Picking of the perfect shade for that white paint is quite daunting. There are endless options. How do you narrow it down among them?
Today, I am comparing two Sherwin-Williams’ most popular white paints, Extra White and Pure White, in order to help you decide which one best suits your space.
For any room we have expert perceptions plus a comparison side by side plus also practical tips whether you add curb appeal to your exterior, you refresh your living room, or you revamp your kitchen.
Extra White vs Pure White
Both Extra White and Pure White are part of Sherwin-Williams’ high-quality options each lending a unique feel to interiors or exteriors.
- Extra White SW 7006 is indeed a bright and clean white. It also shows a very modern style. Crispness with high contrast represent needs it often meets.
- Pure White SW 7005: A soft, neutral white balancing brightness with warms. Cozy designs in addition to versatile ones favor it.
What Makes Them Two Different Whites?
Though both Extra White and Pure White do belong to the same family of whites, meaningful characteristics do set apart both colors. Extra White SW 7006 leans cooler in blue undertones, and this makes it ideal for modern sleek designs.
It also works well when matched with colder color schemes. It thrives in spaces where there is plenty of natural light, which increases brightness also makes the appearance sharp and clean.
On the other hand, Pure White SW 7005 has subtle undertones of gray and also beige. Pure White SW 7005 because of this has a softer, more inviting feel.
This makes for it a versatile choice in fact, and also it complements both warm and cool tones too, fitting beautifully into customary and transitional styles now. Your atmosphere as well as design vision are perfectly matched because of these subtle differences to choose from.
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Sherwin-Williams Extra White
Undertones
Extra White has minimal undertones and leans cool. Its slightly bluish tint makes it perfect for achieving modern, ultra-clean spaces.
It works especially well in rooms with plenty of natural sunlight, as it amplifies light and makes spaces feel airy.
Katie Rodriguez says, “Extra White works beautifully for molding and trimming if you’re aiming for that perfect contrast with darker walls.”
Best Uses
- Trim and Ceilings: Extra White’s crisp finish makes it a go-to for trims, moldings, and ceilings.
- Kitchens: It creates a fresh, spotless look when paired with stainless steel appliances or cool-toned cabinets.
- Minimalist Designs: Its sharpness fits well with sleek, contemporary aesthetics.
Pros
- Reflects light beautifully, ideal for brightening darker spaces.
- Perfect for creating clean, high-contrast designs.
- Universally flattering for trim and ceilings.
Cons
- The cool undertone might feel too stark in warm, dimly lit spaces.
- It can clash with warmer tones or earthy accents.
Sherwin-Williams Pure White
Undertones
Pure White has a subtle warmth while still leaning predominantly neutral. This makes it incredibly versatile, as it doesn’t feel too cool or too yellow. It’s often praised for creating inviting, comfortable spaces.
Megan Taylor recommends, “Pure White is my go-to for open-plan homes. Its neutrality blends seamlessly across connected spaces.”
Best Uses
- Living Rooms: Adds softness and warmth to cozy shared spaces.
- Bedrooms: Creates a tranquil and serene environment for restful sleep.
- Exteriors: Works well on siding and brick, giving homes a timeless, elegant appeal.
Pros
- Neutral undertones make it flexible for pairing with any color scheme.
- Feels cozy while maintaining brightness.
- Ideal for achieving a balanced, timeless look.
Cons
- Slightly less crisp compared to Extra White.
- May not provide the same modern, high-contrast effect.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Extra White | Pure White |
|---|---|---|
| Undertones | Cool, bluish | Subtle, neutral with warmth |
| Brightness | Very bright, reflective | Bright but softer |
| Best for | Modern, minimalistic spaces | Cozy, timeless aesthetics |
| Trims/Ceilings | Sleek and crisp | Soft and versatile |
| Compatibility | Cool-toned palettes | Works with warm and cool tones |
Pure White or Extra White in Every Room
Here’s a room-by-room guide to help you see how these shades perform in different spaces:
Kitchen
When it comes to kitchens, the right shade of white can drastically transform the overall vibe of the space.
- Extra White:
This crisp and clean shade helps a person to make a very ultra-modern polished appearance. Bright cool undertones match stainless steel appliances with cool gray cabinets. Cool and dark features make for a fine pairing too.
It reflects light well and that makes it a fine option for kitchens without much sun since it brightens all the area. However, on occasion its starkness can feel a bit too clinical, so this starkness may well require balancing.
You can balance it through decor or kitchenware by adding texture or introducing small pops of color.
- Pure White:
Pure White is just an outstanding option to use in case you are aiming toward a kitchen that can feel truly warm and welcoming for a family.
Because of how it has soft as well as warm undertones, it is less harsh than the Extra White, so the space feels more cozy plus more inviting.
This shade works well with wood accents, natural materials, or muted cabinetry. It’s especially great for open-concept kitchens where you want the space to feel connected and harmonious with the rest of the home.
Bathroom
The bathroom is a space so the correct white hue may play a big part to create the mood if you seek a retreat like a spa or a warm functional feel.
- Extra White
is known for its crisp clean look thus Extra White is the shade for stressing clean lines or simplicity. This pairs well with marble or white tiles, so the room gets a spa-like high-end feel.
Smaller bathrooms feel larger because of its reflective properties. These reflective properties do also make them more brighter.
However, bathroom lighting is in need of mindfulness because harsh artificial lighting may make Extra White appear too stark. Warm lighting alongside natural textures such as wooden accents or plush towels can then help create balance.
- Pure White
This shade of Pure White is much more versatile for the bathrooms that are featuring muted tones or natural materials. Pure White complements these elements effortlessly in the event you have stone countertops, muted tiles, or earthy accents for it adds a layer of softness with sophistication.
It works well in bathrooms that seek to feel warm also calm. It creates a subtle sense of relaxation within the space without overpowering it.
Bedroom
Bedrooms are all about comfort and relaxation, and the color of the walls plays a huge role in creating the right atmosphere.
- Extra White:
While Extra White can work to provide a crisp and modern look within the bedroom, such a space meant more for rest might feel just a bit too stark or cold.
It is able to create an impressive contrast that then feels contemporary and also inviting. However, this contrast happens if combined with softer textures like cozy throws, layered bedding, or a plush area rug.
This shade is particularly well-suited for bedrooms with plenty of natural light it assists in reflecting the sunlight also improving brightness. Extra White with monochromatic decor gives a clean advanced look to those preferring minimalist style.
- Pure White:
On the other hand, Pure White excels as a superb choice for people who mainly goal coziness and tranquility in bedrooms. Its warm undertones create a calming effect because that is perfection.
This is ideal for relaxing when day ends. Couple it with some natural wooden furniture plus soft earthy tones or textured fabrics to allow for a cozier enhancement.
It works wonderfully within customary and modern designs because it makes an inviting bedroom retreat.
Living Room
The living room is a central space in the home, and choosing the right shade of white can help set the tone for how the room feels and functions.
- Extra White:
Extra White: If you’re going for a modern minimalist design that is in your living room, then Extra White is just a great option. Bold decor, metallic accents, together with sleek furniture pair well with its clean, sharp look. This tone is quite useful in rooms that have big windows or bright lights. Its reflective nature is helpful for the room’s overall brightness.
- Pure White:
This shade provides a neutral backdrop that allows accent colors and textures to shine, whether you prefer bold pops of color or subtle, natural palettes. Pure White also works well in traditional or farmhouse-style living rooms, where warmth and coziness are key elements.
Exterior
- Extra White provides striking contrast to dark shutters or trims and gives homes a crisp, eye-catching curb appeal.
- Pure White offers a timeless charm, blending well with brick, siding, or warmer accent colors.
Lighting Recommendations for Both Paints
When selecting the right lighting to complement your paint choice, it’s essential to consider how light interacts with each color:
- Extra White thrives in spaces with ample natural light or cool artificial lighting. The brightness of the hue is enhanced by daylight or LED lighting with a cooler temperature (4000K or higher), creating a crisp and modern ambiance. However, in dim or warm lighting, Extra White may appear slightly gray or stark.
- Pure White is more versatile and adaptable to various lighting conditions. It works beautifully in both warm and cool lighting setups. Incorporating warm lighting (2700K–3000K) creates a cozy, inviting glow, while cooler lighting emphasizes its clean and neutral quality without making the space feel overly stark.
Coordinating Colors for Extra White and Pure White
Pairing the right colors with your chosen white is key to achieving a cohesive design. Here are some recommended coordinating colors:
With Extra White
- Repose Gray SW 7015 (Soft, cool gray)
- Naval SW 6244 (Deep navy)
- Lemon Twist SW 6909 (Bold yellow for playful spaces)
With Pure White
- Accessible Beige SW 7036 (Neutral beige)
- Evergreen Fog SW 9130 (Muted green for a serene palette)
- Tricorn Black SW 6258 (Classic black for high contrast)
Application Tips
- Always test swatches in your room with your specific lighting.
- Use a high-quality primer to ensure your white paint looks its best.
- Pair with the right finishes. Satin for walls and semi-gloss for trim are safe choices for both whites.
Other Paint Brands to Consider
If you’re exploring alternatives, here are two paints from other brands in similar shades:
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace OC-65 – A clean, crisp white similar to Extra White.
- Behr Ultra Pure White – A balanced white comparable to Pure White, and great for budget-friendly projects.
Which White is Right for Your Project?
Ultimately, the choice that is between Sherwin-Williams Extra White and Pure White boils down to what your desired vibe is with your particular style.
Extra White is unbeatable to get a sharp look. It also looks modern in style. Pure White is a fantastic choice should you prefer something more versatile, cozier, also softer.
Not sure of which one to pick? Grab a sample of both, test them on your wall, and see how they look in your light. With a bit of planning (and the right shade of white), your space is bound to look stunning.
