Choosing the right black paint color for your home can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be stressful.
With a little bit of knowledge and information on different black paints, you can choose a color with confidence.
Two of the most popular black paint colors by Sherwin Williams are Iron Ore and Tricorn Black. Both are great black paint colors, but they have some important differences.
Let’s dive into these two amazing black paint colors to help you figure out which one is the best for you.
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Sherwin Williams Iron Ore

Iron Ore is a soft black paint color that could also be described as a dark charcoal shade. It isn’t a crisp, hard black like you would expect. Instead, Iron Ore is soft and takes a more subtle approach to the color black.
Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black

Tricorn Black is a dark black paint color. It is the classic black shade that you think of when you hear “black paint.” Tricorn Black is crisp and traditional, and sharply defines any space you use it on.
Similarities and Difference Between Iron Ore and Tricorn Black
The similarities between Iron Ore and Tricorn Black are that they both can provide balance in a space that needs a bit of depth. They provide visual interest and help ground an otherwise light or monochromatic space.
But Iron Ore does so with a little less punch than Tricorn Black.
For example, in this photo, you can see that Iron Ore looks more like a dark gray when compared to Tricorn Black.

If Iron Ore was the darkest thing in the room, it may look like a black. But if you have anything darker than it, its softness will show.
Tricorn Black is basically as dark as a color can get, so it will always look black and will appear to be the as dark as any other black in the space.
Neither shade is objectively better than the other, but people can have strong preferences about which they like more.
Another consideration with paint colors is the undertones that they have. Iron Ore can favor a blue or green undertone, so it works best with warm colors or shades with similar tones.
Tricorn Black doesn’t really lean any particular way. It just looks black and can work with any other color.
Despite this, Iron Ore is the more popular black paint color. It is the number one black paint color on the market.
So, it seems that even with its limitations, people still prefer it to the classic, traditional look of Tricorn Black.
Where to Use Black Paint Colors
Both Tricorn Black and Iron Ore can be used on doors, trim, cabinets, exteriors, accent walls, and anything else that you want to give definition or depth.
For me, I tend to lean towards the softness of Iron Ore in most situations. Tricorn Black is gorgeous, but gives off a black grand piano vibe that can be too aggressive in some homes.
If you want more information on black paint colors, check out these posts.
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore Full Paint Color Review
Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black Full Paint Color Review
Wondering How To Pick the Perfect Paint Color?
I have the best solution for you!
Samplize sells peel and stick paint samples in almost every paint color.
These no-mess, peel and stick sheets are made from real paint, so they will show you exactly what the paint color will look like.
Simply place them on your walls next to your trim, furnishings or fixed elements, and easily see which paint color works best in your space and with your lighting.
Then, peel the sheet off your wall and reapply it somewhere else if you like. You can try several different paint colors with no mess, no fuss and no cleaning paint brushes.

Oh, and you can have them in your home by tomorrow with OVERNIGHT shipping!
As a bonus, be sure to use the code LoveRemodeled10 at check out to get an extra 10% off! Samplize sheets are cheaper than a sample can of paint, and way less work.
They are the easiest (and fastest!) way to try a paint color in your home, with no hassle.
Have a question? Leave me a comment! Remember to check back for a response – it may take me up to a week or two depending on how busy I am, but I’ll try my best to get back to you!
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