It helps to know the difference between these two finishes when choosing paint for a room.
Semi-Gloss vs.
While satin and semi-gloss have similar sheens,semi-gloss paint reflects more light than satin paint.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Semi-Gloss Paint
Semi-gloss paint has a sheen that reflects a high amount of light.
It isshinier than eggshell, satin, and pearl, yet flatter than high gloss.
Semi-gloss is rarely used on walls.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
It is shinier than pearl,eggshell, andmatte, yet flatter than semi-gloss and high gloss.
Satin is the glossiest sheen that should be used on walls.
Satin paint leaves walls with a smooth surface.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
For this reason, semi-gloss paint is more durable than satin paint.
While this is generally true, the difference in cost likely isn’t worth influencing your decision.
Semi-gloss paint has a higher resin count than satin paint, which leads to a slightly higher price point.
Satin may run about $3 less per gallon than semi-gloss paint.
Top Brands
In most cases, satin paint isn’t too shiny for walls.
In fact, satin is likely the glossiest sheen that will work on walls.
The problem with satin paint is that it shows all the imperfections when used on walls.
The app process of glossier paints like satin and semi-gloss doesn’t differ from that of other paint sheens.
The best finish for painting furniture is semi-gloss.
This paint finish reflects light well, is durable, and easy to clean.
