When searching for the perfect black paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar dramatic shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Black Fox SW 7020 and Iron Ore SW 7069 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two deep, dark blacks?
In this guide, we’ll analyze Black Fox vs Iron Ore in-depth to help you determine the ideal black 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 Black Fox and Iron Ore
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Black Fox and Iron Ore:
- Undertones – Black Fox has subtle warm undertones, Iron Ore is a true black
- Light Reflectance – Black Fox has an LRV of 7, Iron Ore has an LRV of 6
- Use – Black Fox suits varied styles, Iron Ore works anywhere
- Rooms – Black Fox excels in living rooms, Iron Ore shines as an accent
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Black Fox and Iron Ore more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Black Fox SW 7020
With its deep black appearance warmed by brown undertones, Sherwin Williams Black Fox SW 7020 creates a dramatic yet versatile backdrop that works across styles.
Here are some details about Black Fox:
- LRV: 7
- Undertones: Black with warm brown
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Light neutrals, wood tones
Black Fox is a rich black with subtle warm reddish-brown undertones. In certain lights it can read as a very dark espresso.
The 7 light reflectance value makes this color inky and moody. Black Fox packs drama and sophistication.
This deep black pairs nicely with lighter accents. Popular Black Fox combinations include:
- Sherwin Williams Extra White
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Blonde wood floors and finishes
- Brass hardware accents
While bold as an all-over color, Black Fox excels when used thoughtfully in these spaces:
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Black Fox’s warmth allows it to work in a variety of settings as a dramatic neutral. Use it to make lighter colors pop.
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore SW 7069
With its intense, true black appearance, Sherwin Williams Iron Ore SW 7069 makes a bold, dynamic statement as an accent color. This deep neutral works anywhere.
Here are some details about Iron Ore:
- LRV: 6
- Undertones: True black
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Accent walls, doors, trim
- Pairs Well With: All colors
Iron Ore is an inky true black. In all lighting it maintains its dark, saturated appearance with no undertones.
The 6 light reflectance value makes this color rich, moody and dramatic. Iron Ore packs visual impact when used thoughtfully.
This intense black acts as the perfect contrasting accent. Popular Iron Ore combinations include:
- Sherwin Williams Alabaster
- Sherwin Williams Collonade Gray
- Any bold color
- Brushed metal finishes
While extremely bold as an all-over color, Iron Ore excels when used strategically to highlight architectural details:
- Accent Walls
- Doors
- Cabinets
- Interior Trim
- Ceilings
Iron Ore’s true black saturation helps add definition and contrast. Let it make lighter elements shine brighter.
Comparing Black Fox vs Iron Ore
Now that we’ve examined Black Fox and Iron Ore independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Black Fox and Iron Ore have similar LRVs of 7 and 6 respectively. Iron Ore will appear slightly darker.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Black Fox has subtle warm reddish-brown undertones, while Iron Ore is a true black.
Use & Rooms
Black Fox’s warmth suits full rooms in varied styles. Iron Ore’s true black excels as a dramatic accent.
Availability
Both Black Fox and Iron Ore come in any sheen from matte to glossy.
Black Fox vs Iron Ore Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | Black Fox SW 7020 | Iron Ore SW 7069 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 7 | 6 |
| Undertones | Black with warm brown | True black |
| Use | Full rooms | Accents |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Varied styles | Any style |
Real-Life Photos: Black Fox vs Iron Ore
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Black Fox and Iron Ore:
Sherwin Williams Black Fox
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore
While extremely deep and dark, Black Fox is a hint warmer than the true black Iron Ore. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Black Fox or Iron Ore?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Black Fox or Iron Ore for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose Black Fox SW 7020 if you want:
- A black with subtle warm undertones
- A moody all-over color for living rooms and bedrooms
- A dramatic but versatile neutral for varied styles
- Cozy sophistication
Choose Iron Ore SW 7069 if you want:
- An intense true black accent
- Maximum drama and bold contrast
- Striking black doors, trim or ceilings
- A color that works with any style
Get samples of both Black Fox and Iron Ore. Paint large swatches on your walls viewing during day and night. This gives you the best sense of their depth and undertones.
You can also pair them with decor you already have to visualize the look. Both offer deep, dramatic black tones.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms and uses that are especially well-suited to Black Fox and Iron Ore paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Black Fox
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore
- Accent Walls
- Doors
- Cabinets
- Interior Trim
- Ceilings
While both blacks work well, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Black Fox and Iron Ore make bold statements. Complement them with lighter colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Black Fox SW 7020 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Extra White
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Blonde wood floors and finishes
- Brass hardware accents
Iron Ore SW 7069 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Alabaster
- Sherwin Williams Collonade Gray
- Any bold color
- Brushed metal finishes
Black Fox vs Iron Ore – Which is Better?
So which black paint color is better for your home – Black Fox or Iron Ore?
Consider Black Fox SW 7020 if you want:
- A black with subtle warm undertones
- A moody all-over color for living rooms and bedrooms
- A dramatic but versatile neutral for varied styles
- Cozy sophistication
Consider Iron Ore SW 7069 if you want:
- An intense true black accent
- Maximum drama and bold contrast
- Striking black doors, trim or ceilings
- A color that works with any style
While Black Fox is versatile, Iron Ore makes a bold statement. Get samples before deciding. Either dramatic Sherwin Williams black you choose will suit your home beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Black Fox or Iron Ore? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Black Fox and Iron Ore?
The main differences are their undertones and uses. Black Fox is a warmer black for rooms while Iron Ore is an intense true black accent.
What colors complement Black Fox?
Black Fox looks beautiful paired with light neutrals like white, beige, gray, and wood tones to balance the darkness.
Can you use Iron Ore in a kitchen?
Yes, Iron Ore would work wonderfully on kitchen cabinets or an accent wall to add striking contrast.
Is Black Fox suitable for northern exposure?
Yes, Black Fox’s 7 LRV is dark enough for a north facing room. Add lighter accents to keep the space bright and welcoming.
Does Iron Ore come in eggshell finish?
Yes, Iron Ore is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to eggshell to high gloss semi-gloss.
