Airless Vs HVLP Paint Sprayers

Airless Vs HVLP 

If you’re spraying thicker materials and have some technical painting experience an airless paint sprayer would work for you. 

Unfortunately, airless spray guns suffer from bad paint transfer rate.  This means they increase paint waste and paint pollution.  

However, if precision at impact is important, you would choose an airless vs an HVLP paint sprayer. 

For beginners, an HVLP vs an airless paint sprayer would work best.  Modern HVLP spray guns don’t require as much experience. 

HVLP will paint thinner materials easily and with professional results. 

If you are working on smaller projects, or using water based materials, this would be your choice sprayer. 

Specs	Airless	HVLP
Best For	Large Jobs	Small Jobs
Best Material	Thick Paints, Oil	Thin Paints, Stains
Prep Time	More	Less
Price Point	Less	More, w/compressor
Project Speed	Quick	Slow
Volume	1-2 gallons/min	20 oz/min
Transfer Rate	40-50%	90%
Smooth Finish	No	Yes
PSI	Up to 2000	Up to 10
Skill Level	Technical	Beginner
Compressor	No	Yes, unless turbine powered

Airless vs Air Assist Paint Sprayers 

The difference between air and airless paint sprayers is simple.  Airless spray guns do not require you to add/use an air compressor. 

Airless operate at higher PSI, somewhere close to 2000, to deliver the fan pattern. 

Air or air assisted paint sprayers, by definition, require you to use a compressor (or a turbine) to build up enough pressure to spray the paint.  They work at less pressure than airless models.  

They also use an aircap to deliver a small amount of air to aid in delivering the fan pattern.  They deliver a finer finish because of the softer delivery. 

What Are the Different Types of Paint Sprayers? 

 There are many types of paint sprayers.  We will focus here on the benefits and drawbacks of Airless vs HVLP. 

When you start thinking about the purchase of a paint sprayer, then it becomes important to purchase one that is equipped to do the job that needs to be completed.  

The types of spray paint you’re planning to use is one of the most important consideration in the purchasing process.  

Second, when choosing between and HVLP vs an airless sprayer, your final choice will depend on the project you are working on. 

Choosing a Paint Sprayer: Airless vs HVLP 

When choosing a paint sprayer, and picking between airless vs HVLP, you should take a step back and think about the types of projects you will be working on and your overall project needs.  Is an HVLP better than airless?  Well that depends on your project and paint spraying experience.

HVLP High Volume Low Pressure Paint Sprayers 

High Volume Low Pressure (HVLP) Spray Guns use a steady volume of air to allow the paint droplets to stick to surfaces. 

The LP stands for low pressure.  Paint is atomized and sprayed from the gun at low pressure.   HVLP paint sprayers are known for their good transfer rate.   This means less paint gets into the air around your project which creates less mess and waste. 

HVLP sprayers typically work only for thinner paints because they are low pressure.  You will need to thin thicker materials and even latex paint with most HVLP sprayers.  

Thinning latex paint is super easy even for beginners, just follow our directions on how to thin water based paint for your spray gun.

Unthinned latex will need to be sprayed with a gun that uses higher pressure such as an airless spray gun.  Unless you buy an HVLP turbine or paint system, you will need an air compressor to power your sprayer.

HVLP sprayers are a better option when coverage is more important than precision. Imagine that you’re painting the leg of a chair.  You don’t care if paint goes to either side.   HVLP vs Airless sprayers are better for smaller jobs like painting furniture or a small area. 

HVLP sprayers also offer these advantages

For spraying with an HVLP vs Airless paint sprayer, you will mostly likely need an air compressor unless you purchase a spray system with a built in turbine. 

Industrial or commercial versions will give you lacquer or varnish options if you’re willing to make the needed investment.

Editor’s Choice: Top 3 HVLP Paint Sprayers

Picture	Name
	Fuji Mini Mite 4 4 stage turbine 2 year warranty 1.3mm tip
	Fuji Semi Pro 2 Turbine System 1.3mm tip 400 cc cup
	Earlex HV5500 Turbine System 13 ft hose 2.0 mm meedle

Fuji Mini Mite 4

Whoa! We think the Fuji Mini Mite 4 is the best HVLP paint sprayer for a few reasons.

The Fuji Mini Mite 4 delivers some level up performance and results. 

The Fuji Mini-Mite HVLP spray system delivers professional-level results without needing an air compressor. Instead, it uses a high-powered 4-stage turbine—comparable to the one found in Fuji’s Q4 series. This enhanced turbine output means you’ll need to thin your paint far less than you would with a typical 3-stage system.

The system generates up to approximately 8.5 PSI, offering strong atomization for a range of finishes. Included is the Fuji T-70 spray gun, equipped with a pattern control dial that lets you fine-tune your fan size—from narrow to wide—for complete control over your spray pattern.

Comes with a 1.3mm standard air cap set for general purpose fine finishing and a 1 quart cup.  You can get a 1.0mm fine-medium output cap, a 0.8mm fine output cap, and a 1.8mm cap to expand your project capabilities. These caps only fit T-Series Guns like the T-70 that comes with the Mini Mite 4.

Noise levels on this model are less then the Fuji Semi Pro but similar to other HVLP turbine systems.   

The hose on this model may be a bit large for fine finishing work, but the results make up for it. 

Fuji Semi Pro 2 HVLP

Get top rated results without any mess with this premium HVLP system.

The Fuji Semi Pro 2 HVLP Spray Paint Machine gives users a comprehensive painting system that they can use almost immediately.

While the Fuji Semi-Pro 2 comes with a higher price tag, it more than delivers in terms of performance. Designed for precision, this HVLP sprayer gives you outstanding control over your paint flow, helping you achieve smooth, consistent results with very little effort.

One thing to keep in mind is the noise level—this model is a bit loud, so if you’re working indoors or in a small workshop, hearing protection is recommended. That said, the accuracy and finish quality make the tradeoff well worth it.

Thanks to its efficient atomization, overspray is kept to a minimum. Although a slight mist may still be present during use, it’s far less than what you’d expect from comparable models in this category.

Your cleanup is always quick and painless, especially if you’ve taken the time to mask off before getting to work.

If you need a larger tip, you can grab a 2.0mm Aircap set #6.

Earlex HV5500

The push and click design for the spray pattern adjustment is our biggest like on the Earlex.   

This all-in-one HVLP spray system includes its own turbine, eliminating the need for an external air compressor. That makes setup easier and more portable—ideal for both DIYers and professionals.

Adjustments are simple and intuitive with a push-button interface, removing the hassle of manually dialing in your settings. You can switch between spray modes quickly and accurately, which is especially useful when moving between different materials or project types.

Despite its user-friendly design, this unit still delivers true HVLP performance, offering a smooth, controlled finish and enough power for even demanding contractor-level projects.

Get yourself the specialized Earlex Spray Gun Cleaning Kit to get your unit super clean after use.

This pro spray gun is able to generate up to 42 CFM thanks to its 650w turbine, giving you consistent coverage on your shutters, trim or similar medium-sized projects.

We didn’t like that the only spray tip you get out of the box is a 2mm tip. To spray certain finishes, you need to invest into several different tips to maximize the use of this machine.  You’ll need a 1.5mm tip/nozzle at least. When purchasing this unit, also purchase additional tips so your covered for all your projects.

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Airless Paint Sprayers 

Airless paint sprayers pump out paint at high pressure versus low pressure, like HVLP spray guns. They use high levels of energy to force paint out of the tip. 

It emerges from the sprayer in a pattern stream that is based on the tip used and the strength of pressure being commanded from the trigger. 

Once the stream hits the air, it atomizes to create paint droplets that eventually impact the surface being painted to create a clean and consistent look.  Airless paint sprayers give you precision at impact. 

Airless sprayers provide more consistency throughout the entirety of the spray. That gives you more control over the final outcome. 

End results: a more even coat of paint. 

Airless paint sprayers are ideal for tackling large-scale tasks—like painting the exterior of a home, fences, decks, ceilings, or big interior spaces. These machines are built for speed and volume, making them a top choice for residential and commercial jobs that involve broad surfaces and heavier coatings.

In contrast, HVLP (High Volume, Low Pressure) sprayers are better suited for precision work. They’re commonly used for smaller-scale projects like painting cabinets, furniture, or trim—jobs that require a finer finish and less overspray.

One of the key differences lies in material handling. Airless sprayers can handle thicker paints, including unthinned latex, which saves time during prep. HVLP sprayers typically require more thinning and are best for lighter finishes.

So, which one should you choose? If your project involves a large area and you’re working with dense materials, an airless sprayer can speed up the job and reduce the need for multiple coats. However, for detail-oriented work where control and finish quality matter most, HVLP is the better option.

Regardless of which type you choose, both require proper masking and prep to protect surrounding areas from overspray.

Airless sprayers also feature these advantages. 

PRO TIPS

#1. Always strain and filter your paint before using it for best results.

#2. Thicker paint typically works best with Airless Paint Guns.

#3.  Here are 6 paint sprayer disasters and our tips to fix them!

Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Airless Paint Sprayers

Picture	Name
	Graco Ultra Cordless Airelss 2000 PSI Max 2 batteries included RAC X FFLP Spray Tips
	Titan ControlMax 1700 Low overspray 1500 PSI Max 515 Tip Included
	Graco Project Painter Plus 515 tip included Spray Up to 50 gallons/year 25 ft hose

Graco Ultra Cordless Airless

Get dual benefits of a cordless and an airless sprayer with this Graco paint sprayer.  We think this unit is the best airless paint sprayer on the market.

The pressure controls are the nicest feature of this Graco Cordless Paint Gun. You can adjust your PSI levels to work at the speed you are most comfortable.

Achieve a flawless finish at your own pace—no thinning required for most paints. The Graco Ultra Cordless Airless Handheld Sprayer streamlines your workflow by reducing prep time and delivering pro-level results, even on the go.

Equipped with a durable triple piston pump and RAC X FFLP spray tips, this unit maintains consistent pressure and atomization for smooth, even coverage. It’s powered by two reliable 20V lithium-ion DeWalt batteries, so you can spray longer without interruption.

This latest version offers major upgrades over earlier models. From setup to cleanup, it delivers an efficient and satisfying painting experience. For anyone serious about painting convenience and quality, this sprayer is a smart investment that pays off in performance.

If you’re interested in taking a look at a few more cordless sprayers, we take a look at a few of the best models available in our cordless sprayer reviews.

Titan 1700

Save your paint budget with the Titan 1700.  It reduces overspray by over 55% compared to other similar sprayers.  The Titan 1700 model was definitely designed with the professional painter in mind.

The ControlMax gives you a softer, more forgiving spray pattern, making it easier to achieve a smooth, even finish with less effort. Whether you’re tackling trim or broad surfaces, this added control can make all the difference.

Built for Less Downtime and Long-Term Use
Its redesigned fluid section cuts down on maintenance delays, while the robust pump construction is built to outlast many of its competitors—ideal if you’re planning on frequent or heavy-duty use.

Versatile Tip Options for a Range of Projects
The system supports a maximum tip size of 0.017 inches and includes a tip guard for safety. Compatible tip sizes include 311, 413, 515, and 517—giving you flexibility for everything from fine detail work to larger surfaces.

PSI Limitations to Keep in Mind
One thing to note: the Titan ControlMax tops out at 1500 PSI, which may be limiting for some high-pressure applications. Just something to consider depending on your specific project needs.

Graco Magnum Project Painter Plus

With this Graco airless spray gun, you receive a paint sprayer that is fully adjustable. You stay in control of the flow of the paint as you work to create specific results.

Powerful Performance with Thicker Paints
Thanks to its durable stainless-steel piston pump, this airless sprayer delivers the high pressure needed to spray unthinned paint with ease. It’s especially effective when working with thicker materials like latex paints and stains, delivering smooth, even coverage without clogging or sputtering.

Paint Straight from the Can—No Fuss, No Pouring
Skip the mess and get straight to work; this sprayer is designed to draw paint directly from the can, letting you get started in minutes. It’s a time-saver for anyone looking to dive into a project without extra prep.

It works with both 1 gallon and 5 gallon cans because its’ paint supply hose is flexible instead of rigid like other models with a similar design.  Get a 20 inch extension rod and save your back when painting ceilings, fencing or your deck.

Put some Graco Pump Armor into your sprayer to protect the pump parts while you’re not using it.  You’ll thank me later.

Weighing only 15 pounds, this unit is super portable and you can take it anywhere to achieve professional results.

Paint Sprayer with the Least Amount of Overspray: Airless vs HVLP 

If you are looking to minimize paint pollution in your workspace, and save yourself some money on your paint budget, look for the paint sprayer that delivers precision paint to your surface with the least amount of overspray.   

When choosing between an airless vs HVLP paint sprayer, you will always find that HVLP delivers results with less overspray than an airless model. 

HVLP	Airless
90% Paint Gets onto Your Surface	Only 40-50% Gets onto Your Surface

HVLP or Airless for Lacquer Spraying?

Lacquer is a thinner material.  It doesn’t require a ton of pressure to lay down a coat on a piece of furniture.   

Also, lacquer isn’t the type of material that is used in detailed work.  We recommend using an HVLP spray gun to spray coats of lacquer.  There is minimal overspray, it’s easy to spray for beginners, and easy to clean up.   Typically, a 1.2mm tip is what you need for effective application of lacquer.   

Make sure to do your research and make sure the model you’re looking at delivers a consistent spray.   

Airless and HVLP Paint Sprayers for Automotive Applications 

The modern HVLP paint sprayer does a great job when it comes to laying down car paint in a finish that is smooth and even. 

Eliminate a ton of overspray by using an HVLP design for a car paint sprayer.   

Less overspray means you save time on prepping your vehicle. You’ll find that some HVLP automotive spray guns come with multiple gun options. 

HVLP spray gun kits typically come with both detail and standard paint guns so you can get all the steps of your project completed. 

Gravity feed auto paint sprayers tend to work the best.  The way they are designed brings your paint down effectively so it can be sprayed, even if your cup or canister is nearly empty. 

Airless Vs HVLP Paint Sprayers and Painting Your Car 

There are many paint sprayer options available for painting your car including siphon feed and other types of sprayers.    

If you’ve got skills at painting vehicles, then airless sprayers get the job done faster than HVLP. 

Using an airless sprayer takes a different set of technical skills compared to HVLP models—especially when it comes to automotive painting. Airless sprayers tend to produce more overspray, which means paint can go to waste if you’re working with a tight budget.

Because of this, airless spray guns aren’t the ideal choice for beginners tackling car painting projects.

If you’re just starting out and learning the ropes of automotive painting, we highly recommend going with an HVLP sprayer instead. It offers better control, less overspray, and is much more beginner-friendly.

Conclusion 

Now that you have all the info about why you should choose airless vs HVLP paint sprayers, you are ready to conquer your next project and get those professional results you’ve been looking for. 

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