Matt vs. Matte — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on December 30, 2023
"Matt" and "Matte" are different spellings of the same concept, referring to a non-glossy, dull finish surface, typically used in paint or photography contexts.
Difference Between Matt and Matte
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Key Differences
"Matt" and "Matte" are two spellings of a term that describes a surface finish that is not shiny or glossy. Both spellings are used interchangeably to denote a dull, non-reflective finish.
In photography, "matt" or "matte" refers to a type of photo finish that does not reflect light. This finish is chosen to reduce glare and give a softer, more natural appearance to photographs.
In the context of paint, both "matt" and "matte" describe a paint finish that lacks shine. This type of paint is popular for its ability to hide imperfections on walls and surfaces.
The choice between "matt" and "matte" often depends on regional spelling preferences. "Matt" is commonly used in British English, while "Matte" is the preferred spelling in American English.
Regardless of the spelling, both "matt" and "matte" finishes are valued in interior design and photography for their subtle and elegant appearance.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A non-glossy, dull finish
A non-glossy, dull finish
Use in Photography
Refers to a type of photo finish
Refers to a type of photo finish
Use in Paint
Describes paint lacking shine
Describes paint lacking shine
Spelling Preference
Common in British English
Common in American English
Aesthetic Value
Used for its subtle appearance
Used for its subtle appearance
Compare with Definitions
Matt
A non-shiny, non-glossy surface finish.
He preferred the matt finish for his business cards.
Matte
A photograph or paper finish that is not shiny.
Matte finish is better for framing as it reduces glare.
Matt
A type of photograph or print with a dull and non-reflective surface.
The matt photo prints reduced the glare from the lights.
Matte
A type of paint that provides a subtle, non-reflective appearance.
The living room was painted in a warm, matte gray.
Matt
A paint type with minimal to no sheen.
They chose a matt blue for the bedroom walls.
Matte
A quality of a surface that absorbs rather than reflects light.
The artist preferred matte canvases for her paintings.
Matt
A surface quality that diffuses light rather than reflecting it.
The matt texture of the paper was ideal for drawing.
Matte
An opaque border or pattern placed between a source of light and a photosensitive surface to prevent exposure of specified portions of the surface.
Matt
A finish that is used to reduce visual distractions.
The matt cover of the book gave it an elegant look.
Matte
A map specifying how two electronic images of the same size and shape are to be cropped for combination into a single image.
Matt
The property of having little or no contrast; lacking highlights or gloss
Matte
A kind of paint that dries to a dull finish.
Matte
A mixture of a metal with its sulfides, produced by smelting the sulfide ores of copper, lead, or nickel.
Matte
Having a dull finish.
Matte
A decorative border around a picture used to inset and center the contents of a frame.
The image is a perfect square of 8 cm (with white matte border the total dimensions are 14 cm tall by 11 cm wide).
Matte
(cinema) A background, often painted or created with computers
Matte painting is a tool that filmmakers can use to create a scene that is impossible to achieve with conventional cinematographic means.
Matte
(pyrometallurgy) The molten metal sulfide phases typically formed during smelting of copper, nickel, and other base metals.
Matte
(American spelling) Dull; not reflective of light.
Flat or matte paint allows a deep color expression on the walls while also hiding flaws that may be inherent on the painted surface.
A matte lipstick
Matte
A partly reduced copper sulphide, obtained by alternately roasting and melting copper ore in separating the metal from associated iron ores, and called coarse metal, fine metal, etc., according to the grade of fineness. On the exterior it is dark brown or black, but on a fresh surface is yellow or bronzy in color.
Matte
A dead or dull finish, as in gilding where the gold leaf is not burnished, or in painting where the surface is purposely deprived of gloss.
Matte
Having a dull, lusterless surface finish; opposed to glossy or polished; as, a matte photograph; a proof coin with matte figures on a polished field.
Matte
A mixture of sulfides that forms when sulfide metal ores are smelted
Matte
The property of having little or no contrast; lacking highlights or gloss
Matte
Change texture so as to become matted and felt-like;
The fabric felted up after several washes
Matte
Not reflecting light; not glossy;
Flat wall paint
A photograph with a matte finish
Matte
A flat, non-glossy surface finish.
She loved the matte finish on her new laptop.
Matte
Used in design to create a sophisticated, understated look.
The matte black tiles gave the bathroom a modern feel.
Common Curiosities
Do matt finishes reflect light?
No, they diffuse light and don't reflect it.
Can matte paint hide wall imperfections?
Yes, its non-reflective nature helps conceal flaws.
Are matt and matte the same?
Yes, they are different spellings of the same concept.
Do matt finishes work well in high-traffic areas?
They can show marks more easily, so glossy finishes might be better for high-traffic areas.
Are matt surfaces easier to clean?
They can be more challenging to clean due to their texture.
Is there a difference in durability between matt and matte finishes?
No, the durability depends more on the material than the finish.
Is matte suitable for kitchen cabinets?
Yes, but keep in mind they might require more frequent cleaning.
Are matt finishes less expensive?
The cost typically depends on the product rather than the finish.
Is matt finish good for photography?
Yes, it reduces glare and gives a softer appearance.
Is matte more popular in American English?
Yes, "matte" is the preferred spelling in American English.
Can matte finishes be used outdoors?
Yes, but they may require more maintenance.
Do matt and matte finishes come in all colors?
Yes, most paint manufacturers offer a wide range of colors in these finishes.
Are matte finishes fingerprint-resistant?
They are less resistant to fingerprints than glossy finishes.
Is matt or matte better for a modern look?
Both can contribute to a modern aesthetic; it depends on the context and design.
Can I mix matt and glossy finishes?
Yes, combining finishes can create an interesting visual contrast.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
