Thunderhawk Blue vs Phthalo Cyanine Blue

How close are they?

ΔE 12.7, fair: the same colour family, but not a straight swap. Phthalo Cyanine Blue is a little darker, more saturated, warmer than Thunderhawk Blue.

Can I use Phthalo Cyanine Blue instead of Thunderhawk Blue?

Only where an exact match doesn’t matter, such as a new unit or a highlight. Fair match (ΔE 13). Phthalo Cyanine Blue is a little darker, more saturated, warmer than Thunderhawk Blue.

Can I use Thunderhawk Blue instead of Phthalo Cyanine Blue?

The same difference applies the other way round: Thunderhawk Blue is a little lighter, more muted, 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.