Benjamin Moore Paint Grades Explained: A Guide to Choosing the Right Finish
When it comes to selecting the perfect paint for your home, Benjamin Moore paint grades offer a variety of options to suit every space and style. From ultra-durable finishes for high-traffic areas to luxurious matte options for a soft, sophisticated look, understanding the different grades of Benjamin Moore paint can help you make the best decision for your interior or exterior project.
Whether you're giving your walls a fresh coat of color or tackling a full-scale home makeover, the right paint grade can make all the difference in durability, application, and overall aesthetic. Benjamin Moore is known for its premium quality, offering high-pigment paints that provide excellent coverage with fewer coats. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for your needs.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on Benjamin Moore paint grades, breaking down the differences between each finish, their ideal applications, and expert tips on how to choose the right one for your home.
1. Benjamin Moore Paint Grades: Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the specific paint lines, it’s important to understand what paint grades mean. Benjamin Moore paint grades refer to the quality, durability, and finish of a particular paint product. Some are designed for professional use with ultra-high durability, while others are crafted for DIYers looking for an easy application.
The main categories include:
Flat/Matte: Offers a smooth, non-reflective finish, ideal for ceilings and low-traffic areas.
Eggshell: Slightly more durable than flat paint, providing a subtle sheen that works well in living rooms and bedrooms.
Satin/Pearl: A mid-sheen option that’s perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and trim.
Semi-Gloss: Highly durable and moisture-resistant, best suited for trim, doors, and cabinetry.
High-Gloss: The most reflective and durable finish, often used for furniture and architectural details.
2. Benjamin Moore Paint Grades: Aura – The Luxury Line
Benjamin Moore Aura is the brand’s premium-grade paint, offering unparalleled color depth and durability. It’s perfect for high-end interior projects where you want a flawless finish with long-lasting results.
Why Choose Aura?
Self-priming formula means fewer coats are needed.
Color Lock® technology prevents fading over time.
Mildew-resistant properties make it great for humid areas.
Available in Matte, Eggshell, Satin, and Semi-Gloss finishes.
Best for: Living rooms, master bedrooms, accent walls, and high-traffic spaces.
3. Benjamin Moore Paint Grades: Regal Select – The Best All-Around Paint
If you’re looking for a high-quality, mid-tier option, Regal Select is a go-to choice for homeowners and professionals alike. It provides excellent coverage and a smooth finish while being more budget-friendly than Aura.
Why Choose Regal Select?
Easy application with smooth leveling.
Stain-resistant and washable, making it perfect for families.
Mildew-resistant for added durability.
Available in Flat, Matte, Eggshell, Satin, and Semi-Gloss finishes.
Best for: Living rooms, dining areas, hallways, and kids’ rooms.
4. Benjamin Moore Paint Grades: Ben – The Budget-Friendly Pick
For those on a budget, Benjamin Moore’s Ben line is an excellent choice. It’s an affordable yet high-quality option, designed for easy application and solid coverage.
Why Choose Ben?
Lower VOC formula for a healthier indoor environment.
Dries quickly, making it ideal for DIY projects.
Great for rental properties or homes needing frequent touch-ups.
Available in Flat, Eggshell, and Semi-Gloss finishes.
Best for: Guest rooms, rental properties, ceilings, and quick refresh projects.
5. Benjamin Moore Paint Grades: Advance – The Best for Cabinets & Trim
If you’re painting kitchen cabinets, doors, or trim, Benjamin Moore Advance is one of the best choices on the market. It combines the durability of oil-based paint with the easy cleanup of a water-based formula.
Why Choose Advance?
Extremely durable, resisting chips and scratches.
Levels beautifully, creating a professional, factory-like finish.
Low VOC and water-based for easier application and cleanup.
Available in Satin, Semi-Gloss, and High-Gloss finishes.
Best for: Kitchen cabinets, doors, trim, built-ins, and furniture.
6. Benjamin Moore Paint Grades: Scuff-X – The Best for High-Traffic Areas
If you need commercial-grade durability, Scuff-X is Benjamin Moore’s most durable interior paint. Designed for spaces that get a lot of wear and tear, it’s perfect for homes with kids and pets.
Why Choose Scuff-X?
Resistant to scuffs and stains, making it ultra-durable.
Low-VOC formula for healthier indoor air quality.
Washable and easy to clean without losing color depth.
Available in Matte, Eggshell, Satin, and Semi-Gloss finishes.
Best for: Hallways, playrooms, mudrooms, and commercial spaces.
7. Benjamin Moore Paint Grades: Ultra Spec – The Contractor’s Choice
For professional painters and large-scale projects, Ultra Spec offers excellent coverage and cost-effectiveness. It’s a favorite among contractors for its affordability and ease of use.
Why Choose Ultra Spec?
Fast drying and easy to apply.
Low splatter formula reduces mess.
Great for priming and sealing walls.
Available in Flat, Eggshell, and Semi-Gloss finishes.
Best for: Commercial buildings, rental properties, and professional projects.
FAQ: Benjamin Moore Paint Grades
Q: What is the best Benjamin Moore paint for walls?A: Regal Select is the best all-around option, offering great coverage, durability, and easy application.
Q: Which Benjamin Moore paint is best for high-moisture areas like bathrooms?A: Aura Bath & Spa is specifically designed for humid environments, preventing mold and mildew buildup.
Q: Can I use Benjamin Moore Advance on walls?A: It’s not recommended—Advance is best for cabinetry and trim due to its harder finish.
Q: Is there a difference between Benjamin Moore’s store paint and what’s sold at big-box retailers?A: Yes! Benjamin Moore paint is only sold at independent retailers, ensuring high-quality, professional-grade formulas.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Benjamin Moore paint grade depends on your specific project, budget, and desired finish. Whether you need luxury-level durability (Aura), budget-friendly performance (Ben), or a durable cabinet finish (Advance), Benjamin Moore offers something for every need.
Looking for expert guidance on choosing the right paint colors and finishes for your home? Work with BY Design And Viz to create a customized design plan tailored to your style and needs.
