Is Asad Siddiki The King a dupe of Le Labo Santal 33?
Santal 33 and The King both feature warm spicy accords and share notes like musk and cardamom, but their overall profiles diverge significantly. Santal 33 leans into creamy sandalwood and papyrus, creating a smooth, minimalist experience. The King, however, distinguishes itself with a sharper, cleaner opening and a bolder, animalic drydown. If you prefer subtle sophistication, Santal 33 is your choice. But if you desire a fragrance that makes a statement and leaves a lasting impression, The King is the more compelling option.
Where they differ
Biggest gaps first. The bolder side leads.
ScentArt
How it unfolds
Notes
- Santal 33
- The King
- in both
Tap a note to light it in both. A+B means both have it
Which Should You Buy?
- You prefer a subtle, minimalist sandalwood scent.
- You want a fragrance that's effortlessly chic and understated.
- You appreciate a fragrance with a creamy, smooth texture.
- You prefer a fragrance suitable for all occasions.
- You want a bold fragrance that commands attention.
- You enjoy animalic notes and a plush drydown.
- You seek a unique scent that stands out from the crowd.
- You like fragrances with a clean, sharp opening.
A cult favorite for good reason - Santal 33 is the blueprint for modern woody minimalism, radiating quiet confidence with creamy sandalwood and papyrus. Refined, genderless, and instantly recognizable.
This one's a bold statement, commanding attention with its sharp, clean opening and a surprisingly plush, animalic drydown. Definitely for those who want to be noticed without shouting.
Scent Profile
How They Wear
Mood
Notes
Top Notes
Top Notes
Heart Notes
Heart Notes
Base Notes
Base Notes
Cardamom
100%
vs
33%
Musk
22%
vs
21%
Pink Pepper
41%
Floral Notes
36%
Citrus
36%
Aldehydes
31%
Ambergris
25%
Cinnamon
23%
Oud
20%
Vetiver
18%
Resins
15%
Note weights are our estimate from each note's place in the pyramid, not the share of the formula. Brands do not publish formulations.
Performance
Season and Occasion Fit
Seasons
Santal 33's creamy sandalwood and leather warmth make it most compelling in the fall and spring, with enough airy violet and powdery nuance for mild winter use. It can feel dense on the hottest days, so summer use is best in the evening or in climate control.
Occasions
Its refined, non-loud projection makes it ideal for the office or casual outings where subtlety is valued. It can be intriguing on dates but is too understated for formal statement wear or active sport settings.
Seasons
Community season votes for Le Labo Santal 33, the fragrance this is built to match, favour spring and autumn.
Occasions
While its freshness makes it versatile, the powerful base and spicy heart might be a touch too much for the office. It truly shines in evening settings, perfect for dates or sophisticated formal events where its depth and character can be fully appreciated.
Similarity Breakdown
Our estimate of how alike these two fragrances smell, calculated from their published notes. It is a position on our scale, not a measured percentage of shared smell.
Shares 2 of its 11 notes, including Musk, Cardamom
Adds aldehydes and ambergris, drops ambroxan and cedar
Where to buy
Pick a size. The two cheapest offers, then the rest.
Prices before sales tax, which the shop adds at checkout.
ScentVerdict earns a commission from purchases - this doesn't affect our verdicts.