Sherwin-Williams Cashmere vs. Emerald vs. Duration vs. SuperPaint: Comparison and Review 2024

What are Sherwin-Williams' most popular interior paint lines?

Sherwin-Williams, a titan in the global coating industry, commands a significant market share and wields an impressive brand influence. Sherwin-Williams presents a remarkable lineup of acrylic latex paints, including: 

• Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint

• Duration Home Interior Acrylic Latex Paint

• Cashmere Interior Acrylic Latex Paint

• SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex Paint

So, which series of interior paint should you choose? Do you know what the differences are between these Sherwin-Williams series of interior paints? In order to help you find the paint that is right for you, my team of ten and I have conducted a comprehensive review of them. I will meticulously select the 3 most representative reviews from different individuals with unique experiences.

A quick look at the differences between 4 well-known interior acrylic latex paints

Each has its own unique set of characteristics, making them better suited for different scenarios. So sit back and let's find out which one comes out on top.

Editor's review: Sherwin-Williams Interior Paint Battle: Cashmere, Emerald, Duration, Superpaint - Which Reigns Supreme?

My number one choice is Emerald!

Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint

List Price: $93.99 - $98.99 / Gallon

Buy Now

❤️ I've been engaged in numerous painting projects over the years, which has given me the opportunity to test a variety of paint brands. Among them, Sherwin-Williams' Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint has truly emerged as my absolute favorite, outshining the competition in multiple aspects.

While Emerald may not have the most expansive coverage per gallon when pitted against rivals like Benjamin Moore Aura and PPG Ultralast, which typically achieve 350 - 400 square feet per gallon more consistently, it still holds its own. I used it to paint a medium-sized bedroom. Although I needed a bit more paint than anticipated based on the claimed coverage, the end result was outstanding. In contrast, I once used a different brand with a similar claimed coverage, but the dried finish was patchy and thin. Emerald spreads evenly and offers excellent coverage with just one or two coats. When compared to Cashmere, which I've also utilized, Emerald seems to cover more area per gallon, making it a more cost-effective option, especially for larger projects.

I’ve tried multiple paint brands and Emerald reigns supreme when it comes to durability. I painted my living room walls with Emerald, and it has withstood the daily rigors of a busy household with flying colors. Kids' activities, furniture movements, and even accidental bumps or scrapes have left no marks. In contrast, when I used Benjamin Moore's Regal Select in another room, although it's a decent paint, I noticed scuffs and marks over time, especially in high-traffic areas. I even tested Emerald with a magic eraser (despite it not being recommended), and it barely showed any effect. Compared to Benjamin Moore Aura and PPG Ultralast, which also held up well, they were more prone to burnishing. Additionally, when compared to Sherwin-Williams' SuperPaint, which is suitable for lighter traffic areas but lacks Emerald's scuff and scratch resistance, Emerald's durability is truly remarkable. After two years, the SuperPaint walls had minor marks, while the Emerald-painted ones remained flawless.

Spills and stains are an inescapable part of life, especially in a household with kids or pets. But with Emerald, cleaning the walls is effortless. I had a coffee spill on an Emerald-painted wall and was able to wipe it away with a damp cloth without any residue or discoloration. Fingerprints and other marks also come off easily. In contrast, when I used another brand's paint in my kitchen and tried to clean a small grease stain, it left a dull spot. Compared to the Cashmere series, which is nice but not as resilient in heavy-duty cleaning, Emerald is the clear victor. It truly makes maintaining a clean and fresh home a breeze.

The finish provided by Emerald is simply breathtaking. It dries to a smooth and uniform texture, imparting a luxurious look and feel to the walls. The satin sheen, in particular, is my favorite as it adds an elegant touch to any room. I painted my living room with Emerald in a soft, neutral color, and the way the light reflects off the walls creates a warm and inviting ambiance, resembling a professional paint job. When compared to Sherwin-Williams' SuperPaint, which has a good finish but not as refined as Emerald, the difference is evident. And when contrasted with Benjamin Moore's Aura, which also has a great finish, Emerald offers a more consistent and even appearance. Even compared to Duration, which has a nice finish but lacks Emerald's level of sophistication, the finish of Emerald truly makes a statement and gives the room a high-end look that I adore.

Sherwin-Williams presents an extensive array of colors for their Emerald paint, and I was highly impressed with both the variety and quality of the available hues. One of their popular colors, "Drift of Mist SW 9166," is a beautiful, light gray that infuses a sense of calm and sophistication into a space. What's even more remarkable is that the color retains its vibrancy and richness over time. I've witnessed paints from other brands fade or change color, especially in rooms with significant sunlight exposure. However, with Emerald, the colors remain true, which is a major advantage if you desire a long-lasting, great-looking paint job. Unlike some other Sherwin-Williams paints like Duration, which has a good color selection but not the same long-term color retention as Emerald. After a few years, I noticed slight fading in Duration-painted rooms, while my Emerald-painted walls still look as vivid as the day they were painted. The antimicrobial agents in Emerald are also a significant plus, as they prevent mold and mildew growth, which is crucial in moisture-prone areas like the kitchen.

Admittedly, Emerald requires a bit more skill compared to some other Sherwin-Williams paints like Cashmere, which has excellent auto-leveling properties. But as someone who relishes painting projects and doesn't mind putting in extra effort for a superior outcome, I discovered that with a little practice, I could achieve a flawless finish with Emerald.

While Emerald is one of the more expensive options in the Sherwin-Williams lineup, it offers excellent value for money. Priced at $75 a gallon, it is only slightly more costly than PPG Ultralast and a much better bargain than Benjamin Moore Aura, which costs $90. I've paid more for other paints that couldn't match Emerald's quality. Considering its long lifespan of 10 - 12 years or even longer, it is truly an investment that pays off in the long run.

In conclusion, Sherwin-Williams' Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint combines superior coverage, outstanding durability, excellent washability, a stunning finish, a wide range of colors with great retention, and reasonable value for money. These qualities make it my top choice for all interior painting projects, and I would highly recommend it to anyone seeking a high-quality paint that will enhance and endure in their homes.

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Real Reviews and Comparisons of the Best Interior Paints

#1. Coverage Ability

►    Emerald: 

Theoretically rated 350 - 400 square feet per gallon, but in field experience, it's closer to 300 square feet per gallon. However, it shells up well with multiple coats, creating a smooth and durable surface .

►    Duration: 

Covers 250 - 300 square feet per gallon, which is less than Superpaint and Emerald. While it may require more gallons to complete a project compared to others, the additional paint helps it achieve a better shell-up and a smoother finish .

►    Cashmere: 

Covers 350 - 400 square feet per gallon, similar to Emerald's claimed coverage. It provides good coverage and is on par with some of the more premium products in this regard.

►    SuperPaint: 

Also rated for 350 - 400 square feet per gallon and may have slightly better first-coat coverage than Emerald in some cases, making it a competitive option in terms of sheer coverage.

#2. Ease of Application

►    Emerald: 

Requires a bit more skill to apply as it doesn't have auto-leveling properties like Cashmere. However, professional painters can achieve excellent results with it, and its smooth finish is worth the effort.

►    Duration: 

Application is relatively straightforward, and it spreads evenly. Its thicker film formation during curing might require a bit more attention to ensure an even finish, but overall, it's not overly difficult to apply.

►    Cashmere: 

Stands out for its auto-leveling qualities, which make it extremely easy to apply, even for DIYers with little painting experience. It reduces the likelihood of drips and sags, resulting in a uniform surface with minimal effort.

►    SuperPaint: 

Falls between Hi-Hide and Ben in terms of flow and consistency. It's less prone to splatter compared to some competitors, making the application process relatively smooth.

#3. Drying Time

►    Emerald: 

Dries to a touch relatively quickly, usually within a few hours, allowing for a second coat to be applied in a reasonable time frame. However, it fully cures to its maximum hardness and durability over a longer period, which is typical for high-quality paints.

►    Duration: 

Has a similar drying time to Emerald, drying to the touch in a few hours. Its curing process also takes some time, but it reaches a workable level of dryness relatively fast, enabling you to continue with your project without significant delays.

►    Cashmere: 

Dries at a reasonable pace, not significantly faster or slower than the other paints. Its drying time is suitable for most DIY projects, allowing for easy layering of coats if needed.

►    SuperPaint: 

Dries within a few hours as well, providing a good balance between quick drying for convenience and sufficient time for proper leveling and curing.

#4. Finish and Sheen

►    Emerald: 

Cures to a hard and tight film, giving it a smooth and luxurious finish. It has a satin-like sheen that adds a touch of elegance to the painted surface while also being easy to clean.

►    Duration: 

Results in a softer and thicker film, which may have a slightly different texture compared to Emerald. It offers a satin or similar sheen, providing a good balance between aesthetics and protection.

►    Cashmere: 

Creates a smooth and uniform surface with its auto-leveling feature. It has a pleasant finish that is visually appealing, although it may not have the same long-term durability and resistance as Emerald's finish.

►    SuperPaint: 

Has a satin sheen, but is the least reflective among some competitors like PPG's Hi-Hide and Benjamin Moore's Ben in the same finish category. It feels more like the original wall after drying, which can be a desirable trait depending on the look you're going for.

#5. Durability and Washability

►    Emerald: 

Excels in durability, withstanding scuffs, burnishing, and even the harsh test of a magic eraser with minimal damage. It also has excellent washability, allowing you to clean the painted surface easily without affecting the color or finish. Its antimicrobial agents further enhance its resistance to mold and mildew, making it ideal for areas prone to moisture.

►    Duration: 

Is quite durable, especially in areas with temperature fluctuations. It holds up well to normal wear and tear, although it may not be as resistant to scuffs and abrasions as Emerald. Its washability is also good, but the softer film may be more prone to dirt and debris settling over time.

►    Cashmere: 

While more washable than basic paints, it doesn't match the durability of Emerald. It is prone to color fading after a few years and may show signs of wear more quickly, especially in high-traffic areas.

►    SuperPaint: 

Holds up well to foot scuffs, hand and shoulder rubs, and is relatively durable against a magic eraser. It offers decent washability, making it suitable for most interior applications where moderate durability is required.

#6. Color Options and Color Retention

►    Emerald: 

Offers a wide range of colors to choose from, and its color retention is outstanding. The paint maintains its vibrant hue for 10 - 12 years or longer, ensuring your walls look great for an extended period.

►    Duration: 

Also provides a comprehensive color selection, with the added benefit of over 100 vinyl-safe colors, making it a great option for painting vinyl exteriors. Its color retention is good, lasting for 8 - 10 years before significant fading occurs.

►    Cashmere: 

Has a decent color selection, but its color may fade after a few years, especially lighter colors which may yellow over time.

►    SuperPaint: 

Comes in a variety of colors, and its color retention is satisfactory for its expected lifespan of 4 - 6 years.

#7. Price and Value for Money

►    Emerald: 

Retails for around $75 - $85 per gallon, making it the most expensive option among the four. However, considering its exceptional durability, long lifespan, and excellent performance, it offers great value for money, especially for those who want a top-quality, long-lasting paint job.

►    Duration: 

Priced in the middle range, usually around $88 - $93 per gallon. It provides a good balance between price and performance, with its durability and wide color selection making it a worthy investment for many interior and exterior projects.

►    Cashmere: 

Retails for $70 - $75 per gallon, similar in price to SuperPaint in some cases. While it's a mid-range paint, its ease of application makes it a good choice for DIYers, although its lower durability means you may need to repaint sooner, affecting its long-term value.

►    SuperPaint: 

The most cost-effective option, priced at around $76 - $81 per gallon. It offers decent performance and durability for its price, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers or those who don't require the highest level of durability.

#8. User Reviews and Ratings

►    Emerald: 

Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint: Generally receives high praise from customers for its exceptional durability and stain resistance. 

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:
I used Sherwin-Williams Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint in my kitchen and it has been amazing. The color is so vibrant and has held up perfectly even with all the cooking and spills. It's super easy to clean and shows no signs of wear after a year. The only downside is that it's a bit pricey, but you definitely get what you pay for in terms of quality and durability. I would highly recommend it for any high-traffic or moisture-prone area.

Review 2:
This paint is a game-changer. I painted my living room with Emerald and the finish is just beautiful. It has a nice satin sheen that gives the room an elegant look. It covered well, although I did need two coats for full opacity. The durability is outstanding. I have kids and pets, and the walls still look great after months of abuse. It was a bit thicker than some other paints I've used, which took a bit of getting used to when applying, but it was well worth it.

Review 3:
I decided to splurge on Emerald for my master bedroom. I'm so glad I did. The color retention is incredible. It hasn't faded at all, even with the sunlight coming in through the windows. The paint dried relatively quickly between coats, which was nice. The only thing I would mention is that the fumes were a bit stronger than I expected, but with proper ventilation, it wasn't a major issue. Overall, a top-notch paint for a luxurious look that lasts.

►    Duration: 

Duration Home Interior Acrylic Latex Paint: Customers often comment on Duration's long-lasting performance and its ability to resist fading and chipping. It is also well-liked for its smooth application and good coverage. 

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:
I've used Sherwin-Williams Duration in my hallway and it has held up great. It's been a few years now and there are only minimal signs of scuffing. The coverage was decent, and it was easy to apply. I like that it has a wide range of color options. The paint seems to handle the temperature changes in the hallway well, as it's near an exterior door. It's not as expensive as some other high-end paints, but still provides good quality and durability. I would use it again for other areas of my home.

Review 2:
Duration paint worked really well for my bathroom. It hasn't shown any signs of mildew growth, which was a big concern for me. The finish is smooth and looks nice. It took two coats to get the perfect look, but that was expected. The paint dried to a touch fairly quickly, allowing me to apply the second coat sooner. I do wish it was a bit more stain-resistant, as I've had a couple of small marks from beauty products, but they were able to be cleaned up with some effort. Overall, a solid choice for interior painting.

Review 3:
I painted my kids' bedrooms with Duration and I'm happy with the results. It was easy to work with and the colors came out exactly as I expected. The paint seems to be durable enough to handle the roughhousing that goes on in those rooms. It has a nice texture and the sheen is just right. The only drawback is that it doesn't seem to have the same level of washability as some other paints I've used, but it's still manageable. I would recommend it for bedrooms or other moderately trafficked areas.

►    Cashmere: 

Cashmere Interior Acrylic Latex Paint: The standout feature for Cashmere, according to customer reviews, is its luxurious finish. 

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:
Cashmere paint is a dream for DIYers like me. I used it to paint my dining room and the auto-leveling feature made it so easy to get a smooth finish. The color is beautiful and gives the room a warm, inviting feel. It's not as durable as some of the other Sherwin-Williams paints, but for a room that doesn't get a lot of heavy use, it's perfect. The price is reasonable and it dried quickly. I would definitely use it again for accent walls or rooms where appearance is more important than extreme durability.

Review 2:
I love the look that Cashmere gave to my guest bedroom. It has a soft, luxurious feel to it. The paint was easy to apply and I didn't have any issues with drips or streaks. The color selection is great and the paint has held up well so far, although it's only been a few months. I do notice that it seems to show fingerprints a bit more easily than I expected, but it's not a huge deal. Overall, a great paint for creating a cozy atmosphere.

Review 3:
I used Cashmere in my small home office and it was a breeze to work with. The finish is really nice and it made the room look more put together. It's not the most washable paint, but I haven't had any major stains yet. The drying time was fast, which was convenient. I would recommend it for small rooms or areas where you want a quick and easy paint job with a nice aesthetic result. It's a good mid-range option for those on a budget but still want a quality look.

►    SuperPaint: 

SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex: SuperPaint has a solid reputation among customers for its value for money. 

⭐How about trying and experiencing it?

Review 1:
SuperPaint is a great value for the money. I painted my basement with it and it has held up surprisingly well. It covered the walls evenly and I only needed two coats. The color has stayed true and it's easy to clean. It's not as fancy as some of the other Sherwin-Williams paints, but it gets the job done. The drying time was reasonable and it was easy to apply with a roller. I would use it again for areas that don't need a super high-end finish.

Review 2:
I used SuperPaint in my rental property and it was perfect. It's affordable and provides decent durability. The tenants have been in there for a while and the walls still look good. It has a nice satin sheen that gives the rooms a clean look. The paint was easy to work with and didn't have any strong odors. I would recommend it to other landlords or anyone looking for a budget-friendly paint option for an interior project.

Review 3:
I painted my laundry room with SuperPaint and I'm satisfied. It's not the most durable paint, but for a small, low-traffic area like that, it's fine. It dried quickly and the color I chose looks great. The application was easy and it didn't take a lot of time or effort. I would consider using it again for similar small projects around the house where I don't need a top-of-the-line paint.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Project

Let's take a closer look at the best use cases for each to help you make an informed decision.

#1. Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint

Emerald is truly the cream of the crop when it comes to Sherwin-Williams' interior paint offerings. It's the go-to choice for those seeking the utmost in quality and durability.

Best for high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and family rooms. Its exceptional resistance to scuffs, scratches, and stains means it can withstand the constant movement and activity that these spaces endure. For example, in a busy family home with kids and pets running around, Emerald will keep your walls looking pristine for years.

Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. The built-in antimicrobial agents prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which is crucial in these moisture-prone areas. You won't have to worry about unsightly mold spots ruining your paint job, even in the steamiest of bathrooms or around the sink and stove in the kitchen.

Perfect for homeowners who want a long-lasting paint job and are willing to invest a bit more. With a lifespan of 10 - 12 years, it offers excellent value over the long term. If you're planning to stay in your home for an extended period and don't want to deal with frequent repainting, Emerald is the paint for you.

#2. Duration Home Interior Acrylic Latex Paint

Duration has been a reliable choice in the Sherwin-Williams lineup for many years and has its own set of advantages.

Great for areas with temperature fluctuations. Thanks to its curing process that results in a softer and thicker film, it can better handle changes in temperature without cracking or peeling. This makes it suitable for rooms that are exposed to direct sunlight or areas near heating and cooling vents.

A good option for exterior vinyl siding. With over 100 vinyl-safe colors available, it allows you to give your home's exterior a fresh look while ensuring the paint doesn't damage the vinyl. It provides a balance of durability and color selection for outdoor projects.

Suited for those who want a paint that offers a smooth finish and decent durability. It's not as heavy-duty as Emerald but still holds up well to normal wear and tear. If you have a moderately trafficked interior space and want a reliable paint that won't break the bank, Duration is worth considering.

#3. Cashmere Interior Acrylic Latex Paint

Cashmere brings a touch of luxury and ease of application to the table.

Ideal for DIY enthusiasts. Its auto-leveling qualities make it a breeze to apply, even for those with limited painting experience. You can achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish without the need for advanced painting skills. For example, if you're tackling a small bedroom or accent wall on your own, Cashmere can help you get great results.

Best for creating a soft, elegant look. The paint has a unique texture that gives walls a smooth and inviting appearance. It's perfect for bedrooms, dining rooms, or any space where you want to create a cozy and sophisticated atmosphere.

A good choice for areas where you don't mind repainting more frequently. While it has a certain level of durability, it's not as long-lasting as Emerald or Duration. If you like to change up the look of your rooms every few years or have a low-traffic area that doesn't see a lot of wear, Cashmere can provide a beautiful finish in the short term.

#4. SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex Paint

SuperPaint offers a balance of affordability and performance.

Perfect for budget-conscious homeowners. If you're looking to spruce up your home without spending a fortune, SuperPaint provides decent coverage and durability at a lower price point. It's great for rooms that don't get a lot of heavy use, such as a guest bedroom or a home office.

Good for quick and easy projects. It dries relatively fast and is easy to work with, allowing you to complete your painting job in a shorter amount of time. If you're on a tight schedule or just want to freshen up a space quickly, SuperPaint can get the job done.

Suitable for those who want a reliable, all-purpose paint. It may not have the bells and whistles of Emerald or the smooth finish of Cashmere, but it gets the job done well enough for most interior painting needs.

My number one choice is Emerald!

Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint

List Price: $93.99 - $98.99 / Gallon

Buy Now

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