RAL 8017 Chocolate Brown — Hex, RGB, LRV, and Best US Paint Matches
RAL 8017 Chocolate Brown hex #45322E · LRV 4. Closest matches at Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Behr, and Valspar.
Color spec
| Hex | #45322E |
| RGB | 69, 50, 46 |
| LRV | ~4 |
| RAL Classic | RAL 8017 |
Also known as / near matches
RAL 8017 is widely known as Chocolate Brown, a rich, deep hue that evokes warmth and grounding. While not typically confused with other RAL codes due to its distinct character, its depth can sometimes be mistaken for very dark grays or off-blacks in dim light. There isn’t a direct, widely recognized Pantone equivalent for this specific classic RAL shade, but designers often seek deep, warm brown Pantones like 19-1116 TCX (Chocolate Truffle) for a similar visual presence.
What it looks like in real life
This color, a profound chocolate brown, carries an inherent warmth that anchors a space. In north-facing light, it reads as a sophisticated, almost velvety dark brown, with just enough red-gold undertone to keep it from feeling cold or stark. Here, it quietly absorbs light, creating a sense of intimate enclosure. In south-facing rooms, where light can be intense, it maintains its depth beautifully, preventing the space from feeling washed out; the inherent warmth is slightly more evident, providing a luxurious, grounding presence without becoming overtly reddish.
Closest matches at US paint brands
Closest matches at US paint brands
| Color | Brand | Name | SKU | LRV | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kompozit | Film Noir | 0144 | 5 | — | |
| Dunn-Edwards | Espresso Macchiato | DET683 | 4 | — | |
| Magnolia Home | Coffee Bean | JG-025 | 4 | — | |
| Benjamin Moore | Espresso | AF-30 | 8 | — | |
| Sherwin-Williams | Black Bean | SW 6006 | 5 | — | |
| Behr | Espresso Beans | PPU5-19 | 5 | — | |
| Pratt & Lambert | Cocoa | 23-11 | 7 | — | |
| Backdrop | It's a Date | BD-IT | 7 | — | |
| Farrow & Ball | Pitch Black | No. 256 | 5 | — | |
| Valspar | Cracked Pepper | 4011-1 | 5 | — | |
| PPG / Glidden | Knight's Armor | PPG1011-7 | 6 | — | |
| Clare | Headspace | Clare 18 | 3 | — |
Kompozit Film Noir is the closest match by ΔE2000, presenting a near-identical shade and LRV, making it a seamless alternative. Dunn-Edwards Espresso Macchiato and Magnolia Home Coffee Bean also share the exact LRV of 4, ensuring a similar light absorption and depth. Benjamin Moore Espresso, while still a rich brown, reads noticeably lighter with an LRV of 8 and a slightly warmer cast. The spread of matches reveals a range from the subtly warmer undertones of Behr Espresso Beans to the decidedly cooler, almost charcoal influence seen in PPG Knight’s Armor and Farrow & Ball Pitch Black, which pushes towards a deeper, less brown black.
When to use this color
Great for:
- This color shines in a cozy library or study, creating an enveloping, sophisticated atmosphere.
- It works beautifully on an accent wall in a brightly lit, south-facing living room to introduce depth and warmth.
- Consider it for bedroom walls where its deep hue will foster a serene and restful retreat.
Tricky in:
- In small rooms with minimal natural light, this deep brown can make the space feel much smaller and potentially heavy.
- Avoid using it on all four walls in a north-facing, windowless hallway, as it may read almost black and feel oppressive.
Pairs well with
Pairs well with
Painting tips
- Primer: Given its exceptionally low LRV of 4, a dark gray tinted primer is essential to ensure true color development and optimal coverage.
- Sheen: For walls, a matte or eggshell finish will best showcase this color’s depth and richness, while a satin or semi-gloss is ideal for cabinetry or trim to add durability and a subtle gleam.
- Coats: Expect to apply three coats over a properly tinted primer to achieve full, opaque coverage and the intended depth of this rich brown.
- Application: Because this deep color is quite demanding, careful application with a high-quality roller or sprayer is recommended; brush marks or uneven finishes will be noticeable under raking light.