Brand Comparison · Makeup · 2026
MAC vs NARS, The Department-Store Showdown
Two reliable department-store luxury brands. MAC is broader; NARS is more editorial. Both deliver across categories.
Verdict
Tie, they win different jobs.
Glow's editorial team tested both brands across 12 weeks. Here's where each one wins.
Side by side
MAC vs NARS, compared.
| Dimension | MAC | NARS |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | MAC ● Studio Fix Fluid is reliable, broad shade range. |
NARS ● Sheer Glow Foundation is editorial-friendly, dewier. |
| Lipstick | MAC ✓ MAC Lipstick range is the broadest in luxury. The category leader for shade variety. |
NARS NARS Audacious is premium feel, fewer shades. |
| Blush | MAC Cheek Color in Powder is reliable, decades-old formula. |
NARS ✓ Orgasm blush is iconic. The most-bought blush in luxury. |
| Brushes | MAC ✓ MAC brushes are professional grade, beloved by makeup artists. |
NARS NARS brushes are decent but less category-leading. |
| Pricing | MAC ✓ $35-65. Reliable luxury pricing. |
NARS $40-65. Slightly more premium positioning. |
✓ = wins this dimension · ● = tie
Pick MAC if
When MAC wins.
Lipstick variety. Brushes. Anything where you want shade choice.
Pick NARS if
When NARS wins.
Orgasm blush. Sheer Glow Foundation. Editorial-finish makeup.
Frequently asked
Common questions.
Which is more pro-grade?
MAC. Its brushes and lipsticks are the makeup-artist standard. NARS leans more retail-luxury.
Which is better for everyday?
Either. Both reliable, decades of refinement.
Are these brands cruelty-free?
MAC is in transition; NARS has been criticised for selling in China (where cruelty testing was required).
Where to buy in Australia?
Both in major department stores (Myer, David Jones), Sephora, Mecca.