Matte black vs gunmetal

Matte black and gunmetal (including brushed carbon / shadow gunmetal families) are the two dark finishes renovators confuse most on a phone screen. In person they separate quickly: black is flatter and graphic; gunmetal keeps a metallic sheen.

Commercial differences

Undertone: Matte black reads as a true dark solid. Gunmetal and shadow gunmetal read as dark metal - cooler or slightly brown-grey depending on the line.
Tile pairing: Matte black punches against white tiles and light stone. Gunmetal often sits better with greys, concrete looks and timber vanities where you still want metal character.
Maintenance feel: Matte surfaces can show light dust and water marks differently to brushed gunmetal. Soft cloth, mild cleaner; skip scourers on either finish.
Whole-bathroom match: Decide early - mixing flat black with brushed gunmetal in the same room usually looks accidental.

More reading: gunmetal vs matte black advice article.