Eggshell vs. Satin Paint: How to Use Satin and Eggshell Finishes

An eggshell paint finish has a slightly higher sheen than matte or flat finish paint, but it is not as glossy as satin paint. The low reflectivity of an eggshell finish makes it great for hiding brushstrokes, small dents in the drywall, and blemishes on painted walls. Compared to flat paint (paint with no reflectivity), eggshell paints are much easier to clean. They may also bring out the pigments in the paint color more than flat paint. If you find yourself noticing brushstrokes and other application imperfections on your painted walls, consider repainting matte finish paint with eggshell paint.

A satin paint finish is slightly higher-gloss than eggshell while being less reflective than semi-gloss paint or high-gloss paint. A satin finish delivers higher durability than an eggshell finish. It's scuff-resistant, making it a great choice for painting molding and walls in high-traffic areas such as living rooms, family rooms, dining rooms, kids’ rooms, and entryways. Its medium-luster finish is perfect for painting woodwork and kitchen cabinets.

With so many different paint sheens available, it can be challenging to find the right sheen for your project, but you don't need to be a professional painter to complete a DIY paint project.

• Sheen: Eggshell paint has a lower sheen than satin paint—so low it has almost no reflectivity. The lower-gloss finish of eggshell paint makes it better at hiding imperfections like uneven brushstrokes on the surface of your walls. The higher-gloss finish of satin paint makes it the best paint for highlighting the definition of decorative surfaces such as cabinets and moldings.
• Durability: Eggshell paint is a popular middle ground, offering greater durability than matte paint but not as much as satin paint. Higher sheen paint is better at resisting stains, mildew, and scuffs, making it ideal for high-moisture areas like bathrooms. High-gloss paint offers the most durability, but its high reflectivity can make some rooms feel unwelcoming. For paint that will provide decent durability without the reflectivity of high-gloss finishes, choose a satin finish.
• Cost: Eggshell paint is more cost-effective than satin paint. Homeowners looking to save at the paint store or repaint large areas are better off going with an eggshell finish.

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