White paint seems straightforward until you’re staring at a wall of swatches that all look slightly (or wildly) different. As a professional team that’s worked in hundreds of homes, we can tell you: not all whites are created equal.

So if you’re wondering:

• What is the most popular white paint color?
• What is the best white paint for walls or trim?
• Which brand of white paint should I use?
• How do I choose the right white for my space?

You’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’re breaking down the most-loved white paint colors, how to choose the right one for your space, and what factors to consider before making your pick.

The Most Popular White Paint Colors Right Now

Let’s start with what’s trending and what stands the test of time. These white paints have become go-to choices for designers and homeowners alike.

1. Benjamin Moore – White Dove (OC-17)

• Why it’s popular: Soft, warm, and classic. It’s versatile enough for walls, ceilings, and trim.
• Where it works best: Bedrooms, living rooms, or anywhere you want a cozy yet clean look.
• Undertone: Slightly creamy, but still reads white.
  

2. Benjamin Moore – Chantilly Lace (OC-65)

• Why it’s popular: It’s a crisp, bright white that feels fresh and modern.
• Where it works best: Kitchens, bathrooms, or any other space where you want a clean, gallery-style backdrop.
• Undertone: Cool and bright, with no noticeable warmth.
  

3. Sherwin-Williams – Pure White (SW 7005)

• Why it’s popular: A balanced white that works with both cool and warm color palettes.
• Where it works best: Trim, ceilings, cabinetry, and modern spaces.
• Undertone: Just a hint of warmth to keep it from feeling too cold.

4. Sherwin-Williams – Snowbound (SW 7004)

• Why it’s popular: A soft white with gray undertones that gives a clean yet inviting feel.
• Where it works best: Walls and cabinetry in spaces with plenty of natural light.
• Undertone: Cool with a subtle hint of greige.
  

5. McCormick Paints – Chillax

• Why it’s popular: A soothing, relaxed white that works beautifully in calm and coastal-inspired interiors.
• Where it works best: Bedrooms, bathrooms, or airy spaces with soft natural light.
• Undertone: Warm with a subtle, creamy depth.

How to Choose the Right White Paint for Your Home

Here’s the secret: the best white paint isn’t the same for everyone. It depends on a few key things:

Lighting (Natural and Artificial)

Light changes everything. North-facing rooms tend to be cooler and can make whites look blue. South-facing rooms get warm, golden light that can enhance creamy whites.

Remember to always test your paint swatches on multiple walls and check them at different times of day. Morning light can look very different than afternoon.

Undertones

White paint isn’t truly white. Most shades lean slightly towards warm (yellow, red, beige) or cool (blue, green, gray) tones. If you pair a cool white with warm wood floors, it can feel off. That’s why choosing the right undertone is key.

• Warm whites: Cozy, inviting, suitable for traditional spaces or where you want softness.
• Cool whites: Crisp, clean, modern, great for contemporary designs or cooler-toned materials.
• True neutrals: Harder to find, but great for flexibility.

Finish (Sheen)

• Flat or matte: Best for ceilings and low-traffic walls. Hides imperfections.
• Eggshell or satin: Most common for walls—durable but not too shiny.
• Semi-gloss or gloss: Used for trim, doors, and cabinetry to add contrast and cleanability.

Existing Materials

Take a look at your countertops, flooring, backsplash, tile, and even your furniture. The undertones in those materials should guide your choice of white paint.

Don’t Overlook Light Reflectance Value (LRV)

Here’s a lesser-known but incredibly useful tool when choosing a white: Light Reflectance Value, or LRV.

LRV measures how much light a paint color reflects. On a scale of 0–100, 0 is absolute black and 100 is pure white. Most whites fall somewhere between 80 and 94.

• Higher LRV (90+): Makes a room feel brighter and more open.
• Lower LRV (80s): Still light, but with more depth and softness.

You’ll find the LRV printed on the back of most paint chips. If you’re choosing between a few whites, compare the numbers to see which one will bounce light more effectively in your space.

Best Places to Use White Paint

White paint can be incredibly effective, but only in the right places. Here are a few areas where white shines (literally and figuratively):

Walls

Opt for warmer whites in living areas to create a soft and inviting ambiance. Crisp whites work well in bathrooms, kitchens, or any space with abundant natural light.

Trim and Molding

Use a bright white with a higher sheen to make your trim pop. Pair it with a warmer wall color for contrast, or go tone-on-tone for a subtle, elegant effect.

Ceilings

A soft, warm white (usually flat) is excellent for ceilings, as it creates visual lift without drawing too much attention.

Cabinets and Built-Ins

If you want timeless cabinetry, you can’t go wrong with Pure White or Chantilly Lace. These colors help your space feel clean, fresh, and light.

Our Favorite White Paints by Brand

Over the years, we’ve worked with just about every paint brand out there. Here’s our short list of trusted favorites:

Brand	Top Pick	Best For
Benjamin Moore	White Dove	Warm, classic interiors
Sherwin-Williams	Pure White / Snowbound	Trim, walls, and soft modern interiors
McCormick Paints	Chillax	Relaxed, beachy tones
Farrow & Ball	Pointing or Wimborne White	Subtle, high-end finish
Behr	Ultra Pure White	Budget-friendly brightness

Our best advice? Don’t just choose a paint color based on the name. Always test a sample in your space before you commit.

Final Thoughts from Our Paintbrush

Choosing the right white paint might take a little more thought than you expected, but it’s worth it. The right shade can completely transform the way a room feels.

If you’re stuck between swatches or wondering how a color will look in your light, that’s where we come in. Our craftsmen offer color consultations to help you find your perfect white. We’ll discuss your style, space, and goals, then help you find a color that feels like you.

Schedule a consultation today and let’s bring your vision to life, one expertly chosen shade at a time.