When searching for the perfect white paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar crisp shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices High Reflective White SW 7757 and Extra White SW 7006 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, bright whites?
In this guide, we’ll analyze High Reflective White vs Extra White in-depth to help you determine the ideal white 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 High Reflective White and Extra White
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ High Reflective White and Extra White:
- Undertones – High Reflective White is a clean white, Extra White is a warm white
- Light Reflectance – High Reflective White has an LRV of 93, Extra White has an LRV of 86
- Use – High Reflective White suits modern styles, Extra White fits traditional decor
- Rooms – High Reflective White excels in kitchens, Extra White shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore High Reflective White and Extra White more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams High Reflective White SW 7757
With its crisp clean white appearance, Sherwin Williams High Reflective White SW 7757 creates the brightest, most ethereal backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile neutral works across modern spaces seeking maximum light.
Here are some details about High Reflective White:
- LRV: 93
- Undertones: Clean white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Kitchens, bathrooms, trim/molding, offices
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, stainless steel, chrome
High Reflective White is an optic bright white that maintains its color integrity in all lighting conditions.
The 93 light reflectance value provides the highest illumination possible. High Reflective White gives an open, airy feel.
This true white complements the boldest, most dramatic colors for striking pop. Popular High Reflective White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Mega Greige
- Glossy black accents
- Stainless steel appliances
- Polished chrome fixtures
While suitable anywhere seeking maximum light, High Reflective White truly excels in these sleek modern spaces:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Trim/Moldings
- Offices
- Laundry Rooms
High Reflective White’s unparalleled brightness helps create the ultimate fresh, contemporary backdrop.
Sherwin Williams Extra White SW 7006
With its subtle warm white appearance, Sherwin Williams Extra White SW 7006 creates a clean, inviting backdrop well-suited for traditional styles. This versatile neutral works across classic spaces.
Here are some details about Extra White:
- LRV: 86
- Undertones: Warm white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Navy blues, blacks, wood tones
Extra White is a crisp white with the slightest warm beige undertone. In all lighting it maintains its welcoming, softened white appearance.
The 86 light reflectance value provides ideal illumination without being clinical. Extra White gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable white complements both warm and cool accents beautifully. Popular Extra White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Naval
- Black accent pieces
- Wood furniture stains
- Oil-rubbed bronze fixtures
While suitable anywhere seeking a cottage feel, Extra White truly excels in these classic spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Foyers
Extra White’s subtle warmth helps create an inviting, traditional backdrop perfect for most rooms. Use it to allow accent colors to shine.
Comparing High Reflective White vs Extra White
Now that we’ve examined High Reflective White and Extra White independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
High Reflective White and Extra White have quite different LRVs of 93 and 86 respectively. High Reflective White will appear significantly brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. High Reflective White is a clean white, while Extra White is a warm white.
Use & Rooms
High Reflective White’s coolness excels in modern kitchens. Extra White’s warmth shines in cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both High Reflective White and Extra White come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
High Reflective White vs Extra White Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | High Reflective White SW 7757 | Extra White SW 7006 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 93 | 86 |
| Undertones | Clean white | Warm white |
| Use | Modern spaces | Traditional rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Contemporary | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: High Reflective White vs Extra White
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between High Reflective White and Extra White:
Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
Sherwin Williams Extra White
While they can overlap, High Reflective White appears significantly crisper and brighter than the subtle warmth of Extra White. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose High Reflective White or Extra White?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ High Reflective White or Extra White for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose High Reflective White SW 7757 if you want:
- The highest light reflectance possible
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- A fresh backdrop for kitchens, baths and offices
- To allow bold colors to stand out
Choose Extra White SW 7006 if you want:
- A warm, inviting white
- A cozy yet versatile neutral for bedrooms
- A color suitable for traditional decor
- A soft, welcoming ambiance
Get samples of both High Reflective White and Extra White. 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 crisp white tones that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to High Reflective White and Extra White paint colors:
Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Trim/Moldings
- Offices
- Laundry Rooms
Sherwin Williams Extra White
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Foyers
While both whites work well throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, High Reflective White and Extra White create airy backdrops. Complement them with bold colors and finishes for gorgeous contrast:
High Reflective White SW 7757 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Mega Greige
- Glossy black accents
- Stainless steel appliances
- Polished chrome fixtures
Extra White SW 7006 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Naval
- Black accent pieces
- Wood furniture stains
- Oil-rubbed bronze fixtures
High Reflective White vs Extra White – Which is Better?
So which crisp white paint color is better for your home – High Reflective White or Extra White?
Consider High Reflective White SW 7757 if you want:
- The highest light reflectance possible
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- A fresh backdrop for kitchens, baths and offices
- To allow bold colors to stand out
Consider Extra White SW 7006 if you want:
- A warm, inviting white
- A cozy yet versatile neutral for bedrooms
- A color suitable for traditional decor
- A soft, welcoming ambiance
While High Reflective White offers unparalleled brightness, Extra White provides subtle warmth.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful bright Sherwin Williams white you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between High Reflective White or Extra White? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between High Reflective White and Extra White?
The main differences are their light reflectance and undertones. High Reflective White is an ultra-bright, clean white while Extra White is a warmer, subtler white.
What colors complement Extra White?
Extra White looks beautiful paired with navy blues, black accents, wood tones, and antique brass lighting fixtures for a classic look.
Can you use High Reflective White in a bedroom?
Yes, High Reflective White’s clean brightness would work wonderfully in a modern bedroom paired with bold patterns and glossy black accents.
Is Extra White suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Extra White has enough warmth in its 86 LRV to stand up to a south facing room without appearing dingy or yellowed.
Does High Reflective White come in satin finish?
Yes, High Reflective White is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to satin to high gloss semi-gloss.
