Cheapest cans by gallons needed (default prices)
| Gallons needed | Cheapest mix | Cost | Whole gallons only | Mix saves |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 gallon | $45 | $45 | — |
| 2 | 2 gallons | $90 | $90 | — |
| 3 | 3 gallons | $135 | $135 | — |
| 4 | 4 gallons | $180 | $180 | — |
| 4.25 | 1 five-gallon bucket | $200 | $225 | $25 |
| 5 | 1 five-gallon bucket | $200 | $225 | $25 |
| 6 | 1 five-gallon bucket + 1 gallon | $245 | $270 | $25 |
| 7 | 1 five-gallon bucket + 2 gallons | $290 | $315 | $25 |
| 8 | 1 five-gallon bucket + 3 gallons | $335 | $360 | $25 |
| 9 | 1 five-gallon bucket + 4 gallons | $380 | $405 | $25 |
| 10 | 2 five-gallon buckets | $400 | $450 | $50 |
| 12 | 2 five-gallon buckets + 2 gallons | $490 | $540 | $50 |
| 15 | 3 five-gallon buckets | $600 | $675 | $75 |
How the break-even works
A bucket is $40 a gallon versus $45 in cans. Quarts are $80 a gallon, so we avoid them unless you need just a little more than a whole number. The calculator checks every combination of buckets, gallons and quarts and picks the cheapest, breaking ties with fewer containers.
Your prices differ
These are example prices. Premium paint, store sales and tinting fees change the break-even, so edit the prices in the paint calculator. Remember a bucket is only a good buy if you will use the paint: leftover color is hard to return once tinted.
Estimates only. Check your paint can’s label for coverage. Prices are typical 2026 US figures; use your store’s.