Sherwin Williams Infinity vs Showcase: Which Paint Wins?
Choosing the right paint can feel like navigating a maze, especially with so many options available. The decision goes beyond just picking a color; it’s about durability, washability, and overall performance. You’re likely here because you’re considering two popular choices from Sherwin-Williams.
We’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of Sherwin-Williams Infinity and Showcase. Both are popular choices for homeowners looking for quality paint, but they cater to different needs and budgets. Understanding the nuances between these two paints will help you make the best decision for your project, ensuring a beautiful and long-lasting finish.
This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about Sherwin-Williams Infinity vs. Showcase. We’ll examine their key features, compare their performance in various scenarios, and help you determine which paint is the perfect match for your home improvement goals. Get ready to make an informed choice!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Infinity | Showcase |
|---|---|---|
| Paint Type | Acrylic Latex | Acrylic Latex |
| Finish Options | Matte, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss, Gloss | Flat, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss |
| Washability | Excellent | Very Good |
| Durability | High | Good |
| Stain Resistance | Excellent | Very Good |
| Mildew Resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Coverage | Good | Good |
| Application | Brush, Roller, Spray | Brush, Roller, Spray |
| VOC Level | Low | Low |
| Color Selection | Extensive | Extensive |
| Dry Time | Fast | Fast |
| Odor | Low | Low |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Durability & Washability
- Sherwin Williams Infinity: Infinity is known for its exceptional durability and washability, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and homes with children or pets. It offers excellent resistance to stains, scuffs, and fading. However, it can be slightly more expensive than other options.
- Showcase: Showcase provides good durability and washability, suitable for everyday use. It can handle routine cleaning and wiping. It may not be as robust as Infinity in highly demanding environments.
- Winner: Infinity
Color Retention
- Sherwin Williams Infinity: Infinity boasts superior color retention, ensuring colors remain vibrant and true over time. It is formulated to resist fading from UV exposure and general wear. This makes it a great choice for rooms with lots of natural light.
- Showcase: Showcase offers decent color retention, but it may show signs of fading more quickly than Infinity, especially in direct sunlight. Regular cleaning and care can help prolong its color lifespan.
- Winner: Infinity
Coverage & Application
- Sherwin Williams Infinity: Infinity generally provides excellent coverage, often requiring fewer coats for a smooth, even finish. Its application is typically easy, minimizing brush and roller marks. However, it may require proper surface preparation.
- Showcase: Showcase provides good coverage, but may require more coats than Infinity, particularly over darker colors or if applied over a previously painted surface. Application is relatively straightforward.
- Winner: Infinity
Odor & VOCs
- Sherwin Williams Infinity: Infinity is low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds), meaning it emits fewer harmful chemicals and has a milder odor. This makes it a healthier choice for indoor air quality. The odor dissipates relatively quickly.
- Showcase: Showcase is also low-VOC, offering a similar benefit in terms of air quality and odor. It is a good choice for those concerned about environmental impact.
- Winner: Tie
Sheen Options
- Sherwin Williams Infinity: Infinity offers a range of sheen options, including matte, satin, and semi-gloss, allowing for customization based on desired aesthetic and functionality. This versatility is a major advantage.
- Showcase: Showcase also provides multiple sheen choices, although the selection may be slightly more limited than Infinity. This allows for flexibility in different rooms.
- Winner: Tie
Price Point
- Sherwin Williams Infinity: Infinity typically comes at a higher price point than Showcase, reflecting its premium qualities and advanced formulations. This may be a consideration for budget-conscious projects.
- Showcase: Showcase is generally more affordable than Infinity, making it a cost-effective option for larger projects or those with a limited budget.
- Winner: Showcase
Ease of Cleaning
- Sherwin Williams Infinity: Infinity excels in ease of cleaning, with its durable finish allowing for easy removal of stains and marks. Its washability makes it a practical choice for high-use areas.
- Showcase: Showcase is easy to clean, but may require more effort to remove stubborn stains compared to Infinity. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential.
- Winner: Infinity
Available Colors
- Sherwin Williams Infinity: Infinity is offered in a wide spectrum of colors, including Sherwin-Williams’ extensive color palettes. This provides a broad range of options to match any design aesthetic.
- Showcase: Showcase is available in a variety of colors, but the selection may be slightly more limited than Infinity. However, it still offers a good range of popular colors.
- Winner: Infinity
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Washability | Infinity |
| Stain Resistance | Infinity |
| Mildew Resistance | Infinity |
| Finish Options | Infinity |
| Durability | Infinity |
What They Have in Common:
- Paint Type: Both Infinity and Showcase are acrylic latex paints, offering a balance of durability and ease of application. This type of paint is a popular choice for interior walls and ceilings.
- Durability: Both paints offer good durability, allowing them to withstand the wear and tear of daily life. This helps maintain the appearance of the painted surface over time.
- Coverage: Both paints provide good coverage, meaning they can effectively hide existing wall colors and imperfections with fewer coats. This makes the painting process more efficient.
- Washability: Both paints are washable, allowing for easy cleaning of marks and stains. This is especially useful in high-traffic areas.
- Application Methods: Both paints can be applied using a brush, roller, or spray, offering flexibility based on project needs and preferences. This makes them versatile.
Sherwin Williams Infinity Vs Showcase Buying Guide
Durability and Washability
When considering paint, durability and washability are crucial factors. Sherwin-Williams Infinity is renowned for its exceptional durability, resisting stains and scuffs with ease. This makes it ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms, where surfaces are frequently exposed to wear and tear. Showcase, while also a quality paint, may not offer quite the same level of resilience. Its washability is good but might require more gentle cleaning methods compared to Infinity. Consider the specific demands of your space when choosing between these two paints.
For areas where frequent cleaning is anticipated, Infinity is the superior choice. Its ability to withstand scrubbing without losing its color or sheen provides a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish. Showcase can still be a viable option for less demanding rooms or surfaces, where the risk of heavy soiling is lower.
Coverage and Application
Efficient coverage and ease of application can significantly impact your painting experience. Sherwin-Williams Infinity typically provides excellent coverage, often requiring fewer coats to achieve a uniform finish. This can save you both time and paint. Showcase also offers good coverage, but may sometimes necessitate an extra coat, particularly when transitioning from a darker to a lighter color. Proper surface preparation is paramount for both paints to ensure optimal adhesion and coverage.
The application characteristics, such as how smoothly the paint flows and levels, are also important. Infinity is known for its smooth application, minimizing brush and roller marks. Showcase is generally easy to apply as well, though the results might vary slightly depending on the specific sheen chosen. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application techniques and drying times.
Color Selection and Retention
The availability and longevity of color are essential aspects to consider. Sherwin-Williams Infinity boasts a vast color palette, allowing you to find the perfect shade for any space. It also excels in color retention, maintaining its vibrancy over time, even with exposure to sunlight and regular cleaning. Showcase also offers a wide array of colors, but its color retention might be slightly less durable, potentially showing some fading over the years, particularly in direct sunlight.
Consider the color’s long-term performance when making your decision. Infinity’s superior fade resistance is a significant advantage, ensuring your chosen color remains true for years. The sheen of the paint can also influence how the color appears and the paint’s overall durability. Both products offer a variety of sheens, from flat to gloss, so choose carefully depending on your preferences.
Environmental Considerations
Environmental responsibility is becoming increasingly important in paint selection. Sherwin-Williams Infinity is formulated with low VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), making it a healthier choice for both your home and the environment. Low VOC paints minimize the release of harmful chemicals into the air, reducing odors and potential health risks. Showcase also offers low VOC options, though the specific levels might vary depending on the particular product line.
Look for paints that meet or exceed environmental standards. Consider factors like sustainability and the manufacturing practices of the paint companies. Both Infinity and Showcase offer environmentally conscious choices, but it’s important to review the product specifications for the most up-to-date information on VOC levels and other environmental considerations before making a choice.
Cost and Value
Budget is often a key factor in any painting project. Sherwin-Williams Infinity typically comes at a higher price point than Showcase, reflecting its superior performance characteristics. While the initial investment might be greater, the longevity and durability of Infinity can offer better value in the long run by reducing the frequency of repainting. Showcase provides a more budget-friendly option, making it attractive for larger projects or those with tighter budgets.
Evaluate the overall value proposition, considering both the upfront cost and the long-term benefits. Factor in the cost of labor, if you’re hiring professionals, and the potential savings from reduced maintenance and repainting. Consider the overall cost of the project and how each paint balances its price with its performance.
Sheen and Finish Options
The sheen of the paint impacts both the aesthetics and the performance of the finish. Sherwin-Williams Infinity offers a range of sheen options, from flat to gloss, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your space. Different sheens provide varying degrees of light reflection, durability, and washability. Showcase also provides an array of sheen choices, making it versatile for different rooms and surfaces.
Consider the room’s function and the desired aesthetic when selecting a sheen. Flat sheens are often used in bedrooms and living rooms to minimize imperfections, while higher sheens are better suited for kitchens and bathrooms where moisture and cleaning are common. The chosen sheen can impact the paint’s durability, with glossier finishes generally being more resilient to wear and tear.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy sherwin williams infinity If…
- You prioritize the highest levels of washability and stain resistance.
- You need a paint with excellent mildew resistance, particularly in humid environments.
- You want the broadest range of finish options, including gloss.
- You are willing to invest in a premium paint for superior performance.
Buy showcase If…
- You are looking for a paint with good durability and washability at a more affordable price point.
- You need a paint that offers good stain resistance for your home.
- You prefer a paint with a simpler finish selection.
- You are looking for a reliable paint option for general use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between Infinity and Showcase?
The primary difference lies in durability and performance. Infinity is known for its superior stain resistance, washability, and long-term color retention, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Showcase provides a good balance of quality and affordability, suitable for various projects but may not match Infinity’s top-tier performance.
Which paint is better for bathrooms and kitchens?
Infinity is generally the better choice for bathrooms and kitchens due to its superior moisture resistance, washability, and resistance to mildew. Its ability to withstand frequent cleaning makes it a practical option for these high-humidity and high-use spaces. Showcase can be used if moisture is not a concern.
Does Infinity have a wider color selection than Showcase?
Both paints offer a wide range of colors. Sherwin-Williams Infinity does offer an extensive color palette, providing more customization options to find the perfect shade for any project. Showcase also provides a vast array of colors but may not match Infinity’s extensive color selection. Both brands have a good amount of colors.
Is Infinity more expensive than Showcase?
Yes, Sherwin-Williams Infinity is typically more expensive than Showcase. This difference reflects its premium quality, durability, and advanced features. The higher price point is often justified by its longer lifespan and superior performance. However, Showcase offers a good value option.
Which paint is easier to apply?
Both paints are designed for relatively easy application. Infinity and Showcase are known for their smooth flow and good leveling properties, minimizing brush and roller marks. However, the exact application experience can depend on factors like surface preparation and the specific sheen chosen.
Are both paints low in VOCs?
Yes, both Sherwin-Williams Infinity and Showcase offer low-VOC options. This means they release fewer harmful chemicals into the air, making them a healthier choice for your home and the environment. Always check the product label for specific VOC levels. Low VOC paints are better for health.
Which paint is better for exterior use?
While both brands offer paints for exterior use, it’s essential to choose the appropriate exterior-grade product from each line. Infinity exterior paints are known for durability and weather resistance. Showcase also has exterior paints. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for exterior applications.
Final Verdict
Sherwin-Williams Infinity emerges as the superior choice due to its exceptional durability, washability, and color retention, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. While Showcase offers a good balance of quality and affordability, Infinity’s advanced formula provides a longer-lasting, more resilient finish. Ultimately, the best choice depends on specific needs and budget.
Winner: Sherwin Williams Infinity