Behr Dynasty vs. Ultra: Which Paint Reigns Supreme?
Tackling a painting project can feel overwhelming, but choosing the right paint shouldn’t be. With so many options available, it’s easy to get lost in the details. Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you make the best choice for your next home improvement endeavor.
We’re putting two popular contenders from Behr to the test: Behr Dynasty and Behr Ultra. Both paints promise exceptional results, but they cater to different needs and budgets. Understanding their key differences will empower you to choose the perfect paint for your specific project and achieve a flawless finish.
This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about Behr Dynasty vs. Ultra. We’ll explore their features, performance, and value, helping you make an informed decision and transform your space with confidence. Get ready to discover which paint comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Behr Dynasty | Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage Area | Large | Large |
| Durability | High | Very High |
| Washability | Good | Excellent |
| Color Selection | Wide | Extensive |
| Application Method | Brush, Roller, Spray | Brush, Roller, Spray |
| Sheen Options | Matte, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss | Matte, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss, Gloss |
| VOC Level | Low | Ultra-Low |
| Stain Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Fade Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Scrubbability | Good | Excellent |
| Dry Time | Moderate | Moderate |
| Mildew Resistance | Good | Excellent |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Durability & Washability
- Behr Dynasty: Boasts exceptional durability and washability, designed to withstand scrubbing and cleaning without significant wear or color loss. It’s a premium paint, but can be pricier.
- Ultra: Offers good washability and durability, suitable for high-traffic areas. This is a more budget-friendly option, but may not be as resilient as Dynasty.
- Winner: Dynasty
Stain Resistance
- Behr Dynasty: Provides excellent stain resistance, making it easier to remove common household stains. Its stain-fighting capabilities are a major selling point.
- Ultra: Offers decent stain resistance, but may require more effort to remove stubborn stains.
- Winner: Dynasty
Scrubbability
- Behr Dynasty: Exhibits superior scrubbability, allowing for frequent and vigorous cleaning without damaging the paint film.
- Ultra: Can be scrubbed, but may show signs of wear and tear more quickly than Dynasty.
- Winner: Dynasty
Coverage
- Behr Dynasty: Generally provides excellent coverage, often requiring fewer coats for a uniform finish.
- Ultra: Offers good coverage, but may require more coats, especially when covering darker colors.
- Winner: Dynasty
Color Retention
- Behr Dynasty: Exceptional color retention, resists fading and maintains its original color over time.
- Ultra: Shows good color retention, but may fade slightly more quickly than Dynasty under direct sunlight.
- Winner: Dynasty
Application & Leveling
- Behr Dynasty: Known for its smooth application and excellent leveling properties, resulting in a professional-looking finish.
- Ultra: Applies reasonably well, but may not level as smoothly as Dynasty, potentially showing brushstrokes or roller marks.
- Winner: Dynasty
Price
- Behr Dynasty: Typically more expensive due to its premium features and high-quality ingredients.
- Ultra: More affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for larger projects.
- Winner: Ultra
Available Finishes
- Behr Dynasty: Available in a wide range of finishes, including matte, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss, offering flexibility for different applications.
- Ultra: Available in various finishes, but the selection may be slightly less extensive compared to Dynasty.
- Winner: Dynasty
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Durability | Ultra |
| Washability | Ultra |
| Color Selection | Behr Dynasty |
| Stain Resistance | Ultra |
| Fade Resistance | Ultra |
| VOC Level | Ultra |
| Mildew Resistance | Ultra |
What They Have in Common:
- Coverage Area: Both paints are designed to cover large areas effectively, suitable for both interior and exterior projects.
- Application Methods: Both can be applied using a brush, roller, or spray, offering flexibility based on your project needs.
- Sheen Options: Both offer a variety of sheen options, including matte, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss, allowing you to choose the finish that best suits your aesthetic preferences.
- Washability: Both paints are designed to be washable, making them easy to clean and maintain, extending their lifespan.
- Durability: Both paints offer good durability, resisting wear and tear in high-traffic areas.
Behr Dynasty Vs Ultra Buying Guide
Durability and Washability
Behr Dynasty is renowned for its exceptional durability and washability, making it a top choice for high-traffic areas and homes with children or pets. Its advanced formula creates a tough, stain-resistant surface that can withstand frequent cleaning without fading or damage. This is a significant advantage over many other paints. Ultra, while also offering good durability, may not quite match Dynasty’s resilience to scrubbing and wear. Consider the expected level of abuse the painted surface will endure when making your choice.
Color Retention and Fade Resistance
Both Behr Dynasty and Ultra provide excellent color retention, but Dynasty often edges out Ultra in terms of long-term fade resistance. Dynasty’s built-in technology helps to lock in color pigments, ensuring that your paint job looks vibrant and fresh for years to come. Ultra also resists fading, but may show subtle signs of wear after extended exposure to sunlight or harsh cleaning. Evaluate the level of sun exposure your project will receive to determine the best option for your needs.
Coverage and Application
Behr Dynasty generally offers superior coverage with fewer coats required, leading to less paint needed and faster project completion. It often provides excellent hide, even over darker existing colors. Ultra also offers good coverage, but the application might require an extra coat in some situations, particularly when dealing with bold or saturated colors. Consider the type of surface and the existing color when estimating the amount of paint and the number of coats required.
Stain Resistance and Scrubbability
Dynasty excels at stain resistance, making it an ideal choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas prone to spills and splatters. Its surface is highly scrubbable, allowing you to easily wipe away marks and grime without damaging the paint film. Ultra also offers stain resistance, but may not be as forgiving when dealing with tough stains. Evaluate the potential for staining in the area you are painting when choosing between the two options.
Price and Value
Behr Dynasty is typically priced higher than Ultra, reflecting its premium features and performance. However, Dynasty’s superior durability and long-term performance can translate to greater value over time, as it may require fewer repaints. Ultra provides excellent value for its price, offering a balance of performance and affordability. Consider your budget and the long-term cost of ownership when evaluating these two products.
Environmental Considerations
Both Behr Dynasty and Ultra are low-VOC paints, meaning they emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air, making them a safer choice for your home and the environment. Behr is committed to sustainable practices in their paint manufacturing. While both are environmentally conscious, you may want to check their specific certifications and product details if you have strict environmental requirements. Consider the environmental impact when purchasing paint.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Behr Dynasty If…
- You are looking for a paint with a wide range of color options.
- You want a balance of performance and value.
- You need a paint that offers good stain resistance.
Buy Ultra If…
- You prioritize the highest levels of stain resistance and scrubbability.
- You want the best possible durability and longevity for your paint job.
- You are looking for a paint with superior mildew resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between Behr Dynasty and Ultra?
The main difference lies in durability and washability. Dynasty is designed for superior stain resistance and scrubbing, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Ultra is a good quality paint, but Dynasty offers enhanced performance in these critical areas. Dynasty also often features better color retention in the long term, and generally requires fewer coats.
Which paint is better for kitchens and bathrooms?
Behr Dynasty is the better choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to its superior stain resistance and scrubbability. It’s designed to withstand moisture, spills, and frequent cleaning, which are common in these areas. Ultra is also suitable, but may not hold up as well under the same conditions. Dynasty is the better long-term choice.
Which paint offers better coverage?
Behr Dynasty typically offers better coverage, often requiring fewer coats to achieve a uniform finish. This can save time and paint. Ultra also provides good coverage, but you might need an extra coat, especially when painting over darker colors. Always refer to the product specifications for exact coverage details.
Is Behr Dynasty more expensive than Ultra?
Yes, Behr Dynasty is generally more expensive than Ultra due to its premium features and superior performance. However, the added cost can be justified by its long-term durability and resistance to wear and tear, potentially saving you money on future repainting. Ultra offers a great value for its price point.
Are both paints low-VOC?
Yes, both Behr Dynasty and Ultra are low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints. This means they emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air, making them safer for your home and the environment. Always ensure proper ventilation during the painting process, regardless of the paint type.
Which paint is best for exterior use?
Neither Dynasty nor Ultra are specifically designed for exterior use. Behr offers dedicated exterior paint lines that are formulated to withstand the elements, including UV exposure, rain, and temperature fluctuations. Check Behr’s exterior paint products for outdoor projects.
How do I choose between the two paints?
Consider the area you are painting, your budget, and the level of durability you need. For high-traffic areas, kitchens, and bathrooms, Dynasty is the superior choice. If you are on a tighter budget or need a general-purpose paint, Ultra is an excellent option. For best results, consider your specific project details.
Final Verdict
Behr Dynasty demonstrates superior durability, washability, and stain resistance, making it the top choice for demanding environments. While Ultra offers excellent value and performance, Dynasty’s advanced formula provides a longer-lasting, more resilient finish. The enhanced coverage and fade resistance of Dynasty solidify its position as the premium option.
Winner: Behr Dynasty