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 Oyster White SW 7637 and White Duck SW 7010 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle whites?
In this in-depth guide, we’ll analyze Oyster White vs White Duck 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 Oyster White and White Duck
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Oyster White and White Duck:
- Undertones – Oyster White is a cool white, White Duck is a warm white
- Light Reflectance – White Duck has an LRV of 74, Oyster White has an LRV of 72
- Use – Oyster White suits modern styles, White Duck fits traditional decor
- Rooms – Oyster White excels in bathrooms, White Duck shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Oyster White and White Duck more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Oyster White SW 7637
With its crisp, clean white appearance, Sherwin Williams Oyster White SW 7637 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile neutral white works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Oyster White:
- LRV: 72
- Undertones: Cool white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, black and white, wood tones
Oyster White is a bright, icy white with the faintest hint of blue undertone. In all lighting it maintains its crisp, understated white appearance.
The 72 light reflectance value provides ideal illumination without being too stark. Oyster White gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable neutral white complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Oyster White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Oyster White truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Oyster White’s versatility helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.
Sherwin Williams White Duck SW 7010
With its soft, warm white appearance, Sherwin Williams White Duck SW 7010 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 White Duck:
- LRV: 74
- Undertones: Warm white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Blues, blacks, wood tones
White Duck 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 74 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too stark. White Duck strikes a cozy yet bright balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile neutral white complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular White Duck color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
While suitable anywhere at home, White Duck truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
White Duck’s warmth helps create a welcoming, traditional feel perfect as an all-over home color. Use it allow bold colors to stand out.
Comparing Oyster White vs White Duck
Now that we’ve examined Oyster White and White Duck independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
White Duck and Oyster White have similar LRVs of 74 and 72 respectively. White Duck will appear slightly brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Oyster White is a cool white, while White Duck is a warm white.
Use & Rooms
Oyster White’s coolness excels in sleek modern baths and kitchens. White Duck’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both Oyster White and White Duck come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
| Paint Color | Oyster White SW 7637 | White Duck SW 7010 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 72 | 74 |
| Undertones | Cool white | Warm white |
| Use | Modern spaces | Traditional rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Contemporary | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: Oyster White vs White Duck
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Oyster White and White Duck:
Sherwin Williams Oyster White
Sherwin Williams White Duck
While they can overlap, Oyster White generally appears crisper and cooler than the subtle warmth of White Duck. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Oyster White or White Duck?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Oyster White or White Duck for your home? Here are some tips:
Choose Oyster White SW 7637 if you want:
- A crisp, clean white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for bathrooms and kitchens
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Choose White Duck SW 7010 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 Oyster White and White Duck. 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 Oyster White and White Duck paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Oyster White
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Sherwin Williams White Duck
- 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, Oyster White and White Duck create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Oyster White SW 7637 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
White Duck SW 7010 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
Oyster White vs White Duck – Which is Better?
So which neutral white paint color is better for your home – Oyster White or White Duck?
Consider Oyster White SW 7637 if you want:
- A crisp, clean white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for bathrooms and kitchens
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Consider White Duck SW 7010 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 Oyster White offers modern crispness, White Duck 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 Oyster White or White Duck? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Oyster White and White Duck?
The main differences are their undertones. Oyster White is a cool crisp white while White Duck is a warm, soft white.
What colors complement White Duck?
White Duck looks beautiful paired with deeper blues, blacks, wood tones, and off-white trim for nice contrast.
Can you use Oyster White in a bedroom?
Yes, Oyster White’s subtle sophistication would work wonderfully in a bedroom paired with black accents for a clean modern look.
Is White Duck suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, White Duck’s soft warmth complements sunlight from southern exposure very nicely.
Does Oyster White come in eggshell finish?
Yes, Oyster White is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to high gloss eggshell.
