When searching for the perfect crisp white paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices High Reflective White SW 7757 and Pure White SW 7005 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, bright whites?
In this in-depth guide, we’ll analyze High Reflective White vs Pure White 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.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between High Reflective White and Pure White
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ High Reflective White and Pure White:
- Undertones – High Reflective White is a crisp cool white, Pure White is a bright warm white
- Light Reflectance – High Reflective White has an LRV of 93, Pure White has an LRV of 84
- Use – High Reflective White suits modern styles, Pure White fits traditional decor
- Rooms – High Reflective White excels in kitchens, Pure White shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore High Reflective White and Pure White more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams High Reflective White SW 7757
With its crisp, clean white appearance, Sherwin Williams High Reflective White SW 7757 creates a bright backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile white works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about High Reflective White:
- LRV: 93
- Undertones: Cool white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, black and white, wood tones
High Reflective White is an icy white with the faintest hint of blue undertone. In all lighting it maintains its crisp, clean white appearance.
The 93 light reflectance value provides maximum illumination without being clinical. High Reflective White gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable white complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular High Reflective White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, High Reflective White truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
High Reflective White’s versatility helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.
Sherwin Williams Pure White SW 7005
With its bright white appearance, Sherwin Williams Pure White SW 7005 creates a crisp backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This versatile white works in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Pure White:
- LRV: 84
- Undertones: Warm white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Blues, blacks, wood tones
Pure White is a clean, soft white with faint beige undertones. In certain lights it can read as an antique white. The welcoming white has traditional appeal.
The 84 light reflectance value provides ideal illumination without appearing too stark. Pure White strikes a clean yet soft balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile white complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Pure White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
While suitable anywhere at home, Pure White truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Pure White’s warmth helps create a clean, traditional feel perfect as an all-over home color. Use it to allow bold colors to stand out.
Comparing High Reflective White vs Pure White
Now that we’ve examined High Reflective White and Pure White independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
High Reflective White and Pure White have quite different LRVs of 93 and 84 respectively. High Reflective White will appear brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. High Reflective White is a cool crisp white, while Pure White is a warm bright white.
Use & Rooms
High Reflective White’s coolness excels in sleek kitchens and baths. Pure White’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both High Reflective White and Pure White come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
| Paint Color | High Reflective White SW 7757 | Pure White SW 7005 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 93 | 84 |
| Undertones | Cool white | Warm white |
| Use | Modern spaces | Traditional rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Contemporary | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: High Reflective White vs Pure White
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between High Reflective White and Pure White:
Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
Sherwin Williams Pure White
While they can overlap, High Reflective White generally appears crisper and cooler than the subtle warmth of Pure White. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose High Reflective White or Pure White?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ High Reflective White or Pure White for your home? Here are some tips:
Choose High Reflective White SW 7757 if you want:
- A crisp, clean white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for kitchens and bathrooms
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Choose Pure White SW 7005 if you want:
- A soft, bright white with warmth
- A cozy yet sophisticated white for bedrooms
- A versatile white that works with traditional decor
- A clean but not stark backdrop
Get samples of both High Reflective White and Pure White. Paint large swatches on your walls viewing at different times of day. This gives you the best sense of how the undertones read in your environment.
You can also pair them with decor you already have to visualize the look. Both offer beautiful white tones that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to High Reflective White and Pure White paint colors:
Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
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 Pure White create clean backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
High Reflective White SW 7757 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
Pure White SW 7005 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
High Reflective White vs Pure White – Which is Better?
So which white paint color is better for your home – High Reflective White or Pure White?
Consider High Reflective White SW 7757 if you want:
- A crisp, clean white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for kitchens and bathrooms
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Consider Pure White SW 7005 if you want:
- A soft, bright white with warmth
- A cozy yet sophisticated white for bedrooms
- A versatile white that works with traditional decor
- A clean but not stark backdrop
While High Reflective White offers modern crispness, Pure White provides subtle warm character.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful Sherwin Williams white you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between High Reflective White or Pure White? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between High Reflective White and Pure White?
The main differences are their undertones. High Reflective White is a cool crisp white while Pure White is a warm, soft white.
What colors complement Pure White?
Pure White looks beautiful paired with deeper blues, blacks, wood tones, and off-white trim for nice contrast.
Can you use High Reflective White in a bedroom?
Yes, High Reflective White’s subtle and sophisticated hue would work wonderfully in a bedroom paired with black accents for a clean modern look.
Is Pure White suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Pure White’s soft warmth complements sunlight from southern exposure very nicely.
Does High Reflective White come in satin finish?
Yes, High Reflective White is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to high gloss satin.
