Paints are made up of 4 ingredient categories: Pigments Binders Liquids Additives

As a rule of thumb, the higher the amount of pigment and binder, the better quality the paint.

Emulsion Paint
Ordinary	High Quality

Pigments provide colour and coverage.
 
Binder holds the pigment together and provide a tough finish which adheres well to the surface.

Liquids provide desired consistency.

Additives are ingredients which provide specific paint properties, for example preservatives keep the paint fresh.