What is the difference between RLM 81 Version 3 and Dark Earth?

ΔE 3 (very close). Dark Earth is a little darker, cooler. Swatch colours are estimates.

RLM 81 Version 3 vs Dark Earth

RLM 81 Version 3

Brand: AK Interactive
Range: 3rd Gen Air Series
Code: AK11837
Type: an opaque base/layer paint
Swatch: #5a5245 (estimate)

Dark Earth

Brand: Vallejo
Range: Model Air
Code: 71.029
Type: an opaque base/layer paint
Swatch: #514b3d (estimate)

How close are they?

ΔE 3.4, very close: most people won’t see a difference side by side. Dark Earth is a little darker, cooler than RLM 81 Version 3.

Can I use Dark Earth instead of RLM 81 Version 3?

Yes, for most jobs. Very close match (ΔE 3). Dark Earth is a little darker, cooler than RLM 81 Version 3.

Can I use RLM 81 Version 3 instead of Dark Earth?

The same difference applies the other way round: RLM 81 Version 3 is a little lighter, warmer.

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.

See RLM 81 Version 3 on the colour wheel See Dark Earth on the colour wheel

Other Vallejo paints close to RLM 81 Version 3

RLM 81 Version 3 vs Brown Violet RLM81 (71.264)Model Air · ΔE 1, very close · closer than Dark Earth
RLM 81 Version 3 vs USAF Olive Drab (71.016)Model Air · ΔE 3, very close · closer than Dark Earth
RLM 81 Version 3 vs USA Olive Drab (70.608)Model Air · ΔE 4, very close

Other AK Interactive paints close to Dark Earth

Dark Earth vs Dark Olive Drab 41 (AK11860)3rd Gen Air Series · ΔE 2, very close · closer than RLM 81 Version 3
Dark Earth vs RLM 71 (AK11822)3rd Gen Air Series · ΔE 3, very close · closer than RLM 81 Version 3
Dark Earth vs RLM 70 (AK11821)3rd Gen Air Series · ΔE 5, very close

All matches: RLM 81 Version 3 equivalents · Dark Earth equivalents