MetroPaint vs. Competitors: Which Paint Is Best for Your Project?Choosing the right paint can make or break a project — from hiding imperfections and resisting stains to creating the mood you want in a room. This article compares MetroPaint with leading competitors across performance, cost, usability, environmental impact, and ideal use cases to help you decide which paint is best for your project.
What is MetroPaint?
MetroPaint is a mid- to high-range architectural paint brand positioned for urban homeowners, renters, and light commercial spaces. It markets itself on offering vivid, durable colors with good coverage, simplified application, and a modern palette tailored to current trends.
Key competitors
- Sherwin-Williams (SuperPaint, Emerald)
- Benjamin Moore (Regal Select, Aura)
- Behr (Marquee, Premium Plus)
- Valspar (Signature, Reserve)
- Local or budget private-label paints (big-box store brands)
Performance comparison
| Feature | MetroPaint | Sherwin-Williams | Benjamin Moore | Behr | Valspar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage (per coat) | High — typically 350–400 sq ft/gal | High — 350–400 sq ft/gal | Very High — up to 400 sq ft/gal | High — 350–400 sq ft/gal | Moderate–High — 300–375 sq ft/gal |
| Hiding power | Good — usually 1–2 coats for mid-tones | Very Good | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Durability (scrub/abrasion) | Good — designed for moderate-traffic urban interiors | Excellent (Emerald) | Excellent (Aura) | Good–Very Good | Good |
| Stain resistance | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Dry time (to touch) | 1–2 hours | 1 hour | 1 hour | 1 hour | 1–2 hours |
| VOC level | Low-VOC options available | Low-VOC / zero-VOC options | Zero/low-VOC lines | Low/zero-VOC lines | Low-VOC lines |
| Sheen options | Multiple (matte to semi-gloss) | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple |
Ease of use
- MetroPaint: Formulated for smooth roll and brush application, generally easy for DIYers. Good leveling reduces visible brush marks.
- Sherwin-Williams / Benjamin Moore: Professional-grade application ease; often preferred by contractors for consistent results.
- Behr / Valspar: Good DIY-friendly formulations sold through big-box retailers; accessible and forgiving.
Color selection & matching
- MetroPaint: Curated modern palettes with urban-focused palettes and seasonal collections. Digital color-matching available.
- Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams: Industry-leading color libraries and robust color-matching tools.
- Behr and Valspar: Wide selections with many pre-mixed popular shades; smart online tools.
Price & value
- MetroPaint: Positioned mid-range; often cheaper than premium brands but more expensive than discount private-labels. Good value when balancing quality and price.
- Sherwin-Williams & Benjamin Moore: Premium pricing, often justified by coverage, pigment quality, and contractor preference.
- Behr & Valspar: Competitive pricing; frequent sales at big-box retailers make them attractive for budget-conscious projects.
Environmental & health considerations
- MetroPaint: Offers low-VOC formulations; check specific product datasheets for exact VOC counts. Good for indoor air quality when using low-VOC variants.
- Competitors: Most major brands now offer zero- or low-VOC options; Benjamin Moore’s Aura and other lines have strong low-VOC credentials.
Best use cases
- MetroPaint: Urban apartments, rental units, small businesses, DIY home refreshes where modern palettes and reliable coverage matter without premium pricing.
- Sherwin-Williams / Benjamin Moore: High-end residential, commercial projects, and areas where maximum durability and finish quality are required.
- Behr / Valspar: Budget-friendly renovations, large-volume repainting, and quick refreshes bought through retail channels.
Pros & cons
| Brand | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| MetroPaint | Good coverage, modern palettes, mid-range price | Not as widely available as big national retailers |
| Sherwin-Williams | Excellent durability, favored by pros, expansive color tools | Higher cost |
| Benjamin Moore | Superior color depth, premium finishes | Premium price; often sold through dealers only |
| Behr | Affordable, widely available, good DIY formulas | Slightly less pigment concentration vs. premium lines |
| Valspar | Good price-performance, big-box availability | Inconsistent quality between lines |
How to choose for your project
- Define the space and traffic: high-traffic rooms need higher durability (Sherwin/Benjamin Moore); low-traffic areas can use MetroPaint or Behr.
- Budget per gallon and total project cost: include primer, tools, and labor.
- Desired finish and color depth: premium brands give richer depth and smoother finish.
- Environmental preferences: choose zero- or low-VOC lines if indoor air quality is a priority.
- Accessibility and color tools: if you rely on in-store mixing or extensive color matching, national brands may offer more convenience.
Quick recommendations
- For best overall durability and professional finish: Benjamin Moore (Aura) or Sherwin-Williams (Emerald).
- For best mid-range balance of price and performance: MetroPaint.
- For budget-friendly, accessible paint with decent performance: Behr or Valspar.
Final thought
If you want a balance of modern color palettes, solid coverage, and mid-range pricing for urban homes or rental spaces, MetroPaint is a strong choice. For top-tier durability, color richness, and contractor preference, premium lines from Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore remain the go-to options. Choose based on your project’s traffic, budget, and whether you prioritize color depth or long-term abrasion resistance.
Leave a Reply