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 Snowbound SW 7004 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 Snowbound 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 Snowbound and Pure White
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Snowbound and Pure White:
- Undertones – Snowbound is a cool white, Pure White is a warm white
- Light Reflectance – Snowbound has an LRV of 83, Pure White has an LRV of 84
- Use – Snowbound suits modern styles, Pure White fits traditional decor
- Rooms – Snowbound excels in bathrooms, Pure White shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Snowbound and Pure White more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Snowbound SW 7004
With its crisp, clean white appearance, Sherwin Williams Snowbound SW 7004 creates a bright backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile white works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Snowbound:
- LRV: 83
- Undertones: Cool white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, black and white, wood tones
Snowbound is an icy white with the faintest hint of blue undertone. In all lighting it maintains its crisp, understated white appearance.
The 83 light reflectance value provides ample illumination without being too stark. Snowbound gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable white complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Snowbound color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Snowbound truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Snowbound’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 Snowbound vs Pure White
Now that we’ve examined Snowbound and Pure White independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Snowbound and Pure White have very similar LRVs of 83 and 84 respectively. They will appear nearly identical in terms of brightness.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Snowbound is a cool white, while Pure White is a warm white.
Use & Rooms
Snowbound’s coolness excels in sleek modern baths and kitchens. Pure White’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both Snowbound and Pure White come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
| Paint Color | Snowbound SW 7004 | Pure White SW 7005 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 83 | 84 |
| Undertones | Cool white | Warm white |
| Use | Modern spaces | Traditional rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Contemporary | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: Snowbound vs Pure White
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Snowbound and Pure White:
Sherwin Williams Snowbound
Sherwin Williams Pure White
While they can overlap, Snowbound generally appears crisper and cooler than the subtle warmth of Pure White. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Snowbound or Pure White?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Snowbound or Pure White for your home? Here are some tips:
Choose Snowbound SW 7004 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 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 Snowbound and Pure White. 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 white tones that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Snowbound and Pure White paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Snowbound
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- 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, Snowbound and Pure White create clean backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Snowbound SW 7004 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
Snowbound vs Pure White – Which is Better?
So which white paint color is better for your home – Snowbound or Pure White?
Consider Snowbound SW 7004 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 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 Snowbound 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 Snowbound or Pure White? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Snowbound and Pure White?
The main differences are their undertones. Snowbound is a cool crisp white while Pure White is a warm, soft white.
What colors complement Snowbound?
Snowbound looks beautiful paired with bold blues, blacks, greys, and chrome accents for nice contrast.
Can you use Pure White in a bathroom?
Yes, Pure White’s soft warmth would complement marble and white tile nicely in a bathroom.
Is Snowbound suitable for northern exposure?
Yes, Snowbound’s coolness helps balance light from northern exposure rooms nicely.
Does Pure White come in satin finish?
Yes, Pure White is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to high gloss satin.
