Thinking about painting or repainting your home? A fresh coat of high-quality paint can transform any space, but choosing the right type of paint is key to long-lasting, professional results.
The two most common options for household painting are acrylic and enamel paints—both offering unique benefits for interior and exterior surfaces. But which one is best for your project?
At Medal Paints, we believe in making painting simple by providing premium-quality, easy-to-use products. In this guide, we’ll compare acrylic vs. enamel paint so you can make an informed choice for your next project.
What is Enamel Paint?
Enamel paint is a durable, glossy paint that creates a hard, protective coating on surfaces. Traditionally, enamel paint is oil-based, but modern water-based enamel options offer lower VOCs and easier cleanup.
Oil-Based Enamel Paint
Extremely durable and long-lasting Takes 8-24 hours to dry (dries from the inside out) Requires paint thinners for cleanup Strong odor—proper ventilation is necessary Resistant to moisture and frequent cleaning
Best For: Metal, furniture, cabinets, trims, doors, high-traffic areas.
Water-Based Enamel Paint
Faster drying—under 8 hours Lower VOCs, eco-friendlier option Easier to clean—soap and water suffice Doesn’t yellow over time
Best For: Walls, woodwork, doors, and surfaces that need to be washed frequently.
What is Acrylic Paint?
Unlike enamel, acrylic paint is 100% water-based and non-toxic. It dries quickly, is highly versatile, and offers a matte or satin finish.
Fast-drying (2-3 hours per coat) More eco-friendly with low VOCs Available in a wide range of colors Flexible and great for outdoor use Easy to clean—just use soap and water
Best For: Interior walls, ceilings, outdoor surfaces, furniture, and décor projects.
Medal Paints Recommendation:
For walls and ceilings, use Medal Walls & Ceilings Matt for seamless, one-coat coverage. For high-traffic areas, Medal Low Sheen is perfect for stain resistance and durability.
Key Differences Between Enamel & Acrylic Paint
FAQs About Acrylic & Enamel Paint
How can I tell if my current paint is oil-based or water-based?
Dampen a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and rub it on the painted surface: If paint comes off → It’s water-based (acrylic). If paint stays intact → It’s oil-based (enamel), and you’ll need a primer before repainting.
Can you paint acrylic over enamel paint?
Yes, but proper surface preparation is crucial:
Clean the surface thoroughly.
Sand lightly to remove gloss and create a rough surface.
Apply a latex primer for better adhesion.
Once dry, apply acrylic paint.
Can you paint enamel over acrylic paint?
Yes! Enamel can be applied over acrylic without a primer—just ensure the surface is clean and dry.
Does enamel paint last longer than acrylic?
Yes. Oil-based enamel paint is more durable and can withstand heavy wear, making it ideal for trims, cabinets, and metal surfaces. However, acrylic paint is more flexible and resistant to cracking, making it better suited for outdoor applications.
Which paint is best for outdoor use?
Acrylic paint is the better choice for exterior projects because it’s more flexible and can withstand weather changes without cracking.
Medal Paints Recommendation: Use Medal Acrylic PVA for a long-lasting, weather-resistant finish outdoors.
Final Thoughts: Which Paint Should You Choose?
Both acrylic and enamel paints have their advantages. The best choice depends on your project type, surface, and desired durability.
Choose Enamel Paint If:
- You need a tough, glossy finish.
- You’re painting trim, doors, furniture, or metal.
- You want maximum durability in high-traffic areas.
Choose Acrylic Paint If:
- You need a fast-drying, eco-friendly option.
- You’re painting walls, ceilings, or outdoor surfaces.
- You want a matte or satin finish with vibrant color options.
Need expert advice on your painting project? Medal Paints offers high-quality enamel and acrylic paints for every surface!
