Ethos Compound vs Picture Perfect Polish – Head-to-Head Comparison
We ran a direct comparison between two popular options—but one did the work of both. Here’s what we found.
The Setup
Paint correction usually starts with one question: How much cut do I need? Some brands recommend using a dedicated compound for the initial correction, followed by a separate polish to clean up the finish. That’s a two-step process—and two products.
But is it necessary?
Why We Built Picture Perfect Polish
We formulated Picture Perfect Polish to deliver compound-level cut with polish-level finish—so you don’t have to guess or waste time switching bottles mid-detail.
The goal was simple: cut and finish in one step, with results that rival dedicated two-step systems.
Head-to-Head: Cutting Power
- Ethos Compound: Cuts well on moderate to heavy defects but leaves behind light haze that needs follow-up polishing
- Picture Perfect Polish + Burgundy Pad: Removed the same level of defects—without any haze on test panels
We used a Burgundy Correction Pad to push maximum cut and were able to go straight to protection afterward—no second product required.
Head-to-Head: Finishing Quality
- Ethos System: Requires switching to a second polish and softer pad to clean up compounding haze
- Picture Perfect Polish + Black Finishing Pad: Produced a mirror-like finish on soft black paint in one step
The Black Finishing Pad paired with Picture Perfect Polish delivers gloss, clarity, and coating-ready results without fillers or dusting.
Dusting and Work Time
- Ethos Compound: Medium work time, moderate dusting on rotary and DA
- Picture Perfect Polish: Long work time, zero dusting, and easy wipe-off
The Verdict
While Ethos might require two bottles, two pads, and two steps—Picture Perfect Polish simplified everything without sacrificing results.
Why it wins:
- ✅ Compound-level correction with no haze
- ✅ Polish-level gloss in the same pass
- ✅ Coating-ready finish with no fillers
- ✅ Works with both DA and rotary polishers
One Step. One Bottle. One Less Headache.
Whether you’re a pro detailer or a weekend warrior, using two separate liquids when one product gets the job done just doesn’t make sense anymore.
Picture Perfect Polish replaces the need for separate compound and polish bottles—and gives you complete control with your pad of choice.
FAQ
