OPI Big Apple Red VS The Thrill of Brazil

Updated 2025.11.11. This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. 

OPI Big Apple Red is one of our readers’ most loved red nail polishes.

OPI The Thrill of Brazil is another red nail polish that is very similar to Big Apple Red, but it has a few key differences.

When you’re searching for the best OPI red nail polish, OPI Big Apple Red and OPI The Thrill of Brazil always stand out.

These two classic red nail colors are timeless, salon-favorite polishes that every OPI lover knows. In this comparison, we’ll break down undertones, formula differences, finish and which shade flatters your skin tone the most.

Because these are both red nail colors from OPI and cream finish, they are commonly compared to each other, so below we’re going to show you the similarities and differences between Big Apple Red and The Thrill of Brazil.

To begin, you’ll see Big Apple Red swatches, followed by The Thrill of Brazil swatches, ending with two final comparison photos, with Big Apple Red shown on the top in all images.

Starting with OPI Big Apple Red swatches:

OPI Big Apple Red is one of OPI’s most iconic shades. It’s a bright, classic red nail polish with a cream finish.

It’s known for its vibrant tone, smooth application, and glossy shine. This shade leans slightly warm, making it a great choice for everyday wear and warmer skin tones.

Next, OPI The Thrill of Brazil swatches:

OPI The Thrill of Brazil, by contrast, is a deeper, more sophisticated red nail polish with cool, blue undertones, making it greater for cooler skin tones. It’s ideal for evening wear or cooler seasons.

Many nail lovers, including myself, describe it as a “velvety red,” a perfect balance between bold and classic.

Now that you’ve seen the individual OPI red polish swatches, here’s a side-by-side comparison of OPI Big Apple Red vs OPI The Thrill of Brazil.

The photos below will make it easier to see how their tones differ. Big Apple Red being brighter, while The Thrill of Brazil appears slightly deeper and more neutral.

The final comparison photos:

All in all, both Big Apple Red and The Thrill of Brazil have these things in common: 

• Full even coverage in two coats (shown)

• Cream finish

• Available in standard lacquer, GelColor or Dip Powder

• Made by OPI

What is the difference between OPI Big Apple Red and The Thrill of Brazil?

• Big Apple is a brighter, warmer red, where The Thrill of Brazil is a deeper, bluer, velvety red

• Big Apple Red is more opaque in coverage, where The Thrill of Brazil is more of a sheer in some lighting scenarios

Looking for a bright warm red? Get OPI Big Apple Red at Ulta Looking for a velvety blue-red? Get OPI The Thrill of Brazil at Beyond Polish For best results with either shade, pair them with an OPI base and top coat. I alternate between the standard wear combo or the long-wearing Infinite Shine combo, depending on what I have on hand. Both will work.

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• essie Red Nail Polish

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