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I’m a DIY junkie who loves transforming spaces with a fresh coat of paint. Recently, I stood in Home Depot, eyeing BEHR Premium Plus Ultra and Premium Plus, wondering which one deserves my hard-earned cash.
So, I decided to put them to the test.
My goal here is to unpack these two paints—key features, pros, cons, and all—from a real user’s lens. By the end, you’ll know exactly which one suits your next project. Let’s kick things off with a quick comparison table to see what’s what.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | BEHR Premium Plus Ultra | BEHR Premium Plus |
| Price (per gallon) | ~$40-$45 | ~$30-$35 |
| VOC Content | <50 g/L (Low VOC) | <5 g/L (Zero VOC) |
| Coverage | Better (thicker, more solids) | Decent (thinner formula) |
| Primer Included | Yes (paint + primer in one) | No (separate primer needed) |
| Scuff Resistance | Yes (scuff-blocking tech) | No |
| Durability | High (great for high-traffic) | Moderate (low-traffic areas) |
| Finishes Available | Flat, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss | Flat, Matte, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss, High-Gloss |
| Best For | Busy homes, tough surfaces | Budget projects, simple jobs |
This table gives you the quick scoop, but trust me—there’s so much more to unpack here. I’ve spent hours painting, researching, and chatting with Home Depot staff to get the full story. Let’s explore what makes these paints tick.
My First Impressions: Unboxing The Cans
When I picked up a can of BEHR Premium Plus Ultra, I noticed it felt hefty—like it was packed with promise.
The label boasted “paint and primer in one,” scuff resistance, and a thicker formula.
It screamed durability, and I could already imagine it holding up on my hallway walls where my dog loves to rub against everything.
Then I grabbed the Premium Plus can.
It was lighter, simpler, and the label didn’t throw around as many fancy terms.
It felt like the budget-friendly sibling, whispering, “I’ll get the job done, but don’t expect miracles.” Right away, I knew I was dealing with two different beasts—one built for toughness, the other for affordability.
But how do those first impressions hold up when the paint hits the wall? Let’s break it down.
Key Features of BEHR Premium Plus Ultra
I started with Premium Plus Ultra because it seemed like the big gun in BEHR’s lineup. Here’s what stood out to me as I worked with it:
- Paint and Primer Combo: The label says it’s a two-in-one deal, meaning it’s supposed to cut out the need for a separate primer. I tested this on a patched-up wall in my guest room. One coat covered the spackle decently, but a second coat was still necessary for a smooth finish. It’s not a magic wand, but it does save a step compared to traditional setups.
- Scuff Resistance: This feature got me excited. I painted a section of my kitchen wall—a spot my kids inevitably bump with chairs—and after a week, I rubbed it with a damp cloth. No marks! It’s got some kind of scuff-blocking tech that actually works, which is a game-changer for a busy household like mine.
- Thicker Formula: You can feel the difference when you stir it. It’s got more volume solids (the stuff that makes paint stick and cover well), so it goes on rich and hides imperfections better. I noticed this when I painted over a dark blue accent wall with a soft white—it took just one solid coat to make the blue disappear.
- Antimicrobial Finish: This was a bonus I didn’t expect. It’s designed to resist mildew and bacteria, which makes it perfect for damp areas like bathrooms. I haven’t tested this long-term, but it’s reassuring to know it’s there.
- Low VOC: With less than 50 grams per liter of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), it’s still considered low-VOC, so the smell wasn’t overwhelming. I painted indoors with the windows open, and my headache stayed at bay.
Premium Plus Ultra feels like BEHR’s answer to homeowners who want a paint that can take a beating and still look good. But it’s not perfect—let’s weigh the good and the bad.
Pros And Cons of BEHR Premium Plus Ultra
Pros
- Tough as Nails: The scuff resistance and durability are top-notch. I’ve seen it shrug off scuffs and smudges that would’ve ruined lesser paints.
- Great Coverage: That thicker formula means fewer coats. I saved time and effort painting over tricky surfaces.
- Versatile: With finishes like eggshell and satin, it works for everything from cozy bedrooms to bustling kitchens.
- Mildew Fighter: The antimicrobial feature gives me peace of mind in humid spots.
- Time-Saver: Skipping a separate primer is a win when I’m juggling a busy schedule.
Cons
- Pricey: At $40-$45 a gallon, it’s a noticeable jump from its cheaper cousin. My wallet felt the pinch.
- Not Zero VOC: While low, the VOC level is higher than Premium Plus, so I still smelled a faint whiff of paint fumes.
- Overkill for Small Jobs: If I’m just touching up a quiet corner, this feels like bringing a sledgehammer to crack a walnut.
- Second Coat Often Needed: Despite the primer claim, dramatic color changes still demanded two coats in my experience.
Premium Plus Ultra is a powerhouse, no doubt. But what about its leaner sibling, Premium Plus? Let’s see how it stacks up.
Key Features of BEHR Premium Plus
Switching gears to Premium Plus, I approached it with an open mind. It’s BEHR’s entry-level paint, but it’s got a loyal following. Here’s what I discovered:
- Zero VOC: This was a big deal for me. With less than 5 grams per liter, it’s as close to odorless as paint gets. I painted my bedroom and slept in it the same night—no dizziness, no regrets.
- Affordable Price: At $30-$35 a gallon, it’s easier on the budget. I grabbed a couple of cans for a living room refresh without breaking the bank.
- Solid Finish Options: It comes in everything from matte to high-gloss, giving me flexibility. I went with matte for my uneven stucco walls, and it hid the texture nicely.
- Decent Coverage: It’s thinner than Ultra, but it still gets the job done. I painted over a light beige wall with soft white, and two coats gave me a clean, even look.
- Easy Application: It flows smoothly off the brush and roller. I didn’t fight clumps or streaks, which made the process relaxing.
Premium Plus feels like the reliable friend who doesn’t overpromise but still delivers. It’s not flashy, but it’s got heart. Let’s weigh its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros And Cons of BEHR Premium Plus
Pros
- Budget-Friendly: The lower price tag let me tackle bigger projects without guilt.
- No Smell: That zero-VOC label isn’t just marketing—I barely noticed a scent, even in a small space.
- Finish Variety: From matte to high-gloss, I had options to match every room’s vibe.
- Good for Low-Traffic Areas: It held up fine in my guest room, where scuffs aren’t a daily worry.
- User-Friendly: It’s forgiving for DIYers like me who aren’t pros with a roller.
Cons
- Less Durable: No scuff resistance here. I tested it in my hallway, and a week later, I saw faint marks from my dog’s tail-wagging antics.
- Thinner Formula: It’s got fewer solids, so coverage isn’t as strong. Dark colors took two coats, no question.
- Primer Needed: Unlike Ultra, this isn’t a one-step solution. I had to prime raw drywall first, adding time and cost.
- Not for Tough Spots: It’s not built for kitchens or bathrooms—mildew could creep in over time.
Premium Plus is the practical choice when I’m watching my spending or painting a low-key space. But it’s clear it’s not cut out for the rough-and-tumble areas of my home.
Side-by-Side Analysis: How They Compare In Real Life?
Now that I’ve painted with both, let’s put them head-to-head on the stuff that matters most to me—and probably to you too.
- Coverage: Premium Plus Ultra wins here. Its thicker formula covered my dark blue wall in one coat, while Premium Plus needed two to hide a light beige. If I’m painting over bold colors or patching, Ultra’s my pick.
- Durability: Hands down, Ultra takes the crown. The scuff resistance and antimicrobial finish make it a tank compared to Premium Plus, which feels more like a lightweight contender.
- Cost: Premium Plus is the champ for my budget. Saving $10-$15 per gallon adds up, especially on big jobs like my whole downstairs.
- Ease of Use: They’re neck-and-neck here. Both went on smoothly, but Ultra’s thickness made it slightly trickier to spread evenly at first. I got the hang of it quick, though.
- Health Factor: Premium Plus edges out with its zero-VOC status. I felt safer using it in my kids’ rooms, knowing fumes were minimal.
- Best Use Case: Ultra shines in high-traffic zones—think hallways, kitchens, or bathrooms. Premium Plus is perfect for quieter spots like bedrooms or dining rooms.
I started seeing a pattern: Ultra’s the workhorse, Premium Plus is the economical helper. But which one’s right for my next project? It depends on the job.
My Real-World Test: Painting The Hallway
To really figure these paints out, I decided to test them in my hallway—a narrow, high-traffic gauntlet where my family, dog, and occasional furniture bumps put walls through the wringer.
I split the space: one side got Premium Plus Ultra in a soft white eggshell, the other got Premium Plus in the same color and finish. Here’s how it went.
With Premium Plus Ultra, I slapped on one coat and watched it cover the old gray like a champ. After it dried, I ran my hand along it—smooth, solid, and no tackiness. A week later, my dog brushed against it with his muddy paws. I wiped it down, and not a trace remained. Impressive.
On the Premium Plus side, I needed two coats to match the Ultra’s opacity. It looked great at first, but after a few days, I noticed a faint scuff where my son’s backpack grazed it.
A quick scrub cleaned it, but the mark lingered faintly. It’s holding up, but it’s not thriving like Ultra.
This test sealed it for me: Ultra’s built for chaos, Premium Plus is better for calm. My hallway’s staying Ultra from now on.
When To Choose BEHR Premium Plus Ultra?
After all this painting, I’ve got a clear sense of when Ultra’s the way to go. If your space is anything like my hallway—busy, prone to messes, or damp—it’s worth the splurge. Kitchens with greasy fingerprints, bathrooms with steamy showers, or kids’ rooms with crayon experiments?
Ultra’s scuff resistance and mildew protection will save you headaches. It’s also my pick for dramatic color changes or rough surfaces like my stucco walls—the thicker formula hides flaws and cuts down on coats.
Sure, it costs more, but the time and durability payoff feels like a fair trade.
When To Choose BEHR Premium Plus?
On the flip side, Premium Plus has its sweet spot. If you’re painting a low-traffic area like a guest room, dining room, or ceiling, it’s plenty. I used it in my formal living room, where the only action is the occasional dust bunny, and it’s been flawless.
It’s also my go-to when I’m on a tight budget or doing a big job—those $10 savings per gallon stack up fast. Plus, that zero-VOC perk is a lifesaver if you’re sensitive to smells or painting around kids and pets.
It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done without fuss.
Which One Wins?
So, which paint came out on top for me?
Honestly, it’s not a clean sweep—it’s about fit. Premium Plus Ultra is my winner for performance. Its toughness, coverage, and versatility make it the MVP for my chaotic household. But Premium Plus holds its own as the value king.
When I need to stretch my dollars or keep things simple, it’s more than enough. My advice? Match the paint to your life. If your walls take a beating, go Ultra. If they don’t, save some cash with Premium Plus.
Either way, BEHR’s got you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
BEHR has four main tiers: Premium Plus (entry-level), Ultra (mid-range), Marquee (premium with one-coat coverage), and Dynasty (top-tier, most durable).
It’s great for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways, thanks to its scuff resistance, durability, and antimicrobial finish.
Wait about 2-4 hours between coats, depending on humidity and temperature—check the can for specifics.
Not usually. It’s thinner, so I almost always need two coats for solid coverage, especially over dark colors.
Conclusion: Your Turn To Pick The Perfect Paint
There you have it—my full breakdown of BEHR Premium Plus Ultra versus Premium Plus, straight from my paint-splattered hands to you. I’ve wrestled with both, tested them on my walls, and laid out what makes each one tick.
Premium Plus Ultra’s your heavy hitter for tough jobs, while Premium Plus keeps it simple and affordable. Now it’s your call. Think about your space, your budget, and how much wear those walls will see.
You can’t go wrong with either—they’re both solid players in BEHR’s lineup. So grab a can, pick up that brush, and make your home yours. Let me know how it goes—I’d love to hear what you choose!