The Best Black Paint Colors for Any Space
I have a theory about black paint colors, and it’s this: There are a handful of really good ones, and it’s pointless to look beyond them. See, black paint isn’t nearly as complicated as white, because it absorbs light instead of reflects it, so there are far fewer chances for it to suddenly look cold or yellow. There is no reason to search the ends of the internet for the perfect shade of black — a good one will do just fine.
Still, there are different shades of black paint, and the one you choose will impact the overall feel of your space. Certain shades of black have a lot of blue in them, and will feel. cooler. Others are more brown and will feel warmer. While off blacks come with a bit of softness.
Here, I’ve listed out 10 black paint shades that should cover almost any application, circumstance and style preference.
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Best Black Paint Colors
01
Benjamin Moore Onyx
Benjamin Moore Onyx (2133-10) is one of the truest blacks in the Benjamin Moore lineup, and one of my personal favorites. It reads crisp and saturated without drifting too blue or too brown, which makes it a reliable choice when you want a dramatic, high-contrast black.
It works especially well on front doors, interior doors, cabinetry, and accent walls.
- LRV: 2.9
- Temperature: Neutral
- Undertones: Very subtle blue-black undertone that keeps it from looking muddy
02
Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron
Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron (2124-10) sits right on the border between charcoal and black. It has a softness that makes it easier to live with than a stark black, which is why designers love it for cabinetry and interior millwork.
In lower light it reads black; in brighter spaces it lightens towards charcoal.
- LRV: 6.2
- Temperature: Neutral
- Undertones: Neutral gray undertones
03
Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal
Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal (HC-166) technically sits in the charcoal category, but itโs dark enough to function like black in many spaces. Itโs a particularly good option if you want depth and drama without going fully jet black.
Because itโs part of the Historical Collection, it tends to pair well with classic whites and traditional homes.
- LRV: 12.96
- Temperature: Neutral
- Undertones: Very subtle green and brown undertones that keep it grounded
Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black
04
Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black
Tricorn Black (SW 6258) is about as close to a pure black as youโll find in a paint deck. Itโs extremely saturated and creates strong contrast against whites and light neutrals.
Because itโs so deep, itโs a favorite for doors, trim, and modern exteriors.
- LRV: 3
- Temperature: Neutral
- Undertones: Minimal undertone; reads as a clean true black
05
Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore
Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore (SW 7069) is one of the most popular black paints for a reason: itโs dark enough to read black but soft enough that it rarely feels severe. Itโs especially good for cabinetry, built-ins, and exterior trim.
If Tricorn Black feels too intense, Iron Ore is often the better choice.
- LRV: 6
- Temperature: Neutral to slightly cool
- Undertones: Soft charcoal with subtle blue undertones
06
Farrow & Ball Railings
Farrow & Ball Railings No. 31 is technically a โsoft black,โ but it has a noticeable blue undertone that gives it a slightly inky, midnight feel. Itโs beautiful on built-ins, cabinetry, and stair railings (hence the name).
The color shifts a lot depending on light, which is part of its appeal.
- LRV: ~4
- Temperature: Cool
- Undertones: Blue
07
Farrow & Ball Down Pipe
Down Pipe No. 26 is a deep charcoal rather than a true black. It has a velvety softness that works well when you want something dramatic but not stark.
Itโs especially popular for cabinetry, powder rooms, and exterior siding.
- LRV: ~6
- Temperature: Neutral-cool
- Undertones: Blue-gray
08
Benjamin Moore Black Beauty
Black Beauty (2128-10) is a warm, velvety black that feels slightly softer than Tricorn Black or Onyx. Itโs a great option if you want a black that pairs well with warm woods, brass hardware, and traditional interiors.
- LRV: 3.7
- Temperature: Warm-leaning neutral
- Undertones: Brown and charcoal undertones
09
Sherwin-Williams Caviar
Caviar (SW 6990) is one of Sherwin-Williamsโ deepest blacks. Itโs rich, saturated, and dramaticโexcellent for modern interiors or exterior trim where you want maximum contrast.
- LRV: 3
- Temperature: Neutral
- Undertones: Slight blue undertone
10
Benjamin Moore Cheating Heart
Cheating Heart (1617) sits in that useful space between black and charcoal. It has a noticeable blue undertone that gives it depth without feeling flat.
Designers often use it for kitchen islands, cabinetry, and exterior siding.
- LRV: 6.8
- Temperature: Cool
- Undertones: Blue-gray
11
Benjamin Moore Iron Mountain
Benjamin Moore Iron Mountain (2134-30) sits squarely in the charcoal category. Itโs deep and dramatic, but noticeably softer than a true black, which makes it a favorite for cabinetry, kitchen islands, and exterior siding where you want a dark color that still feels approachable.
It pairs particularly well with warm whites, natural wood, and brass hardware.
- LRV: 9.13
- Temperature: Warm-leaning neutral
- Undertones: Brown and subtle green undertones that give it a grounded, earthy feel
12
Farrow & Ball Pitch Black
If you want a black that reads unmistakably black, Farrow & Ball Pitch Black (No. 256) delivers. Itโs extremely saturated and deep, creating strong contrast against light walls and trim.
Because itโs so pure and intense, it works best in places where you want a deliberate statementโfront doors, trim, cabinetry, or modern accent walls.
- LRV: ~3
- Temperature: Neutral
- Undertones: Very minimal undertones; reads as a clean, true black
