Diabolic Plum vs Violet Red

How close are they?

ΔE 20.0, loose: different enough that you should pick on purpose. Violet Red is much more muted, warmer than Diabolic Plum.

Can I use Violet Red instead of Diabolic Plum?

Not as a straight swap; see the closer alternatives below. Loose match (ΔE 20). Violet Red is much more muted, warmer than Diabolic Plum.

Can I use Diabolic Plum instead of Violet Red?

The same difference applies the other way round: Diabolic Plum is much more saturated, 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.