RAL 9011 Graphite Black — Hex, RGB, LRV, and Best US Paint Matches
RAL 9011 Graphite Black hex #1B1F22 · LRV 6. Closest matches at Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Behr, and Valspar.
Color spec
| Hex | #1B1F22 |
| RGB | 27, 31, 34 |
| LRV | ~6 |
| RAL Classic | RAL 9011 |
Also known as / near matches
RAL 9011, known in German as Graphitschwarz, is a profound, cool-toned black. While it stands as a distinct shade, it often draws comparisons to other deep darks like RAL 9005 Jet Black, which is slightly more intense, or RAL 7021 Black Grey, which offers a softer, charcoal interpretation. For designers seeking a Pantone match, a very deep, cool black with minimal saturation would be the closest equivalent, though no exact match typically exists across systems due to differing pigment compositions.
What it looks like in real life
This is a color that quietly commands attention, a true Graphite Black that reads as an inky, grounded presence. In north-facing light, it leans into its cool undertones, presenting as an almost absolute black, absorbing light with profound depth. Its low LRV of 6 means it demands light, transforming shadows into sculptural elements and creating a dramatic, enveloping atmosphere. It’s not a forgiving color for wall imperfections, as its starkness will highlight every nuance of texture and finish.
Closest matches at US paint brands
Closest matches at US paint brands
| Color | Brand | Name | SKU | LRV | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore | Black | 2132-10 | 3 | — | |
| PPG / Glidden | Glidden Onyx Black | GLN-1 | 3 | — | |
| Sherwin-Williams | Inkwell | SW 6992 | 3 | — | |
| Magnolia Home | Coal | JG-040 | 3 | — | |
| Pratt & Lambert | Black Lacquer | 32-2 | 3 | — | |
| Clare | Headspace | Clare 18 | 3 | — | |
| Backdrop | Hocus Pocus | BD-HP | 3 | — | |
| Valspar | Vintage Black | 4011-3 | 3 | — | |
| Dunn-Edwards | Black | DEA187 | 3 | — | |
| Behr | Black | PPU18-20 | 3 | — | |
| Kompozit | Silent Sea | 0515 | 2 | — | |
| Farrow & Ball | Pitch Black | No. 256 | 5 | — |
Benjamin Moore Black (2132-10) and PPG Glidden Onyx Black (GLN-1) are virtually indistinguishable from RAL 9011 Graphite Black, sharing an identical ΔE and very similar LRVs, making them the closest matches. Sherwin-Williams Inkwell (SW 6992) also aligns very closely in depth and cool undertone. The spread of matches generally favors very deep, cool blacks, with Farrow & Ball Pitch Black (No. 256) presenting the most distinct undertone difference, leaning subtly warmer and slightly less intense.
When to use this color
Great for:
- It creates a sophisticated, anchored backdrop for a gallery wall in a bright living room or a dramatic powder bath.
- This deep black is perfect for modern kitchen island cabinetry, providing a strong anchor point in an open-concept space.
- Consider it for exterior window frames or a front door, offering crisp definition and a welcoming, elegant statement.
Tricky in:
- Avoid using this profound black in small, poorly lit rooms, as it can make the space feel compressed and overwhelming.
- This color is demanding on application; imperfections in wall texture or paintwork will be magnified under direct or raking light.
Pairs well with
Pairs well with
Painting tips
- Primer: For a color as deep as Graphite Black (LRV 6), always use a dark gray tinted primer to ensure true color saturation and reduce the number of coats needed.
- Sheen: A matte or flat sheen on walls will absorb light beautifully, enhancing the velvety depth of this profound black, while a satin or semi-gloss on trim offers subtle contrast and durability.
- Coats: Expect to apply at least three coats for full, even coverage of this deep hue, even when starting with a tinted primer.
- Application: To achieve the smoothest finish and minimize the appearance of brush or roller marks under raking light, spraying is the optimal application method for this rich, deep color.