Hot Pink vs Pink

How close are they?

ΔE 26.8, loose: different enough that you should pick on purpose. Pink is noticeably darker, more saturated, cooler than Hot Pink.

Can I use Pink instead of Hot Pink?

Not as a straight swap; see the closer alternatives below. Loose match (ΔE 27). Pink is noticeably darker, more saturated, cooler than Hot Pink.

Can I use Hot Pink instead of Pink?

The same difference applies the other way round: Hot Pink is noticeably lighter, more muted, 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.