Best HVLP Spray Gun Reviews

Best HVLP Spray Gun Chart

Most HVLP paint sprayers come packaged in a “system,” but you can sometimes find the guns being sold separately as well. What HVLP paint gun should you buy? Check out the chart below to find your next HVLP spray gun.

HVLP Spray Gun Reviews: Editor’s Ratings and Reviews

Premium HVLP Spray Gun

Fuji Mini Mite 4

Whoa. This is the highest rated paint sprayer of them all.

The Fuji Mini Mite 4 Turbine Paint System features level up performance, quality and results. The included 1.3mm tip is great for finer mediums and more detailed finishing projects. If you plan on using latex or thicker paint mediums, you will need to thin before spraying.

The HVLP spray system means it doesn’t need an air compressor to spray paint.  The powerful 4 stage turbine, which is the same as on the Q4 models, means less thinning of paints than any other 3 stage model. 

The Mini Mite gets up to approximately 8.5 to 9 PSI. with a solid metal housing that helps to dissipate heat from the turbine.  And just like the Semi Pro 2, the Mini Mite comes with a 25 foot long no kink hose that works well for most workshop spaces.

It comes with the Fuji T-70 Spray Gun that has an adjustable spray pattern control knob to adjust fan size from small to large. 

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 Fuji model may be a bit large for fine finishing work, but the results make up for it. 

Fuji Semi Pro 2

Instead of giving you a fast ticket to a mess, the Fuji Semi Pro 2 HVLP Spray System gives users a quality painting system that they can use right away thanks to its design. The included Fuji M-model gun is known for producing a nice even spray. It’s also ergonomically designed to reduce hand fatigue while spraying and there is a gun holder included on the Fuji.

You get premium performance from the FUJI semi pro, but that also comes with a premium price. The adjustable fan pattern controls which are great for tackling a ton of projects, ranges from small to large. If you need a larger tip, you can grab a 2.0mm Aircap set #6.

The Fuji Semi-Pro 2 is a bit on the noisy side, so if you spray indoors, you should wear hearing protection.  You can paint without stopping to refill your cup because it comes with a 1 quart paint cup.

Your results will be super accurate with the Semi Pro.  The adjustable spray knob allows you to quickly dial in the perfect atomization levels, reducing overspray. We like that the hose that comes with the Fuji is 25 feet long; this can get around most DIY projects you’re working on easily. The gun holder and easy carrying handle make this sprayer very portable whether you are at home or on the job site.

We don’t usually recommend a siphon feed system of spraying for most jobs because of the chance of air getting into your system.  But this sprayer does an excellent job of giving you control over the final results.

There is still a bit of a overspray that occurs while you’re working with this Fuji spray system. Your cleanup is always quick and painless, especially if you’ve taken the time to mask off before getting to work.

Most Affordable HVLP Paint Sprayer

Neiko Tools 1.7mm Air Spray Gun

The Neiko Air Spray lets you control the pattern thanks to the knobs located on the back or underneath of the gun. The gauge is pretty easy to read no matter which way you’re holding the gun.

The Neiko guns do not come with interchangeable tips: this 1.7mm model is great for finishing work and not so great for spraying bases.

The spray pattern from this gun is really nice and consistent for the entry level price. The low weight of this spray gun fights spray fatigue, letting you paint for longer. The gravity feed cup ensure a smooth and consistent result.

Many issues that are listed in public reviews about this particular latex sprayer can be easily fixed. We believe this is the best cheap HVLP spray gun you can buy.

It’s important to always give your new sprayers a good cleaning when you receive them.  Same with the Neiko 40 PSI Air Spray Gun.  This removes dust and left over residue from manufacturing that could foul your paint.

Before you begin painting,  tighten up any threads to prevent any leaks from springing up on you.

A little care before will reduce your maintenance time and costs later on down the road. Many sprayers that are below 3 pounds in weight tend to provide inconsistent results.

Although you see this somewhat with this Neiko model, it isn’t something that is very noticeable unless you’re using many different types of sprayers over a short period of time.

The low weight of this unit keeps your arm from getting tired so you get a consistent pattern as often as possible.

Editor’s Choice Best HVLP Spray Gun

DeVilbiss Starting Line

Designed with automotive painting needs in mind, don’t limit yourself to just one use for this tool.

This spray gun kit works better for once an awhile use instead of daily use. If you’re a professional painter, then this probably isn’t the right kit for you.

The design is solid and it functions quite well, but we don’t see it standing up to some heavy wear and tear. Even though it’s solid, this gun is lightweight, which fights spraying fatigue.

You’re going to need 8-13 CFM from your air compressor to receive continuous painting from these guns. Anything less than this and plan on taking a ton of breaks while you wait for your compressor to catch up. This will affect your overall finish and could lead to less than great results.

You receive 3 tips with the purchase of this DeVilbiss kit: 1mm, 1.3mm, and 1.5mm. These tips are great for detail and finishing work. If you want to change out the default tip, be prepared to take some extra time and be patient with the process.

The initial tip you receive from the factory is on there tight. And we mean TIGHT.

It’s on there super tight and if you get angry with it, you might just end up breaking it. The included tool works well after you get it off the first time. We had to use a wrench.

Our advice?  You’ll get better results if you step up to a 3/8 inch hose.  DeVilbiss has equipped this gravity spray gun kit with plastic cups and plastic connection gaskets. There is a definite weak point where the body and the cup come together. Without care here, you’re going to find either the cup or the gasket breaking and that’s a difficult repair to make if it does happen. 

Consider upgrading to the DeKups system.  You can spray at any angle without leaks.  

Wagner Flexio 890 

When a product says it has enough power to paint a wall that is 8 feet by 10 feet in size in just 5 minutes, then it has our attention. The 11.5 foot long hose gives you enough free play to move around your project.

When tested, the Wagner Flexio 890 can be used to spray unthinned paints. It also comes with a removable HVLP filter, saving you from having to buy filters separately.

The Wagner Flexio features include 3 adjustable spray patterns: horizontal, vertical and round fans giving you decent control over your output and results. The Flexio comes with 2 nozzles: the iSpray and a detail finish nozzle. Use the iSpray for larger jobs to cover more area faster and the detail finish nozzle for small projects and fine finishing.

The Flexio is portable, weighing only 12 pounds and comes with a carry handle.

If painting with this unit indoors, you will benefit from fully masking off your paint area. You just can’t compromise on the price of your tape, your tarp, and your plastic sheeting.

Why?

The exhaust output from this turbine paint station is pretty strong. Strong enough that if you don’t tape your masking down, it can be blown off the wall.

During testing, we found that the nozzle tends to clog. Make sure to wipe down the nozzle regularly with a damp cloth.

The Flexio uses about 2 gallons of paint to cover a wall as compared to the same rolling or brushing work.

If you don’t like to paint or you have a pretty big project to complete, then the Wagner Flexio 890 HVLP Paint Station can make the job go by fast.

Compared to brushing the wall or using a roller, you’ll still wind up coming out ahead and that makes this investment one worth considering.

Earlex HV5500

What we really liked about this Earlex Spray Station was the fact that the spray pattern adjustments come with a push and click type of design. The Earlex Spray Station HV5500 delivers consistent results with easy spray pattern adjustments on the fly.

Instead of fiddling with difficult knobs or dials, you simply push to make the pattern adjustments that your next project requires.

You can use this system to complete a variety of projects with different paint mediums like latex, oils, lacquers and sealers. The easy spray pattern changing system is effortless to use, making multiple projects much easier to complete.

This pro spray gun is able to generate up to 42 CFM thanks to its 650 watt power turbine, which provides you with consistent coverage on your shutters, trim or similar projects.

Both detail work and large scale coverage are possible because of the 1 inch to 12 inch fan widths that can we distributed onto your surface.

It’s also easy to store the Earlex because the gun sits on top when not in use. Take this sprayer anywhere, with the easy carry handle. The portability and on board storage of this unit are well thought out making it easy to carry with you or store it when not in use.

The 1 quart paint cup allows you to paint without worrying about having to pause and refill your cup. It’s also teflon coated, along with the gun, which means super fast and easy clean up.

It gives even contractors the power and control they’ll need to get some of their jobs completed on time.  With a 13 ft hose, you won’t have to struggle to reach your smaller projects. For large projects, you may need to plan out how to reach your paint surface.

This sprayer comes with a 2mm nozzle that covers most paint jobs. 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.

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

TCP Global HVLP Spray Gun Kit: Best Budget HVLP Spray Gun

Equipped with stainless steel needles and nozzles, you’ll have full adjustment over your spray patterns, air pressure, and fluid coverage for consistent results. This is one of the benefits of gravity feed HVLP paint sprayers.

Sometimes just one spray gun isn’t enough to meet your needs. This is particularly true if you’re doing some automotive work, top coats, or touch-ups. It’s small price tag for an HVLP Paint Gun Set that is unmatched in the paint spraying world. Compared to other HVLP spray guns, the price is just right for the functionality that you get.

Because these 3 spray guns come with multiple tips, you can spray almost any kind of material. Each gun is adjustable for air pressure, spray pattern and fluid delivery, giving you a ton of latitude with the types of projects and painting you take on. TCP Global also has extra tips for purchase from 0.8 to 2.5mm to cover any sort of paint medium you need to spray from clears to rubberized undercoating to basic latex paint.

The CFM requirements on these 3 HVLP paint sprayers range from 3.5 to 7.1, which most air compressors have the power to handle. This means you can keep painting until you’re finished with a project instead of being forced to wait for the compressor to catch up. 

Be prepared to make adjustments.  We found that just a little bit of vibration can cause the knobs to turn just a bit and adjust the quality of the spray.

Equipped with stainless steel needles and nozzles, you’ll have full adjustment over your spray patterns, air pressure, and fluid coverage for consistent results. You get extra fluid cup filters, a hex wrench, cleaning brush and 2 spanner wrenches with your purchase.

The operating pressure range for this TCP global paint gun set are 29-50 PSI, which most compressors can handle pretty easily. Nozzle size on these HVLP sprayers range from 1.0mm to 1.8mm  making this set perfect for many paint jobs.

Otherwise you might consider using two hands to control the TCP spray guns if you find this to be a bit of difficulty while using this product.

Most of the accessories you can buy for this gun are at a price point we love.  This includes a paint mixing kit and the Benchtop Holder Stand.

Fan control isn’t as precise as we’d like it, but is expected in this price range. You can create professional results, however, you have to keep a close eye on your fan control.

The knobs are placed on the guns for right handed folks. Left-handed users will have to cross-over with their other hand to adjust the knobs on this particular spray gun set.

Make the cleaning process a bit easier with TCP’s 20 piece cleaning kit. You can also buy paint strainers separately.

Extra paint usage can be a bit of an issue. Although these spray guns have an HVLP design, they use a little more paint than you’d expect. We found the surface ratio of paint to atmosphere to be about 70/30, whereas other HVLP designs can be as high as 90/10. You should expect to use a little more paint than you might anticipate. 

Graco Sharpe

Whether you decide to buy the 1mm model or the 1.8mm model, we found that this compact and very lightweight sprayer does an excellent job. Weighing in at less than 2 pounds, you won’t have to deal with spray fatigue and stopping mid project to rest your wrists.

The tips are not interchangeable on this gun, so you will need to buy separate guns for primers, paints, and clear coats.

The controls are easy to adjust, making it a breeze to paint with.

The cup is made from aluminum and holds 600cc, so bigger jobs may see some time delays due to have to refill the cup. We noticed that the lid on the paint cup is plastic. After cleaning, make sure to put the lid back on the cup so it doesn’t shrink or lose its shape.

You will need to buy an air line and make sure you have a decent compressor that can generate 8-9CFMs at around 40lbs air pressure. You will also need to buy an air regulator, if you don’t already have one.

Replacement parts are easy to obtain if something does happen to break down on you. Overall this sprayer is built more for specific projects than for general needs.

Find the tip size that works best for you and get to work!

Astro EuroPro HVLP

It comes with a 1.5mm tip making it middle of the road for laying down thicker materials like primer.  We don’t recommend this sprayer for latex unless it’s thinned. The cup capacity is 600ml, which is a bit small for larger projects. You may need to stop and refill your cup. This is why we think this gun might be best for smaller projects.

For the price, this gun is super versatile and it surprised us at all the material it could spray. It also has an 86% transfer efficiency rate.

The higher PSI requirements of the Astro EuroPro HVLP mean that a smaller pancake compressor won’t be able to push enough air to this gun.  Make sure your regulator is high quality.   

This gun can spray clearcoats (1.5mm tip), metallic, peals, epoxy primer, urethane color coat, and urethane clearcoat, with excellent results. The fan width is better than expected for a gun of this price at about 8-10 inches when 8 inches way from your project.

Check your compressor to ensure that it can operate at high enough pressure to deliver the air that this gun needs which is 9-10 CFMs.

At around 1 pound, you don’t have to worry about wrist fatigue.

You can buy more tips for this gun directly from Astro Tools. 

Wagner Control Spray Double Duty

The Wagner Control Spray Double Duty provides users with a maximum level of control while providing a minimal level of overspray when used correctly.

It accurately spray sealants, stains, and other light body materials in addition to paint when it’s at the right viscosity. We found that you had to thin down latex a TON before you could spray it through this paint gun.

It works great for finishing work. Spraying stain and varnish seems to be what this sprayer does particularly well.

We’d likely include lacquer in with that assessment too.

It takes you about 5-10 minutes to get everything setup and then most jobs can be completed in about the same amount of time.

The variable trigger in particular makes finishing work consistent, but still personalized, and that gives this Wagner Project paint sprayer a unique advantage.

Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, here is what we discovered while taking this double duty unit out for a test run.

You have horizontal, vertical, and round spray patterns from this Wagner sprayer.  The horizontal and round spray patterns were relatively easy to apply.

This versatility makes the Wagner Control Spray a good paint sprayer for latex paint. The vertical spray pattern took a little time to master, so we recommend practicing your technique if you need to paint vertically with this equipment. 

We do love how fast you can change between materials with the design of this Wagner model. Spraying stain and varnish seems to be what this sprayer does particularly well.

The variable trigger in particular makes finishing work consistent, but still personalized, and that gives this paint sprayer a unique advantage. 

For paint, you’re going to need to strain it every single time. Make sure you thin down the paint per the manufacturer’s instructions and then strain the paint before sending it through this sprayer for the best results.

It’s also lightweight and produces a fine spray that doesn’t give you a whole lot of atmospheric pollution while you’re working, so it isn’t as temperamental as other sprayers with a similar design. 

Join our Email List for more Tips and Info!

First Name

Email address:

Leave this field empty if you’re human:

Are HVLP Sprayers any Good?

HVLP sprayer are popular for a reason.

They are the best guns for DIY and beginners, with their easy to control spray patterns and low over spray. You can spray almost any material, even thinned paints, from an HVLP spray gun. Conquer furniture, walls, cabinets, exterior and interior work with an HVLP spray gun. HVLP spray guns are the all-round DIY champ of the spray gun world.

HVLP Spray Gun Features

You’ll find that most HVLP spray guns utilize a spray cup to feed paint, varnish, stain, or lacquer to the nozzle

This requires you to hold the spray gun at a certain angle for best results.  This can sometimes be difficult if you’re finishing furniture, trim, or other detailed work.

The best HVLP spray gun systems will come with a paint preparation feature that will let you to use the spray gun at any angle.  This includes upside down, to resolve this issue.  Make sure the paint system you’re buying comes equipped with a long enough hose so you’re not struggling to reach your projects.

One overlooked feature that can be found on some paint sprayers is called a bleeder-type spray gun.

In the traditional spray gun design, if you’re not depressing the trigger on your spray gun, then the air at the nozzle shuts off.

Bleeder-type spray guns have the air blow out of the nozzle constantly. This can help to reduce splatter on the initial triggering of the spray gun on the surface being painted. 

HVLP Paint Sprayers: Features To Look For
Can Spray at Any Angle
Low Overspray
Can Spray a Variety of Materials
Lightweight + Flexible hose
Easy to Use
Adjustable Controls
Maintenance is Simple
Connection from Sprayer and air hose are same diameter

Spray Angle

Make sure you grab yourself an HVLP that says that it can spray at any angle. This will make your painting project go by so much smoother.

Low Overspray

Low overspray means you will waste less paint (save money) and you won’t have a bunch of atomized paint floating in the air while completing your project. Make sure to always wear a paint mask when painting; you don’t want paint in your lungs. Don’t forget to cover the area that you want to protect from paint with a drop cloth to keep it from getting any overspray from your paint sprayer.

Can Spray a Variety of Materials

Get yourself a sprayer that can spray latex, oil, varnishes etc. so that you don’t have to buy a bunch of different sprayers for each project you DIY. An HVLP sprayer that comes with multiple spray tips would be best, second best is a sprayer with interchangeable tips that you buy separately.

Lightweight and Flexible Hose

The lighter the sprayer, the easier it is to use. You won’t suffer from fatigue if your sprayer is lightweight. Also, the hose should be flexible and a decent length so you don’t have to stop and readjust constantly while painting. This could result is a less than great job.

Connections are the same Diameter

Pay attention to the details. If your sprayer and air hose are different diameters, you will need to buy a connector, which adds to the cost and time it will take you to finish your project.

Easy to Use

Don’t buy an advanced spray gun if you’re a beginner. You will become frustrated and not get the results you were hoping for. Pick one of the beginner guns listed above.

Adjustable Controls

An HVLP gun with adjustable spray and flow patterns gives you more latitude to complete different types of projects with different paints and stains. Those controls should also be easy to reach and adjust.

Simple Maintenance

A gun that is tough to clean adds time and frustration to your project. Get a paint sprayer that is simple to clean with a hose and water.

Best Material to Spray with Your HVLP Sprayers

We recommend only spraying thinner materials like stains, varnish, lacquers, and polyurethane with your HVLP paint sprayer. You won’t be able to spray unthinned latex or primers with HVLP paint sprayers.

Latex paint can definitely be sprayed, but because your operating at a low PSI, you will need to thin your paint before getting started.

Avoid thicker materials which will clog your sprayer.  Leave the oil based paints and primers to the sprayers with higher operating PSI, like Airless paint sprayers.  They operate at nearly a whooping 2000 PSI, giving them the power to spray unthinned latex.

Best Jobs for HVLP Spray Guns: Which jobs are perfect for an HVLP Spray Gun?

HVLP sprayers are perfect for painting a wall, crafts, furniture, or your cabinets. 

If you’re looking to paint your house, which is a HUGE job, you’re going to want to go with an airless paint sprayer.  They are made for large jobs like your home exterior, decks and fencing.  They push out nearly 2000 PSI, meaning they paint fast at 1-2 gallons/minute without thinning. 

HVLP Spray Guns spray slower than airless paint sprayers.  This is because of the low pressure which results in less overspray and a softer, smoother finish. With most HVLP spray guns, you will have to thin thicker paint mediums like latex, adding more time to your project.

What Pressure to Spray HVLP Gun At?

This depends on your paint sprayer. Each sprayer has different pressure requirements for different material. You also need to choose the right tip for the material that you will be using. Since each material has different viscosity (or thickness) the air pressure required to spray paint is different. Your spray gun manual will have a chart or list the air pressure required to spray different materials (latex, lacquer, oil based, etc.)

HVLP Systems Vs Air Compressor Systems 

A quality HVLP spray system is different than a gun and air compressor set up.  They are also called “turbine systems”.  Typically, an HVLP spray system is a less expensive way to get painting because you don’t need to buy yourself an air compressor to go with your new spray gun. 

Although premium spray turbine systems can cost upwards of $1,000.

Many HVLP paint sprayers with a turbine have “stages” listed in their product description. This basically means that the machine can be run at a specific number of speeds.  A 3-stage HVLP spray gun would have 3 speed settings that you can use while working.  Sometimes these speeds can only be controlled at the nozzle.

Look for a knob or spray pattern adjustment for better control over your spray patterns, coverage, and overall finish in this area. Turbines are self contained which means they are portable.  They weigh around 15-25 lbs.

Cons compared to a compressor and gun set up is that you are limited in the amount of air you can get, meaning you may get a better result from the traditional gun/compressor.

HVLP turbine systems are usually louder than a gun/compressor set up and many paint much slower.  You also have to mess around a bit with the viscosity of your material to get it to spray just right.

What is an HVLP Spray Gun?

What does HVLP stand for?  HVLP is short for high volume, low pressure.

HVLP spray guns use a steady flow of air to allow the paint to stick to surfaces. Low pressure means that an HVLP paint sprayer creates a mist-like spray pattern resulting in less mess and waste.

HVLP paint guns typically work with thinner materials such as stains and thinned latex paint. 

If you are planning on painting mostly indoors such as cabinets, furniture, trim and walls, then an HVLP sprayer may be exactly what you need.  They deliver a soft, smooth finish perfect for your projects.

How to Reduce Overspray

Reducing overspray is the main advantage of using an HVLP spray gun instead of other types. This saves you money too, because it reduces your paint use.

Smaller tips also reduce overspray by providing a more direct spray onto your surface. Use the right tip for your job to reduce overspray. Using smaller fan widths also reduces paint overspray by focusing the paint onto your project instead of in the air.

Keep your gun close to your paint surface too so the paint gets on the surface and not in the air.

If your HVLP sprayer has a pressure adjustment, you may need to lower it. Too much atomization of your paint from the air pressure will increase overspray.

If you are new to spraying, your technique may need some work before your start on your project. Bad spraying technique will increase overspray.

To keep overspray from getting everywhere, you must cover all your surfaces that are not getting painted with plastic or newsprint and tape it down. This includes your vents, windows, floors, etc.

The Advantages of the Best HVLP Spray Gun 

Why choose an HVLP paint sprayer? Let’s face it – if you’ve used a traditional paint sprayer to create a finish, then you know that they tend to be less than efficient.

Traditional paint sprayers can put up to 60% of the paint you’re spraying into the air around you.  HVLP models are so efficient, they will transfer 90% of the paint onto your surface!  That means you only lose 10% of your paint to overspray.  

Without breathing protection in place, you’re literally inhaling paint pollution.  Your lungs shouldn’t be the same color as your walls, right?

Why Choose HVLP Over Other Types of Sprayers?

HVLP paint sprayers put more of your product on the surface being painted.

This means you won’t waste as much paint and you won’t have to worry about what the excessive paint in the air will do to your environment (overspray), especially if you’re painting indoors.

This is because the typical HVLP spray gun only needs about 10 PSI at the nozzle.  Traditional spray guns typically require 50+ PSI.

You can use HVLP spray guns with compressors, turbine systems, or even in a conversion setting if you prefer. These options will also help to minimize the paint loss experienced with the more traditional spray guns.

Then there’s all different projects that an HVLP system can help you paint. Users can spray on varnishes, lacquers, automotive paint, and even stain with ease with this type of spray gun.

You can control your spray pattern and the flow of fluids through the sprayer.

Look for paint hoses that are lightweight, flexible, but still strong to achieve the best possible results with an HVLP sprayer.

Pros	Cons
Up to 90% Paint Transfer Rate	Slow Spray Speed
Budget Friendly	Hoses can Kink
Beginner Friendly	Cheaper Models have Plastic Parts
Low Operating PSI	Only Sprays Thin Materials

5 Things to Know about HVLP Sprayers

1. Practice Spraying
2. Wrist movement
3. Masking your paint area
4. Buying Extra Paint
5. Keep the Tip Wet

You should practice spraying on a random surface like a cardboard box or an old piece of wood. This will help you get the spray pattern, flow and the wrist movements perfected before spraying your project.

Focus on your wrist and arm movement during your practice sprays to make sure it is steady and fluid. Don’t spray at an angle because this can cause an uneven finish.

Always mask off anything in your painting are that you don’t want paint on. Small drops of atomized paint are released from HVLP paint sprayers and will get in and on everything, including inside your vents.

HVLP sprayer will use more paint that brushing or rolling. It can be anywhere from 1.25 to 1.75 times more paint. Make sure to read how much overspray your chosen sprayer produces and buy accordingly.

Keeping the tip wet will keep the paint from drying in the spray tip and prevent clogs and nasty splotches of paint getting on your project. Cover the tip when on a break with something wet like a rag.

How Easy is it to Clean an HVLP Spray Gun?

With some sprayers you just connect a garden hose to it and flush out the sprayer with water and you can even use special paint gun cleaners. Others, you have to take it apart and clean it manually, then put it back together. If this is a concern for you, check the cleaning instructions before you buy your sprayer. This could be pretty important, if you have one gun and need to spray multiple paint mediums with the same gun.

Safety Practices when Using an HVLP Spray Gun

Here are a few tips to be safe when using your new HVLP paint sprayer.

• Never touch the tip with your hands unless the gun is off and you’re cleaning it
• Always use a paint mask respirator
• Use safety glasses when painting
• Never point the gun at yourself or anyone else
• If there is a trigger safety, always use it
• Remove the fluid pressure when cleaning
• Use the tip guard when spraying
• Always check your sprayer before painting for loose or broken parts
• Mask everything that you don’t want coated in paint particles
• Wear protective clothing
• Ventilate your spray area
• Don’t stop leaks with hands or body

HVLP vs Airless 

What is the Difference between HVLP and Airless Sprayers?

Choosing a paint sprayer really depends on your overall project needs.

• High Volume Low-Pressure (HVLP) Spray Guns use a steady volume of air to allow the paint droplets to stick to surfaces.
• The low-pressure creates less mess and waste which is called overspray.
• These sprayers typically work only for thinner paints. 
• Industrial or commercial versions will give you lacquer or varnish options if you’re willing to make the needed investment.

HVLP paint sprayers also offer these advantages.

• Spraying distances of up to 6 inches.
• Detailed work where overspray is not a concern.
• Compatibility with stains and most paint types.
• Nice smooth and soft finish

Airless paint sprayers pump out paint at high pressure versus low pressure. This causes the paint to fan out in a series of droplets, resulting in even coat of paint.

Airless paint guns are quite versatile and can conquer interior paint, residential outdoor DIY projects like a deck, fencing, or shutters, and ceilings.

Unlike an HVLP gun, airless sprayers can handle thicker paints and materials. Choosing one or the other depends on what the specifics of the job happen to be.

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. You just want precision at impact and that’s what this design provides.

There are a ton of reasons to choose HVLP, check out our Airless Vs HVLP post for all the details of the differences between HVLP and airless sprayers.

Can I spray Polyurethane with an HVLP Gun?

HVLP spray guns perform very well with thinner paint mediums like stains, varnish, thinned latex AND polyurethane. They will lay a smooth fine finish over your projects. Lower overspray from HVLP’s will keep your paint costs down. HVLP are a great sprayer for woodworking type of finishes.

Can you Use an HVLP Spray Gun on a Car?

Yes.  But, there are two types of HVLP paint sprayers and one of them gets better results than the other.  One type is called gravity feed and the other is siphon feed.  We recommend a gravity feed HVLP or LVLP for painting cars to get the best results.

What is the Difference between HVLP and Conventional Paint Sprayers?

As time has progressed so has the design of paint sprayers.  This is because the design and output of HVLP sprayers is more advanced and delivers better results.

Results with HVLP sprayers are more consistent and less screening or straining of your paint is needed compared to conventional models.

Conventional models were displaced by HVLP because conventional models have a super low paint transfer rate of about 25-30%  while HVLP is 50-60%.  That means using HVLP, 50-60% of the material sprayed gets onto your surface.  Good painting technique and the right tip for your material can increase the transfer rate even higher.

Common Issues with HVLP Spray Guns

Always pay attention to the connectors that are used with your preferred HVLP paint sprayer.

Many HVLP sprayers offer users a connector that is smaller in diameter than the air hose that connects to the unit. Because this is a restriction to the flow of the paint or other substance, pressure can build up at the connection and cause issues.

Hoses can kink, mostly on the cheaper models in this category. Look for systems that have a spring that fits over the hose to prevent kinks.

Hosing that has a spiral rib built into the unit can also prevent problems in this sprayer category.

Clogging can also be an issue. For reversible tips, just flip them around and use the lowest pressure setting. If the tip is not reversible, then wash out immediately with water.

Check filters and screens for clogging and damage as well.

Do I Use a Compressor with an HVLP Paint Sprayer?

It depends on the sprayer. Some sprayers have built in turbines that generate the air pressure required to paint. Most other HVLP paint sprayers require an air compressor. Remember to check this before buying.

What Are the Prices of the Best HVLP Paint Sprayers?

You’re going to find as you look through the HVLP paint sprayer reviews that there is a match between quality and price in this category.

Entry-level pricing with this type of sprayer will typically provide you with a formed plastic housing. An upgraded price will typically provide you with a metal housing instead.

You’ll also find that cheaper HVLP paint guns tend to be made from formed plastic components. A price upgrade in this category, especially with brands like Wagner and Earlex, will provide you with better internal parts.

For example, a price upgrade will give you parts that are made from aluminum or stainless steel.

Higher priced HVLP sprayers will also have paint preparation systems instead of paint cups and automatic speed controls. They come with long hoses so you can work on many projects without struggling to reach the tough spots.  Bonus: they will also have reduced sound levels so your ears won’t be ringing even when you’re wearing hearing protection.

Prices for HVLP Sprayers

Expect to pay $100 or less for smaller entry-level HVLP sprayers.  The most affordable HVLP sprayers include the Neiko Air Spray Gun and the Wagner Control Spray.

Mid-range products that offer a few features and an upgraded overall experience are typically in the $100-$250 range.

This is where you will find the DeVilbiss Starting Line and the TCP Global HVLP Spray Guns.

Anything above this is considered a premium product, some are contractor-grade, and are usually best suited for large-scale projects or jobs which require professional results consistently.

If you’re a gear head like me, and are always looking for the best results, take a look at the Fuji Semi Pro 2 Turbine System.

This premium HVLP spray gun system will not disappoint.

Conclusion

The best HVLP paint sprayer reviews will help you find a sprayer that delivers consistently accurate results. Find your preferred product today and your work will continue to look amazing.

Quick FAQs