RAL 9004 Signal Black — Hex, RGB, LRV, and Best US Paint Matches
RAL 9004 Signal Black hex #1F2225 · LRV 5. Closest matches at Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Behr, and Valspar.
Color spec
| Hex | #1F2225 |
| RGB | 31, 34, 37 |
| LRV | ~5 |
| RAL Classic | RAL 9004 |
Also known as / near matches
RAL 9004, known in German as Signalschwarz, is a profound, almost absolute black. While not a direct match, it shares a similar depth with its close RAL relative, 9005 Jet Black, which can be easily confused if not observed carefully. In the world of color systems, finding a single, perfect Pantone equivalent for such a fundamental black is less about a precise code and more about selecting a very deep, neutral black, with many options existing across the Pantone Graphics and Fashion, Home + Interiors libraries.
What it looks like in real life
This is a color that doesn’t just sit on a surface; it creates a profound sense of depth and enclosure, almost pulling the light in. RAL 9004 Signal Black is a deep, true black, possessing an inherent neutrality that allows it to anchor a space without introducing distracting undertones. In north-facing light, it maintains its intensity, reading as a sophisticated, unwavering void that can make surrounding colors feel crisper and more vibrant. When bathed in the warmer glow of south-facing light or the golden hues of late afternoon, it doesn’t lighten significantly, but rather gains a quiet richness, a subtle velvetiness that softens its edge without diminishing its commanding presence. With an LRV of 5, this color is decidedly demanding of light, absorbing rather than reflecting it. This makes it an ideal choice for creating intimate, cocooning spaces or for establishing dramatic contrast against lighter elements. It never reads warm or cool in any explicit way, instead serving as a grounding force. The effect is one of quiet drama, where the color drapes a room in a luxurious, sophisticated embrace, making it perfect for a library, a media room, or a striking accent wall that truly recedes.
Closest matches at US paint brands
Closest matches at US paint brands
| Color | Brand | Name | SKU | LRV | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sherwin-Williams | Caviar | SW 6990 | 3 | — | |
| PPG / Glidden | Black Magic | PPG1001-7 | 4 | — | |
| Magnolia Home | Coal | JG-040 | 3 | — | |
| Pratt & Lambert | Black Lacquer | 32-2 | 3 | — | |
| Clare | Headspace | Clare 18 | 3 | — | |
| Backdrop | Hocus Pocus | BD-HP | 3 | — | |
| Benjamin Moore | Black | 2132-10 | 3 | — | |
| Valspar | Vintage Black | 4011-3 | 3 | — | |
| Dunn-Edwards | Black | DEA187 | 3 | — | |
| Kompozit | Silent Sea | 0515 | 2 | — | |
| Behr | Black | PPU18-20 | 3 | — | |
| Farrow & Ball | Pitch Black | No. 256 | 5 | — |
PPG / Glidden Black Magic and Magnolia Home Coal are virtually identical matches by ΔE, showing an impressive alignment with RAL 9004. Farrow & Ball Pitch Black stands out for its identical LRV of 5, though its subtle undertone might lean slightly warmer compared to the near-perfect neutrality of the closest ΔE matches. The overall spread of these deep black matches tends to be very neutral, with slight variations in saturation or a whisper of warmth (like Sherwin-Williams Caviar or Farrow & Ball Pitch Black) or coolness (like Benjamin Moore Black).
When to use this color
Great for:
- It creates a dramatic, intimate atmosphere in a dedicated media room or a cozy reading nook.
- Use it on interior doors or window frames to create sharp, sophisticated contrast against lighter walls.
- It grounds a large, bright space, bringing a sense of architectural weight and modern elegance.
Tricky in:
- In rooms lacking sufficient natural or artificial light, it can feel too oppressive and make the space seem smaller.
- On textured surfaces, its low LRV will accentuate every imperfection and uneven application, demanding meticulous prep and technique.
Pairs well with
Pairs well with
Painting tips
- Primer: Given its deep LRV of 5, a dark gray-tinted primer is essential to ensure true color development and optimal coverage.
- Sheen: For walls, a matte finish will absorb light and enhance the color’s deep, velvety character, while a satin or semi-gloss on trim or cabinetry will provide a sophisticated contrast and practical durability.
- Coats: Expect at least two to three coats over a properly tinted primer for full, uniform opacity and depth, especially when covering a lighter existing color.
- Application: For such a deep and unforgiving color, spraying is highly recommended to achieve the smoothest, most even finish, as brush strokes and roller marks will be quite apparent under raking light.