Sherwin-Williams’ Tricorn black VS black magic – two popular black paint colors that are frequently used in home design projects:
Tricorn Black (SW 6258) vs Black Magic (SW 6991): Full Review
Overview
| Feature | Tricorn Black | Black Magic |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Sherwin-Williams | Sherwin-Williams |
| Color Code | SW 6258 | SW 6991 |
| Color Family | True Black | Black with a warm undertone |
| Light Reflectance Value (LRV) | 3 | 3 |
| Undertones | Neutral (no strong undertone) | Slightly warm undertone (soft brownish) |
| Finish Options | All (Flat, Satin, Semi-Gloss, Gloss) | All (Flat, Satin, Semi-Gloss, Gloss) |
| Best Use | Modern, dramatic, high-contrast looks | Softer black rooms, cozier spaces |
Color Difference at a Glance
- Tricorn Black is a true, pure black with no visible undertones. It’s one of Sherwin-Williams’ most neutral black paints, often chosen by designers for doors, exteriors, cabinetry, and trim.
- Black Magic leans just a touch warmer and softer, making it slightly more forgiving in rooms with varied lighting or paired with warm wood tones.
How They Look in Real Spaces
| Room Type | Tricorn Black | Black Magic |
|---|---|---|
| Living Room | Bold, edgy, and modern. Works well with white or metallic accents. | Cozy and moody; pairs well with leather, beige, or rustic tones. |
| Bedroom | Dramatic and sophisticated; may need balancing with lighter décor. | Warm and enveloping, great for intimate bedroom settings. |
| Kitchen Cabinets | Stunning on flat-panel or shaker cabinets, esp. with brass/gold hardware. | Slightly softer presence—less stark, more traditional. |
| Exterior | Crisp and architectural; doesn’t shift color in sunlight. | Slight warmth makes it blend more gently with brick or wood siding. |
Lighting Impact
- Natural Light:
- Tricorn Black retains its deep tone even in sunlight.
- Black Magic may show a touch of warmth in direct sun.
- Artificial Light:
- Tricorn Black appears very rich and modern under LED or cool lighting.
- Black Magic can look more inviting and soft in warm light (e.g., incandescent bulbs).
Pros and Cons of Tricorn Black
Pros
- Clean, modern aesthetic.
- Popular with designers.
- Universally neutral — matches nearly any palette.
Cons
- Reflects very little light (very dark).
- Can feel cold or too stark in certain settings.
Pros and Cons of Black Magic
Pros
- Less severe than a true black.
- Feels cozier and more intimate.
- Slightly more adaptable with warm interiors.
Cons
- Less bold than Tricorn Black in contrast-heavy designs.
- Slight undertone may clash in some ultra-modern palettes.
Final Verdict: Which to Choose?
| Choose Tricorn Black if… |
|---|
| You want a true, bold black with no undertones. |
| You’re aiming for modern, high-contrast aesthetics. |
| You need a black that plays well with crisp whites. |
| Choose Black Magic if… |
|---|
| You prefer a warmer, cozier feel. |
| Your room includes earth tones, wood, or beige. |
| You want black, but not too intense or sterile. |
Summary
- Tricorn Black is best for modern, high-impact spaces where a pure, stark black is desired.
- Black Magic offers a softer, slightly warmer tone for a more inviting and traditional aesthetic.
Both are excellent choices—you just need to decide which vibe fits your project.
FAQs
Which black paint is more neutral?
Tricorn Black is more neutral.
It contains no noticeable undertones, making it ideal for projects that require a pure, crisp black.
Does Black Magic look brown or red in some lighting?
Very slightly.
In warm lighting (like incandescent bulbs or late-afternoon sun), Black Magic may appear to have a subtle brown or soft espresso hue—but it’s still a very dark black.
Which one is better for exterior use?
Tricorn Black is often preferred for exteriors.
Its true black pigment holds up well in sunlight, and it gives a crisp, modern look to doors, shutters, trim, or siding.
Is Tricorn Black too harsh for interiors?
It depends.
Some find Tricorn Black too bold or stark for full walls, especially in low-light rooms. However, it’s perfect for accents like trim, cabinets, or statement walls if balanced with lighter colors.
Which black is more forgiving in uneven lighting?
Black Magic.
Its slightly warmer tone makes it more adaptable in rooms with fluctuating light conditions or warm elements like wood or brass.
Can I use both colors in the same home?
Yes!
Use Tricorn Black for trim, doors, or statement pieces, and Black Magic for walls or cozier rooms. Their subtle difference adds depth without clashing.
Which finish works best for these blacks?
Flat/Matte: Great for walls, but may show scuffs.
Satin or Eggshell: Ideal for interiors with some durability.
Semi-Gloss/Gloss: Perfect for trim, doors, and cabinetry.
Both colors work well in all finishes, but glossier finishes make the black appear deeper and more dramatic.
Do they both require a primer?
Yes, ideally.
Because black is a deep color, use a gray or tinted primer to ensure even coverage and better adhesion, especially over light or previously painted surfaces.
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Hello!
I am Ann Armstrong.
The kitchen is the universe of the home.
The beautiful furniture and amazing design of the dining room have always inspired me.
All the best ideas for transforming the kitchen throughout my life were born from
the greatest difficulties. And I know that’s what makes my projects special.
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