A matte black finish is perfect when you need to add a dark, vintage look to your car or any surface or simply cover an old painting or fade. With spray paint, it is quick and easier to apply, and you don’t have to worry about brush marks.
Unfortunately, most black matte spray paints in auto-body shops are pricey, which leaves most people shopping online. However, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. After much research and testing, we’ve compiled a list of the top 7 best matte black spray paint in different categories.
These products are designed to offer the best coverage and finish while appealing to every user, regardless of their skill level. All you need is proper prep work and careful attention to detail, and you can achieve the best possible results.
What Is Matte Black Spray Paint?
A matte finish is one that has a low percentage of gloss, meaning it doesn’t reflect much light. Matte black spray paint is simply spray paint in matte black. It’s essentially a black finish with a subdued appearance, more like an “unsaturated” shade of black.
Although it’s not entirely flat, it is less shiny than other finishes. This makes it great for hiding flaws or surface imperfections.
Matte paints usually contain a lot of pigment and provide more coverage than other paint finishes (except for flat paints). This saves you time and money, especially when working on extensive surfaces.
The paint is also easy to apply but harder to clean than glossy paint.
Why Use Matte Black Spray Paint
So, why would anyone want to use matte black spray paint? Let’s find out!
Lower brightness level
As earlier indicated, black matte has a lower level of brightness that is non-reflective, giving the surface a clean and unique appearance. This is why it’s commonly used for cars and bikes to achieve a classic look.
NOTE: A matte finish should not be confused with flat. Flat paint has the least gloss, while matte paint has only 10 percent gloss, which means it’s a little bit glossier than flat paint.
Hides surface imperfections
Unlike glossy spray paint, matte black paint is pretty good at hiding imperfections. Again, this is because of its low gloss. Also, compared to other colors, black is more forgiving, making it great for fixing uneven textures on the surface.
Works better outdoors
Since matte black reflects little to no light, it’s better for painting outdoor items. Notwithstanding, a matte black finish looks softer than a “raw” black color, making it a better option for painting rooms, as it looks more regal and approachable.
Not prone to discoloration
Another reason why you should use matte black is because it has a highly protective shield that is quite resilient to contaminants. So it doesn’t fade quickly and is not prone to discoloration.
What to Look for When Buying Matte Black Spray Paint
Paint Type
There are two main types of matte black spray paint – water- and oil-based. The water-based options are fast-drying and easier to clean with soap and water. They also contain minimal VOCs (volatile organic compounds) responsible for their low odor.
Oil-based matte paints, on the other hand, contain higher VOCs, so you need to use them with caution. However, they are typically more durable than their water-based counterparts.
Coverage
Coverage is the spreading rate of your matte spray paint. It’s usually indicated on the label in square feet and gives you an idea of how much paint you need to cover a given surface. A 12-ounce can, can be anywhere between 12 to 25 square feet.
Ideally, you want to choose a product that provides even coverage at a minimal amount while maintaining consistency.
Drying Time
Spray paints generally dry fast, but the exact time depends on the brand and the paint type. Some matte black spray paints typically dry to the touch in under 20 minutes, while some might take longer.
If the paint is oil-based, it will dry much slower; sometimes, it can take up to 6-8 hours or even a day before it’s ready for a new coat. So, if you’re in a hurry or need to build colors and textures, it’s better you choose a fast-drying formula or apply the tips of making spray paints dry faster.
Two other factors that can affect drying time are the thickness of each coating and weather conditions.
Our Top 5 Best Matte Black Spray Paint
Best matte black spray paint for metal – Krylon K02754007 Fusion All-in-One Spray Paint
Link: https://www.amazon.com/Krylon-K02754007-Fusion-Spray-Paint/dp/B07LFWTQJX/
As the name implies, Krylon is an all-purpose spray paint. So, it adheres to various materials, including metal, plastic, wood, and even tile.
It’s available in different finishes, but we are interested in the black matte, which is quite exceptional on metal surfaces as it delivers the best-in-class adhesion and durability. It also protects against rust and leaves a smooth, almost powdery finish.
The spray doubles as paint and primer, so it doesn’t require a separate coat of primer. You can also skip sanding depending on the texture of the material, but we don’t recommend this. Even a little sanding will help the paint adhere better, especially if the surface is too glossy.
We found the aerosol easy to use. The easy push, big button spray tip allows for comfortable spraying in any direction. It goes on smoothly with no clogging.
In moderate weather, the paint dries to touch within 20 minutes and can be handled in one hour. Wait at least 2 hours between coats or after 48 hours.
To avoid drips and runs, use multiple light coats instead of one heavy one. Also, ensure the metal surface is dry and clean before coating it with paint. For even coverage, spray back and forth, overlapping. Once dry, the color is flat and non-reflective.
Each aerosol is 12 ounces and can cover up to 25 square feet. You can choose from other colors and finishes besides black matte.
Overall, the Krylon Fusion is a great way to rejuvenate your old or outdated metal pieces by adding a classic black with a soft, unique feel. It is easy to use and requires minimum preparation. We can’t recommend it enough.
What We Like
- Provides maximum rust protection.
- Comfortable spray tip to reduce finger fatigue
- Adheres to different material
- Quick-drying
- Durable paint
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Covers really well
Comfort spray tip to reduce finger fatigue
What Could Improve
A bit expensive
Best matte black spray paint for cars – Rust-Oleum 332289 Automotive Custom Lacquer Spray Paint
Link: https://www.amazon.com/Rust-Oleum-332289-Automotive-Custom-Lacquer/dp/B084WCLXS3?th=1
Rust-Oleum 332289 Automotive Custom Lacquer Spray Paint, 11 oz, Matte Black
The Rust-Oleum Automatic Custom Spray is a lacquer-based formula that helps to resist smudging on auto body parts, hoods, fenders, trim, and more. It adheres to different materials, including metal, chrome, and plastic surfaces.
The black matte provides a smooth finish with a soft glow that gives your car that classic, trendy look than other spray paints. But you’re not only limited to only matte black. There are other options, such as metallic, clear, gloss, rugged, and chrome finishes. Clear is ideal if you want long-lasting protection without changing the color of the surface.
The paint dries to touch in 20 minutes and can be recoated anytime without any problem with adhesion.
Each 11 oz. can provide up to 10 sq ft. coverage, which isn’t that great. You will probably need more bottles as you need to lay down more coats to get the same coverage as other Rust-Oleum spray paints. The coverage may be due to the fact that it’s lacquer.
To apply the paint, follow the instructions on the label. Make sure the surface is dry and clean. Otherwise, the paint will not stick. If you’re working on a smooth surface such as plastic, a little sanding will also help.
Give the aerosol a good shake before use and use in a well-ventilated area with temperatures between 50 to 90 degrees F and humidity levels below 65 percent. Apply two or more light coats and allow complete dry time between each coat.
Overall, this is a nice matte black paint for auto parts. Besides delivering a matte finish, it seals and protects and is super easy to apply, especially when using Rust-Oleum Custom Grip accessory.
What We Like
- Fast-drying paint
- Provides excellent coverage
- Super easy to use
- No runs
- Extra durable finish (resistant to smudging)
- Dries quickly (can be recoated any time)
Provides excellent coverage
What Could Improve
A bit pricey
Best matte black spray paint for plastic – Krylon K05592007 COLORmaxx Spray Paint
Link: https://www.amazon.com/Krylon-K05592007-COLORmaxx-Spray-Aerosol/dp/B07LFXGDWK/
Like the Krylon Fusion, the COLORmaxx is a 2-in-1 formula with spray paint and primer in one bottle. This means you can skip the primer step and save time and money.
Notwithstanding, it delivers the best adhesion even on a difficult material such as plastic while providing excellent coverage and color vibrancy. In fact, the coated item can easily pass as factory-painted to the undetecting eyes.
Besides plastic, you can use the paint on other materials such as wood, wicker, glass, metal, ceramic, plaster, and more.
The matte black finish is a classic color, perfect for concealing dark surfaces. Besides adding color to your plastic, it protects the surface from harsh weather.
The aerosol spray is easy to use and comes with an easy-push big button tip that is comfortable and allows you to spray in all directions.
It takes 20 minutes for the paint to dry to touch, which allows for fast coverage. Sometimes, it might not take that long, depending on the weather condition. Each 12 oz. can covers up to 25 square feet.
If you find the texture a bit thicker than what you are used to, don’t panic. This will not affect the drying time as long as you apply light coatings. Use the paint in a well-ventilated area and allow complete dry time before you handle the item.
Remember to shake the can well and long enough (at least two minutes) before use.
What We Like
- Suitable for interior and exterior surfaces
- Works for a wide variety of materials
- Easy to use
- Provides good coverage
- Comes with primer included
- Offers other color options
Works for a wide variety of materials
What Could Improve
It has a strong smell
Best matte black spray paint for wood – Pintyplus Evolution Spray Paint
Link: https://www.amazon.com/Pintyplus-Evolution-Spray-Paint-Applications/dp/B079RP2GP7
The Pintyplus Evolution Spray is an extra quick-drying formula that provides great coverage and leaves a smooth enamel finish. Unlike regular aerosols, it has a low odor and doesn’t leave stinky fumes after drying.
This is a multipurpose spray paint, so you can use it on various surfaces such as metal, wood, rubber, paper, cardboard, stone, and some plastics. So, whether you need to restore old furniture or paint a decorative object with the best black spray paint, this will make an excellent choice.
The aerosol is easy to use. Proper preparation is required to get the best result.
Shake the can vigorously for a minute or two before you begin spraying. Spray vertically and maintain a distance of 8 to 10 inches from the workpiece. Apply several thin layers instead of a thick one.
Once you’re done spraying, turn the can upside down and push the nozzle until only the gas comes out. This helps to prevent clogging.
The paint covers up to 22 square feet, which is quite impressive.
Overall, we recommend the Evolution Spray for applications where an oil-based paint won’t work. It is acrylic-based, which makes it much better for the environment. Also, it’s not as smelly as most regular spray paints.
Notwithstanding, you should use it outside and make sure to cover the surroundings to catch overspray.
What We Like
- Dries very fast
- Not as smelly as oil paints
- Suitable for different surfaces
- Great coverage
- Not easily affected by temperature and humidity
- Simple to apply
Not as smelly as oil paints
What Could Improve
- The cap is not easy to remove
- It doesn’t last very long
Best matte black spray paint for rims – Rust-Oleum Automotive Peel Coat Spray
Link: https://www.amazon.com/Rust-Oleum-276779-Black-Automotive-Spray/dp/B00I3MOAEE
The Rust-Oleum Automotive Peel Spray is possibly the best matte black spray paint for rims out there. So, if you want something that won’t damage your vehicle’s topcoat, this is what you should use.
The durable coating delivers a high-build matte finish that is smooth, washable, and resistant to harsh weather. In other words, it doesn’t only allow you to detail your car but also preserves the paint job. It doesn’t only work on rims and wheels; you can also use it for doors, hoods, and other parts.
The aerosol is easy to use. No need to use a primer. Just clean the surface and mask off areas you don’t want to paint.
Hold the can 8 to 10 inches from the surface and apply 5 to 6 light coats for a stable and durable result. Allow 5 to 10 minutes between coats, and begin to remove the tape immediately after the last coat.
Make sure to mask off areas you’re not painting and spray in slow and steady back-and-forth motion. After the final coat, wait for at least an hour before driving or using the car.
Once dry, the finish is smooth and provides a temporary coating, which is meant to last up to 6 months. After six months, you can easily peel it away with your fingertips or hand wash it to create new designs. This allows for infinite car transformation.
What We Like
- Very easy to peel off or wash away
- Allow for continuous car transformation
- Dries quickly
- Cheap solution for paint problem
- Easy to use
- It doesn’t require a primer
What Could Improve
- Only temporary coating
- It doesn’t cover very much
Tamiya 85006 Lacquer Spray Paint
Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BN32QU
Tamiya is possibly the best matte black lacquer spray paint available, especially for modeling jobs. And it can be used by both novice and experienced modelers.
The paint delivers a professional-looking finish on properly prepared surfaces. So, make sure the surface is clean before using it. Otherwise, it might not stick well.
Each aerosol can is 3.38 oz, which is quite small. So, you should plan to purchase multiple cans if you’re doing a serious job.
Thankfully, the paint cures in a very short time and is ready for the next application. This means you can paint large model surfaces in a short period of time.
However, it’s worth knowing that the paint is water-based, so it’s a bit fragile. Depending on what you’re using it for, it might be a good idea to add a clear coat to protect the film and enable it last longer. Remember to sand the surface before painting; use a fine grained sandpaper.
Some people might consider it a bit expensive for the size, but we have no doubt it’s worth every penny. As indicated earlier, it’s better to purchase multiple cans.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality matte black lacquer paint in spray form, you won’t go wrong with this option from Tamiya. You will get a small can but a higher quality spray and vibrant color.
What We Like
- Cures in a few minutes
- Perfect for painting model surfaces
- Fast drying and very forgiving
- Easy to remove
- Perfect for hiding flaws on the object
What Could Improve.
- The bottle is small (expensive)
Dupli-Color ECWRC7947 spray paint.
Link: https://www.amazon.com/Dupli-Color-ECWRC7947-Custom-Matte-Carbon/dp/B00R2456B0
The Dupli-Color Custom Wrap provides an original factory-painted finish that lasts up to six months. It can be used on the entire vehicle – metal, aluminum, plastic, chrome, etc.
The main highlight is the EZ Peel Technology, which allows for optimal peel when you use the recommended coat. It comes off easy and quick. It’s recommended you remove or recoat the paint approximately six months after the initial application.
The aerosol features a well-made tip with a wide fan for smooth spraying and correct finger placement. This helps to prevent drips on the target surface.
Once applied, the matte black leaves a smooth, eye-catchy finish that looks professional. Even though it’s meant to be a temporary solution, it is resistant to the wear and tear that comes with everyday driving.
In order to get the best result, prep work is key. Make sure the car is clean, and tape any area you don’t want to paint, including door gaps.
You want to use very thin coats, just like standard spray paint. Apply 5-6 coats; keep the first very light and the last a little thick.
Although each can is 500ml, I would suggest purchasing more than one can to fully cover your project. You could end up with an orange peel texture if the entire film is not applied at once.
The paint is very forgiving, so don’t hesitate to stop, peel and start over again if something doesn’t look right. It might be a good idea to paint from the bottom of the vehicle or object. This will reduce the chance of overspray particles settling below the area to be sprayed and possibly contaminating the next area you are about to spray.
We recommend having a few more bottles if you’re painting a large area so you can cover the entire surface at once. Not applying the entire film at once increases the chances of an orange peel texture.
What We Like
- Reliable option for beginners
- Nice matte finish
- Well-designed spray tip with a wide fan
- Great coverage
- Long-lasting results (resistant to regular wear and tear)
- Reasonable pricing
What Could Improve
The quality of the nozzle could be better
Do you need a primer for matte black spray painting?
Yes, you should use a primer. A primer provides a base coat that allows the paint to adhere better. It also ensures you get even coverage and a smoother finish.
While it’s possible to apply the paint without primer, this is not recommended, except the paint comes with primer built-in.
Ensure the surface is clean before applying the primer. One or two coats of primer are usually enough for most applications.
How long does matte black spray paint take to dry?
It all depends on the type of paint, how much you apply in each coating, and the paint thickness in each coat.
Oil-based matte black spray paints generally take longer to dry and cure than their water-based counterparts. This can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours or even more. Also, applying the paint too thickly will prolong the drying time.
Sometimes, the condition of the weather can reduce or increase the drying time. That is why it’s not recommended to do your spray painting work outside when the weather is too cold, hot, or too windy.
Always check the manufacturer’s recommendation on the drying time.
Techniques for a Perfect Matte Black Finish
Follow these techniques below to get better results with your matte black paint.
Clean the surface
Before you start the painting process, always clean the surface. This will remove all the dirt, dust, and grease that might interfere with the paint. You can use soap and water or a degreaser.
After washing, allow the surface to air-dry before you proceed.
Shake the spray can
It’s usually a good idea to shake the aerosol can before you start painting, especially if you haven’t used it for some time. This ensures the content is properly mixed, which is required for even coverage. Also, shake the can frequently while painting.
Test spray
It’s not uncommon for spray paint to spit when you apply it after a long time. So, always start by testing it on a small area before moving to the workpiece. Even while you’re painting the target surface, start with a small area if you’re not sure about the finish.
Allow the paint to dry properly, then inspect it. If it looks okay, you can go ahead and paint the entire surface.
Proper sanding
Sanding is important for two reasons. First, it helps to remove imperfections and previous paint on the surface. Second, it helps the paint to adhere better, especially on a glossy material like plastic.
Use fine-grit paper and sand gently; don’t apply too much pressure. After sanding, wipe off the sanding dust.
Cover unwanted area
Before painting, always cover areas or items you don’t want to paint. You can use masking tape or painter’s tape for this purpose. For your surroundings, use newspaper or drop cloth.
Use multiple layers of paint
Instead of a single heavy coat, apply multiple light coats of paint. This helps to prevent drips and ensure even coverage. Make sure each coat dries properly before adding another one.
Spray back and forth, overlapping
Keep the aerosol can at a safe distance from the surface, not too far or too close, usually around 8 to 12 inches. Move your hand slowly and steadily in a back-and-forth motion. You can check the product label for more information on this.
NOTE: When pressing the nozzle, your finger should not go too far over the nozzle. Otherwise, the outgoing paint will hit the tip of your finger, resulting in drips over time.
Allow proper dry time
After the last coat, don’t be in a hurry to use the object. Allow it to cure fully according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. Don’t try to dry it with a towel to avoid transferring fibers onto the surface.
Once the item is dry, you can add a topcoat if you so desire. This will help protect the surface from adverse conditions, including water and direct sunlight.
FAQs – best matte black spray paint
Is flat black spray paint the same as matte black?
No, it’s not. Although both paints have a very close color scheme, they are not the same. Matte black has a subtle sheen or less luster, while flat black has no sheen at all.
Is matte shinier than flat?
Yes, a little. Matte finishes have 10 percent gloss which is very low, but it’s still shinier than flat finishes, which don’t have any gloss. Having said that, both matte paints and flat paints absorb light rather than reflect it.
Does matte last longer than glossy?
High-gloss finishes generally outperform matte finishes when it comes to durability. However, in rooms or areas with little traffic, a matte finish is just as durable as a glossy finish and even more economical.
Does Rustoleum Come in Matte Black?
Yes, Rust-Oleum offers a number of matte black spray paints in their paint collections. A good example is the Rust-Oleum Automatic Custom Spray Paint. A Rust-Oleum spray paint is perfect when you need something that is low profile and nonreflexive and delivers superior coverage.
What is the Difference between Matte Black Spray Paint and Regular Black Paint?
Regular black can have any sheen level. It may have gloss and shine or not, depending on the type finish. Matte black usually has minimal or no gloss.
Conclusion
There you have it – the best matte black spray paint. Choosing the right matte black paint can be a daunting task, but with the tips above, it should be a lot easier.
All the products reviewed have the best quality and deliver professional-looking results. They are all forgiving and will hide uneven textures and imperfections. We’ve also classified them into various categories of suitable materials to make your job easier.
In addition to choosing a high-quality matte black spray paint, it’s also important you apply the paint correctly. Make sure the surface is dry and clean, and use a primer when necessary.
Let us know if you have any more questions in the comment section, and we will be glad to help.