When searching for the perfect neutral white paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Nebulous White SW 7063 and Passive SW 7064 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle whites?
In this in-depth guide, we’ll analyze Nebulous White vs Passive to help you determine the ideal neutral 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 Nebulous White and Passive
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Nebulous White and Passive:
- Undertones – Nebulous White is a cool white, Passive is a warm white
- Light Reflectance – Nebulous White has an LRV of 74, Passive has an LRV of 60
- Use – Nebulous White suits modern styles, Passive fits traditional decor
- Rooms – Nebulous White excels in kitchens, Passive shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Nebulous White and Passive more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Nebulous White SW 7063
With its crisp, clean white appearance, Sherwin Williams Nebulous White SW 7063 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile neutral white works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Nebulous White:
- LRV: 74
- Undertones: Cool white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, black and white, wood tones
Nebulous White is a bright, icy white with the faintest hint of blue undertone. In all lighting it maintains its crisp, understated white appearance.
The 74 light reflectance value provides ideal illumination without being too stark. Nebulous White gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable neutral white complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Nebulous White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Nebulous White truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Nebulous White’s versatility helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.
Sherwin Williams Passive SW 7064
With its soft, warm white appearance, Sherwin Williams Passive SW 7064 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This versatile neutral white works in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Passive:
- LRV: 60
- Undertones: Warm white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Blues, blacks, wood tones
Passive is a quiet, creamy white with faint beige undertones. In certain lights it can read as an antique white. The laidback neutral white has traditional appeal.
The 60 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too stark. Passive strikes a cozy yet bright balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile neutral white complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Passive color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
While suitable anywhere at home, Passive truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Passive’s warmth helps create a welcoming, traditional feel perfect as an all-over home color. Use it allow bold colors to stand out.
Comparing Nebulous White vs Passive
Now that we’ve examined Nebulous White and Passive independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Nebulous White and Passive have quite different LRVs of 74 and 60 respectively. Nebulous White will appear much brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Nebulous White is a cool white, while Passive is a warm white.
Use & Rooms
Nebulous White’s coolness excels in sleek modern kitchens and baths. Passive’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both Nebulous White and Passive come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
| Paint Color | Nebulous White SW 7063 | Passive SW 7064 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 74 | 60 |
| Undertones | Cool white | Warm white |
| Use | Modern spaces | Traditional rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Contemporary | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: Nebulous White vs Passive
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Nebulous White and Passive:
Sherwin Williams Nebulous White
Sherwin Williams Passive
While they can overlap, Nebulous White generally appears crisper and cooler than the subtle warmth of Passive. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Nebulous White or Passive?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Nebulous White or Passive for your home? Here are some tips:
Choose Nebulous White SW 7063 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 Passive SW 7064 if you want:
- A soft, warm white
- 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 Nebulous White and Passive. Paint large sections 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 neutral white tones that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Nebulous White and Passive paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Nebulous White
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Sherwin Williams Passive
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
While both neutral whites work well throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Nebulous White and Passive create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Nebulous White SW 7063 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
Passive SW 7064 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
Nebulous White vs Passive – Which is Better?
So which neutral white paint color is better for your home – Nebulous White or Passive?
Consider Nebulous White SW 7063 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 Passive SW 7064 if you want:
- A soft, warm white
- A cozy yet sophisticated white for bedrooms
- A versatile white that works with traditional decor
- A clean but not stark backdrop
While Nebulous White offers modern crispness, Passive provides subtle warm character.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful Sherwin Williams neutral white you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Nebulous White or Passive? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Nebulous White and Passive?
The main differences are their undertones. Nebulous White is a cool crisp white while Passive is a warm, soft white.
What colors complement Passive?
Passive looks beautiful paired with deeper blues, blacks, wood tones, and off-white trim for nice contrast.
Can you use Nebulous White in a bedroom?
Yes, Nebulous White’s subtle sophistication would work wonderfully in a bedroom paired with black accents for a clean modern look.
Is Passive suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Passive’s soft warmth complements sunlight from southern exposure very nicely.
Does Nebulous White come in satin finish?
Yes, Nebulous White is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to high gloss satin.
