Best Interior Paint in 2026: Top 8 Reviewed
We tested 15 interior paints to find the best options for every budget. Here are our top picks for coverage, durability, and finish quality.
How We Tested
We applied each paint to identical drywall panels, evaluating coverage (one-coat vs two-coat), finish smoothness, dry time, odor level, washability after curing, and color accuracy. Each paint was tested in both eggshell and semi-gloss finishes.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Benjamin Moore Regal Select
The gold standard for interior paint. Exceptional coverage, beautiful finish, and outstanding durability. One coat usually does the job on same-color touch-ups.
Benjamin Moore Regal Select Interior
Regal Select has been a professional painter's favorite for decades. Its proprietary resin technology provides a thick, smooth application that levels beautifully.
Best for: Anyone willing to invest in the best
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Best Value: Behr Premium Plus
Outstanding performance at a fraction of the price. Available at every Home Depot, Behr Premium Plus delivers solid coverage and good durability.
Behr Premium Plus Interior Paint
Behr's workhorse paint delivers reliable results at a price that makes it easy to tackle multiple rooms without breaking the bank.
Best for: Budget-conscious painters who want good quality
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Best Premium: Sherwin-Williams Emerald
If money is no object, Emerald is exceptional. Its advanced resin technology creates a finish that's nearly indistinguishable from a professional spray job when rolled properly.
Sherwin-Williams Emerald Interior
Best for: High-end projects and high-traffic areas
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Best for Beginners: PPG Diamond
Very forgiving to apply, excellent self-leveling, and easy cleanup. PPG Diamond is great for first-time painters.
PPG Diamond Interior Paint
Best for: First-time painters and easy projects
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Best Paint & Primer: Behr Ultra
The best one-step paint and primer we tested. Saves time by eliminating the separate priming step on most surfaces.
Behr Ultra Interior Paint & Primer
Best for: Covering existing colors without separate primer
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Quick Comparison
| Paint | Price | Coverage | Durability | Our Rating | |-------|-------|----------|------------|------------| | BM Regal Select | $$$ | Excellent | Excellent | 4.9/5 | | SW Emerald | $$$$ | Excellent | Excellent | 4.8/5 | | Behr Premium Plus | $ | Good | Good | 4.5/5 | | Behr Ultra | $$ | Very Good | Very Good | 4.5/5 | | PPG Diamond | $$ | Good | Good | 4.4/5 |
Our Verdict
For most people, Behr Premium Plus is the best choice. It offers great performance at an unbeatable price. If you want the absolute best finish and are willing to pay for it, Benjamin Moore Regal Select is worth every penny.
FAQ
Is expensive paint really worth it? Yes, for rooms you'll see every day. Premium paints cover better (fewer coats = less time), last longer (fewer repaints), and look better. For a guest room or closet, budget paint is fine.
Should I buy paint online or in-store? In-store. Custom color mixing is done on the spot, and you can see actual color swatches. Most paint stores also offer expert advice.
How much paint do I need? Use our Paint Calculator for an exact estimate based on your room dimensions.
Professional Painting Experts
The PaintLikePro editorial team brings together experienced painters, interior designers, and home improvement experts to deliver reliable, tested painting advice.