Edgecomb Gray BM HC-173

Edgecomb Gray LRV and undertone

Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray (HC-173) has an LRV of 63.09, placing it in the light-depth range with moderate-to-high light reflectance. Light reflectance value measures how much visible light a color reflects on a scale from 0 to 100. At this level, Edgecomb Gray can provide more color definition than a high-LRV white while still reflecting a considerable amount of light. Its color family is greige, a category between gray and beige.

The calculated Lab undertone is warm yellow. An undertone is the underlying color that influences how a paint reads beside other finishes. In a greige, this warmth can become more apparent next to cooler grays or crisp whites. North-facing light may emphasize cooler contrasts, while southern daylight can make warm undertones more noticeable. Check a sample against flooring, counters, and trim because these neighboring surfaces can change the perceived balance of gray and beige.

Edgecomb Gray in other brands

Behr Aged Beige (PPU7-09) has an LRV of 63.0 and a ΔE of 1.3, making it a very close color match. Valspar Warm Putty (6006-1A) has an LRV of 64.8 and a ΔE of 1.6, also indicating a very close match. PPG Antique White (PPG1024-2) has a ΔE of 1.7, but its LRV of 72.0 means it reflects substantially more light.

Behr Toasty Gray (N320-2) measures ΔE 2.1, while Sherwin-Williams Useful Gray (SW 7050) and Sherwin-Williams Canvas Tan (SW 7531) each measure ΔE 2.3. These are close matches, but differences should remain visible when samples sit side by side. A ΔE below 1 means near-identical, 1 to 2 means very close, 2 to 4 means close but visibly different, and above 4 means only similar. Actual appearance also depends on lighting and finish.

Lighter and darker Benjamin Moore alternatives

Benjamin Moore Pale Oak (OC-20) has an LRV of 68.64, making it lighter than Edgecomb Gray. Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist (OC-27) has an LRV of 65.53 and provides a smaller increase in reflectance. Benjamin Moore Light Pewter (1464), at 67.52, is another lighter option. These colors may suit spaces where a greige or related neutral needs to reflect more light.

Benjamin Moore Collingwood (OC-28) has an LRV of 61.52, making it slightly darker. It can be considered when a modest reduction in reflectance is preferred. Compare all samples at different times of day, and view them beside the intended white trim. Matte finishes can limit glare, while satin or glossier finishes reflect light differently and may affect perceived depth.

Before you buy, compare a physical sample with the swatch on Benjamin Moore’s page for Edgecomb Gray.