Alabaster vs White Dove

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If you’ve ever stood in the paint aisle staring blankly at fifty shades of white, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Picking the perfect white paint color can feel like trying to choose your favorite child (if your children were all named “White Something”).

Two of the biggest contenders in the “soft, creamy white” category are Sherwin Williams Alabaster (SW 7008) and Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17). Both are designer favorites, both look amazing in almost any space, and both have legions of loyal fans. So how do you choose between them?

Let’s break it down—undertones, lighting, use cases, and all the juicy color details that’ll help you make the right call for your home.

Meet the Contenders

The Undertone Showdown

Paint Color	Undertones	Warmth Level	LRV	Best Lighting
Alabaster	Beige, soft yellow	Warm	82	South-facing or neutral light
White Dove	Warm gray, creamy undertones	Slightly warm	85	All lighting types, especially balanced or north-facing

Here’s the thing:

• Alabaster leans warmer—it gives off that soft glow, perfect for cozy spaces.
• White Dove has that balanced warmth—it’s cleaner, but still not cold.

If you put them side by side, Alabaster will look a bit creamier and richer, while White Dove will look softer and a touch more muted.

Where I’d Use Them

Alabaster:

• Living rooms where you want warmth and comfort
• Bedrooms for a creamy, relaxing vibe
• Farmhouse-style homes (yes, this color and shiplap are basically soulmates)
• Exteriors with warm-toned stone or brick

White Dove:

• Trim and cabinetry—it’s one of the best whites for woodwork
• Kitchens and bathrooms (especially if you want a clean but not stark look)
• Open-concept spaces where lighting varies room to room
• Modern or transitional homes that need a soft white backbone

Lighting Matters (A Lotta bit)

Lighting can make or break any paint color. It’s just a fact and can be completely maddening. That said, here’s some insight into how the colors might look.

• In south-facing rooms: Alabaster’s warmth shines, while White Dove stays crisp and balanced.
• In north-facing rooms: Alabaster may look more buttery; White Dove will look soft and neutral (without yellowing).
• In artificial light: Both look great, but Alabaster can lean more “creamy candlelight,” while White Dove stays cooler and more consistent.

Always sample both on your wall before committing. (And yes, I’ll shamelessly plug my favorite paint sample company—Samplize—because their peel-and-stick samples make this process painless. You can thank me later.)

Use Samplize Peel & Stick Paint Samples for a mess-free way to test paint colors!

My Expert Take

If you love warm, cozy whites → Go with Alabaster.
If you love soft, elegant neutrals → Go with White Dove.

You can’t go wrong with either. Think of it this way:

• Alabaster is the comfy sweater you wear all fall.
• White Dove is the crisp white blouse that goes with everything.

Both beautiful, both timeless—but they give slightly different vibes.

FAQs

Which one looks whiter—Alabaster or White Dove?

White Dove looks a bit whiter and cleaner. Alabaster is creamier and has a more noticeable warmth.

Can I use Alabaster and White Dove together?

Technically yes, but they’re close enough that they might clash subtly. If you must pair them, use Alabaster on walls and White Dove on trim—it’ll give a touch of dimension without feeling mismatched.

Which white is better for trim?

White Dove wins this one for me—it’s slightly crisper, which makes trim and doors pop against colored walls.

Which one is better for exteriors?

Both are excellent, but Alabaster tends to hold its warmth better outdoors, while White Dove can look a little cooler in full sun.

WAIT! Before you start painting make sure you have the best painting tools to make your job easier. It will take hours off your painting time!

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove are both fantastic, tried-and-true whites that have earned their cult followings for good reason.

If you want that soft, classic white that still feels inviting, White Dove might just be your match.
If you crave warmth, charm, and a bit of that “HGTV farmhouse” feel—Alabaster’s got your back.

And remember—lighting, decor, and your personal style play huge roles in how these colors look. Always test before you invest.

Shop the samples:
Get Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove peel-and-stick samples from Samplize — your walls will thank you.

🎨 Related Posts You’ll Love

If you’re diving deep into the world of whites and neutrals, you’ll want to check out these next:

• Sherwin Williams Repose Gray vs Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter – Another epic gray paint face-off. Find out which one reigns supreme in the “greige” category.
• Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray vs Sherwin Williams Modern Gray – Two of Sherwin Williams’ most loved neutrals go head-to-head. Perfect if you’re debating between cozy and clean.
• The 10 Best Beige PPG Paint Colors – If you’re craving something warmer than white but not full-on tan, these beige tones are perfection.
• PPG Knight’s Armor Paint Color Review – A deep, dramatic gray that’s bold yet timeless. A great read if you’re thinking of adding contrast to all those creamy whites.
• Best Paint Colors for Bedrooms – Soft, soothing hues (including some gorgeous grays and beiges) that make your bedroom feel like a retreat.