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

PDF download Download Article
Is satin or semi-gloss paint better?
PDF download Download Article

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?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]
    2. Advertisement
Section 2 of 5:

Visual Differences

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/65\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-2-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-2-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/65\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-2-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-2-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]
    • For the smoothest effect, apply multiple thin coats of semi-gloss finishing paint instead of just one thick coat.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-3-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-3-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-3-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-3-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-4-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-4-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1b\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-4-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-4-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-5-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-5-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-5-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-5-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b8\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-6-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-6-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b8\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-6-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-6-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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.
    7. Advertisement
Section 3 of 5:

Uses for Each Paint

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/de\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-9-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-9-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/de\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-9-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-9-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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.
    3. Advertisement
Section 4 of 5:

Durability and Clean-Up

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c4\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c4\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While both satin and semi-gloss are durable, semi-gloss is more damage-resistant to sun, rain, grease, and wind. [8]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/38\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-11-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-11-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/38\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-11-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-11-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    “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]
    3. Advertisement
Section 5 of 5:

Pricing

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/14\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-12-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-12-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/14\/Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-12-Version-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Satin-vs-Semi-Gloss-Step-12-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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]

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      The Best Ways to Thin Acrylic Paint
      DIY Glow-in-the-Dark Paint
      How to
      Make Sage Green Paint
      How to
      Make Your Own Paint
      How to
      Texture Paint with Baking Soda, Silica Sand & More
      The 8 Best Ways to Make Paintbrushes Soft Again
      A Guide to Painting with a Roller Brush
      How to
      Open a Paint Can
      How to
      Make Tan Color Paint
      How to
      Thicken Paint
      How to
      Calculate Amount of Paint to Paint a Room
      How to
      Make a Paintbrush
      How to
      Identify Lead Paint
      How to
      Match Paint Colors
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://homeinspectioninsider.com/satin-vs-semi-gloss-paint/
      2. ↑ https://www.housedigest.com/772195/whats-the-difference-satin-vs-semi-gloss/
      3. ↑ https://eastbay.floorcoveringsinternational.com/articles/satin-vs-semi-gloss-hardwood-finishes/
      4. ↑ https://www.pipsisland.com/satin-or-semigloss-for-kitchen-cabinets/
      5. ↑ https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/interior-designers/a31080349/satin-vs-semi-gloss/
      6. ↑ https://homeinspectioninsider.com/satin-vs-semi-gloss-paint/
      7. ↑ https://painttopics.com/satin-vs-gloss-finish/
      8. ↑ https://www.paintspraypro.com/satin-vs-semi-gloss/
      9. ↑ https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/interior-designers/a31080349/satin-vs-semi-gloss/
      1. ↑ https://homeinspectioninsider.com/satin-vs-semi-gloss-paint/

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 11,604 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement