Last updated on July 10th, 2025 at 06:31 am
Black is frequently the color of choice when it comes to creating a dramatic, sophisticated atmosphere. Sherwin Williams’ Black Magic vs Tricorn Black are two top black in world of paint ,so they often fall into vs category and confuse many people including me.
Designers and homeowners love both of these blacks cuz both of them have different hues and feel. Which one, nevertheless, is best for your project? Making the choice between Tricorn Black and Black Magic can be difficult because each hue has advantages and perfect uses.
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Understanding Black Magic and Tricorn Black
We’re diving into the world of deep, rich blacks with two popular Sherwin-Williams paint colors: Black Magic and Tricorn Black. These hues have taken the design world by storm, offering unique characteristics that set them apart from other black paints on the market.
Definition and origin of Black Magic
Black Magic (SW 6991) is a captivating, intense black with subtle blue undertones. We believe it was inspired by the mysterious allure of nighttime skies and the depth of shadows. This color was introduced by Sherwin-Williams to provide a softer alternative to stark blacks while maintaining a dramatic presence.
Key characteristics of each color
Comparison of the key characteristics of Black Magic and Tricorn Black:
| Characteristic | Black Magic | Tricorn Black |
|---|---|---|
| Undertones | Blue | Neutral |
| LRV* | 2 | 3 |
| Finish | Matte to glossy | Matte to glossy |
| Mood | Mysterious, sophisticated | Bold, classic |
| Best use | Accents, furniture | All-over color, trim |
*LRV: Light Reflectance Value (0 = absolute black, 100 = pure white)
Definition and origin of Tricorn Black
Tricorn Black (SW 6258) is a true, neutral black without any noticeable undertones. We named it after the tricorn hat, a style popular in the 18th century, symbolizing classic elegance and timelessness. This color was developed to offer a pure black option that works well in various design contexts.
- Versatility: Works in both modern and traditional settings
- Depth: Creates a sense of depth and dimension in spaces
- Contrast: Provides excellent contrast with lighter colors
Which one more darker, black magic vs tricorn black?
A. Perceived warmth or coolness
When it comes to black paint colors, the little difference in their lrv can create a big difference like warmth and coolness. Here’s how Black Magic and Tricorn Black compare:
- Black Magic: Tends to have a slightly warmer undertone
- Tricorn Black: Leans towards a cooler, more neutral black
To better understand the difference, consider this comparison:
| Aspect | Black Magic | Tricorn Black |
|---|---|---|
| Undertone | Warm | Cool |
| Feels like | Cozy, inviting | Sleek, modern |
| Best for | Traditional, rustic spaces | Contemporary, minimalist designs |
B. Light reflection properties
The way a paint color reflects light can dramatically affect how it appears in different lighting conditions. Let’s examine how Black Magic and Tricorn Black perform:
- Black Magic:
- Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 2.5%
- Absorbs slightly more light
- Appears darker in most lighting conditions
- Tricorn Black:
- Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 3%
- Reflects marginally more light
- Can appear slightly lighter in bright spaces
C. Undertones and depth
While both colors are deep blacks, their undertones contribute to their unique characteristics:
- Black Magic:
- Some brown undertones
- Creates a rich, velvety appearance
- Depth feels slightly more intense
- Tricorn Black:
- Minimal undertones, almost pure black
- Provides a clean, crisp look
- Depth appears more consistent across various lighting conditions
While Black Magic has a slightly lower LRV, the perceived darkness can vary depending on:
- Lighting conditions
- Surrounding colors
- Surface texture
- Application method
In some environments, the warm undertones of Black Magic might make it appear slightly softer, while Tricorn Black’s neutral to cool undertones can create a starker, more intense black in certain lighting.
Application in Interior Design
When it comes to interior design, both Black Magic and Tricorn Black offer different vibes to create stunning spaces. Find how these rich hues can be used to transform your home’s interior, focusing on complementary colors, mood creation, and ideal applications for each shade.
Complementary colors and accents
To make the most of these deep blacks, we need to consider their complementary colors:
| Black Shade | Complementary Colors | Accent Colors |
|---|---|---|
| Black Magic | Warm whites, creams | Gold, brass |
| Tricorn Black | Cool whites, grays | Silver, chrome |
Using these combinations can create a balanced and visually appealing interior design scheme. For example, we can pair Black Magic with warm white trim and gold light fixtures for a luxurious look, while Tricorn Black works well with cool gray furniture and chrome accents for a modern, sleek aesthetic.
Creating mood and atmosphere
Both Black Magic and Tricorn Black can dramatically alter the mood of a room:
- Black Magic: Creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere
- Tricorn Black: Offers a bold, sophisticated ambiance
We can use these qualities to our advantage when designing different spaces within a home. The slight warmth of Black Magic can make larger rooms feel more inviting, while the crispness of Tricorn Black can add drama to smaller spaces.
Ideal spaces for Tricorn Black
Tricorn Black shines in the following areas:
- Accent walls in living rooms
- Kitchen cabinets for a modern look
- Home offices for a professional feel
- Powder rooms for a touch of drama
Best rooms for Black Magic
Black Magic works exceptionally well in:
- Bedrooms for a cozy, cocoon-like effect
- Dining rooms to create an intimate setting
- Libraries or reading nooks for a classic, timeless appeal
- Entryways to make a bold first impression
By understanding the unique characteristics of Black Magic and Tricorn Black, we can make informed decisions about where to use each shade in our interior design projects.
Exterior Use Cases
These bold, dark hues can dramatically transform the appearance of a building’s exterior, creating a striking and modern aesthetic.
A. Durability and maintenance considerations
When it comes to exterior applications, durability and maintenance are crucial factors to consider. We’ve compiled a comparison table to help you understand the key differences:
| Characteristic | Black Magic | Tricorn Black |
|---|---|---|
| Fade resistance | Excellent | Very good |
| Weather resistance | High | High |
| Cleaning ease | Moderate | Easy |
| Reapplication frequency | Every 5-7 years | Every 6-8 years |
Both colors offer excellent durability, but Black Magic has a slight edge in fade resistance, making it an ideal choice for areas with intense sunlight exposure.
B. Tricorn Black on building facades
Tricorn Black has gained popularity for its use on building facades, and for good reason. We’ve noticed that this color:
- For commercial buildings it creates a sleek and modern look
- Enhances architectural details on historical structures
- Pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone
When using Tricorn Black on facades, we recommend considering the following:
- Ensure proper surface preparation to maximize paint adhesion
- Use high-quality exterior paint for longevity
- Consider the overall neighborhood aesthetic to ensure the color complements surrounding buildings[in case you want that]
C. Black Magic for home exteriors
Black Magic offers a unique option for residential exteriors. We’ve found that this color:
- Provides a dramatic backdrop for landscaping elements
- Creates a cozy, intimate feel for smaller homes
- Makes a bold statement in suburban neighborhoods
When applying Black Magic to home exteriors, keep these tips in mind:
- To highlight your exterior style you can use contrast color
- For soft look add warm color to balance the rest
- Balance the dark exterior with light-colored hardscaping elements
Consumer Reviews and Expert Opinions
A. Common criticisms and praises
Consumers and experts alike have shared their thoughts on Black Magic and Tricorn Black. Here’s a summary of the most common feedback:
| Aspect | Black Magic | Tricorn Black |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | Praised for rich, velvety appearance | Appreciated for true black color |
| Coverage | Some report needing multiple coats | Generally good coverage in 2-3 coats |
| Versatility | Favored for dramatic interiors | Preferred for both interior and exterior use |
| Undertones | Subtle blue undertones noted | Neutral undertones widely appreciated |
B. Professional designer preferences
Interior designers and color experts often have strong opinions about these two black paint options:
- Many designers favor Tricorn Black for its versatility and true black appearance
- Black Magic is often recommended for creating moody, sophisticated spaces
- Some experts suggest using Black Magic for accent walls and Tricorn Black for trim
C. Satisfaction ratings
Based on customer reviews and expert opinions, both colors generally receive high satisfaction ratings:
- Tricorn Black: 4.7/5 stars (based on 500+ reviews)
- Black Magic: 4.5/5 stars (based on 300+ reviews)
While both colors are well-received, Tricorn Black tends to edge out Black Magic in overall satisfaction, primarily due to its versatility and true black appearance. However, the choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of a project.
FAQS
1-What is the Best Black of Sherwin Williams?
When it comes to selecting the best black paint from Sherwin Williams, several options stand out, each with its unique characteristics and applications. While personal preference plays a significant role, Personally I recommend to use the black magic if you want something more intense and deep.
Best Sherwin Williams Black Paints
Ive also explained each of them in my blog post that you can visit.
10 Popular Sherwin-Williams Black Paint Colors for Every Space
- Tricorn Black (SW 6258)
- Black Magic (SW 6991)
- Iron Ore (SW 7069)
- Caviar (SW 6990)
Let’s compare these popular black paints:
| Paint Name | Undertones | LRV* | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tricorn Black | True Black | 3 | Modern interiors, exteriors |
| Black Magic | Blue | 2 | Dramatic spaces, accent walls |
| Iron Ore | Charcoal Gray | 6 | Softer black look, versatile use |
| Caviar | Brown | 3 | Warm spaces, traditional interiors |
*LRV: Light Reflectance Value (lower means darker)
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Black
- Lighting conditions in the space
- Desired mood and atmosphere
- Which style you are choosing
- Complementary colors in the room
- Surface texture and material
For your personal project black magic is the best choice ,but for professional touch like in buildings,offices tricorn will work best cuz it don’t have that deep undertone effect and make it feel real black.
2-What are Williams most popular colors?
While “Black Magic” and “Tricorn Black” are popular dark shades, Sherwin-Williams offers a wide range of colors that have gained a lot of popularity among homeowners and designers. Here are some of the most sought-after Sherwin-Williams colors:
Top Neutral Colors
- Agreeable Gray (SW 7029): A versatile warm gray that works well in various lighting conditions.
- Repose Gray (SW 7015): A cooler gray that creates a calm and sophisticated atmosphere.
- Alabaster (SW 7008): A soft, warm white that adds brightness without being stark.
Popular Accent Colors
- Naval (SW 6244): A rich navy blue that adds depth and elegance to any space.
- Urbane Bronze (SW 7048): A deep, earthy brown with gray undertones, perfect for creating a cozy ambiance.
- Pure White (SW 7005): A clean, crisp white that works well as a trim color or for a minimalist look.
| Color Name | Color Code | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Agreeable Gray | SW 7029 | Versatile warm gray |
| Naval | SW 6244 | Rich navy blue |
| Alabaster | SW 7008 | Soft, warm white |
Trending Colors of Sherwin Williams
- Evergreen Fog (SW 9130): A muted, organic green that brings nature indoors.
- Urbane Bronze (SW 7048): A sophisticated dark bronze that works well as an accent or main color.
- Accessible Beige (SW 7036): A neutral beige that complements various design styles.
While “Black Magic” and “Tricorn Black” are excellent choices for dark accents or bold statements, these popular colors offer a range of options for different design preferences and styles. The versatility and timeless appeal of these shades contribute to their widespread popularity among Sherwin-Williams customers.
