The Difference between Satin and Semi-Gloss Paint (And Which One You Should Choose)

Is satin or semi-gloss paint better?

Co-authored by Finn Kobler Reviewed by Barry Zakar

Last Updated: November 4, 2023 References

So you’re painting, and you want something that’s not too shiny but still makes your room or surface feel friendly and inviting. Both satin and semi-gloss are great choices. They’re both affordable, middle-of-the-road in sheen, and suitable for a wide array of spaces. However, their subtle differences may make it hard to differentiate one from the other. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll talk you through all the differences between satin and semi-gloss paint to make it clear which one you should purchase and when.

Section 1 of 5:

What’s the difference between satin and semi-gloss paint?

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Light reflects off of semi-gloss easier than satin, since satin has a flatter finish. This makes semi-gloss a more appropriate paint for the fine trimmings of your house: railings, cabinets, crown molding, etc. Satin, on the other hand, with its slightly more matte appearance, is better for large surfaces with more noticeable flaws: walls, floors, counters. Semi-gloss makes darker spaces feel warmer. Satin mutes areas where glare and brightness may feel too intense.^{[1]
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Section 2 of 5:

Visual Differences

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Semi-gloss is shinier. Semi-gloss is made with a higher percentage of gloss-mixture, making it smoother and more lustrous. This bright sheen helps spaces feel more formal.^{[2]
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- For the smoothest effect, apply multiple thin coats of semi-gloss finishing paint instead of just one thick coat.
Satin paint contains more flattening paste which means it has a slightly duller appearance than semi-gloss. This soft, more pearl-like luster gives it a more chic and modern feel.^{[3]
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Because semi-gloss is brighter, it highlights surfaces more acutely. If you have a gorgeous hardwood floor or ornate cabinet you really want to show off, semi-gloss paint will help it stand out.^{[4]
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If your walls or furniture have a bit of natural wear-and-tear that you don’t want people to see, satin’s more toned-down polish helps hide these scuffs and bruises.^{[5]
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Semi-gloss’ high radiance attracts large amounts of light. This can give surfaces a gorgeous glow, but means it should be avoided in spaces that attract lots of glare.^{[6]
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Because satin’s sheen is less obvious, it’s a more easily-applicable coat for different surfaces. It can add a good flair to ceilings and hallways without capturing the same amount of light as semi-gloss.

Section 3 of 5:

Uses for Each Paint

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Satin is a great paint for rooms that people go in and out of often. Living rooms, dining rooms and hallways experience a lot of regular foot traffic and are more likely to get dirty. Satin’s ability to hide marks makes it a great choice for these spaces. It also works great for bedrooms where semi-gloss’ high sheen may feel overwhelming.^{[7]
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Semi-gloss is good for areas with lots of moisture. Semi-gloss paint is exceptionally good at combating mildew and mold. Laundry rooms, bathrooms, basements, and other areas that get damp easily will benefit tremendously from a semi-gloss finish.
- In addition to its functional, moisture-combating purposes, semi-gloss’ natural gleam gives it an elegance that can upgrade any room or object.

Section 4 of 5:

Durability and Clean-Up

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While both satin and semi-gloss are durable, semi-gloss is more damage-resistant to sun, rain, grease, and wind.^{[8]
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“The higher the sheen, the easier to clean!” Semi-gloss is easily washable and more resistant to stains. Surfaces that get dirty easily like playrooms and pet-friendly spaces will be easily protected by a semi-gloss finish.^{[9]
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Section 5 of 5:

Pricing

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Paints with radiant sheens usually cost roughly 2-3 dollars more per gallon. This means that, while the cost difference isn't major, satin is the less-expensive of the two.^{[10]
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