White is a touch darker (LRV 84 vs 86) than Alabaster. Both have almost no visible undertone. They're close enough (ΔE 1.2) that most people won't see a difference on a wall, so one can usually stand in for the other.

Living room painted Pure White on the left and Alabaster on the right
Pure White · Sherwin-WilliamsAlabaster · Benjamin MoorePhoto: Pipcke / Unsplash

ΔE 1.2 · 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, Alabaster reflects more light (LRV 86).

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Side by side

Pure WhiteAlabaster
BrandSherwin-WilliamsBenjamin Moore
CodeSW 7005OC-129
LRV8486
Undertoneneutralneutral
FamilyWhiteWhite
HEX#EDECE6#F2EFE8
Good forwhole-house walls, living roomstrim and doors, ceilings

Questions

What is the difference between Pure White and Alabaster?

Pure White is a touch darker (LRV 84 vs 86) than Alabaster. Both have almost no visible undertone. They're close enough (ΔE 1.2) that most people won't see a difference on a wall, so one can usually stand in for the other.

Which is lighter, Pure White or Alabaster?

Alabaster is lighter, with an LRV of 86 against 84.

How does Pure White compare to Alabaster in a north-facing room?

Pure White may lean slightly gray in north light; check a sample on the north wall before committing. The same goes for Alabaster.

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

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