Misted Yellow vs Desert Ochre

How close are they?

ΔE 23.9, loose: different enough that you should pick on purpose. Desert Ochre is noticeably darker, more muted, warmer than Misted Yellow.

Can I use Desert Ochre instead of Misted Yellow?

Not as a straight swap; see the closer alternatives below. Loose match (ΔE 24). Desert Ochre is noticeably darker, more muted, warmer than Misted Yellow.

Can I use Misted Yellow instead of Desert Ochre?

The same difference applies the other way round: Misted Yellow is noticeably lighter, 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.