Best Interior Paint: Top Picks for Every Room
The best interior paint overall is Sherwin-Williams Duration Interior Acrylic Latex, which offers exceptional durability and stain resistance, but it comes at a premium price. For budget-friendly projects, Glidden Premium Interior Paint delivers solid coverage and a smooth finish. However, it may require more coats for deep color changes.
Choosing the right interior paint can transform a room, but with so many options, it’s hard to know where to start. We compared popular brands and formulations to find the best for various needs.
From self-priming formulas to washable finishes, this guide covers top picks that deliver professional-looking results. Whether you’re painting a bedroom or a high-traffic hallway, there’s a paint here for you.
The top picks, ranked
Sherwin-Williams Duration Interior Acrylic Latex
Sherwin-Williams Duration is a premium interior paint known for its exceptional durability and stain resistance. It features a self-priming formula that saves time and provides a beautiful, uniform finish. Owners report that it withstands scrubbing and maintains its appearance even in high-traffic areas.
Pros
- Excellent stain resistance and washability
- Self-priming, saves time and money
- Available in a wide range of colors
Cons
- Pricey compared to other brands
- May require multiple coats for drastic color changes
Benjamin Moore Regal Select Interior Paint
Benjamin Moore Regal Select is a professional favorite, offering a velvety smooth finish and exceptional color richness. Its advanced formula resists marks and scuffs, and it flows on easily without leaving brush strokes. Homeowners appreciate its fade-resistant pigments that keep colors true for years.
Pros
- Smooth, even finish with minimal brush marks
- Excellent color depth and retention
- Low odor, comfortable for indoor use
Cons
- Premium price point
- Not as stain-resistant as some competitors
BEHR Marquee Interior Paint & Primer
BEHR Marquee is designed to provide one-coat coverage, even when painting over darker colors, thanks to its high-hiding formula. It is self-priming and delivers a rich, uniform appearance. Users report that it lives up to its claims, saving significant time on large projects.
Pros
- Often requires only one coat, saving time and money
- Self-priming, excellent coverage
- Great color selection
Cons
- Can be thick and hard to work with for beginners
- Higher price than standard paint
PPG Diamond Interior Paint & Primer
PPG Diamond Interior Paint is engineered to resist stains and allow for repeated scrubbing without damage. Its durable finish is ideal for homes with children or pets. This paint and primer in one offers good coverage and a smooth, elegant look.
Pros
- Withstands aggressive scrubbing
- Stain-resistant formula
- Paint and primer in one
Cons
- Limited finish options
- May require more coats for full hide
Valspar Signature Interior Paint
Valspar Signature offers a great balance of quality and affordability. It provides excellent coverage and a durable finish that resists fading and staining. Homeowners find it easy to apply, with a smooth result that rivals more expensive brands.
Pros
- Affordable without compromising quality
- Good coverage and color retention
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- May need extra coats for bright or dark colors
- Not as durable as premium brands
Glidden Premium Interior Paint
Glidden Premium delivers reliable performance at a wallet-friendly price. It offers decent coverage and a smooth, flat finish that works well for low-traffic areas. Many owners use it for quick refreshes and rental properties due to its cost-effectiveness.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Good basic coverage
- Available in many colors
Cons
- Not as durable or washable as premium paints
- May require multiple coats for even color
Rust-Oleum Chalked Interior Paint
Rust-Oleum Chalked Paint gives furniture and walls a trendy, matte finish with a vintage charm. It adheres well to most surfaces without sanding, making it a favorite for DIY projects. However, it requires a topcoat for durability in high-moisture areas.
Pros
- No priming or sanding needed
- Creates a unique, vintage aesthetic
- Great for furniture and accent walls
Cons
- Not suitable for high-moisture areas without sealant
- Limited color range
How they compare
| # | Model | Finish | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sherwin-Williams Duration Interior Acrylic Latex | Flat, Satin, Semi-Gloss | Best overall for durability | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Benjamin Moore Regal Select Interior Paint | Matte, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss | Best for smooth finish and color accuracy | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | BEHR Marquee Interior Paint & Primer | Matte, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss | Best one-coat coverage | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | PPG Diamond Interior Paint & Primer | Flat, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss | Best for washability and scrubbing | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Valspar Signature Interior Paint | Flat, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss | Best value for money | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | Glidden Premium Interior Paint | Flat, Eggshell, Satin | Best budget-friendly option | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | Rust-Oleum Chalked Interior Paint | Matte | Best for a matte, vintage look | 8.0 | Check price |
Before you buy
Common questions
What is the difference between interior and exterior paint?
Interior paint is formulated for indoor surfaces, with lower VOCs and resistance to fading and scrubbing. Exterior paint contains additives to withstand weather, UV rays, and moisture. Using exterior paint indoors is not recommended due to higher VOC levels.
How much paint do I need for a room?
Measure the length and height of each wall, multiply to get square footage, and subtract for doors and windows. A typical 12×12 room with 8-foot ceilings requires about 2 gallons for two coats. Check the paint can for coverage per gallon.
Do I need a primer before painting?
Primer is recommended for bare drywall, stained surfaces, or drastic color changes. Self-priming paints can save time, but they are not a substitute for a dedicated primer in tough situations like covering dark colors or repairing stains.
What is the best finish for bathrooms and kitchens?
Semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes are best for high-moisture areas because they are more resistant to moisture and easier to wipe down. Satin or eggshell can also work but may be less durable against humidity.
How long does interior paint take to dry?
Most paints are dry to the touch in about 1 hour, but recoat times vary from 2 to 4 hours. Always check the label. Avoid heavy cleaning or placing furniture on painted surfaces for at least 24 hours.
Can I paint over dark walls without priming?
Painting over dark colors without primer is possible if you use a high-coverage paint, but it often requires multiple coats. A primer helps hide the old color and reduces the number of topcoats needed.
What does ‘Paint and Primer in One’ mean?
This means the paint includes a primer-like formula that provides better adhesion and coverage, reducing the need for a separate primer. However, it is not always sufficient for severe stains or bare wood; in such cases, a dedicated primer is better.
Is expensive paint worth the extra cost?
Expensive paints typically have higher pigment loads, better resins, and more durable finishes. They often require fewer coats and last longer, making them cost-effective over time. For high-traffic areas or when you want a long-lasting finish, premium paint is worth the investment.
Can I use wall paint on trim or doors?
Wall paint is not designed for the wear and tear that trim and doors experience. Use a semi-gloss or gloss enamel paint, which is more durable and easier to clean. It also provides a smoother finish for woodwork.
How do I dispose of leftover paint?
Check local regulations, but many communities allow dried paint to be thrown in the trash once the can is completely dry. If the paint is still liquid, take it to a hazardous waste collection site. Never pour paint down drains.
Our take
For most homeowners, the best overall interior paint is Sherwin-Williams Duration, offering superior durability and a beautiful finish, but it comes at a premium cost. If you are on a budget, Glidden Premium provides good value for money, though you may need to apply extra coats. For one-coat coverage and time-saving, BEHR Marquee is a solid choice. Ultimately, consider the room’s traffic, your budget, and the desired finish to make the best decision.
