Macragge Blue vs Phthalo Cyanine Blue

How close are they?

ΔE 14.3, fair: the same colour family, but not a straight swap. Phthalo Cyanine Blue is much more muted, warmer than Macragge Blue.

Can I use Phthalo Cyanine Blue instead of Macragge Blue?

Only where an exact match doesn’t matter, such as a new unit or a highlight. Fair match (ΔE 14). Phthalo Cyanine Blue is much more muted, warmer than Macragge Blue.

Can I use Macragge Blue instead of Phthalo Cyanine Blue?

The same difference applies the other way round: Macragge Blue 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.