Never Guess a Paint Color Again, Thanks to This Hue-Matching Colorimeter
The Color Muse colorimeter is a paint-matching tool that lets you scan colors on any surface to find the exact color match.
Ever wondered if there’s an easier way to match paint colors than with a physical fan deck from a hardware store or paint shop? Good news—there is. The Color Muse Colorimeter is a virtual fan deck that matches any color you can see. It’s a small, handheld tool that scans the color of any surface and makes it shoppable with a paint-matching app on your smartphone.
See a color at a friend’s house you want to match? No problem. Always wondered what color paint is on the walls of your favorite restaurant? Wonder no more. Even match the color of a petal on your favorite flower. The Color Muse turns what you see into a canvas.
What is the Color Muse Colorimeter?
The Color Muse Colorimeter is a portable paint-matching tool that pairs with an app on your phone. The tool can scan any surface and match the hue to a large inventory of paint. The app also has an “inspire” feature that allows you to see scanned colors incorporated into different rooms and color palettes, so you can map out your renovation before you shop for paint and paint essentials. You can even create and save custom color palettes in the app to share with friends via email, text and social media.
Features
- Scans and matches over 65,000 paint colors from major paint brands, making it easy to find close paint matches for walls, furniture, décor, flooring and more.
- Compatible with top paint manufacturers including Behr, Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, Valspar, PPG and others.
- High-accuracy color matching technology delivers 90%+ match accuracy on paint fan decks for reliable results during home renovations and DIY projects.
- Built-in LED lighting system creates consistent scans by reducing interference from surrounding light conditions.
- Portable handheld design is compact enough to carry in a toolbox, purse or pocket for on-the-go paint matching.
- Works with iPhone, iPad and Android devices through the Color Muse mobile app.
- Create and save custom color palettes for room makeovers, interior design projects and future paint purchases.
- Share color palettes instantly through email, text message or social media directly from the app.
- Browse AI-style room inspiration and complementary color combinations based on scanned colors to help plan renovations and décor updates.
- Displays advanced color data including RGB, LCH and CIELab values for designers, contractors and color professionals.
- Rechargeable battery lasts up to two months on a single charge and includes a micro USB charging cable.
- Can scan more than paint including textiles, flooring, furniture, tile, décor and other household surfaces.
How to Use It
The first step in using the Color Muse is to download the Color Muse app and connect your Color Muse device. Then, you’ll calibrate it using the sensor under the screw cap. Once your device is paired and calibrated, you scan and match all the colors you want.
Scanning colors with the Color Muse is simple—you just press it against any surface and press “scan” in the app. The scanned hue will appear in the app, along with a list of matching paint colors. When viewing your matches, you can filter out which results you want to see based on things like brand and collection. The app allows you to compare similar paint colors and save your favorites in named folders with notes. You can even export and share those color palettes with others.
What Other Reviewers Had to Say
Five-star reviewer, James Adams, says the Color Muse is compact, easy to use and accurate. “This is now my coolest tool as a general contractor,” he writes.
Verified Amazon purchaser, John Lacrosse, writes, “I'm often asked to match paint for customers during a remodel, and frequently they don't have any left in a can to get the info from. The Color Muse has been great at finding the correct color time and again. It will list colors from multiple manufacturers going from best match on down. On top of that, it's easy to use.”
Where to Buy
The Color Muse Colorimeter retails on Amazon and Home Depot for about $70. Whether you’re painting a room or setting out on your next DIY project, you can use the Color Muse Colorimeter to color match with total confidence, accuracy and ease. Say goodbye to clashing colors and painting mishaps!
FAQ
How does the Color Muse work?
The Color Muse works by scanning the color of a surface and comparing it to a large database of paint and material colors in the Color Muse app. After pairing the handheld scanner with your smartphone, simply place the device flat against a surface and tap “scan” in the app. The app then generates matching paint colors from major brands, along with color values, palettes and room inspiration ideas.
How do I calibrate the Color Muse?
To calibrate the Color Muse, remove the cap from the device and use the built-in calibration sensor before scanning colors. Once the app prompts calibration, place the scanner on the sensor and follow the on-screen instructions. Calibration only takes a few seconds and helps ensure accurate, consistent color readings.
Is a colorimeter easy to use?
Yes, most colorimeters are designed to be beginner-friendly, and the Color Muse is especially simple to use. After connecting the device to the mobile app, you can scan surfaces with a single tap. The app organizes paint matches, saved colors and palettes automatically, making it useful for DIYers, homeowners, interior designers and contractors.
Why You Should Trust Us
Mary Henn is a shopping editor and experienced product tester who regularly covers home improvement, DIY and lifestyle products for Vernl, Reader’s Digest and Taste of Home. She has tested hundreds of products over the years, with a focus on real-world performance, ease of use and overall value for homeowners and DIYers.







