Looking for the perfect black paint color for your home? I've compared Black Magic vs Tricorn Black so you can find the right one for your space.
Black paint colors are a great choice if you have a bold, modern style. Black paint is a good option for interior doors, accent walls, furniture, cabinets, and even the exterior of a small house.
But choosing the right black paint color isn’t as easy as it sounds.
There are just so many shades of black paint out there, some leaning warm, some leaning cool. And the undertones can make a big difference! Black paint colors can lean blue, gray, purple, or even red.
So today, I compare two popular shades of black paint – Black Magic and Tricorn Black by Sherwin Williams.
Let's look into the differences between these two popular shades, and help you find the best one.
Read my full review of Black Magic
Read my full review of Tricorn Black
Black Magic vs Tricorn Black
Black Magic and Tricorn Black are both very dark black paint colors.
Tricorn Black is consistently one of the most popular shades of black paint, so it may also be a top choice for you!
What is similar about Black Magic vs Tricorn Black?
Both Black Magic and Tricorn Black are so dark that they’re nearly true blacks.
They both have a slightly warm undertone, but Black Magic is the warmer of the two.
What is different about Black Magic vs Tricorn Black?
Although they have very similar Light Reflectance Values (LRVs), Tricorn Black is slightly darker, making it more of a true black paint color.
Black Magic, with its warmer tone, can bring a touch of warmth to a space.
Tricorn Black, on the other hand, is a true neutral black. It’s one of the most popular black paint colors because it's so close to neutral.
In my experience, while both colors pair well with many other paint colors, Tricorn Black is easier to match because it’s such a neutral black.
Black Magic, however, brings a bit more warmth and character.
| Black Magic | Tricorn Black | |
| LRV | 3.12 | 2.45 |
| RGB | R: 50 G: 49 B: 50 | R: 47 G: 47 B: 48 |
| Undertones | Warm red undertone, has a slight warmth | Very little undertone, making it a true black. If anything, it skews as slightly warm. |
Light Reflectance Value
Light Reflectance Value (LRV) measures how much light a color reflects. This is on a scale from 0 to 100, with 0 being pure black and 100 being pure white.
Black Magic and Tricorn Black are both very dark black paint colors. Tricorn Black is a bit darker, with an LRV of 2.45, compared to Black Magic’s LRV of 3.12.
Undertones
Tricorn Black has very little undertone, making it a true black paint color. It might lean slightly warm, but it's mostly neutral.
Black Magic has a red undertone, giving it a slight warmth.
Both colors are so dark that light won’t change their appearance much. In most spaces, Tricorn Black and Black Magic will look very dark, almost pure black.
However, in some north-facing rooms with little natural light, Tricorn Black can have a slight blue hue.
From my experience, it’s essential to swatch colors on your wall to see how they look both day and night. This ensures you get the right shade for your space.
I always recommend using removable peel-and-stick paint samples. They make it easy to test colors without the mess.
Click here to get your peel-and-stick paint samples.
How do I decide between these two colors?
Choosing between Black Magic and Tricorn Black can be tricky since they’re so similar.
If you’re after a true neutral black, Tricorn Black is your go-to. It’s one of the most popular black paint colors for a reason. If you want a classic black that fits any style, Tricorn Black might be your best bet.
On the other hand, if you want a black with a touch of warmth, Black Magic great – its subtle warmth brings a nice, cozy feeling.
I’ve used both in different rooms and here’s my take: Tricorn Black works beautifully for a sleek, modern look. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a versatile, neutral black.
Black Magic, with its slight warmth, brings depth. It’s a great choice if you want your black to have a bit more character.
So, think about the vibe you want to create. A true neutral? Go with Tricorn Black. A warm, inviting black? Black Magic is your pick.
Sherwin Williams Black Magic 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!
Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black 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 Tricorn Black 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.
