Desert Yellow vs XV-88

How close are they?

ΔE 13.3, fair: the same colour family, but not a straight swap. XV-88 is a little darker, warmer than Desert Yellow.

Can I use XV-88 instead of Desert Yellow?

Only where an exact match doesn’t matter, such as a new unit or a highlight. Fair match (ΔE 13). XV-88 is a little darker, warmer than Desert Yellow.

Can I use Desert Yellow instead of XV-88?

The same difference applies the other way round: Desert Yellow is a little lighter, cooler.

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.