A comparison is different from an exact match
There is no verified identical Sherwin-Williams formula established in this guide for Benjamin Moore Pale Oak OC-20. Drift of Mist SW-9166 is a named light-neutral comparison, not a promised equivalent.
Pale Oak has an LRV of 68.64; Sherwin-Williams Drift Of Mist SW-9166 is 69. The difference is 0.36 points, with Drift Of Mist returning more light under the reference measurement. Close reflectance does not establish identical hue, colorants, finish behavior or appearance next to oak. Keep the brand and full color code attached to both samples.
What to request before switching brands
Obtain a Pale Oak reference and a sample in the actual Sherwin-Williams product you intend to buy. If a retailer proposes a custom match, request a dried drawdown rather than relying on the color name printed on the order. Compare the two at the same orientation and under the same illumination, using the proposed wall and trim finishes.
The practical issue is whether the substitute gives the relationship you want beside honey oak and off-white trim. It does not need to win an argument about which brand is better. Inspect the edge beside the floor first, then the cabinet or trim white. A match that works in the store still needs a room check.
Write the final specification precisely
Record the brand, product line, base, finish and any custom formula information supplied by the retailer. Keep the approved dried sample for the painter. Reordering by a borrowed color name alone can leave out the details that distinguish a custom match from a standard catalog color. The Classic Gray comparison covers that related choice.
If Drift of Mist is preferred as its own color, specify it as Drift of Mist rather than calling it Pale Oak. If a custom match is chosen, approve the actual coating sample before ordering the full quantity. The useful outcome is a repeatable paint specification and a comfortable relationship with the room's materials, not an unsupported claim of equivalence. The undertones and neighboring colors covers that related choice. Before ordering samples, compare room-planning features in the paint color visualizer roundup.
Sources & notes
Color specifications: Benjamin Moore Pale Oak OC-20. The recorded LRV is 68.64. 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. Benjamin Moore 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.