Top Black Paint Colors
I often joke that I’m a card carrying member of the Black Paint Club. It started with refreshing furniture but once I painted my first black wall, there was no going back. In fact, I ultimately painted my entire home exterior a true, dark black. Over the last several years and dozens of projects, I’ve tried more than my fair share of black paint. And, I know I’m not the only one loving the contrast and moodiness this color brings. So, I’ve gathered up the top black paint colors and how to use them in your next project.
Black Paint Colors
Now, it’s important to note that all black paint colors are not created the same. Just like white paint, they’re not an automatic neutral. Black paints might have cool greenish tints or warmer brownish undertones. This is often overlooked and people end up with plummy black house or greenish black walls with witchy vibes. Below, I’ll include any sneaky undertones with each black paint color to help you choose.
If you’re looking for more black paint inspiration be sure to check out my post on Black House Exteriors and Ideas Where to Use Black Paint. I’d also created several DIY projects with black paint.
Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black SW 6258
SW Tricorn Black is by far the peak black paint color. It’s a true, rich, dark black. There are no sneaky undertones making it look green or purple. Instead, it reads as a very neutral black in different lights and times of day. This makes it one of the most popular black paint colors for a variety of projects.
I’ve used it personally in many homes – in fact, I painted my entire home Tricorn Black SW 6258. I’ve since used it for painting my front doors and fireplaces.
Benjamin Moore Onyx 2133-10
Benjamin Moore Onyx is considered to be a true neutral black without any pesky undertones. It’s rich and inky and described as luxurious. Like other neutral blacks, it’s not too warm or cool so it plays well with other paint colors and elements.
I would compare Onyx 2133-10 to Tricorn Black as they are both deep, true blacks. Onyx is sometimes described as ever so slightly soft black where as Tricorn is more stark and true. Onyx would be great for railings, fireplaces, stairs, and doors and I’ve written a complete Benjamin Moore Onyx Review to cover all the details.
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore SW 7069
Another top performer, Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams is more of a dark charcoal black paint color. In low lights it reads as a dark black but can appear more as a dark graphite in bright light. It’s softer than a true black and a good option for those who need a bit more subtlety than a deep black.
Personally, I love SW Iron Ore 7069 as a deep dark gray and always keep a gallon on hand. I’ve used it for painting a brick fireplace, my kitchen cabinets, and accent walls.
Benjamin Moore Black Beauty 2128-10
Black Beauty from Benjamin Moore is considered a dark, slightly warmer black as it has some brown undertones. I think it’s similar to Sherwin Williams Black Magic which also has a grounding undertone.
Warmer black colors like Black Beauty work well with other neutral or warm colors. This pairs up well with natural elements like wood and stone. It’s a great choice for home exteriors, cabinets, and stairs.
Behr Carbon N520-7
Carbon is Home Depot’s best selling Behr black paint color for Behr. It’s no wonder since it’s described as a true, rich black. It reads as a very neutral with the slightest touch of warmth and softness.
Behr Carbon is darker and richer than SW Iron Ore but a touch lighter than SW Tricorn Black and softer than BM Onyx. It’s a great option for fireplaces, front doors, and cabinetry and I’d use it woth other neutral or warm colors but steer aways from cool colors.
Free Black Paint Color Palette
Want some ideas of what paint colors look good with black paint? I’ve gathered up some of my favorite combinations and put them together for you in this free paint color palette – just download and get started!
Sherwin Williams Black Magic SW 6991
Black Magic is another true, neutral black hitting the top of the charts. It’s absence of undertones makes it a favorite of many designers and projects. It’s comparable to Tricorn Black but just a touch softer.
SW Black Magic is a great option for front doors, statement kitchen islands, and railings or anywhere you’re looking for a dramatic contrast but without the edge of a true black.
Black Paint Color Samples
- Sherwin Williams Iron Ore SW 7069
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black SW 6258
- Benjamin Moore Onyx 2133-10
- Benjamin Moore Black Beauty 2128-10
- Behr Carbon N520-7
- Sherwin Williams Black Magic SW 6991
Black Paint Honorable Mentions
While not always the top choice for home projects, these black paint colors are still a popular and lovely option.
Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron 2124-10
Benjamin Moore’s Wrought Iron consistently makes the top of any of black paint color list. However, it’s less of a black and more of a dark charcoal gray. It’s softer with some bluish undertones, comparable to Iron Ore but a little lighter.
I’ve previously used Wrought Iron 2124-10 on some back basement concrete stairs. I loved it and felt it was a good dark paint color option. However, it wasn’t quite as lush and velvety as other colors.
Behr Black Boudoir PPU26-23
Black Boudoir from Behr rarely makes the top black paint color list but it’s a lovely in its own right. A deep, lush, velvety black, it has a very dramatic feel.
Black Boudoir is a very dark black with a hint of purplish cast, making it a little tricky to work with. When combined with other true neutrals though, it really makes a statement. I used it in my bedroom accent wall I turned into a little office nook. It quickly became my favorite colors.
FAQs About Black Paint Colors
Just like picking any paint colors, when choosing black paint look at undertones. True neutral blacks will have minimal undertones and easier to work with. Warmer blacks have more brown and will feel more earthy. Cooler blacks will have slight hints of green or blue and can be harder to work with but look good with stonework or when paired with true neutral colors, like a pure white.
Flat or matte paint sheen will make black paint colors appear darker and richer. Satin and glossier sheens will reflect light and make dark colors appear lighter.
Yes! Black paint in low reflective sheens like matte, flat, or even eggshell can help hide imperfections. It’s not a magic wand but can make a difference, especially if a premium paint line is used. Glossier and satin finishes, however, can actually highlight imperfections.
Final Thoughts on Black Paint Colors
I hope this post is helpful as you consider some of the best black paint colors. I’ve used many of these mentioned here and am a big fan of dark paint in general. It adds contrast, interest, and can create a beautiful canvas. Just be sure to look for neutral blacks or be aware of their cool or warm undertones – it makes a big difference! If you’re looking for some color, check out my top muted green paint colors.
I know it can be a big change so check out my Tips for Testing Paint Colors and the Best Paint Color Visualizers. These are great at narrowing down and getting the big picture of a color change.
