We know your usual image of a painter is this (better than us roofers, lol):
Source: 123rf.com
But let’s face it.
With that brush, it’ll take forever to do a good paint job and finish painting projects. It’s time for an upgrade.
Paint sprayers are now the new cool thing (well, for paint jobs, at least).
Quick Look: Top 8 Best Paint Sprayers
While there are a lot of spray guns in the market, nothing beats the trusted brands and models that work like magic. Here are our best bets based on our research:
- Best Overall: Graco Magnum 262805 X7 Cart Airless Paint Sprayer
- Best Value: Graco 17G180 Magnum ProX19 Cart Paint Sprayer
- Best Budget: Wagner Spraytech 0518080 Control Spray Max HVLP Paint or Stain Sprayer
- Graco Magnum 262800 X5 Stand Airless Paint Sprayer
- HomeRight Finish Max Series Handheld HVLP Paint Sprayer
- REXBETI Ultimate-750 Paint Sprayer, High Power HVLP Home Electric Spray Gun
- Wagner Spraytech 0518050 Control Spray Double Duty HVLP Stain Sprayer
- Wagner Spraytech 0529010 FLEXiO 590 Handheld HVLP Paint Sprayer
- Scuddles Paint Sprayer
- SPRAYIT SP-352 Gravity Feed Spray Gun
Ready to dive deep into the reviews? Let’s go!
Thorough Reviews: Choose the Best Paint Sprayer for You
In this section, we’ll discuss the features, pros, and cons of each paint gun so you’ll get a clearer grasp of which one addresses your needs and circumstances.
Best Overall: Graco Magnum 262805 X7 Cart (~$391.80)
Source: Amazon.com
We chose the Magnum 262805 x7 Cart as the best overall spraying paint because it’s still pretty affordable considering the functionalities it can provide. That’s what we call a worthy balance.
It’s a cart design that you can easily and conveniently lug around for your large projects.
Features and Functions
Here are some of the features worth noting:
- Hose Length (included): 25 ft.
- Power and Voltage: 0.625 horsepower; 110 volts
- Item Weight and Dimensions (LWH): 26 lbs.; 19 x 15 x 37 inches
- Annual Recommended Usage: Up to 125 gallons per year
- Spray Tip: RAC IV SwitchTip
Benefits Worth Mentioning
These are our favorite pros that come with this airless sprayer:
- It can spray unthinned paint at high-pressure thanks to the Stainless Steel Piston Pump.
- The paint flow is adjustable.
- The sprayer tip is reversible in case of clogging.
- You can spray paint directly from the paint bucket.
- The cart feature makes it easy to carry and move around compared to other paint sprayers.
- It can support up to 100 ft. of paint hose.
- It comes with a Power Flush garden hose for easy clean-up.
Drawbacks to Consider
But hear us out, there are also some cons that you may want to know:
- Moving around a cart can be a hassle, but it’s the best choice for high-volume projects.
- Over-usage may lead to a faster breakdown of the machine.
Our Overall Verdict
If you’re looking for airless sprayers that will come in handy for big paint projects, we think this one from Graco will be the best choice.
We’re talking about painting a large yard fence or repainting the interior and exterior walls of a house you’re trying to flip.
It allows you to produce more paint in less time, which is what you need.
The model is almost always on sale too, which is good news for those on a budget but needs a good paint sprayer immediately to get the job done quickly.
However, while the model and its features sound awesome, some users complain about defective items. These won’t give you the performance you want. We suggest being wary of these defects and contacting customer support as soon as you experience troubles.
Make sure to get a sprayer gun model that works well and is in line with what you paid for!
Best Value: Graco 17G180 Magnum ProX19 Cart (~$519.74)
Source: Amazon.com
If you’re willing to splurge a bit, we have another one from Graco. Trust us, we’re not an affiliate.
It’s also a carted paint sprayer, similar to the x7 cart, but the Magnum ProX19 has more upgraded features. Naturally, the price is a little upgraded as well.
Features and Functions
- Hose Length (included): 1800 inches.
- Power and Voltage: 0.88 horsepower; 110 volts
- Item Weight and Dimensions (LWH): 42 lbs.; 20 x 17.2 x 37.2 inches
- Annual Recommended Usage: 500 gallons per year
- Spray Tip: RAC IV SwitchTip
Benefits Worth Mentioning
- It’s for large and heavy-duty projects.
- It comes with a flexible suction tube that lets you spray virtually from paint buckets (1 or 5 gallons).
- It has an adjustable pressure control.
- It has an adjustable spray pattern for best results.
- It has an InstaClean pump filter for fewer clogs and faster paint jobs.
- In the case of clogging, it has a reversible tip.
- It can spray unthinned paint with fine mist, even at high pressure.
- The paint coverage is even; the fan spray pattern is smooth and adjustable.
Drawbacks to Consider
- The price range is on the expensive side.
- It’s heavier and bigger.
- It may be a little hectic to assemble at first. But it’s all worth it!
Our Overall Verdict
There’s a reason why people prefer these airless models. Having a good spray fan and controlling how much paint comes out of the spray tips are game-changers!
As seen from the features and specifications of this model, it’s larger and heavier in size. It can either be a pro or a con, but it works best for large projects that you need to accomplish fast. In short, it’s heavy-duty.
The perfect way to describe it is using a review on Amazon: turns one painter into ten!
Best Budget: Wagner Spraytech 0518080 (~$84.38)
Source: Amazon.com
Not all of the high-quality paint sprayers are over-the-top expensive. Wagner is pretty great at producing good ones at more affordable prices.
Features and Functions
- Hose Length (included): 240 inches (20ft.)
- Power Source and Voltage: AC/DC; 110 volts
- Item Weight and Dimensions (LWH): 11.18 lbs.; 18.5 x 12 x 12 inches
- Inclusions: Sprayer, Metal Cup, Plastic Cup, User Manual, Hose
Benefits Worth Mentioning
- It uses HVLP (high-volume, low-pressure) technology to atomize paint.
- The spray pattern is even with a smooth finish on different furniture (door, desk, door trim, etc.)
- It can paint walls with thinned latex paint, other thinned paint walls, and water-based paint.
- The settings are adjustable for an easier paint spraying job.
- The inclusions (plastic and metal cups) are useful to make your job easier.
Drawbacks to Consider
- Thicker paints (oil, thick latex paint) are not its forte.
- It’s not heavy-duty.
Our Overall Verdict
Although this paint sprayer looks big and sturdy, remember that it’s not for heavy-duty jobs. For the price, we think it’s reasonable not to expect it to be.
It’s for a small to medium painting project that requires thin paint particles and low pressure. If you need thick latex paints or oil-based paints, go for the airless sprayers.
Of course, some models are way cheaper (we’ll also include them below), but in choosing the best budget option, we’re also aiming for quality.
We think this paint or stain sprayer from Wagner hits the spot.
Graco Magnum 262800 X5
Source: Amazon.com
Going back to airless sprayers, here’s one that isn’t a cart. The Graco Magnum x5 stand airless paint sprayer is another solid one.
It stays in place while you finish your indoor paint job.
Yes, that’s right, this one is best for spraying indoors and interior walls.
Features and Functions
- Hose Length (included): 900 inches.
- Voltage: 110 volts
- Item Weight and Dimensions (LWH): 19.73 lbs.; 14.5 x 12.75 x 19 inches
- Annual Recommended Usage: Up to 125 gallons per year
- Inclusions: SG2 Metal Spray Gun, RAC IV 515 SwitchTip, 25 ft. Duraflex paint hose, Pump Armor storage fluid, PowerFlush adapter, Quick Start-Up Guide, and Operation Manual
Benefits Worth Mentioning
- It can spray unthinned paint at high-pressure thanks to the Stainless Steel Piston Pump.
- The paint flow is adjustable and can handle any painting project size.
- The sprayer tip is reversible in case of clogging.
- You can spray paint directly from the paint bucket (1 or 5 gallons).
- The cart feature makes it easy to carry and move around compared to other paint sprayers.
- It can support up to 75 ft. of paint hose.
- It comes with a Power Flush garden hose for easy clean-up.
Drawbacks to Consider
- It’s not convenient to carry around (because it’s not for that purpose).
- Some parts are not easily replaceable (for instance, the fuse).
- Some have expressed disappointment about the hose.
Our Overall Verdict
Overall, most users love the performance of this airless paint sprayer. Its spray gun is the best part, and it has good spray patterns.
Though it’s in the higher price range, the performance you’ll get is also spot-on.
If you need a model for interior walls and something to use indoors, go for this one. It’s not for bringing around, as it’s not exactly light.
HomeRight Finish Max Series
Source: Amazon.com
Moving on to handheld electric paint sprayers, check out the HomeRight Finish Max Series. It’s high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP), lightweight, and meant for smaller details.
Features and Functions
- Power Source: AC/DC
- Item Weight and Dimensions (LWH): 3.56 lbs.; 11.06 x 6.44 x 10.63 inches
- Inclusions: Quick Finish Sprayer
Benefits Worth Mentioning
- It’s best for tiny details such as spots, small furniture, etc.
- The spray cap can be adjusted to three spray patterns: horizontal, vertical, round.
- The flow settings are also adjustable.
- Other than paint, it can spray thinned chalk, milk, and latex paints, stain, sealer, lacquer, and varnish.
Drawbacks to Consider
- Don’t expect it to last long or have the best quality.
- Expect the device to clog if you’re using more paint than it can handle.
- The finish and spray patterns won’t be as smooth as the big spray guns.
Our Overall Verdict
This would be a good choice for those looking for an alternative to paint rollers or brushes. You can paint small desks and chairs, some frames, and the likes.
But then, if you’re looking to paint an entire wall, you won’t get the quality of more expensive paint sprayers.
Naturally, it won’t have the same air compressor system or technology. And to be fair to this model, it’s very affordable for a small spray gun.
REXBETI Ultimate-750
Source: Amazon.com
Likewise, in the electric paint sprayer category, the REXBETI Ultimate-75o is also a decent spray gun.
Features and Functions
- Item Weight and Dimensions (LWH): 4.16 lbs.; 11.8 x 5.5 x 11.4 inches
- Inclusions: Rexbeti HVLP Paint Sprayer; User Manual; Paint Container; Viscosity cup; Cleaning Needle; 4 Nozzles; 5 Paint Strainers
- Flow rate: 750ml/min
- Maximum Viscosity: 70 DIN-s
- Container Capacity: 1000ml
Benefits Worth Mentioning
- It has a paint roller finish and spray pattern.
- It comes with 4 nozzles (1.5mm/2.0mm/2.5mm/3.0mm) for convenience.
- It claims to be a quieter spray gun as compared to other brands.
- It has a 6.6 cord, which is pretty long for an electrical spray gun.
Drawbacks to Consider
- It’s only for small, indoor projects and crafts.
Our Overall Verdict
This REXBETI paint prayer is pretty straightforward. It does the job well for small painting projects. Like the one from HomeRight, you can’t exactly expect a heavy-duty output from a tiny gun.
But what we appreciate the most from this model are the several types of nozzles and strainers that come with it. They have different sizes, perfect for specific contents besides paint.
- 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, and 2.5 mm nozzles: for thinned paint, sealers, and varnish.
- 3.0 mm nozzle: latex paint, chalk type paint, and milk type paint
- Strainers: filter paint particles for a smoother finish.
For an affordable price, you’re already getting a great deal.
Wagner Spraytech 0518050
Source: Amazon.com
For those who only need a thin paint or stain finish (i.e., wood stain), a stain sprayer might be a better option for you.
Features and Functions
- Item Weight and Dimensions (LWH): 4.11 lbs.; 0.05 x 0.06 x 0.01 inches
- Inclusions: Control Spray Double Duty Sprayer, 1-quart container, 1.5-quart container, and viscosity measuring cup
- Power Source and Voltage: Corded electric; 120 volts
Benefits Worth Mentioning
- It’s a lightweight option for quick projects.
- The setup and assembly are easy.
- It has a 2-stage turbine (suitable for both outdoor and indoor).
Drawbacks to Consider
- It’s not for heavy and thick latex paint (only a stain-like finish).
- It’s not as heavy-duty.
Our Overall Verdict
For a small paint spraying gun, this one works wonders.
As long as you don’t set unrealistic expectations, you’d be surprised that such a small gun can give you excellent cabinet-grade performance and a smooth finish.
Wagner Spraytech 0529010 FLEXiO 590
Source: Amazon.com
Take the previous paint sprayer gun and upgrade it by a notch or two. You’ll get the FLEXiO 590!
Features and Functions
- Item Weight and Dimensions (LWH): 2.11 Pounds; 15.9 x 6.7 x 13.9 inches
- Inclusions: Detail Finish Nozzle, iSpray Nozzle, and storage case
- Power Source: Corded electric
Benefits Worth Mentioning
- It’s highly focused on details and works well with furniture, walls, ceilings, exterior siding, fences, cabinets, trim, etc.
- It has an X-Boost turbine that sprays unthinned paint well.
- It can cover up to 8’ x 10’ surface in 1 min for stains.
- It can cover latex paint in 5 mins. and can spray up to 8.0 gallons per hour
Drawbacks to Consider
- Some cases of overspray, but it has adjustable settings.
- It works better on flat and small surfaces.
Our Overall Verdict
We’re talking about details with this spray gun. The spray tips and nozzles are said to be precise.
Overall, we think this is an “okay” paint sprayer that gets the job done, but you can’t expect too much when it comes to longevity.
If you need a good gun for a last-minute project, this one from Wagner might help.
Scuddles Paint Sprayer
Source: Amazon.com
If you’re looking for a new paint sprayer for non-serious projects with your kids or little crafts, Scuddles will be enough.
Features and Functions
- Item Weight and Dimensions (LWH): 4.44 Pounds; 12.99 x 12.09 x 5.98 inches
- Inclusions: 1X Scuddles Spray Gun; 1X 1000 ml paint Container; 1X Funnel; 2X Straws; 1X Cleaning Needle; 5X Spray Nozzles; 1X User Manual
Benefits Worth Mentioning
- It’s cheap (~$45).
- It’s simple to use.
- It has 3 modes (horizontal, vertical, circular).
Drawbacks to Consider
- It’s almost like a (functional) toy gun.
Our Overall Verdict
For the price point, you should already have a reasonable expectation of what it can do. We’ve included this here for those looking for cheap paint sprayers.
But even if it’s cheap and practically a toy gun, you’d be surprised with what it can produce if used well.
SPRAYIT SP-352 Gravity Feed Spray Gun
Source: Amazon.com
If you’re hunting for one-time use, cheap paint sprayer (on average), the SPRAYIT sprays decently.
Features and Functions
- Item Weight and Dimensions (LWH): 1 lb; 6 x 4.5 x 11 inches
- Power Source: Air-powered
- Air Consumption: 4.2 to 6.0 CFM @ 30 PSI
- Working Pressure: 44-58 PSI. Maximum pressure 60 PSI
- Fan Pattern: 5.5” to 7.5”
Benefits Worth Mentioning
- It’s cheap and perfect for a school project or a last-minute paint job.
- It’s very lightweight and portable.
- It does a decent job.
Drawbacks to Consider
- It’s not for long-term use.
- It’s cheap.
Our Overall Verdict
Honestly, the paint job of this paint sprayer produced excellent results. It’s not the best paint gun out there, but it’s a handy tool to have for self-renovations or DIY repainting projects.
Know More About Paint Sprayers
Now that you’ve heard about our best bets, let us learn a little more about paint sprayers in general. It will give you an idea of how it works and what constitutes a good model.
Paint Sprayers Pros and Cons
As with all things, paint sprayers come with benefits and drawbacks. If you’re still discerning whether you should get one or not, this list might help.
Paint Sprayer Pros
- A paint sprayer speeds up the job and requires less effort from you.
- You can easily get rid of those obnoxious brush marks.
- It saves you professional service fees if you’re just doing a simple paint job.
Paint Sprayer Cons
- It will cost you more. If it breaks down, the repairs and replacement might be expensive.
- It requires assembly and constant cleaning.
If you ask us, we think getting paint sprayers will be of great help.
If you’re not yet willing to spend over 500 bucks for one, you can easily get your hands on the affordable alternatives we’ve listed.
Airless Paint Sprayers vs. High-Volume, Low Pressure (HVLP)
In our list above, you’ve seen us mention the terms airless sprayers and HLVP a lot. And yes, they have significant differences.
Airless Paint Sprayers
An airless paint sprayer works with high pressure. Given this, they’re able to handle thicker consistencies.
An airless sprayer gives off a more even finish, which is best suitable for larger surfaces such as fences, decks, walls, ceilings, and exterior surfaces.
Air Compressor Paint Sprayer or HVLP
HVLP stands for high volume, low pressure. It’s pretty self-explanatory.
Air compressor paint sprayers produce thinner consistencies with lower and slower pressure, so you can spray over large volumes.
Usually, you’d have to do more than one coat, but the finish is smoother.
So, Which One Should You Get?
The purposes of these paint sprayer types are very different. So the best choice for you would be the one that will be compatible with what you need.
If you aim to paint large surfaces and exterior surfaces, go for airless paint sprayers.
If you have smaller projects like repainting a cabinet or painting your white picture frame to black, an air compressor or HVLP paint sprayer would be better.
Things to Consider in Getting Paint Sprayers [The 3 Ps]
Wait! Before you go and buy one, here are some things to consider for better decision-making.
Purpose
What’s your purpose in getting a paint sprayer? If it is meant for:
- A big renovation: You might opt for heavy-duty airless paint sprayers. It can get a little expensive, but it helps you get the job done fast.
- A minor revamping of a furniture piece: An HVLP paint sprayer will be best. It works well with the details and small spots.
- A school project or just for fun: Get an affordable spray gun first. These things work decently, and you won’t be denting your pockets.
Of course, these are just examples. But you get what we mean. There’s a suitable type for every use.
Price
The price ranges of the best paint sprayers highly differ. Some are over $500, while the others don’t even exceed $50.
There are various considerations here, such as brand, quality, and longevity. In relation to the first P, always relate it to the purpose to know if the model you’re buying is worth it.
Process of Using: Is It Easy?
And last but never least, is it easy and convenient to use? No matter how great a paint sprayer is, if you have no idea how to operate it, it only doubles the stress.
Note that paint sprayers need maintenance and constant cleaning to always be at their optimum condition. There is also some assembly required before you can fully use it.
But don’t worry, most (if not all) of these models come with manuals. The internet is also full of tutorials and testimonies of people using it.
Here are some examples to get you started:
- How to use a paint sprayer by Bath & Granite
- How To Paint A House With An Airless Paint Sprayer by Paint Life TV
- My First Time Using The Graco Airless Paint Sprayer Outside My House | DIY For Beginners! by Fix This House
Best Paint Sprayers Summary [TL;DR]
After a long read, here’s a quick TL;DR for your reference!
Best Overall: Graco Magnum 262805 X7 Cart
We chose the Graco Magnum 262805 x7 Cart Airless Paint Sprayer as the BEST OVERALLbecause it strikes the sweet balance of functionality and affordability.
It does a great job painting large exterior surfaces without costing too much.
That’s what we think buyers need, especially newbie painters who are trying their hand at paint sprayers.
Best Value: Graco 17G180 Magnum ProX19 Cart
If we have to choose a favorite among everything on this list, we’ll be honest and say it’s the Graco 17G180 Magnum ProX19 Cart Paint Sprayer.
It has upgraded features, and almost everyone who uses it has good reviews.
Our only problem? The price. It can be expensive. So, unless you have a heavy-duty project, you might not find over $500 a worthy price to pay.
But that’s why its title is the best value. It’s worth it for the price, and you get the quality you pay for!
Best Budget: Wagner Spraytech 0518080
Of course, if there’s a way to not splurge while still getting a decent paint sprayer, we’ll take it.
Our best budget option still costs more than $100, but if we’re considering the quality, it’s already a sweet deal.
The Wagner Spraytech 0518080 Control Spray Max is an HVLP model, so it may not be the best for larger projects. But trust us, it works wonders for its affordable price.
Paint Sprayer Runner-Ups
- Graco Magnum 262800 X5 Stand Airless Paint Sprayer
- HomeRight Finish Max Series Handheld HVLP Paint Sprayer
- REXBETI Ultimate-750 Paint Sprayer, High Power HVLP Home Electric Spray Gun
- Wagner Spraytech 0518050 Control Spray Double Duty HVLP Stain Sprayer
- Wagner Spraytech 0529010 FLEXiO 590 Handheld HVLP Paint Sprayer
- Scuddles Paint Sprayer
- SPRAYIT SP-352 Gravity Feed Spray Gun
Conclusion
As we’ve said, the best paint sprayer will still be the one that lives up to your needs. Whether cheap or expensive, if it produces the outcome you want, then it’s excellent!
We hope this list helped you jumpstart your paint sprayer shopping.
Good luck!