When selecting the perfect neutral paint color, two top options from Benjamin Moore are Manchester Tan HC-81 and Edgecomb Gray HC-173. At first glance, these two colors can appear quite similar. But looking closer, there are noticeable differences between them that impact their aesthetics and uses.
In this article, we’ll compare Benjamin Moore Manchester Tan vs Edgecomb Gray in-depth. We’ll analyze their undertones, LRV, real-world photos, and ideal room applications. By the end, you’ll understand how these neutrals differ and which Benjamin Moore color is the best choice for your space.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Manchester Tan and Edgecomb Gray
Before examining all the details, here is a brief overview of how Manchester Tan and Edgecomb Gray differ:
- Undertones: Manchester Tan is a yellow-brown, Edgecomb Gray is a blue-gray.
- LRV: Manchester Tan has a higher LRV of 63.24, Edgecomb Gray is darker at 63.09 LRV.
- Use: Manchester Tan works well whole-home, Edgecomb Gray best accenting.
- Rooms: Manchester Tan excels in bedrooms, Edgecomb Gray shines in bathrooms.
Now let’s explore Manchester Tan vs Edgecomb Gray more closely!
Benjamin Moore Manchester Tan HC-81
Manchester Tan HC-81 is a gorgeous golden tan paint color with a bright, cheerful vibe. Its versatility makes it a popular neutral choice.
Here are some details about Manchester Tan:
- LRV: 63.24
- Undertones: Yellow-brown
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Living rooms, bedrooms, offices, dining rooms
- Pairs With: Blues, greens, tans
Manchester Tan is a medium golden yellow-brown without strong undertones. The yellow influence gives it laidback brightness perfect for whole-home use.
With an LRV of 63.24, Manchester Tan reflects sufficient light to keep the tan feeling uplifted and not too dark. The golden tone maintains a sunny personality.
This versatile neutral complements a variety of color schemes. Pleasing combinations include:
- Benjamin Moore Simply White
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter
- Benjamin Moore Gray Owl
- Benjamin Moore October Mist
While suitable anywhere, this cheerful tan truly excels when used as the main paint color in living areas, bedrooms, offices, and dining rooms.
Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray HC-173
Edgecomb Gray HC-173 is a gorgeous blue-gray paint color with crisp, cool sophistication. Its versatility makes it widely popular.
Here are some details about Edgecomb Gray:
- LRV: 63.09
- Undertones: Blue-gray
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, accent walls, trim
- Pairs With: Whites, blues, grays
Edgecomb Gray is a medium-light blue-hued gray. The subtle blue influence provides definition without appearing too cold or stark.
With an LRV of 63.09, Edgecomb Gray reflects a decent amount of light but less than very pale grays. This allows it to add cool sophistication as an accent color.
Some pleasing color combinations with Edgecomb Gray include:
- Benjamin Moore Simply White
- Benjamin Moore October Mist
- Benjamin Moore White Dove
- Benjamin Moore Coventry Gray
While fitting for any room, this refined blue-gray excels when used judiciously to accent bathrooms, kitchens, accent walls, and trim.
Comparing Manchester Tan vs Edgecomb Gray
Now that we’ve explored Manchester Tan and Edgecomb Gray individually, let’s directly compare the two Benjamin Moore colors:
Light Reflectance
With an LRV of 63.24, Manchester Tan reflects notably more light than the 63.09 LRV of Edgecomb Gray. Manchester Tan will feel brighter and more cheerful.
Undertones
Here is the main difference. Manchester Tan is a yellow-brown while Edgecomb Gray is a blue-gray.
Manchester Tan’s yellowness gives it laidback warmth. Edgecomb Gray’s blueness feels crisper and sharper.
Rooms
Manchester Tan’s cheerfulness makes it great whole-home, especially in bedrooms. Edgecomb Gray excels as an accent in bathrooms, kitchens, and with dark trim.
Paint Finishes
Both Manchester Tan and Edgecomb Gray come in any sheen from matte to pearl. They provide beautiful, refined finishes.
Manchester Tan vs Edgecomb Gray Comparison Chart
Here is an overview of their major differences:
| Paint Color | Manchester Tan HC-81 | Edgecomb Gray HC-173 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 63.24 | 63.09 |
| Undertones | Yellow-brown | Blue-gray |
| Use | Whole-home color | Accent color |
| Sheens | All finishes | All finishes |
Real Rooms Painted in Manchester Tan and Edgecomb Gray
To better envision Manchester Tan vs Edgecomb Gray, let’s look at real rooms painted in the two Benjamin Moore colors:
Manchester Tan HC-81
Edgecomb Gray HC-173
The images demonstrate how warm, cheerful Manchester Tan differs from the cooler, sharper Edgecomb Gray. But lighting can make them appear somewhat similar at times.
Should You Choose Manchester Tan or Edgecomb Gray?
So which Benjamin Moore paint color is better for your space – versatile Manchester Tan or sophisticated Edgecomb Gray? Here are some tips for deciding:
Pick Manchester Tan HC-81 if you want:
- A golden tan with yellow undertones
- A laidback whole-home color
- Cheerful brightness perfect for bedrooms
- Extreme adaptability across many rooms
Choose Edgecomb Gray HC-173 if you want:
- A blue-gray with crisp, cool sophistication
- Beautiful contrast for bathrooms and kitchens
- Much more color definition than pale neutrals
- A soft but sharp accent gray
If still uncertain between the two, get samples and paint large swatches on your walls. View throughout different lighting before deciding.
Either neutral paint color you choose will provide beauty and refinement. But their differences mean one likely better suits your goals and style.
Ideal Room Applications
Here are some rooms that tend to suit Manchester Tan and Edgecomb Gray best:
Manchester Tan HC-81
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Dining Rooms
- Hallways
Edgecomb Gray HC-173
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Doors and trim
- Accent walls
- Foyers
Both can work beautifully throughout any home. But the above applications maximize their individual strengths.
Design Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Manchester Tan and Edgecomb Gray create elegant backdrops. Paired with other colors and materials, they make gorgeous spaces:
Manchester Tan Color Pairings
- Benjamin Moore Simply White (trim/ceilings)
- Benjamin Moore Black Forest Green (accent wall)
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter (furniture)
- Brushed gold lighting
Edgecomb Gray Color Pairings
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (trim/molding)
- Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal (accent wall)
- Benjamin Moore Oxford White (furniture)
- Matte black hardware
Manchester Tan vs Edgecomb Gray – Which is Best for You?
When choosing between Manchester Tan and Edgecomb Gray, consider your goals and style:
Pick Manchester Tan HC-81 if you want:
- A golden tan suitable for whole-home use
- Cheerful yellow undertones
- Inviting laidback warmth
- Extreme adaptability across many different rooms
Choose Edgecomb Gray HC-173 if you want:
- A blue-gray accent that adds cool sophistication
- Beautiful contrast for bathrooms and kitchens
- Much more definition than pale neutrals
- A soft but sharp, elegant gray
While they share some similarities, the differences likely mean one better suits your space. Get color swatches before deciding between warm Manchester Tan and cool Edgecomb Gray.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to choose between Manchester Tan vs Edgecomb Gray? Here are answers to some common questions:
Does Manchester Tan work well in bathrooms?
Definitely! While not as popular as Edgecomb Gray, warm golden Manchester Tan can provide a cheerful backdrop for bathrooms without going too dark when paired with white tile.
What colors complement Edgecomb Gray?
Edgecomb Gray pairs beautifully with crisp whites, light blues, charcoals, and warmer wood tones. White trim and molding helps accentuate its blue-gray coolness.
Which Benjamin Moore paint color is darker?
With an LRV of 63.09, Edgecomb Gray is substantially darker than the 63.24 LRV of golden tan Manchester Tan. However, Edgecomb Gray still reflects enough light to avoid feeling dreary.
Can you use Edgecomb Gray in a bedroom?
Yes, Edgecomb Gray can work well in bedrooms when used thoughtfully on an accent wall for contrast. Paired with light airy walls, it adds depth without being too bold.
Is Manchester Tan suitable for dining rooms?
Absolutely! Golden Manchester Tan makes a gorgeous dining room wall color. Paired with white trim, dark woods, and brass accents, it creates a warm, welcoming space for dining and entertaining.
Conclusion
When comparing Benjamin Moore’s Manchester Tan vs Edgecomb Gray paint colors, the main differences come down to undertones and aesthetics:
- Manchester Tan is a yellow-brown that works well whole-home, providing laidback, cheerful warmth.
- Edgecomb Gray is a blue-gray that excels as an accent, adding sophisticated sharpness and definition.
While they share some similarities, the undertone and formality variations help one likely better suit your goals. Consider your space when deciding between Manchester Tan and Edgecomb Gray. Samples will ensure you pick the perfect Benjamin Moore neutral paint color for your needs!
