Encarmine Red vs Red Ochre

How close are they?

ΔE 15.1, loose: different enough that you should pick on purpose. Red Ochre is more muted, warmer than Encarmine Red.

Can I use Red Ochre instead of Encarmine Red?

Not as a straight swap; see the closer alternatives below. Loose match (ΔE 15). Red Ochre is more muted, warmer than Encarmine Red.

Can I use Encarmine Red instead of Red Ochre?

The same difference applies the other way round: Encarmine Red is 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.