Polar Bear and Swiss Coffee: the documented difference
Polar Bear has an LRV of 90; Behr Swiss Coffee 12 is 84. The difference is 6 points, with Polar Bear returning more light under the reference measurement. Choose by the material relationship as well as the number. Polar Bear's very high reflectance makes it a clear bright-white reference within the Behr shortlist. Behr Swiss Coffee 12 is a warm white with a cream base, separate from Benjamin Moore's OC-45.
| Color | Brand / code | LRV |
|---|---|---|
| Polar Bear | Behr 75 | 90 |
| Swiss Coffee | Behr 12 | 84 |
The choice beside cream cabinets and white tile
Cream cabinets can look more obviously creamy beside a brighter surface; decide whether that distinction is welcome before choosing the trim.
Set up both candidates with cream cabinets and white tile. Use equal-sized boards with the intended finishes and place them in the same orientation. Do not put one directly beside a window and leave the other in shadow. A difference that follows the position rather than the board is a lighting observation, not evidence that the formula changed.
What the comparison can—and cannot—settle
The alternative Blank Canvas has an LRV of 84. The undertones and neighboring colors covers that related choice.
Choose which fixed white should lead the palette before adding such a light wall or trim color. Assess Polar Bear and Swiss Coffee alone as well as side by side. The unchosen board will not remain in the finished room, and a preference created only by that neighbor may not survive its removal. Before ordering samples, compare room-planning features in the paint color visualizer roundup.
Sources & notes
Color specifications: Behr Polar Bear 75. The recorded LRV is 90. Named comparison values come from the respective manufacturers; material schemes are editorial suggestions.
This guide reviews published color information and proposes practical sample checks. It does not claim first-hand paint testing or customer-review scores. Behr does not sponsor or endorse this site. Product names and trademarks belong to their respective owners. Confirm the color in a physical sample and select the coating for the actual surface and finish.