Colorplan

Pure White vs Strong White

Sherwin-Williams Pure White SW 7005 compared with Farrow & Ball Strong White No.2001

Pure White and Strong White 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 0.6) 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 Strong White on the right
Pure White · Sherwin-WilliamsStrong White · Farrow & BallPhoto: Pipcke / Unsplash

ΔE 0.6 · 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, Pure White reflects more light (LRV 83).

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Side by side

Pure WhiteStrong White
BrandSherwin-WilliamsFarrow & Ball
CodeSW 7005No.2001
LRV8381
Undertoneyellowyellow
FamilyWhiteWhite
HEX#EDEBE1#ECE9DF
Good forwhole-house walls, living roomswhole-house walls, living rooms

Questions

What is the difference between Pure White and Strong White?

Pure White and Strong White 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 0.6) 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 Strong White?

Pure White is lighter, with an LRV of 83 against 81.

How does Pure White compare to Strong White 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 Strong White.

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

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