Alabaster vs White Dove: Sherwin-Williams vs Benjamin Moore’s Most Popular Whites

When choosing the perfect white paint color, two names always rise to the top: Sherwin-Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove. These soft, timeless whites are some of the most popular shades on the market—and for good reason. Both colors have a reputation for being versatile, classic, and designer-approved. But when it comes down to Sherwin-Williams Alabaster vs White Dove, which one is the right fit for your home?

Alabster By Sherwin Williams Vs White Dove By Benjamin Moore

Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (SW 7008)

Sherwin-Williams Alabaster is one of the brand’s most loved whites, and it has even been named the Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year. This shade is a warm, creamy white that brings comfort and softness to any space. It’s not stark or sterile; instead, it leans into a subtle beige undertone that adds warmth without looking yellow.

Perfect Uses: Sherwin-Williams Alabaster works beautifully on walls, cabinets, trim, and even exteriors. It’s a favorite for farmhouse-style homes but transitions well into modern, transitional, and traditional spaces.

Lighting Impact: In bright sunlight, Alabaster reads like a clean, soft white. In low or artificial light, it reveals more of its creamy side.

Designer Insight: Joanna Gaines made Sherwin-Williams Alabaster famous when she used it in many of her Fixer Upper projects. It became known as a signature “farmhouse white” thanks to its cozy, welcoming feel.

Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17)

On the other hand, Benjamin Moore White Dove is often considered the brand’s most versatile white. While still a warm white, it has a slight gray undertone that keeps it from looking too creamy or too stark. This subtle balance is what makes White Dove such a popular choice for designers who want a soft but reliable white that doesn’t shift too dramatically with the light.

Perfect Uses: Benjamin Moore White Dove shines on walls, trim, and ceilings. It’s also a safe choice for cabinetry and built-ins because it pairs well with both cool and warm accent colors.

Lighting Impact: White Dove stays consistent in most lighting conditions, making it a dependable whole-house paint color.

Why People Love It: It’s classic, timeless, and extremely versatile. If you want a paint color that blends seamlessly with many different styles, Benjamin Moore White Dove delivers.

Sherwin-Williams Alabaster vs White Dove: Key Differences

Both shades fall into the warm white category, but here are the subtle distinctions:

Undertones: Sherwin-Williams Alabaster leans creamier, while Benjamin Moore White Dove leans more neutral with a touch of gray.

Mood: Alabaster feels cozy and soft; White Dove feels fresh, balanced, and versatile.

Style Fit: Alabaster is perfect if you’re chasing that farmhouse, transitional, or cozy look. White Dove is better if you want something flexible and classic that works across many styles.

How to Decide

The choice between Sherwin-Williams Alabaster vs Benjamin Moore White Dove comes down to the mood you want to create:

Choose Sherwin-Williams Alabaster if you want a warm, inviting white with a creamy softness.

Choose Benjamin Moore White Dove if you prefer a slightly more neutral white that adapts easily to any design scheme.

Ultimately, the best decision comes from testing paint samples in your own home. Whites can look dramatically different depending on your lighting, flooring, and furniture. Try large swatches of both Sherwin-Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove before making your final choice.