Blue Licks vs Hoeth Blue

How close are they?

ΔE 26.9, loose: different enough that you should pick on purpose. Hoeth Blue is much more muted, cooler than Blue Licks.

Can I use Hoeth Blue instead of Blue Licks?

Not as a straight swap; see the closer alternatives below. Loose match (ΔE 27). Hoeth Blue is much more muted, cooler than Blue Licks.

Can I use Blue Licks instead of Hoeth Blue?

The same difference applies the other way round: Blue Licks is much more saturated, 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.