Desert Sand vs Dark DAK Sand

How close are they?

ΔE 8.5, close: similar, with a visible difference side by side. Dark DAK Sand is more saturated than Desert Sand.

Can I use Dark DAK Sand instead of Desert Sand?

Usually, if you are not matching paint already on the model. Close match (ΔE 9). Dark DAK Sand is more saturated than Desert Sand.

Can I use Desert Sand instead of Dark DAK Sand?

The same difference applies the other way round: Desert Sand is more muted.

ΔE is the colour difference between our two swatch estimates: under about 6 is close, over about 15 is loose. Real paints also differ in finish, coverage and how they thin, so test before you commit.