When selecting the perfect crisp, clean white paint color, subtle differences between shades can be hard to discern. Two of Benjamin Moore’s most popular whites are Simply White OC-117 and White Dove OC-17. At first glance they may appear nearly identical, but there are some key contrasts between the two off-whites.
In this article, we’ll do a thorough comparison of Simply White vs White Dove. We’ll analyze undertones, light reflectance levels, real life photos, best rooms to use, and more. Read on to determine which Benjamin Moore white is the right fit for your space.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Simply White and White Dove
Before diving into greater detail, here is an overview of the main distinctions between Simply White and White Dove:
- Undertones – Simply White has a slight cool undertone, White Dove is a true neutral
- Light Reflectance – Simply White has an LRV of 89.52, White Dove has an LRV of 83.16
- Use – Simply White for clean modern spaces, White Dove fits any style
- Rooms – Simply White shines in bright rooms, White Dove brightens any space
- Availability – Simply White comes in all sheens
Now let’s explore Simply White and White Dove more thoroughly.
Benjamin Moore Simply White OC-117
With its barely-there cool undertone, Simply White OC-117 by Benjamin Moore provides a gorgeous clean backdrop in any home. This versatile off-white has broad appeal.
Here are some key details about Simply White:
- LRV: 89.52
- Undertones: Hint of cool blue
- Finish: Available in all paint sheens
- Rooms: Versatile for all rooms
- Pairs Well With: Grays, blues, greens
Simply White is often described as a “cleaner” white due to its barely perceptible cool undertone. While subtle, the icy influence provides brightness and prevents dinginess.
The 89.52 light reflectance value strikes a nice balance – light enough for airiness, but not so bright that it washes spaces out. Simply White nicely illuminates most rooms.
With its hint of coolness, Simply White excels alongside equally cool color schemes. Use it in any space desiring a clean, bright backdrop. But its cool essence makes it ideally suited to these rooms:
- Living rooms
- Bedrooms
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Hallways and foyers
Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17
As Benjamin Moore’s most popular white paint color, White Dove OC-17 works beautifully across styles from modern to farmhouse. This versatile all-purpose neutral brightens up any space.
Here are some details on beloved White Dove:
- LRV: 83.16
- Undertones: True neutral
- Finish: Available in all paint sheens
- Rooms: Suitable for any room
- Pairs Well With: All color schemes
With its perfectly balanced undertone, White Dove reads as a true white that complements any design aesthetic. The 83.16 light reflectance provides sufficient brightness without starkness.
As a true neutral, White Dove pairs nicely with absolutely any color scheme. Its versatility makes it foolproof for every room in homes of all styles. Popular uses include:
- Living rooms and bedrooms
- Kitchen cabinets and bathroom walls
- Doors, trim, moldings and ceilings
- Dining rooms and offices
- Entryways and hallways
Comparing Simply White vs White Dove
Now that we’ve examined Simply White and White Dove individually, let’s compare them directly:
Light Reflectance
Simply White has an LRV of 89.52 compared to White Dove’s 83.16 LRV. This means Simply White will reflect a bit more light to combat darkness.
However, they are quite close in illumination power. Most average rooms could use either white.
Undertones
Here is where the main difference lies. Simply White has subtle cool blue undertones. White Dove is a clean true neutral white.
The slight coolness gives Simply White more of a crisp, icy appearance. White Dove’s neutrality provides wider appeal.
Rooms
With its hint of cool, Simply White excels alongside other cool colors in well-lit rooms. Think airy kitchens and sunny bedrooms.
White Dove’s versatility means it can brighten and open up any darker space beautifully.
Availability
Simply White comes in all paint sheens from matte to high gloss. White Dove also offers a full spectrum of finishes.
Simply White vs White Dove Comparison Chart
Here is an overview of how Simply White and White Dove compare:
Paint Color | Simply White OC-117 | White Dove OC-17 |
---|---|---|
LRV | 89.52 | 83.16 |
Undertones | Hint of cool blue | True neutral |
Use | Bright cool rooms | Suitable for all rooms |
Sheens | All sheens | All sheens |
Style | Modern, contemporary | Versatile for any style |
Real Life Photos – Simply White vs White Dove
Let’s look at real life spaces painted in Simply White and White Dove to better evaluate how they compare in actual room settings.
Simply White OC-117
White Dove OC-17
The real life photos showcase the subtle differences between the two whites. Simply White generally appears slightly crisper and cooler. White Dove looks a touch warmer and softer in actual spaces.
Should I Choose Simply White or White Dove?
So how do you decide between Benjamin Moore’s popular Simply White vs White Dove for your home? Here are a few tips:
Consider Simply White OC-117 if you want:
- A white with subtle cool blue undertones
- Added brightness without starkness
- A versatile neutral for well-lit spaces
- A crisp, clean backdrop
Consider White Dove OC-17 if you want:
- A timeless true neutral white with zero undertones
- Benjamin Moore’s most popular versatile white
- A universally flattering white for any room
- A soft but well-lit backdrop
As always, the best way to decide is to get samples of both whites. View large swatches in your actual lighting and with your furnishings. This gives you the best sense of which white you prefer before committing to a full paint job.
While Simply White suits bright contemporary homes, White Dove’s versatility lets it work anywhere. Choose the one that best matches your goals and lighting conditions.
Best Rooms for Simply White and White Dove
Though Simply White and White Dove work well throughout homes, here are some spaces particularly suited to their characteristics:
Simply White OC-117
With its subtle coolness, Simply White excels alongside airy bright rooms. Perfect spaces include:
- Sunlit living rooms and kitchens
- Bright bedrooms and bathrooms
- Open concept great rooms
- Laundry rooms and mudrooms
- Doors and trim in contemporary homes
White Dove OC-17
This flexible neutral brightens up any space beautifully. Ideal White Dove rooms:
- Cozy living rooms and bedrooms
- Kitchens, baths, laundry rooms
- Dining rooms, libraries, offices
- Entryways, halls, staircases
- Ceilings, crown molding, baseboards
Use Simply White to play up brightness in well-lit contemporary rooms. Let White Dove work its magic anywhere you want a classic white backdrop.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Simply White and White Dove create peaceful backdrops. Paired with other colors and materials, you can create stunning spaces:
Simply White OC-117 Ideas
- Crisp white kitchen cabinets against a navy island
- White open shelving and trim against light gray walls
- Bright white wainscoting against soft blue accent wall
- Glossy white moldings on windows and doors
White Dove OC-17 Ideas
- Cozy living room with warm white brick fireplace
- Farmhouse kitchen with classic white shaker cabinets
- Vivid green accent wall against pristine white backdrop
- Black and white graphic bathroom floor tile
Color Pairings for Both
- Navy blues, grays, light greens, wood tones
- Black and white graphic prints and patterns
- Gold, brass, and silver metallic accents
- Bold colors like red, yellow, and emerald
Keep the backdrop neutral white to let accent colors pop. Easily change accents for fresh seasonal looks.
Simply White vs White Dove – Which is Best For You?
So what’s better for your home – Benjamin Moore Simply White or White Dove? The right choice comes down to your goals:
Pick Simply White OC-117 if you want:
- Subtle coolness for an airy feel
- A versatile white for brighter spaces
- Added illumination without starkness
- A clean and crisp modern backdrop
Choose White Dove OC-17 if you want:
- A universally flattering true neutral white
- Benjamin Moore’s most popular go-to white
- Classic warmth without sacrificing brightness
- A foolproof white that works anywhere
Get large in-home paint samples before deciding. While flexible White Dove works almost anywhere, Simply White excels alongside airy, contemporary spaces.
Choose the white that best enhances your lighting, color scheme, and interior design vision. Either Benjamin Moore white will serve as a gorgeous foundational color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to choose between Simply White and White Dove? Here are some commonly asked questions:
Is Simply White considered warm or cool?
Simply White OC-117 is considered a cool white paint color. It has subtle hints of blue that give it a brighter, crisper look than neutral or warm whites.
What undertone does White Dove have?
White Dove OC-17 is a true neutral white, meaning it does not lean warm or cool. The perfect balance provides maximum versatility.
Which white would work best in a north facing room?
Simply White’s subtle coolness reflects light well in darker north facing rooms without appearing dingy or yellowed.
Can you use White Dove in bathrooms?
Yes, White Dove works excellently in bathrooms. Its true neutral undertone prevents discoloration or yellowing over time.
What color cabinets pair best with Simply White walls?
Simply White’s subtle coolness would coordinate nicely with bright white cabinets for a light, airy kitchen.