Benjamin Moore Advance vs SW Emerald Trim Enamel
By The DIYPicks Team · Updated July 2026
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Benjamin Moore Advance Waterborne Alkyd Enamel
A waterborne alkyd enamel that delivers oil-paint smoothness and hardness with soap-and-water cleanup — a top pick for cabinets, trim, and doors.
| Type | Waterborne alkyd |
|---|---|
| Sheens | Matte, satin, semi-gloss, high-gloss |
| Recoat | ~16 hrs (full cure up to 30 days) |
| Cleanup | Soap and water |
| Use | Interior cabinetry, trim, doors |
Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel
A premium waterbased urethane enamel that levels beautifully and cures rock-hard — a pro favorite for durable cabinets and trim.
| Type | Waterbased urethane-alkyd |
|---|---|
| Sheens | Satin, semi-gloss, gloss |
| Recoat | ~16-24 hrs (full cure 7-30 days) |
| Coverage | ~400 sq ft/gal |
| Cleanup | Soap and water |
Our verdict
Both are top-tier, self-leveling cabinet and trim enamels that cure rock-hard. Advance is a touch more forgiving to brush and slightly cheaper, with a very long 30-day cure. Emerald Trim Enamel is the most durable and washable of the two and is interior/exterior rated, but costs more and can show lap marks if overworked. Pick Advance for the smoothest brushing experience, Emerald for maximum toughness and moisture resistance.