Vallejo vs Scale75: Acrylic Paint Comparison for Miniatures
By SCALE75 - HOBBIES & GAMES – SCALE75 - Hobbies & Games | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: Comparisons
Compare Vallejo and Scale75 acrylic paints for miniatures. We break down differences in finish, coverage, and value to help you choose the best paint for your projects.
Quick answer
Vallejo paints are known for their wide color range, consistent matte finish, and affordability, making them a solid all-around choice. Scale75 paints offer a unique ultra-matte, almost velvety finish with high pigmentation, ideal for display painters who want a non-reflective surface. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize a classic matte look and budget (Vallejo) or a specialized finish and color intensity (Scale75).
Finish and texture differences
The most noticeable difference between Vallejo and Scale75 is the finish. Vallejo paints dry to a standard matte finish that works well for tabletop gaming and general painting. Scale75 paints, on the other hand, are formulated to dry with an ultra-matte, almost chalky finish that reduces light reflection to a minimum. This makes Scale75 particularly popular among competition painters and those who want to avoid any glossiness on their models.
Coverage and pigmentation
Both brands offer good pigmentation, but Scale75 paints tend to have a thicker, more concentrated consistency. This can mean better coverage in fewer coats for some colors, but it also requires more thinning for smooth application, especially with an airbrush. Vallejo paints generally have a creamier, more ready-to-use consistency that many hobbyists find easier to work with straight from the bottle. Neither is objectively better—it depends on your preferred painting technique.
Price and value
Vallejo paints are typically priced lower per bottle than Scale75, making them a more budget-friendly option for building a large collection. Scale75 paints are priced at a premium, reflecting their specialized finish and high pigment load. For example, the SCALE75 BABY LEAF GREEN individual paint is priced at $2.09, while many Vallejo equivalents are slightly cheaper. However, the higher pigmentation of Scale75 can mean you use less paint per model, potentially offsetting the cost difference over time.
Key tradeoffs: Vallejo vs Scale75
- Finish preference: Vallejo gives a standard matte finish; Scale75 delivers an ultra-matte, almost velvety surface. If you want your models to look as non-reflective as possible, Scale75 is the clear winner. If you prefer a more conventional matte look, Vallejo is safer. Choose Scale75 for display pieces, Vallejo for gaming armies.
- Consistency and thinning: Scale75 paints are thicker and require more thinning, especially for airbrush use. Vallejo paints are generally more user-friendly straight from the bottle. Beginners may find Vallejo easier to handle, while experienced painters might appreciate the control Scale75 offers. Vallejo is more beginner-friendly; Scale75 rewards experienced painters.
- Color range and availability: Vallejo has a much larger color range, making it easier to find exact shades for historical or fantasy projects. Scale75 has a more curated selection, with a focus on muted, natural tones and metallic paints. If you need a very specific color, Vallejo is more likely to have it. Vallejo for variety, Scale75 for a specialized palette.
Product facts
- BABY LEAF GREEN: SCALE75 BABY LEAF GREEN is an individual paint from the Hobbies & Games range, formulated for miniature painting and hobby projects. It delivers a true leaf green shade suitable for adding natural tones to your models. This color is a good example of Scale75's approach: a specific, vibrant shade with the ultra-matte finish that makes foliage and natural elements look realistic without unwanted shine.
- VALYRIAN GREEN: Valyrian Green is a high-quality acrylic paint from SCALE75 - HOBBIES & GAMES, designed for modelers and hobbyists. It offers a rich green hue suitable for miniature painting, dioramas, and creative projects. Valyrian Green demonstrates the depth of color you can expect from Scale75. Its rich tone is ideal for armor or cloaks where you want a deep, non-reflective green that stands out without being glossy.
Which paint line should you choose?
Best for
- Hobbyists who want a large color selection and a budget-friendly option for painting armies and gaming miniatures.
- Painters who prefer a ready-to-use consistency that requires minimal thinning for brush painting.
Not ideal for
- Painters who demand an ultra-matte, non-reflective finish for display or competition pieces.
- Those who want a paint that works well straight from the bottle for airbrushing without significant thinning.
