Permanent Violet Dark vs Magenta

How close are they?

ΔE 23.6, loose: different enough that you should pick on purpose. Magenta is a little lighter, much more muted, warmer than Permanent Violet Dark.

Can I use Magenta instead of Permanent Violet Dark?

Not as a straight swap; see the closer alternatives below. Loose match (ΔE 24). Magenta is a little lighter, much more muted, warmer than Permanent Violet Dark.

Can I use Permanent Violet Dark instead of Magenta?

The same difference applies the other way round: Permanent Violet Dark is a little darker, 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.