Looking for the perfect dark blue paint color for your home? I compare Gentleman's Gray vs Hale Navy to help you decide if one of these gorgeous shades is right for your space.
Dark blue is such a stunning choice for paint. It’s cozy, sophisticated, and can really make a statement in any room.
I love how dark blues can almost act like a neutral.
They blend beautifully with so many other colors and finishes, making them a versatile option for various decor styles.
However, there are many dark blues out there. Some shades lean more navy, while others are unmistakably blue.
The undertones can range from purple to green to even a hint of charcoal, which can make the decision a bit difficult!
Today, I’m comparing two of the most popular dark blue shades — Gentleman’s Gray and Hale Navy.
I’ve seen these colors used in all sorts of spaces, and I’m excited to share the differences with you.
Read my full review of Gentleman's Gray
Read my full review of Hale Navy
Gentleman's Gray vs Hale Navy
If you’re after a dramatic, moody vibe, both Gentleman’s Gray and Hale Navy are stunning dark blue paint colors that could be just what you’re looking for.
What is similar about Gentleman's Gray vs Hale Navy?
Gentleman's Gray and Hale Navy are both very dark blue paint colors.
Despite being on the darker side, they’re actually a bit lighter than some of the more intense navy blues out there.
Because they’re so dark, both Gentleman’s Gray and Hale Navy work well with a wide range of other colors.
That versatility makes them a great option whether you’re painting a cozy bedroom, a striking fireplace, built-ins, kitchen cabinets, or even your home’s exterior.
What is different about Gentleman's Gray vs Hale Navy?
While both colors are undeniably dark blue, they each have their own unique character.
Hale Navy is a navy paint color with subtle gray undertones. On the other hand, Gentleman's Gray is a blackened shade of teal blue.
Hale Navy appears grayer and more muted, while Gentleman's Gray (despite its name) is bluer and more saturated. Gentleman's Gray can even lean a bit teal depending on lighting.
Hale Navy is slightly lighter than Gentleman's Gray, although both are very dark paint colors.
| Gentleman's Gray | Hale Navy | |
| LRV | 7 | 8 |
| RBG | R: 48 G: 70 B: 86 | R: 67 G: 76 B: 86 |
| Undertones | very dark teal blue with charcoal undertones | navy with subtle gray undertones |
Light Reflectance Value (LRV)
Light Reflectance Value, or LRV, tells you how much light a color reflects back into a room. It’s measured on a scale from 0 to 100, where 0 is pure black and 100 is pure white.
Now, when it comes to Gentleman’s Gray and Hale Navy, both are on the darker side.
Hale Navy has a slightly higher LRV of 8, while Gentleman’s Gray comes in just a bit lower at 7.
With such low LRVs, you can expect these colors to look quite dark in almost any space.
But here’s an interesting point — despite their low LRVs, both Gentleman’s Gray and Hale Navy are actually lighter than many other dark blue paint colors out there.
Undertones
Gentleman's Gray is a dark teal blue with charcoal undertones.
Hale Navy, on the other hand, features soft gray undertones, which help keep the color muted and prevent it from feeling too bold or bright.
Unlike some navy paint colors, Hale Navy doesn’t carry that typical green tint.
In south-facing rooms with lots of natural light, both Gentleman's Gray and Hale Navy might appear slightly lighter and warmer. Gentleman's Gray may look slightly teal.
In contrast, in north-facing rooms with less natural light, both colors look slightly darker and more dramatic, making a space feel cozy. Hale Navy's gray undertones will be more apparent.
To be sure these colors work in your room, I can’t stress enough the importance of swatching them on your walls.
It’s the best way to see how they’ll look day and night, in your actual space.
Click here to get removable peel & stick paint samples to easily swatch with!
How do I decide between these two colors?
Gentleman's Gray and Hale Navy are both stunning dark blues. Choosing between them comes down to personal style.
If you’re leaning towards a classic navy, Hale Navy is your best bet. But if you prefer a deep, rich blue, Gentleman’s Gray might be the one for you.
Think about the vibe you want — Hale Navy is more muted and subtle, while Gentleman’s Gray is more saturated and bold.
One last note: If you want to avoid any sort of teal vibes, avoid Gentleman's Gray and go with Hale Navy.
No matter which you choose, both are gorgeous shades of dark blue!
Gentleman's Gray Paint Color Palette
Want to use this paint color in your home? Instantly upgrade your home's aesthetic with our exclusive paint color palette. Unlock the perfect trim color and six stunning accent colors, a combination of neutrals and bold hues for an instantly harmonious space!
Get your perfect paint color palette by clicking here!
Hale Navy Paint Color Palette
Want to use this paint color in your home? Instantly upgrade your home's aesthetic with our exclusive paint color palette. Unlock the perfect trim color and six stunning accent colors, a combination of neutrals and bold hues for an instantly harmonious space!
Get your perfect paint color palette by clicking here!
Still unsure which paint color is right for your space?
Choosing paint doesn’t have to be stressful! My free Paint Color Planning Quick Start Guide walks you through the exact steps to confidently choose the perfect color — without the overwhelm, second-guessing, or endless swatch testing.
👉 Click here to download the free guide!
My Paint Color Formula course walks you through the painless process of expertly testing paint swatches to ensure you have the perfect color for your home.
The best way to sample paint? Samplize!
Get peel-and-stick removable and reusable paint samples here!
Thanks for reading!
Meg Hemmelgarn is a freelance writer and home decor + DIY blogger who loves to talk about paint colors. She and her husband are currently renovating their third fixer upper. You can see their projects on her blog, Green With Decor.
