Imperial Gray vs RAL 180-1
Imperial Gray is a Benjamin Moore color while RAL 180-1 comes from RAL Effect. Hue-wise, Imperial Gray belongs to the green-grey family and RAL 180-1 to the blue family. With LRVs of 47 and 49, they'll behave almost identically in terms of how much light they reflect back into a room. At ΔE 9.4, the difference is perceptible but not dramatic — the two can work harmoniously in the same space. Below you'll find 3 real-room photo comparisons where both colors appear side by side, plus 5 simulated room previews.
Imperial Gray vs RAL 180-1 in Real Spaces
3 real rooms side by side. Imperial Gray and RAL 180-1 are close enough that the difference can be hard to judge from a chip alone — these photos show how each reads at scale, across different spaces and lighting conditions.
Bedroom
Bedroom walls are often seen under warm artificial light, a context that shifts both colors from how they look on a chip. Side by side like this, the difference is easy to read — which is exactly why seeing them in a real space is more useful than comparing chips.
Kitchen
Kitchen lighting tends to be bright and directional, which sharpens contrast and makes undertone differences more apparent. Side by side like this, the difference is easy to read — which is exactly why seeing them in a real space is more useful than comparing chips.
Bathroom
Bathrooms amplify color — the enclosed space and reflective surfaces make what reads subtle elsewhere feel more present here. Side by side like this, the difference is easy to read — which is exactly why seeing them in a real space is more useful than comparing chips.
Color Details
Imperial Gray vs RAL 180-1 Simulated Comparison
5 simulated room previews — drag the slider on each to see Imperial Gray on one side and RAL 180-1 on the other.
Digital color is approximate. These simulations are generated from the manufacturer's hex values and overlaid on grayscale room photos — your screen's calibration, brightness, and viewing angle all affect how they render. Before committing to either color, test physical samples in your own space under the light you actually live with.
More Imperial Gray comparisons
See how Imperial Gray stacks up against other well-photographed colors across different brands and tones.
