Best Paint Sprayer Reviews

Best Paint Sprayers Chart

The paint sprayers below are consistently rated the best in the industry for what they can do.

Best Paint Sprayer Reviews

We tested 10 of the Top Rated Paint Sprayers on the market and came up with our Editor’s List.

1. Premium Sprayer: Fuji Semi Pro 2
2. Best Cordless Sprayer: Graco TC Pro
3. Best Airless Runner Up: Graco Magnum Project Painter Plus
4. Great all round Sprayer: Earlex HV5500
5. Best Airless Paint Sprayer: Graco Magnum X5
6. Details and Small Projects HVLP: Wagner Control Spray Max HVLP
7. Best HVLP for Beginners: HomeRight Super Finish Max
8. Best Multiple Gun Kit: TCP Global HVLP Spray Gun Kit
9. Best for Stains, Varnish, Lacquer: Wagner Control Spray Double Duty
10. Best for Budgets: Neu Master

Premium Paint Sprayer

Fuji Semi Pro 2

The Fuji Semi Pro will blow your mind and prove that this premium priced sprayer delivers premium results every time.

The Fuji Semi Pro 2 HVLP Spray Paint Machine gives users a painting system that they can use almost immediately thanks to its comprehensive and thoughtful design. It comes equipped with the highly rated Fuji M-model spray gun, which is known for being ergonomically designed to reduce hand fatigue while producing a beautifully even spray.

The M Model spray gun can also be converted into a gravity feed gun so the projects you can complete with this unit are endless. To convert to gravity from bottom feed, see part # 9960 – U-Tube 400cc Gravity Cup Conversion Kit. To convert to bottom from gravity feed, see part # 2042 – 1 Quart Cup Assembly.

Although it comes with a premium price, we found that you’re going to receive premium results.

The Fuji Semi Pro 2 is a bit on the noisy side, so hearing protection is a must if you’re using this sprayer in tight spaces like your workshop or indoors generally speaking. The tradeoff for a little noise is worth it. This negative is easily offset by how accurate your results can be. You can quickly create the perfect atomization levels, minimizing your overspray in just seconds.

Usually, we’re generally reluctant to recommend a siphon feed system of spraying for most jobs because of the chance that air might get into your system while painting.  However, this particular model does an excellent job regardless of the paint feed method.

The Semi Pro delivers accurate results with its easily adjustable spray knob system. The adjustable spray knob allows you to quickly dial in the perfect atomization levels, reducing overspray. If you need a larger tip, you can grab a 2.0mm Aircap set #6.

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.

While you still have to deal with overspray mist while you’re working, the Fuji Spray System minimizes the amount of paint that gets into the air around you.

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

Best Cordless Sprayer

Graco TC Pro 

The primary benefit of this Graco TC Pro spray gun is its versatility. You can even spray hot solvents and flammable materials with this sprayer.

Graco claims that no thinning is required for paints or stains, so we put that claim to the test and it passed with flying colors. Powered by a DeWalt 20V lithium battery, the Graco TC Pro will make painting easier than you ever thought.

It performed well, providing a smooth finish that was nice and even on a consistent basis.  You can adjust the PSI range from 0 to 2000.  A sprayer with this price tag can spray at any angle including upside down without any problems.  The paint cup capacity is 32 oz, which is industry standard for this type of sprayer.

When filling your paint cup, don’t fill it all the way. Leave some room at the top: Graco cordless sprayers seem to perform better if you leave some room in the paint cup.

We found that straining your paint is necessary every time you paint with this paint sprayer. Any changes to the texture of the paint or stain does create a bit of a problem for the TC Pro.

Most Graco sprayers are on the pricey side: but there is a great reason for that. On top of amazing performance and above average annual gallon usage, you can rebuild most of the parts on Graco sprayers.

Included with the Graco TC Pro is the 514 reversible tip, flexline bags, Graco pump armor and mesh filters.  The TC Pro weighs about 10 pounds, so some wrist and arm fatigue might happen.  Budget your time properly and this won’t be an issue.

Inside the box are a bunch of goodies.  Here is what you get.

• Flexline bags of 4 ounces to 32 ounces.
• 4 ounces of Graco pump armor storage fluid.
• A 60-mesh filter.
• 514 reversible spray tip.  (Get Different Tips HERE)
• Two DeWalt lithium-ion batteries and an XR charger.
• 2 VacuValve caps.

According to the manufacturer, users can receive up to 1 gallon of paint spraying on a single battery charge.

Battery life is typical of a cordless sprayer: about 30-45 minutes of constant painting for each charge.  That sprays less than the 1 gallon per charge claim, but close enough. The batteries charge decently fast.  That’s what’s so great about this unit, it comes with 2 batteries. 

While one is on the charger, you can keep painting and it will be charged up by the time the other one dies. Because the TC Pro takes DeWalt batteries, you probably have some extras around the house already for your other power tools.

Graco’s standard warranty is 1 year but, their products are so well built….you probably won’t need it.

The control over the spray is great, allowing users to really dial in the speed that works best for them, producing the best results on their project.

the TC PRO works just as well with thinner materials like stains and varnishes as it does with paint. Be sure to use the flex liner bags for stains, however, as the disbursement cup is susceptible to staining.

Here is a quick video so you know what to expect when you receive (and go to use) your new Graco Cordless paint sprayer.

Best Paint Sprayer Airless Runner Up

Graco Magnum Project Painter Plus

The Graco Magnum Project Painter Plus works best when spraying thicker paint mediums like latex. The stainless-steel piston pump is strong enough to let you spray paint that hasn’t been thinned at a high enough pressure for consistent results.

Stains and lacquers will need to have a thicker viscosity for this unit to spray them with good results.

I love that the GRACO Project Painter Plus takes paint directly from a 1 or 5 gallon bucket. The supply hose on this model is flexible, meaning you can really move around your project and not worry about the supply hose coming out of your 5 gallon paint bucket. Other models aren’t equipped with such a flexible supply hose and this results in air getting into the paint system and having to stop, bleed the line, and begin painting again.

If you have a large area or hard to reach places to spray, hook yourself up with a 20 inch extension rod and save your back.

When storing (and after cleaning), put some Graco Pump Armor into your sprayer to protect the pump parts.  You’ll thank me later. The armor protects the o rings, etc. while in storage.

Weighing 15 pounds, you can also take this unit just about anywhere and achieve professional results. This unit also supports up to a 50 foot hose, so you can maneuver around any project large or small and achieve results.

We also appreciated the easy-to-access adjustable pressure controls that are on this Graco paint spray gun, making it simple for beginners and pros alike to dial in the settings they need for each painting project.

All of the settings you need are put on a dial that is easy to turn while working. Graco placed the symbols on the dial so that you can easily read them while spraying, instead of having to stop and look each time you change your settings.

Best All Round Sprayer

Earlex HV5500

The Earlex Spray Station HV5500 delivers consistent results with spray pattern adjustments that are as easy as pushing and clocking a button. This makes adjusting your spray pattern on the fly ridiculously simple.

Just push the button to make pattern adjustments instead of fooling around with a bunch of knobs and dials that are hard to reach and/or hard to read. Honestly, the easy spray pattern changing system is so effortless to use, multiple projects become easier to complete.

You can use this system to complete a variety of projects with different paint mediums like latex, oils, lacquers and sealers.

Get super consistent coverage on all your projects due to the 42 CFM and 650 watt turbine that the Earlex HV5500 generates.

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. Both the paint cup and the paint gun are Teflon coated and this makes clean up go super fast and easier than other types of guns.

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, but can be too big for finer details. You can also buy a 1.5mm if needed.

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

Best Paint Sprayer Airless

Graco Magnum X5

What is the best airless sprayer to complete your jobs?  You don’t always know what the conditions you’ll be encountering. You might need a lot of flexibility in your movement.

The Graco X5 airless spray gun supports a painting hose of up to 75 feet. That means you’ve got plenty of reach for every project. Just mask off what you need to do and then paint until you’re done.

The Graco Magnum X5 Airless Sprayer is recommended as a light duty machine. It’s great for staining your deck or your fence. Bring it inside and you’ll be able to quickly paint a ceiling without the mess a roller tends to give you. Its built for the hardcore DIYer with an annual gallon usage of 125 gallons/year. That is more than double most other sprayers listed in this post.

Commercial users will need to look to a purpose built model for heavier use however, as every day spraying will require a higher annual gallon rating.

Use their 20 inch extension rod and save your back when painting your deck, fence, hard to reach places and your ceilings.

The automatic priming helps users clean out missed items from the last cleaning session. It can spray up to 27 gallons per hour, which is 10% more than the output of other models in this brand.

Users are also given full control over the amount of pressure that is used for the paint flow at all times. You can work on any project, at any speed, and receive the same results every single time

Then, once you’ve finished painting, cleanup is super simple as well. The sprayer is equipped with a PowerFlush Adapter from Graco products, allowing you to connect a garden hose to the equipment.

Turn on the hose, pull the sprayer, and clean water flushes out the paint very quickly. There is no disassembly required for the cleaning process.  Once your done with your sprayer, use Graco Pump Armor to protect the internal parts and the pump.

Best Paint Sprayer for Details and Fine Finishing

Wagner Control Spray Max HVLP

What stood out to us the most during our testing period with this particular paint sprayer from Wagner was the double filter design.

You’re able to work in environments that are slightly humid and still not need to worry about sucking particulates into your paint that is being atomized. Straining your paint prior to painting latex with this sprayer will give you very consistent results.

You can spray a pattern of ½-inch in size to 1 foot in size with the same optimal levels of control rather than being a bit loose on either end of the spray pattern adjustment.

If you need to make changes to your viscosity, that’s easy to do thanks to the measurements built into the design of the viscosity cup.

This unit will require you to thin your latex paint.  Wagner recommends that you thin latex paint by 10% to 20%.  We found that for some latex paint options, you may need to thin it by up to 40%. Follow the instructions on the can of paint you buy for basic thinning and viscosity requirements. Pay close attention to this fact to avoid clogging up your sprayer.

The included 20 foot hose is great for working around your small projects. For anything a bit larger, you will have to plan your spray to accommodate the length of the hose.

This sprayer is limited to small-ish jobs.  Spraying cabinets is perfect but, painting a bedroom wall, for example, or a fence, would not be feasible with this equipment.  Priming this sprayer is also a challenge, follow the directions provided to ensure that the sprayer keeps its prime while painting for great results.

You also receive a 1 quart metal cup that is of a contractor grade, plus a 1.5 quart plastic cup which works pretty well for your DIY projects.

Best HVLP

HomeRight Super Finish Max

This HVLP paint sprayer from HomeRight will take your painting projects to the next level.

This beginner friendly Super Finish Max offers the same functionality as the top models in the industry, but for a decent price.

Make sure that you give the Super Finish Max a closer look. It offers the same functionality as the top models in the industry, but for a fraction of the price. It even requires less thinning that high-level models. If you want to start staining right away, this model will accommodate you. The lower levels of pressure with this HVLP model mean that you have less overspray to worry about.

Right out of the box, the HomeRight Super Finish Max has multiple spray settings that help you conquer more projects.  You can also buy more spray tips making it even more versatile.   

The Super Max comes with a 450 watt turbine motor and 3 brass spray tips: 1.5, 2.0, and 4mm. This means that most paints, stains, varnishes etc. can be tackled with this paint sprayer. The brass tips ensure that your tips are durable, last a long time, and provide a smooth consistent finish.

Always pay attention to the connectors that you use on your HomeRight HVLP Sprayer.  Some models offer users a connector that is smaller in diameter than the air hose that connects to the unit. This may cause pressure to build up at the connection due to the restriction on paint flow. This is known to cause issues.

The HVLP design of this HomeRight model, is paired with a siphon feed cup. While we don’t typically recommend siphon feed, this model does a great job at tackling the siphon feed issue of keeping spray pressure consistent while providing a great sprayer for beginners and Pros alike.

We also like the ergonomic improvements that were included within the design. At just 3 pounds, your grip isn’t going to get tired as you’re working and this helps you to get through projects a bit quicker than you could with other models. Some paint sprayers do weigh less than this model, but they are a bit cheaper and don’t deliver the same results on furniture and larger woodworking projects.

You also receive an air-blowing nozzle with this particular model. If you run this nozzle without a finish, then you receive a tight stream of air that you can use for cleaning out home electronics, underneath tables and chairs, and other tight spaces where dust bunnies tend to collect.

It’s super easy to find parts for this very popular paint sprayer.  New paint containers and tips can be found online.  Need a spray shelter?  HomeRight makes that too!

The 40 ounce cup is bigger than most other models (which have 32 ounce paint cups), and you should be able to cover about 90-100 square feet of paint area with one cup.

Best Multiple Gun Kit and Great for Budgets (and Cars)

TCP Global HVLP Spray Gun Kit

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. 

Best Paint Sprayer for Stains, Varnish, Lacquers

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 thin stains, lacquers and varnish seems to be what this sprayer does particularly well.

We loved the variable trigger in particular. You can personalize your sprayer to make your finishing work more consistent. We found that that gives this Wagner Project paint sprayer a unique advantage.

Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, there are a variety of options to get your project done perfectly.

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 thinned 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.

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. 

Best Paint Sprayer for Budgets

Neu Master

This brilliant little sprayer offers a 40 ounce detachable container, a durable plastic housing, and enough pressure to spray even properly thinned latex. Neu Master claims you can paint 54 sq feet with a full paint cup: we found it to be a bit less, depending on your spraying skills.

You can find a few options on this cheap sprayer that normally come on more expensive versions. We are happy that such options are found on an entry level sprayer. This sprayer will spray everything from stains to latex to polyurethane and other finishes.

You can adjust the spray patterns from vertical to horizontal to circular to achieve the perfect spray pattern for your project. There is also a material control knob to easily dial in the correct settings for your chosen spray pattern.

With the 4 different nozzles included, you can paint anything from sealers, stains, to primer and oil enamels.

At 3.5 pounds, this sprayer is well balanced and weighs about half of what the other sprayers in this category weigh, reducing wrist fatigue.

We found the cord to be a bit short at 6.65 feet, so grab an extension cord before you get started.

Users have reported that this unit leaks when you hold it in a non-horizontal position unless all the parts are screwed on extremely tight. Be careful because on sprayers in this price range, most of the parts are plastic and you don’t want to crack them. If you have to paint upside down or at an angle, this unit may not be for you.

We recommend straining your paint at all times before spraying but especially with budget models like this one.

The Neu Master Kit includes:

• 1 * HVLP Paint Sprayer with 1200ML container
• 4 * Size Nozzles (1.5/2.0/2.5/3.0 mm)
• 1 * Viscosity Cup
• 1 * Cleaning Brush
• 1 * Cleaning Needle
• 1 * User Manual

If you’re shopping on a tight budget, this is the best cheap paint sprayer you can buy.

What is a Paint Sprayer and Why Do I Need One?

There are four types of paint sprayers on the market today. Each spray paint gun has certain features that can be utilized to your advantage.   

Paint sprayers all work basically the same.  They force paint (sometimes mixed with air) out of the tip or nozzle onto your surface.  

Some operate at high pressure, others require a compressor while some use gravity and lower pressure to help you paint. The choice of which one of these is the best spray gun is largely dependent on what your project demands are. 

Is it Worth Getting a Paint Sprayer?

This is only a question you can truly answer. If you’re painting a ton of projects and you need them done fast, a sprayer will help you achieve those goals.

Are Paint Sprayers Easy to Use?

Paint sprayers do require a bit of practice.  We recommend you watch a few how to videos on youtube and then practice the sweeping arm motion technique on some cardboard until you get the hang of it.  

This way you can avoid a paint sprayer disaster like bowtie effect or tailing.  

What is the Best Paint Sprayer for Beginners?

The best paint sprayer for beginners is one with easy to adjust spray width, patterns, less overspray, lightweight, and comes with many tips included. I love the HomeRight Super Finish Max HVLP as the one beginners should choose.

Types of Paint Sprayers and How they Work: Which Kind of Paint Sprayer is Best

Which kind of paint sprayer is best totally depends on the surface you’re painting, your budget, experience, and the type of paint you’re using. Personally, for a DIYer that does small to medium sized jobs, I would recommend a Gravity feed HVLP paint sprayer to start and then work your way up to a more powerful airless and cordless sprayer.

HVLP Sprayers

HVLP stands for “High Volume Low Pressure.” This spray paint gun uses a high volume of air to break up the paint for spraying.  This type of spray gun is perfect for beginners to get started with paint spraying.

The end result is a “paint mist” which reduces your overspray, but makes it difficult to cover large surfaces rapidly. 

You will need an air compressor with an HVLP sprayer unless you buy a turbine system. For example, the Fuji Semi Pro 2 is a turbine system.

Best paint sprayer for cabinets and other small, fine detail work. 

Gravity Feed Sprayers

Gravity Feed Spray Guns are called that because the cup in on the top of the spray gun feeding the paint into the gun. All paint sprayers are either gravity feed or siphon feed. We recommend folks choose a paint sprayer that’s gravity feed, because the spray is easier to manage and more consistent.

They require less air pressure meaning they have less overspray so you save money on paint.  

Air and paint are mixed and then sprayed out of the tip onto your surface. The low pressure also allows you to have more control over the spray and delivers a soft finish.

Best for small jobs, crafts, and touch-up work. We recommend gravity feed sprayers for automotive need as well.

Air Sprayers

This is the conventional style of paint sprayer. You’ll need to do extensive masking to protect your surrounding environment. 

You may also be required to dilute your paint thickness.  You also typically have more paint spray pattern options available to you.  

Best for work that requires a high quality finish. 

Airless Sprayers

This high pressure paint sprayer can use a wide variety of paint products, including thin stains.  This type of paint sprayer is best used by someone with experience.

It works be pumping out paint at high pressure forcing the paint into a fan pattern onto your surface. We recommend them as the best latex or primer spray gun.  

Large surface areas can be painted rapidly. Look for a tool with reversible spray tips for the best results.  Graco makes the industry standard for airless sprayers.

Best paint sprayer for walls, ceilings, large interior or exterior surfaces.   

Turbine Sprayers

Turbine sprayers have a built in air supply, which means you don’t need a compressor to paint. This is great for folks on a budget or that don’t have a compressor at home already. They are typically portable and come with long hoses to get around projects.

Low Volume Low Pressure (LVLP)

LVLP guns are fantastic for smaller detailed projects where the consistency and quality of your finish are very important. You will find most cars are painted with LVLP paint sprayers. These guns will require air to spray paint, so you would need a compressor. Look for IWATA brand name when shopping for an excellent LVLP gun for cars or other fine detail work.

What This Means when Buying a Spray Gun 

This doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t use an HVLP sprayer for touch-up work or a cup sprayer to paint a room.  It just means the task becomes a little more difficult if you’re not using the best spray gun for your project. 

For this reason, the best paint gun reviews are an essential asset to the shopping process as they can help you identify the most versatile paint sprayer that can meet the needs of all the projects on your list. 

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The Advantages of Having a Paint Sprayer At Home 

If you used paint sprayers in the 1990s, you might have found them to be cumbersome or even a waste of time. 

It’s time to give this tool a second look.  The buzzing noises, the heavy vibration at the wrist, and the inconsistent spray patterns have evolved. 

Now, paint sprayers are a rather effective painting and finishing tool.

Pros	Cons
Faster Paint Time	Cleaning the Sprayer Takes Longer
Can Get More Projects Done	More Expensive than Brushes/Rollers
Paint Dries Faster	Retouching can only be done with a sprayer
More Even Results	Must Backroll (or else see above)
Results look more Professional	Might need a compressor (added cost)

Are Paint Sprayers any Good?

The finish you get in a short amount of time from a paint sprayer beats any other method of applying paint hands down.  Is a paint sprayer worth it?  

Yes, they are more expensive than brushes and rollers.  But, you can use your sprayer to spray large areas super fast without any brush or roller marks.

You do need to practice your painting technique a bit on some cardboard or wood before laying a coat of paint down on your project.

Yes, there is prep and clean up involved when spraying paint, but you also have to prep and clean up after brushing or rolling which takes much more time to paint your surface.  

Why use a Home Paint Sprayer Instead of a Brush and Roller?  

Brushes and rollers Vs Paint Sprayers are cheaper and require less skill than a home paint sprayer.  But, the results speak for themselves.  Sprayers give you a professional finish every time. 

You can even purchase power paint rollers, that suck the paint up into the roller with a tube. Then you don’t have to bend over and cover the roller with paint every time.  

They have their uses, but really, a paint sprayer delivers a better finish. 

When spraying paint, you can paint more surfaces faster. If you need to crush a few walls out, you can get them done in 1 morning, and then get on with your day. 

Painting a textured surface with a consistent finish is impossible with a brush or roller. The best paint sprayer will level up your DIY and your results will SHINE on textured surfaces. 

Spray paint is thinner than when brushing or rolling so it dries faster.  You can get your second coat completed much sooner. 

Best Paint Sprayer Buyer’s Guide

The best paint sprayers are designed to provide you with more surface coverage in less time when compared to conventional brushes and rollers.

Virtually any painting task can be completed with ease, but determining the best paint spray gun for your needs requires an examination of the job that needs to be completed.

How to Choose the Best Paint Sprayer

The first step in the shopping process should be to determine which of the available spray paint guns will meet the most DIY needs you have.

To do this, there are 3 important questions to ask yourself about the work your new sprayer will be asked to do.

• What are the materials that will be painted by this tool?
• How large is the overall surface area of each project?
• Is the paint thick that will need to be sprayed onto each surface?

Features to Look for in the Best Paint Sprayer

Spray Patterns 

Perhaps the nicest feature that can be found on home paint sprayers today is a wide variety of available spray patterns. 

With enough practice, even the cheapest models with tailing edges or the occasional splatter can give you a consistently good result. 

Sometimes even without backrolling.  You’ll also find models that give you tight spray edges and a very smooth finish even if you just have average control of the spray gun. 

Air Compressor Needed

Does your new sprayer need an air compressor? Also, make sure that your compressor puts out enough CFMs to adequately power your automotive paint sprayer.

Easy Set Up 

Some paint sprayers come with a feature that is called a “painting application system.” There might be different marketing terms applied to such a system, such as Wagner’s PaintREADY system. 

This will allow users to be able to directly apply latex paint without thinning it.  You still need to screen or filter the paint before using it to prevent clogging. 

With some home paint sprayer models, you can take the paint straight from the can. 

Higher Quality Parts 

You’ll also find that home paint sprayers that are equipped with brass nozzles or tips tend to provide the most consistent results.

Aluminum, stainless steel, or even plastic tips and nozzles will still give you good results.  Just beware that they may need to be replaced more often. 

Adjustments are Easy 

A final feature to consider when shopping for the best home paint sprayer, are models that have instant adjustments.

This applies to your spray pattern. You will be able to do vertical or horizontal stripes with ease.  With instant adjustments, you switch to a round pattern or other spray design with a simple turn of a knob or switch. 

Turning the nozzle also works on some models, but these tend to clog a bit more due to the design.  

Tips

If there are lots of tips available or your airless sprayer, you will be able to conquer a lot more painting projects with the same gun. Brand name tips usually are better quality and last longer too.

What Paint Sprayer Should You Buy?

You should think about a few things before buying a sprayer.

• Material you will be painting with most often (latex, stains, poly, etc.)
• The size of most of your projects (large, small, houses, walls, furniture, crafts, cars, etc.)
• How much spraying experience you have
• How many gallons you’d be spraying in any given year
• What finishes you’re looking to achieve
• Your Budget

How Often will You use Your New Paint Sprayer

You also want to look at the frequency you plan to use the paint sprayer.  

Are you thinking about using the sprayer to paint furniture, trim, and other detailed surfaces? Do you need a multi purpose paint sprayer that can spray your deck and good as it sprays a wall?

Once you’ve answered these questions, then you’re ready to look through the best paint sprayer reviews found here.

This information will let you see how a paint sprayer is able to perform, if it can meet the needs you’ve identified, and if it will provide you with the uniform finish you desire for each project.

If you want to limit backrolling and other finishing touches, then the spray paint gun reviews are a great place to determine which tools will meet that need as well.

How Many CFM Do I Need for a Paint Gun?

Unless you buy an airless paint sprayer or a turbine paint system, you will need an air compressor to go along with your spray gun.  The compressor pushes air to your sprayer, where paint and air are then mixed or atomized and sprayed onto your project.

CFM stands for cubic feet per minute.  Its a measure of the volume of air your compressor supplies to your sprayer or other tools like air nailers.  Larger CFM ratings on your compressor are required for heavy duty air tools.  

Each sprayer has a different CFM requirement BUT most don’t need a ton of air, typically, they need to supply your paint gun with around 10 PSI to start spraying.

What is the Best Affordable Paint Sprayer

The prices for the best paint sprayers can vary considerably.  A cheap paint sprayer will give you cheap looking results.

Prices of your preferred paint sprayer is going to depend on what type of sprayer you’re intending to purchase.

Manual paint sprayers, for example, can be found for as little as $15 – and sometimes less. A high-end airless sprayer, on the other hand, might cost more than $400.

Most folks aren’t going to be shopping at these extremes, however, which means a good paint gun can typically be found in the $50-$150 range.

You’ll find that cup sprayers, because of their smaller size, tend to be priced in the $35-$75 range.

HVLP sprayers are right on the price point average, with several good models being right around the $100 mark.  This means you won’t have to necessarily spend a lot to receive a tremendous amount of value.

If you’re looking for a commercial-grade paint gun, you will need to expect to pay top range prices with this type of tool.

Can You Use a Paint Sprayer for Primer?

YES!  Paint sprayers can be used to spray everything from clear coat to fire retardant materials to primers.  

Make sure your sprayer is designed to spray primer by reading our reviews above and when in doubt contact the manufacturer directly and ask.

Primers come in oil based and water based (latex).  Which one you choose is up to you and the projects you have to complete.   We tested a bunch of oil and latex primers and found the BEST Primers to use with your new paint sprayer.

Depending on the kind of sprayer you buy, you might have to thin the primer before spraying.  That’s no problem, just remember you may have to apply 2 coats to get complete and professional coverage.

Can I use a Paint Sprayer Indoors?

Paint sprayers are a great way to get fast professional looking results on walls, ceilings, trim, doors, and your cabinets.  Extra care in preparation will guarantee awesome results.  

Bring your painting supplies into the room. Then close the door if one is available. If not, hang a piece of plastic that covers the entire door jamb, so the paint droplets cannot go outside of the room.

Painting My Room: Mask Off Everything

Spraying paint inside requires special prep to make sure you don’t get overspray on surfaces like countertops, floors and light fixtures.

Then you’re going to need to mask off everything that isn’t going to be painted in the room. And by everything, we mean everything.

Paint spray guns atomize the paint, so it can be applied to the wall. This means that spray guns add air to the paint so it can be sprayed.

That is how you get the nice fan-like spray that comes from the nozzle. When paint is atomized, it will begin to float along the air currents in your home.

Every home has air currents. Maybe you have a window open. Your heating or cooling system could be turned off.  

Atomized paint will find its way to those currents and leave droplets in places you wouldn’t expect.  That’s why you must take time to set up your room before painting to avoid a big mess.

If you have furniture in the room, remove it if possible. Remove any light fixtures if you can as well. Then cover the items with a plastic drop cloth.

Wall Preparation Before Painting 

Giving your walls a light sand before painting will make sure that the new paint bonds with the old paint. 

If you’re going from light to dark or vice versa, consider a primer.  Using a primer gives you longer lasting results with deeper richer colors.

If you’re painting interior walls like your kitchen, which may have grease on it, definitely degrease the walls first, then sand, prime and paint.

Drop Cloth

You will also need to lay a drop cloth over the entire floor. Seal the drop cloth along the edges. If you can afford it, use a canvas paint tarp to protect your floor. It’s heavier than plastic and stops the paint from running upon contact.

A 9’x12’ all-purpose canvas cotton drop cloth is your most affordable option and available on Amazon.

As a final step, you’ll need to make sure your windows are covered with a plastic drop cloth as well. Don’t use canvas here because you’ll likely need the light from the window to work.

Make sure the tape you use is wide enough to cover the woodworking, trim, and sill around the window.

If there are walls, baseboard trim, or other components that will not be painted in the room, then these must be covered as well.

Give yourself a couple of hours to ensure that your masking work is done the right way.

It only takes one drop of paint to start a mess and a paint spray gun creates millions of drops of paint when you pull the trigger.

Can You Rent a Paint Sprayer?

You can always rent a sprayer from your local hardware store like Home Depot.  Paying for a rental is an option if your budget doesn’t have room for you to buy a sprayer outright.  This is true if you want to rent a large commercial sprayer of an airless sprayer, which tend to be more expensive than HVLP units.

Once you price out the rental cost on an HVLP paint sprayer you find that buying the sprayer outright brand new, is merely a few bucks more than renting.

Problem with renting is, you don’t know if the last person cleaned out the sprayer properly or if there is some old paint left behind.  You’ll have to clean it and check the spray quality before painting.

What if they sprayed material not recommended by the manufacturer and now the performance of the sprayer is below normal?  Getting a professional finish may be compromised if you rent a sprayer. 

What is the Best Type of Paint Sprayer for Home Use?  It Depends….

Why We Recommend an HVLP as the Best Paint Sprayer for Home Use 

HVLP sprayers are beginner friendly.  They have minimal overspray and can spray most materials.  

BUT….HVLP sprayers may need you to thin out latex paint and primers.   HVLP delivers a controlled finish for all your projects. 

This includes furniture, trim work, cabinetry, and other woodwork without really having any painting knowledge. 

This can help you improve your DIY results dramatically for a rather minimal overall investment.

Unless you buy an HVLP system, with a built in turbine, you WILL need an air compressor.  If you’re a beginner and/or on a budget (and you already have a compressor) pick up an HVLP. 

Why We Recommend Airless Sprayers as Home Paint Sprayers 

Most of the handheld models you’ll find on the market today are airless paint sprayers.  

Are airless sprayers any good?  Well, they do spray much faster than HVLP models BUT have more overspray. You can waste a ton of paint if you’re not experienced with these types of guns. 

They are more expensive than HVLP sprayers, but you won’t need to have a compressor.  Airless Home Paint Sprayers SHINE when painting thicker materials like unthinned latex and primers.

If that’s what you’ll be doing most of the time then grab one of our recommended guns from the list below. 

If you’re more experienced, and need to paint a large surface, grab an Airless Sprayer. 

For more detailed info, check out our Airless Vs HVLP post, where we go in depth about the benefits and drawbacks of each model. 

Pro Tips for the Best Spraying Conditions

There are specific times to spray paint when you will get the best results with less effort.  

Spraying when it’s warm out and there is low humidity will give you the best results.  Paint manufacturers recommend using their paints at 70 F or above to get the best results: color, surface adhesion/bond, and longevity.

If you need to paint in lower temps than that, there is extra prep involved and specialized cold weather painting techniques to make sure you get good results.

What Spray Tips Should You get for Your Job

Let’s demystify spray tips.  

First, each tip is given a 3 digit number, like 317.  That first number “3” if you multiply it by 2, tells you the width of your fan spray from 12 inches away.  A 317 tip will spray a 6 inch wide fan pattern.  A 517 will spray a 10 inch wide pattern and so on.

Fan widths can range from 1 inch to 12 inches or greater, depending on the sprayer. Spray larger fan widths for larger projects like walls or doors and use smaller fan widths for smaller areas like cabinet frames or trim. This helps reduce overspray and gives a more consistent finish on your paint surface.

Those second 2 numbers, the “17” that tells you how small the hole or orifice is that the paint is prayed out of.  This shows you how thick of a coating or paint you can spray out of that specific tip. 

The larger the last 2 numbers, the thicker the coating/paint you can spray.

The difference between the 317 and 517 is that the 517 will spray the paint out in a wider fan pattern (10″ versus 6″) meaning each coat of paint will be thinner.  To choose the perfect sprayer for your job, if you have a Graco, check out this awesome tip selector tool on their website.

You must keep your spray tips in good condition and free of debris and clogs.  If you don’t take care of them, you can end up with more overspray (wasting paint and costing you money) or you might ruin your paint sprayer and its pumps.

The perfect tip for a certain job is always up for debate.  Most pros find which one they like working with best through trial and error. 

We recommend the following tips.

Job	Tip Size
Furniture (Oil)	517 or 619
Coatings (Poly)	313, 413, 415, 515
Walls/Ceilings (Latex)	313, 413, 415, 515, 517
Decks/Fencing (Stains)	313, 413, 415, 515
Cabinets (Enamel - Oil)	313, 413, 415, 515
Primer (Oil)	517, 619
Primer (Latex)	415, 515, 517

What are Spray Patterns and When to Use Them

Troubleshooting Your Paint Sprayer

Issues can come up with your spray gun from time to time.  Most of them are preventable with proper maintenance such as cleaning and proper storage techniques.  Let’s go over a few of the most common issues that could help you get back to painting.

• Sprayer not priming
• Nozzle/Tip is clogged
• No Pressure
• Trigger not working

Sprayer isn’t Priming

First make sure you’ve got the valve in the prime position.  You can also try resetting the pump. 

If this doesn’t work, you will need to remove the siphon tube and check for clogs, old paint and leaks (especially in the siphon tube).  Make sure the lower ball can move freely.  There could also be a plugged screen or air in the pump/hose.

There could also be air in the lines.  You’ll have to hold the gun trigger in the open position and run your unit until the air is purged out.

Nozzle/Tip is clogged

This one is simple: remove the tip and clean it.  If you own a Graco, you can use the reverse tip technology to simply twist and tip, shoot air through and clear out the clog.  Keep your hands away from the tip. Paint is highly pressurized and can spray into your skin.

Keep your Paint Sprayer from Clogging in the First Place

Make sure to strain your paint and primer before running it through your gun to remove any weird materials that might have gotten into your paint.

Keep the tip of your paint sprayer covered with a wet rag when taking a break of any kind. This keeps the tip moist so paint doesn’t dry and clog your sprayer.

No Pressure

Make sure the pressure knob is adjusted for the amount that you need.  There could also be air in the line, so bleeding the air out will get pressure to build.  Also, check your equipment for air leaks.

Also, make sure you’re using the right spray tip for the job: it could be too big and you need to switch it out for a smaller one that let’s pressure build behind the nozzle.

Trigger Not Working

It could simply be that your safety switch is on. So many folks forget to turn the safety off before spraying.

For a comprehensive list of problems and solutions, check out Portland Compressor.

Maintaining and Cleaning Your Sprayer

Someone who doesn’t clean out their sprayer thoroughly after every use ends up with a weird looking doorstop.  It doesn’t make sense to spend at least $100 on a tool and then not take care of it!

The messiest part of owning any paint sprayer is the cleanup process. It takes a lot of time to take apart a sprayer so it can be flushed out.

You’re going to have paint go everywhere while you’re getting this job done as well.  Certain makes and models can attach to a garden hose, however, to make cleanup go a lot faster.

If your sprayer is not designed to be hooked up to a standard garden hose, then you’ll need to take the sprayer apart to wash it out.

Don’t forget to clean out your tips as well.  Never use a cloth or paper towel to dry your gear.  You will get foreign objects inside your sprayer and that could result in a severely clogged sprayer.

Instead, let your sprayer air dry or use a blow dryer to air dry the parts.

Focus on your ball-check valves, your hose connections, and the internal spraying mechanisms when performing maintenance on your sprayer and you’ll prevent most of the troubles that are complained about when users review sprayers in a negative way. 

If you’re storing your paint sprayer over the winter months, make sure to use some sort of preservative inside the sprayer, so that the valves in the pump and the pump itself are kept in tip top shape.  Graco Pump Armor is the best that comes to mind for winterizing sprayers, but check with your manufacturer.

Spraying Tips for Beginners

A good place to start is to practice using your new sprayer on some cardboard first so you can perfect your technique.

When you’re able to create even coverage, only then should you proceed to painting other things.

Never use a paint sprayer if the temperature is below 45F or above 75F.

This will affect the quality of the paint. You’ll also want to avoid painting in direct sunlight as well because this will cause the paint to dry too quickly and this changes how it bonds.

Cold paint dries slowly and will attract debris, which also means the sprayer is likely to clog. 

Prepping Your Paint Gun

Clogging, in fact, is the #1 complaint that people have when using a paint sprayer. You’ll see this as a running theme in the public reviews of today’s best paint sprayers.

To prevent clogs, it is important to stir your paint extremely well. You’ll then need to strain it before hooking it up to the sprayer for best results. 

Once you’ve done all this, you’re ready to begin painting.

How to Use a Paint Sprayer Indoors

You’ll want to start moving the sprayer before you start applying the paint.  You move the sprayer with your arm in a sweeping motion, instead of using your wrist.

Keep it moving in strokes that are long and straight. The sprayer will apply paint quickly, so this technique will prevent having the paint run.

You’re basically replicating how you would paint with a brush, but you’re holding a sprayer instead. 

Don’t get too close

Sprayers will cause paint to run if they’re held closer than 10-12 inches from the surface.

You must also maintain the same distance as much as possible because even small changes will alter the surface of the paint. Tilting the sprayer upward or downward will also cause the sprayer to spit out paint and that can create unwanted results. 

Most people tend to use what is called the “bowtie” method of painting with a sprayer. This means the sprayer is swung in an arc motion.

The end result is paint that is thicker in the middle, but thinner and wider in application at the edges.

It’s always better to be too light than too heavy in your application. Start with the corners, then paint any protrusions, and finally save the larger flat areas to paint for last for best results. 

Final Pro Tip: How to Improve Your Technique

Using a paint sprayer can be a lot of fun, but only if you have the correct technique. To maximize your productivity, be sure to prime your sprayer first.

You can do this by placing the prime tube into a waste pail. Place the suction tube into your clean bucket of paint that has been strained.

Now turn the prime/spray valve on your equipment to the “prime” option. Turn on your pump. You’ll need to turn the pressure valve up until your pump begins to work.

Once paint starts flowing from the prime tube, you can move it into your paint bucket. Avoid a bad paint job by learning about typical Paint Sprayer Disasters and what you can do to fix them.

Eliminate Air Bubbles

Now your work is halfway done. The next step is to eliminate air bubbles from your line, so you don’t experience paint splatters as you work.

You’ll want to clip the priming tube to your suction tube as the pump runs. Allow for at least 30 seconds to get the air bubbles out.

It may require more time before you don’t see the air bubbles any more.

Clean Filters and Screens

It is also important to ensure that your screen at the intake point is always clean. All sprayers have this screen. If it isn’t clean, then your painting is going to be subpar.

Most of today’s best models have a removable filter that requires periodic inspections as well to achieve the best possible results. There’s another filter near the handle where you activate the sprayer. Be sure to inspect that one too.

Straining Your Paint

As a final step, it is important to strain your paint before using it. Don’t rely on the screens and filters to do the job for you. Pour your paint through a strainer into a clean bucket.

Then follow the priming process to achieve consistency with your spraying and a better end result.

Conclusion

The best paint sprayer reviews can help you find the right tool for your upcoming project.

Don’t waste your time with inadequate tools that leave you with an inferior finish. Find the best spray paint gun today and your work will look amazing.

FAQs: Best Paint Sprayers