Sherwin-Williams Duration vs Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior
By Nate Sawyer, Editor · Updated July 2026
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Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Acrylic Latex
A pro-grade 100% acrylic latex whose thick, flexible film resists cracking, peeling and fading in extreme weather, backed by a lifetime warranty and self-priming so most repaints need one coat. It is premium-priced at roughly $60-93 a gallon, sold mainly at SW stores, and bare wood or heavy stains still require a primer.
| Type | 100% acrylic latex (PermaLast technology) |
|---|---|
| Sheens | Flat, Low Lustre, Satin, Gloss |
| Coverage | ~350-400 sq ft/gal (~250-300 for flat) |
| Recoat | ~4 hrs at 45F+ (24-48 hrs in cold/damp) |
| Cleanup | Soap and water |
| Use | Exterior siding & trim; self-priming on previously painted surfaces (bare wood/masonry needs a primer coat) |
Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior
A premium 100% acrylic latex with Color Lock resin delivering outstanding fade resistance and color retention, especially in deep, vivid shades, with hide strong enough to finish in two coats. It is one of the priciest exterior paints at about $75-90-plus a gallon, sold only through BM dealers, and hard to justify on low-visibility jobs.
| Type | 100% acrylic latex (Color Lock mineral-acrylic resin) |
|---|---|
| Sheens | Flat, Low Lustre, Satin, Soft Gloss |
| Coverage | ~300-400 sq ft/gal |
| Recoat | ~2-4 hrs (temperature dependent) |
| Cleanup | Soap and water |
| Use | Exterior siding & trim; self-priming on most existing coatings |
Our verdict
These are two of the best exterior paints you can buy, and both carry lifetime limited warranties, so most homeowners will be happy with either. Duration's thick, flexible PermaLast film is a standout for cracking and peeling resistance in harsh, freeze-thaw climates, and it tends to run a little cheaper on sale. Aura pulls ahead on color retention and deep, vivid colors, where its Color Lock resin keeps rich hues from fading. Pick Duration if maximum film durability and weather protection are your priority; pick Aura if you are painting bold or deep colors you want to stay saturated for years. Availability may decide it too, since Duration comes from Sherwin-Williams stores and Aura from Benjamin Moore dealers.