S 4500-N vs Iron Ore
S 4500-N (NCS) and Iron Ore (Sherwin-Williams) come from different manufacturers. These are both greys, so the question isn't which hue to choose — it's where within grey to land. The 22-point LRV gap — 27 for S 4500-N vs 6 for Iron Ore — means S 4500-N will open up a space more effectively. Both share a neutral character, which means they'll respond to light and surrounding materials in similar ways. A ΔE of 30.7 puts these firmly in different territory — two distinct design choices rather than close alternatives. Below you'll find 3 real-room photo comparisons where both colors appear side by side, plus 5 simulated room previews.
S 4500-N vs Iron Ore in Real Spaces
3 real rooms side by side. Seeing S 4500-N and Iron Ore in actual rooms makes the difference concrete; browse the spaces below to get a feel for how each color lives on a wall.
Bathroom
Small bathrooms intensify color. A shade that seems quiet in a larger room can feel immersive when you're surrounded by it on four walls. S 4500-N returns significantly more light to the room — in a smaller or darker space, that difference in perceived brightness is hard to miss.
House
A full exterior is the most demanding test for a paint color — scale and outdoor light both amplify differences that seem small on a swatch. S 4500-N returns significantly more light to the room — in a smaller or darker space, that difference in perceived brightness is hard to miss.
Color Details
S 4500-N vs Iron Ore Simulated Comparison
5 simulated room previews — drag the slider on each to see S 4500-N on one side and Iron Ore 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 S 4500-N comparisons
See how S 4500-N stacks up against other well-photographed colors across different brands and tones.
