I’ve spent countless weekends wielding a paint roller, transforming drab walls into vibrant spaces. Choosing the right paint is like picking the perfect partner—it’s got to look good, last long, and not give you a headache during the process.
In this article, I’m comparing two heavyweights in the paint world: Clark + Kensington and Benjamin Moore. My goal is to break down their strengths, weaknesses, and key features to help you decide which brand deserves a spot in your next painting project.
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to it.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Clark + Kensington | Benjamin Moore |
| Price per Gallon | $35–$45 | $47–$76 |
| Coverage (sq. ft./gallon) | 350–400 | 400–450 |
| Durability | Good, but may scuff in high-traffic areas | Excellent, resists scuffs and burnishing |
| Finish Options | Flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss | Flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, high-gloss |
| VOC Content | Low, meets strict California standards | Very low, Green Promise certification |
| Application Ease | Good, but may show brush marks initially | Excellent, smooth and even application |
| Color Options | Thousands, good color matching | Extensive, industry-leading palette |
| Availability | Ace Hardware only | Benjamin Moore stores, select retailers |
| Paint + Primer Combo | Yes, simplifies process | Select lines (e.g., Regal Select) |
My Journey With Paint
Painting is my therapy, my creative outlet, and sometimes my biggest frustration.
Over the years, I’ve tried countless brands, from budget-friendly to premium, and I’ve learned that not all paints are created equal.
Clark + Kensington and Benjamin Moore have both found their way onto my walls, and each has left an impression—for better or worse.
To give you a clear picture, I’m sharing my experiences, backed by research and real-world use, to compare these two brands across key factors like price, performance, and ease of use.
Whether you’re a DIY newbie or a seasoned pro, this breakdown will help you choose wisely.
Price: The Wallet Test
Let’s talk money first, because who doesn’t want to save a buck?
Clark + Kensington, sold exclusively at Ace Hardware, typically runs $35–$45 per gallon. It’s a solid mid-range option, especially if you’re tackling a large project like repainting your living room or sprucing up an exterior wall.
I remember grabbing a gallon of their satin finish for my kitchen, and it felt like a steal compared to pricier brands. The paint-and-primer-in-one formula also means you might skip a separate primer, saving you extra cash and time.
Benjamin Moore, on the other hand, is the luxury sedan of paints, with prices ranging from $47 for their entry-level Ben line to $76 for the premium Regal Select. Their top-tier Aura line can even hit $80 or more.
When I painted my bedroom with Regal Select, my wallet groaned, but the results were undeniably stunning. The higher price often reflects better coverage and durability, but it’s a tough sell if you’re on a tight budget.
If cost is your main concern, Clark + Kensington wins for affordability, but you might sacrifice some longevity.
Pros of Clark + Kensington Pricing
- Budget-friendly at $35–$45 per gallon.
- Paint-and-primer combo reduces need for extra products.
- Frequent promotions at Ace Hardware can lower costs further.
Cons of Clark + Kensington Pricing
- Not as widely available, so you’re limited to Ace Hardware.
- May require more coats for full coverage, increasing overall cost.
Pros of Benjamin Moore Pricing
- Premium lines like Regal Select justify cost with superior performance.
- Wide range of price points, from Ben ($47) to Aura ($80+).
- Long-term durability can save money on repaints.
Cons of Benjamin Moore Pricing
- Significantly more expensive, especially for premium lines.
- Additional primer may be needed for some surfaces, adding to costs.
Coverage: How Far Does a Gallon Go?
Coverage is where the rubber meets the road—or rather, where the paint meets the wall.
Clark + Kensington claims 350–400 square feet per gallon, which is decent for most interior projects.
When I painted my bathroom with their eggshell finish, I found it covered my light-colored walls in two coats, but darker shades or heavily textured surfaces sometimes needed a third.
The paint-and-primer combo helps, but it’s not a miracle worker over bold colors like my old forest green accent wall.
Benjamin Moore, particularly their Regal Select and Aura lines, boasts 400–450 square feet per gallon. In my experience, this estimate holds up. When I used Regal Select in my dining room, one coat was often enough for light colors over primed surfaces, and two coats handled darker shades with ease.
The higher volume of solids (think of it as the “stuff” that stays on the wall after drying) makes Benjamin Moore thicker and more opaque, which is a game-changer for hiding imperfections.
Pros of Clark + Kensington Coverage
- Good coverage for light to medium colors.
- Paint-and-primer formula simplifies prep work.
- Works well for low-traffic areas like bedrooms.
Cons of Clark + Kensington Coverage
- May need extra coats for dark or vibrant colors.
- Less titanium dioxide in some bases, reducing hiding power.
Pros of Benjamin Moore Coverage
- Exceptional coverage, often one to two coats.
- High solid content (up to 47.5% in Aura) ensures opacity.
- Ideal for covering dark or uneven surfaces.
Cons of Benjamin Moore Coverage
- Higher upfront cost for better coverage.
- Some lines (e.g., Ben) may not match premium performance.
Durability: Will It Stand the Test of Time?
A paint job isn’t just about looks; it’s about staying power.
Clark + Kensington holds its own in durability, especially for interior walls in low-traffic areas.
Their ceramic microsphere technology (fancy, right?) adds scrubbability and stain resistance, which I appreciated when my toddler decided to “decorate” my hallway with crayon.
A quick wipe with a damp cloth, and the marks were gone.
However, in high-traffic spots like my kitchen, I noticed minor scuffing after a year, suggesting it’s not as tough as premium brands.
Benjamin Moore, especially their Regal Select and Aura lines, is a durability beast. I painted my living room with Regal Select two years ago, and it still looks pristine despite constant foot traffic and the occasional furniture bump.
Tests I’ve read confirm that Regal Select resists scuffs, burnishing, and even aggressive cleaning (like with a magic eraser). Aura, with its low VOCs and Green Promise certification, is a favorite for eco-conscious folks who still want a tough finish.
Pros of Clark + Kensington Durability
- Good scrubbability for everyday messes.
- Holds up well in low-traffic areas.
- Low VOCs meet strict environmental standards.
Cons of Clark + Kensington Durability
- May scuff or fade in high-traffic zones.
- Less resistant to aggressive cleaning compared to premium brands.
Pros of Benjamin Moore Durability
- Exceptional resistance to scuffs, stains, and burnishing.
- Long-lasting finish, even in high-traffic areas.
- Aura’s low VOCs make it eco-friendly and durable.
Cons of Benjamin Moore Durability
- Higher cost for top-tier durability.
- Entry-level Ben line shows minor wear over time.
Application: Brush, Roll, or Cry?
Applying paint should feel like a creative act, not a wrestling match.
Clark + Kensington’s paint-and-primer formula is marketed as a time-saver, and it delivers for simple projects.
When I painted my guest room, it went on smoothly with a roller, but brushing around trim was trickier.
I noticed brush marks initially, which made me nervous, but they leveled out as the paint dried.
The one-hour recoat time is a plus for impatient folks like me, though the slight odor during application was noticeable.
Benjamin Moore is a painter’s dream when it comes to application. Regal Select, in particular, is thick but flows like butter, making it easy to roll or brush without drips. I painted my office with Aura, and the smooth, even finish had me feeling like a pro.
The fast drying time (about an hour) means you can tackle multiple coats in a day, and the low VOCs keep the smell minimal. However, the Ben line can be a bit runny, so you’ll need a steady hand to avoid splatters.
Pros of Clark + Kensington Application
- Paint-and-primer combo reduces prep time.
- Quick one-hour recoat for faster projects.
- Levels well despite initial brush marks.
Cons of Clark + Kensington Application
- Brush marks can appear during application.
- Slight odor during drying.
Pros of Benjamin Moore Application
- Smooth, even application with minimal effort.
- Fast drying (one hour) for efficient projects.
- Low odor, especially in Aura and Regal Select.
Cons of Benjamin Moore Application
- Ben line can be runny, requiring careful application.
- Premium lines need proper technique to maximize benefits.
Color Options: Finding Your Perfect Hue
Color is where paint becomes personal.
Clark + Kensington offers thousands of shades, and Ace Hardware’s color-matching tech is impressive.
I once brought in a fabric swatch from my couch, and they nailed the color for my accent wall.
Their curated Color Trends and Popular Colors collections make it easy to pick modern hues, from soft neutrals to bold blues.
However, their palette isn’t as extensive as some premium brands, and I’ve found their deeper colors can look slightly off if not mixed carefully.
Benjamin Moore is the king of color. With thousands of shades and advanced color-matching technology, they’ve got every hue imaginable. Their Regal Select and Aura lines use high-quality pigments that resist fading, which I noticed when my sun-drenched living room walls stayed vibrant after two years.
Designers love Benjamin Moore for its rich, consistent colors, and I can see why—my dining room’s deep burgundy still pops like the day I painted it.
Pros of Clark + Kensington Color Options
- Thousands of colors with reliable matching.
- Curated collections simplify trendy choices.
- Affordable for vibrant accent walls.
Cons of Clark + Kensington Color Options
- Slightly less extensive palette than premium brands.
- Deep colors may vary slightly in consistency.
Pros of Benjamin Moore Color Options
- Industry-leading color palette with endless options.
- High-quality pigments ensure fade resistance.
- Perfect for custom or designer-inspired projects.
Cons of Benjamin Moore Color Options
- Higher cost for custom or premium colors.
- Overwhelming choices for indecisive painters.
Availability: Where Can You Get It?
Accessibility matters when you’re mid-project and realize you need another gallon.
Clark + Kensington is exclusive to Ace Hardware, which is convenient if you’ve got a store nearby.
I love popping into my local Ace for a quick color match or sample quart, but if you’re in a rural area, the nearest Ace could be a trek.
Their paint-and-primer formula is a consistent draw, and Ace’s staff often know their stuff, which helps when you’re stuck on a decision.
Benjamin Moore is sold at their own stores and select retailers, which can be a blessing or a curse. I’ve found Benjamin Moore stores to be a goldmine for advice, but they’re not as widespread as big-box stores.
If you’re lucky enough to live near one, you’ll get top-notch service and access to their full range. However, if you’re relying on a hardware store that carries only a few lines, you might miss out on premium options like Aura.
Pros of Clark + Kensington Availability
- Exclusive to Ace Hardware, with knowledgeable staff.
- Sample quarts and promotions are widely available.
- Consistent paint-and-primer formula across stores.
Cons of Clark + Kensington Availability
- Limited to Ace Hardware, which may not be nearby.
- Fewer locations than big-box competitors.
Pros of Benjamin Moore Availability
- Dedicated stores offer expert advice and full range.
- Select retailers carry popular lines like Regal Select.
- High-quality color matching at most locations.
Cons of Benjamin Moore Availability
- Limited to Benjamin Moore stores and select retailers.
- Premium lines may not be available everywhere.
Environmental Impact: Green Painting
As someone who’s sensitive to chemical smells, I pay attention to VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Clark + Kensington’s low-VOC formula meets California’s strict standards, which is a big win for indoor air quality.
When I painted my nursery, the low odor was a relief, and I didn’t worry about lingering fumes. Their paint-and-primer combo also reduces the need for extra products, which is a small but meaningful environmental plus.
Benjamin Moore takes eco-friendliness to another level with their Green Promise certification. Lines like Aura and Regal Select have some of the lowest VOCs in the industry, and I barely noticed a smell when painting my office.
Their commitment to independent testing for emissions during drying sets them apart, especially if you’re painting a kid’s room or a space with poor ventilation.
Pros of Clark + Kensington Environmental Impact
- Low VOCs meet strict regional standards.
- Minimal odor during application.
- Paint-and-primer reduces product waste.
Cons of Clark + Kensington Environmental Impact
- Less rigorous testing than premium brands.
- Some bases may have slightly higher VOCs.
Pros of Benjamin Moore Environmental Impact
- Very low VOCs with Green Promise certification.
- Independent testing ensures safe drying emissions.
- Ideal for sensitive environments like nurseries.
Cons of Benjamin Moore Environmental Impact
- Higher cost for eco-friendly premium lines.
- Entry-level Ben line may have slightly higher VOCs.
Real-World Experiences: My Walls Tell the Story
Let’s get personal.
When I painted my kitchen with Clark + Kensington’s satin finish, I was thrilled with the price and ease of use.
The color—a warm beige—popped beautifully, and the paint covered my old off-white walls in two coats.
But after a year of spills and splashes, I noticed some scuffing near the sink.
It’s held up well for a budget-friendly option, but it’s not bulletproof.
Contrast that with my Benjamin Moore Regal Select experience in the living room. The deep blue I chose was a bold risk, but the coverage was flawless, and the finish still looks fresh despite kids, pets, and constant sunlight.
The upfront cost stung, but the longevity has made it worth every penny. If I had to choose for a high-traffic area, Benjamin Moore would be my go-to.
Which Brand Wins?
It depends on your priorities. If you’re watching your budget and tackling a low-traffic room, Clark + Kensington is a fantastic choice. Its affordability, decent coverage, and low VOCs make it a practical pick for DIYers.
But if you’re after top-tier durability, unmatched color options, and a professional-grade finish, Benjamin Moore’s premium lines like Regal Select and Aura are hard to beat. For me, the extra cost is justified for spaces I want to last years without a touch-up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Not quite. Clark + Kensington is great for budget-conscious projects and low-traffic areas, but Benjamin Moore offers superior coverage, durability, and color consistency, especially in premium lines like Regal Select and Aura.
With proper prep and application, it lasts about 5–7 years in low-traffic areas. High-traffic zones may show wear sooner, requiring touch-ups after 3–5 years.
Benjamin Moore generally takes the crown for quality, with lines like Aura and Regal Select offering unmatched durability, coverage, and fade resistance. Clark + Kensington is a strong contender for the price, though.
It’s well-rated for affordability and ease of use, often scoring high for DIY projects. Professionals give it mixed reviews due to coverage and durability limitations compared to premium brands.
Conclusion: Your Walls, Your Choice
You’re standing in the paint aisle, roller in hand, ready to transform your space. Clark + Kensington offers a wallet-friendly, reliable option that gets the job done for most home projects.
Benjamin Moore, with its premium quality, is your go-to if you want a flawless, long-lasting finish that can handle life’s chaos. Weigh your budget, project size, and durability needs, and you’ll find the perfect paint to make your walls sing.
Happy painting!