When searching for the perfect gray paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Gauntlet Gray SW 7019 and Dovetail SW 7018 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, moody grays?
In this guide, we’ll analyze Gauntlet Gray vs Dovetail in-depth to help you determine the ideal gray paint for your home. We’ll look at undertones, light reflectance, real-life photos, room pairings and more.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail:
- Undertones – Gauntlet Gray is a cool charcoal, Dovetail is a warm greige
- Light Reflectance – Gauntlet Gray has an LRV of 17, Dovetail has an LRV of 26
- Use – Gauntlet Gray suits modern styles, Dovetail fits traditional and contemporary decor
- Rooms – Gauntlet Gray excels in dining rooms, Dovetail shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Gauntlet Gray SW 7019
With its deep cool charcoal appearance, Sherwin Williams Gauntlet Gray SW 7019 creates a moody, sophisticated backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile neutral works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Gauntlet Gray:
- LRV: 17
- Undertones: Cool charcoal
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Dining rooms, living rooms, offices, entryways
- Pairs Well With: Crisp whites, wood tones, metallics
Gauntlet Gray is an intense dark gray with strong blue undertones. In certain lights it can take on an almost blackened slate look.
The 17 light reflectance value gives dramatic contrast when paired with lighter accents. Gauntlet Gray makes a bold statement.
This adaptable neutral pops beautifully against bright whites and natural wood tones. Popular Gauntlet Gray color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Extra White
- Walnut wood finishes
- Polished nickel fixtures
While suitable anywhere seeking drama, Gauntlet Gray truly excels in these modern spaces:
- Dining Rooms
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Entryways
- Media Rooms
Gauntlet Gray’s lush depth helps create an intimate, contemporary feel perfect for accent walls or large statement pieces.
Sherwin Williams Dovetail SW 7018
With its subtle warm greige appearance, Sherwin Williams Dovetail SW 7018 creates an understated moody backdrop well-suited for both traditional and contemporary styles. This versatile neutral works across most spaces seeking soft drama.
Here are some details about Dovetail:
- LRV: 26
- Undertones: Warm greige
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, dining rooms, living rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Crisp whites, blacks, wood tones
Dovetail is a hushed medium-dark greige with faint beige undertones. In certain lights it can take on a weathered driftwood look.
The 26 light reflectance value provides a nice balance of illumination and intimacy. Dovetail gives a cozy, enveloping feel.
This versatile neutral looks beautiful with bright whites and black accents. Popular Dovetail color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Black outdoor furniture
- Espresso wood finishes
- Aged bronze lighting
While suitable anywhere seeking soft drama, Dovetail truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Dovetail’s subtle sophistication helps create an approachable, transitional backdrop perfect for elegant rooms.
Comparing Gauntlet Gray vs Dovetail
Now that we’ve examined Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail have quite different LRVs of 17 and 26 respectively. Dovetail will appear significantly brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Gauntlet Gray is a deep cool charcoal, while Dovetail is a warm greige.
Use & Rooms
Gauntlet Gray’s cool drama excels in dining rooms. Dovetail’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
Gauntlet Gray vs Dovetail Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | Gauntlet Gray SW 7019 | Dovetail SW 7018 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 17 | 26 |
| Undertones | Cool charcoal | Warm greige |
| Use | Modern spaces | Traditional & contemporary rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Contemporary | Transitional |
Real-Life Photos: Gauntlet Gray vs Dovetail
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail:
Sherwin Williams Gauntlet Gray
Sherwin Williams Dovetail
While they can overlap, Gauntlet Gray appears significantly darker and moodier than the subtle sophistication of Dovetail. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Gauntlet Gray or Dovetail?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Gauntlet Gray or Dovetail for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose Gauntlet Gray SW 7019 if you want:
- A deep, dramatic charcoal gray
- A moody color suitable for modern spaces
- A bold backdrop for dining rooms
- Striking contrast against lighter accents
Choose Dovetail SW 7018 if you want:
- A warm, refined medium-dark greige
- A subtly sophisticated neutral for bedrooms
- A versatile color that works in varied styles
- Soft, enveloping ambiance
Get samples of both Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail. Paint large sections on your walls viewing at different times of day. This gives you the best sense of how the tones read in your environment.
You can also pair them with decor you already have to visualize the look. Both offer beautiful, dramatic gray tones.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Gauntlet Gray
- Dining Rooms
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Entryways
- Media Rooms
Sherwin Williams Dovetail
- Bedrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
While both grays work well in varied spaces, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail create dramatic backdrops. Complement them with lighter colors for gorgeous contrast:
Gauntlet Gray SW 7019 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Extra White
- Walnut wood finishes
- Polished nickel fixtures
Dovetail SW 7018 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Black outdoor furniture
- Espresso wood finishes
- Aged bronze lighting
Gauntlet Gray vs Dovetail – Which is Better?
So which gray paint color is better for your home – Gauntlet Gray or Dovetail?
Consider Gauntlet Gray SW 7019 if you want:
- A deep, dramatic charcoal gray
- A moody color suitable for modern spaces
- A bold backdrop for dining rooms
- Striking contrast against lighter accents
Consider Dovetail SW 7018 if you want:
- A warm, refined medium-dark greige
- A subtly sophisticated neutral for bedrooms
- A versatile color that works in varied styles
- Soft, enveloping ambiance
While Gauntlet Gray offers bold drama, Dovetail provides understated sophistication.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful moody Sherwin Williams gray you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Gauntlet Gray or Dovetail? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Gauntlet Gray and Dovetail?
The main differences are their undertones and levels of drama. Gauntlet Gray is a deep, bold charcoal while Dovetail is a warmer, more subtle greige gray.
What colors complement Dovetail?
Dovetail looks beautiful paired with crisp whites, light blues, black accents, and wood tones for an elegant feel.
Can you use Gauntlet Gray in a bedroom?
Yes, Gauntlet Gray would create a dramatic, moody look in a bedroom paired with bright whites and light wood furniture.
Is Dovetail suitable for northern exposure?
Yes, Dovetail’s 26 LRV provides enough brightness for a north facing room without appearing too dark and gloomy.
Does Gauntlet Gray come in satin finish?
Yes, Gauntlet Gray is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to satin to high gloss semi-gloss.
