By John Shearer | Originally published June 12, 2012 | Updated September 2026

I’ve been a painting contractor in Seattle since 1990, and I’ve watched exterior paints change considerably during that time. Benjamin Moore Aura and Sherwin-Williams Emerald are two premium products we regularly consider when repainting homes in the Pacific Northwest.

Both are excellent paints, but they do not feel, apply, or perform exactly the same. In this comparison, I’ll look at them from a working painter’s perspective: application, coverage, finish, durability, and where each product makes the most sense. This isn’t simply a comparison of manufacturer claims—it’s about what matters when the paint is actually being applied to a house.

Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint is known for its exceptional durability and long-lasting color retention. This paint is specially formulated to withstand even the harshest weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for homes located in areas with extreme temperatures and weather patterns. It is also resistant to fading, cracking, peeling, and mildew growth, which means that you can expect it to look great for years to come.

One of the standout features of Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint is its self-priming capability. This means that you do not need to apply a separate primer before painting, which can save you time and money on your painting project. The paint also has excellent coverage, which means that you can achieve a consistent and even finish with fewer coats.

Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint is another popular choice for exterior painting projects. Like Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint, it is known for its durability and long-lasting color retention. It is also resistant to fading, cracking, peeling, and mildew growth, which makes it a good choice for homes in areas with harsh weather conditions.

One of the standout features of Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint is its advanced color technology. This paint is formulated with self-cleaning properties that help to keep the surface clean and free of dirt and debris. It also has a mildew-resistant coating that helps to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the painted surface.

So how do these two paints compare when it comes to performance and ease of use? Let’s take a closer look at some of the key factors that you should consider when choosing between Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint and Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint.

Both Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint and Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint are designed to withstand even the harshest weather conditions. They are both resistant to fading, cracking, peeling, and mildew growth, which means that they can help to protect your home from the elements.

However, Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint has been known to outperform Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint in terms of durability. Many professional painters and DIY enthusiasts report that the Benjamin Moore paint retains its color and finish for longer periods of time than the Sherwin Williams paint.

Both Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint and Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint have excellent coverage and are relatively easy to apply. However, some painters may find that one of the paints is easier to work with than the other.

For example, Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint is self-priming, which means that you do not need to apply a separate primer before painting. This can save you time and money on your painting project. The paint also has excellent coverage, which means that you can achieve a consistent and even finish with fewer coats.

On the other hand, some painters may prefer the consistency and viscosity of Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint. This paint is easy to work with and dries quickly, which can be a real benefit when you are trying to complete a painting project quickly.

Both Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint and Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint come in a wide range of colors and finishes, so you are sure to find a color that matches your home’s style and décor.

However, some painters may prefer the finish of one of the paints over the other. Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint has a smooth, even finish that is ideal for covering imperfections and creating a clean, polished look. Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint has a slightly more textured finish that can help to hide minor flaws and add some depth and dimension to your home’s exterior.

When it comes to choosing a paint, many people are also concerned about the environmental impact of their choice. Both Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint and Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint are low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, which means that they emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air during application and drying.

In addition, both paints come in recyclable containers, which helps to reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of your painting project.

Price is always a consideration when choosing a paint for your home’s exterior. Both Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint and Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint are premium paint options that are priced higher than some other brands on the market.

However, many professional painters and DIY enthusiasts report that the extra cost is worth it for the quality and durability that these paints offer. In addition, the self-priming capability of Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint can help to save money on primer and labor costs, which can offset the higher price of the paint itself.

Overall, both Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint and Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint are excellent choices for your next exterior painting project. They both offer exceptional durability and long-lasting color retention, and are resistant to fading, cracking, peeling, and mildew growth.

If you are looking for a paint that is self-priming and has excellent coverage, Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint may be the right choice for you. If you prefer a paint that has a slightly more textured finish and advanced self-cleaning properties, Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior Paint may be the better option.

Ultimately, the choice between these two paints will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and the specific needs of your painting project. Consulting with a professional painter can also help you to make an informed decision and ensure that your home’s exterior is painted to the highest standards of quality and durability.