If you’re giving your home a total makeover, or you need to varnish your deck, paint a fence, or you have furniture you need to repaint, then using the best airless paint sprayer is a great choice and one that will allow you to get all of your painting jobs done in just a fraction of the time. These tools are very versatile since the user is able to adjust the pressure to suit their needs and purchase a variety of tips for different types of paints and varnishes. Basically, you’ll get plenty of use out of this type of tool
However, if you haven’t used one before, and don’t know what to look for in a sprayer that can meet your painting needs, and one that’s reliable and easy to use, then finding the right model for you can take plenty of time and research.
Fortunately, I’ve created an in-depth buyer’s guide that includes all of the information you need to know to find the perfect model for you and your home. I’ve also tested out several of the best-selling sprayers currently on the market, narrowing it down to six that have what it takes to get any size job done, with pro quality results.
Below, you’ll find a comparison chart that lists each of the models on my list, their rating, and their standout features.
Table of Contents
Airless Paint Sprayer Comparison Chart
Product | Tips | Built-in Paint Container | Paint Hose Length | Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
Graco Airless Paint Sprayer Shop On Amazon! | 1 | No | 25 Ft. | |
Himalaya Airless Paint Sprayer Shop On Amazon! | 1 | No | 25 Ft. | |
Wagner Tank Paint Sprayer Shop On Amazon! | 1 | Yes | 25 Ft. | |
Titan Airless Paint Sprayer Shop On Amazon! | 1 | No | 30 Ft. | |
HomeRight Airless Paint Sprayer Shop On Amazon! | 1 | No | 25 Ft. | |
Dent-De-Lion Airless Spray Gun Shop On Amazon! | 1 | No | 20 Ft. |
Graco Magnum Airless Paint Sprayer
This sprayer features ultimate paint flow control, thanks to the fully adjustable pressure knob. Now you can adjust the paint flow based on the size of the job. With this model, you don’t have to thin out the paint before use, which means less paint used and better coverage. This model doesn’t come with a built-in paint container, and sprays directly from a paint can instead. It’s compatible with a one or five-gallon can. The included power flush adapter will make it easier to thoroughly clean out the sprayer. All you have to do is connect the adapter to a hose and flush out all of the paint. This will lead to fewer clogs and a machine that sprays efficiently. It can also be used both outdoors and indoors. This model also supports up to seventy-five feet of paint hose, so you can reach every corner.
Pros
- Power flush adapter included
- Adjustable paint flow
- Easy to use
- Designed for indoor and outdoor use
- Paint does not need to be thinned prior to use
Cons
- Does not come with a built-in paint container
- Only comes with one tip
Conclusion
This is a durable, powerful sprayer that’s highly adjustable and easy to use. Unfortunately, this model only comes with one tip, however, you can purchase more tips directly from the manufacturer. The included flush adapter will ensure you clean out the sprayer thoroughly, which will keep it running smoothly, year after year. The sprayer’s flexible suction tube makes spraying the paint directly from the can possible, with little mess. Overall, this is a great sprayer for both pro and home use, thanks to the highly adjustable design, simple controls, and efficient cleaning adapter.
Himalaya Airless Paint Sprayer
This is a pro quality sprayer that’s perfect for commercial use, but homeowners can also use this model to tackle any type of painting job around the home or yard. This model works well with oil-based and water-based paints. There’s no built-in paint container, instead, the tube will be placed directly into a paint can. This model features a 5/8 HP 650 watt motor, which is able to deliver up to 3000 PSI. The included hose measures in at twenty-five feet and features a non-kink design that allows you to reach every corner in the room. The manufacturer claims that this model can decrease overspray by as much as fifty-five percent, compared to competing models. This means less waste and cleanup.
Pros
- Long hose
- Design decreases overspray by fifty-five percent
- Powerful motor
- Provides even coverage
Cons
- Must thin the paint before use
Conclusion
While this model is designed for the pros, it features a very user-friendly design, so homeowners will also benefit from using this powerful sprayer around the home and yard. The long spraying hose will allow you to freely move around the room to ensure even and total coverage, while the powerful motor allows this sprayer to easily handle heavy-duty daily use, making it a great choice for the pros.
Wagner 0580678 Control Pro 130 Power Tank Paint Sprayer
This paint sprayer by Wagner provides fast and even coverage, with low overspray. With this model, you don’t have to thin the paint prior to use. This is a big plus for any buyer since the sprayer will provide better coverage. This model is equipped with HEA technology, which is designed to decrease overspray by as much as fifty-five percent. It also helps by delivering a softer spray, giving the user more control over the flow. This model comes with a built-in paint container that can hold up to one and a half gallons of paint. This means fewer refills during use.
This sprayer also comes with a twenty-five foot hose, so you can easily reach across the room, providing even coverage.
Pros
- Built-in paint container
- HEA technology
- Easy to use
- Paint does not need to be thinned before use
Cons
- Heavy
Conclusion
This model can be used for a wide range of painting projects indoors and outdoors. Now you can use the same sprayer to paint the outside of your home, stain your deck, paint your fence, or paint any room inside the house. This durable, highly adjustable sprayer is built tough and designed to handle heavy-duty use, so it’s great for home or pro use.
Titan Tool 0580009 Titan Airless Paint Sprayer
This model is perfect for pro use, the serious DIYer, and the beginner. It can easily handle painting large areas and is a great choice for bigger projects. It utilizes high efficiency airless technology that is designed to minimize overspray by fifty-five percent. It’s operating pressure of 1500 PSI allows users to spray up to three hundred gallons of paint per year. It also comes with a thirty foot hose and an all-metal gun. The variable speed pump features a 0.60 HP pumping action that allows you to spray paint, without having to thin it out first, which results in better coverage. It also offers a fast spraying action of 0.33 gallons per minute, which is pretty impressive. This model is equipped with a long lasting pump that will ensure your sprayer lasts up to three times longer compared to competing models in this price bracket.
Pros
- HEA technology
- Durable
- Covered by a two-year warranty
- Easy to use
- Pro quality
Cons
- Issues with pressure if not cleaned properly
Conclusion
This model works well for both indoor and outdoor use. It comes with everything you need to get started, including an in-depth user’s manual that will walk you through the spraying process. The two-year warranty will also give shoppers more of an incentive to buy. Built tough and designed to last, this is a great sprayer to use around the home or on the job.
HomeRight Power Flo Pro 2800 C800879 Airless Paint Sprayer
This model is designed for painting projects of all sizes. It comes with a ½ HP motor and can deliver 2800 PSI of power. It also offers users ultimate control thanks to the included knob that allows you to dial in the right spray pattern based on painting surface size and texture. The sprayer itself is easy to maneuver due to the twenty-five-foot-long hose with the non-kink design. This model doesn’t come with a built-in paint container. Instead, you’ll just place the tube directly into a one or five-gallon paint bucket. This model is designed for household use only, so it’s not exactly powerful enough for professional use. However, it does provide more than enough power to get painting jobs done around the home, inside and out. Additionally, you do not have to thin paint out before using this sprayer, which will result in fewer coats and less paint wasted.
Pros
- Twenty-five foot long hose
- Easy to use
- Flow rate adjustment knob
- Low price
Cons
- Not recommended for pro use
- Low-powered
Conclusion
This model may not have what it takes to use in a professional capacity, but in terms of even coverage and a faster spray time, it definitely delivers. It’s very user-friendly, which is a must for beginners with no prior spraying experience. The longer hose makes using this model in larger spaces a cinch, while the flow rate adjustment knob allows you to dial in the perfect spray rate in order to avoid oversaturating a wall and wasting paint. This model is a great buy for the homeowner and DIYer.
Dent-De-Lion Airless Spray Gun
If you don’t need a sprayer for on the job use, then this simple, and basic model can get the job done around the home, at a price that’s affordable. This model will work for all types of paints, in addition to varnishes. It’s made out of stainless steel, so it’s rust resistant, and features a durable, sturdy design. This model can spray 300 millimeters of pressure with an output of 20.7 MPA. The included ergonomic handle makes it easier to grasp the sprayer and maneuver it during use. This model doesn’t come with many features that you’ll find in higher priced models, such as an adjustable flow rate, which can make it difficult for beginners to use. However, those with experience will have no trouble using this model to paint inside and outside the home.
Pros
- Ergonomic handle
- Made out of stainless steel
- Can be used for paint and varnish
- Easy to replace filters
Cons
- No adjustable flow rate knob
- Difficult to clean
Conclusion
This model is very basic, but it offers just enough power for home use. While it’s not pro quality, it can tackle any paints jobs you have around the house or in the yard. The ergonomic design allows you to comfortably use the sprayer for several hours. The ergonomic handle combined with the lightweight design, helps to reduce user fatigue. This low priced model is a great choice for the homeowner or DIYer on a tight budget.
Airless Paint Sprayer Buyer’s Guide
These sprayers are excellent tools to have on hand. Painting with one of these tools can speed up the job and will also provide a much better finish than a roller or brush can. However, they’re not the best choice for detailed jobs, but if you need to cover a large area quickly, then this type of paint spraying tool is an excellent choice.
Below, I’ll go over more of the benefits these handy tools have to offer.
Airless Paint Sprayer Benefits
- These sprayers are impressively fast. Once you use one, you’ll appreciate the speed and power they have to offer. You’ll also be shocked at how quickly it can coat an entire room.
- Manufacturers claim that using one of these sprayers can allow you to paint five to ten times faster compared to using a brush or roller.
- Investing in a high-quality model is much more affordable than hiring professional painters to come in and paint your home.
- While painting with a roller isn’t exactly difficult, if you’re dealing with fencing, decking, exterior walls, raw blockwork, or popcorn ceilings, then you know how difficult it can be to achieve the right coverage. With a brush or roller, you’ll have to go over an area several times, which is not only time consuming, but frustrating as well. Afterwards, you’ll still find yourself going back with a brush to dab at the spots the roller missed. With an airless sprayer, all you have to do is point the gun at the wall or ceiling and watch as it fills in every crack and crevice with paint, regardless of the type of material you’re painting.
- The big issue with rollers and brushes is that they have to have direct contact with walls. This will usually result in blobs, brush lines, and marks on your walls. When you use a sprayer, there will be no contact made with your walls, which is what allows it to achieve such a pristine, smooth surface.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Using an Airless Paint Sprayer?
There are. While it’s true that they can leave a beautiful finish and will allow you to paint a room efficiently and quickly, they can also make a huge mess. These sprayers will spray a mist, which can get all over your floors and you. So, when using one of these sprayers, you’ll need to take time and prep a room appropriately, and wear protective eyewear, old clothing, and cover your head to prevent paint from getting in your hair.
These tools also need regular maintenance in order to work efficiently. There are many moving parts to these machines and small, narrow pathways that can easily become clogged if you fail to clean them out after use. Because of this, after each time a sprayer is used, you’ll need to properly clean it out with a paint thinner or some water and manually wash the filters, spray tips, and the gun itself. Keeping your machine properly cleaned will reduce the risk of paint drying inside, which can disrupt the spray pattern from the nozzle, or it can even lead to permanent damage.
Some models may even need to be serviced. Many models that are designed for home use usually don’t need professional care, but if you’re looking at pro quality machines then they will need to be taken to a repair center to have routine maintenance done and parts replaced.
These issues aside, a sprayer is a great tool to have around and it can be used for both exterior and interior paint jobs. Their versatility is what makes them such popular tools for DIYers who are varnishing furniture or need a tool that can help them to quickly and efficiently repaint a room.
Now, below, I’ll go over what features to look for and how to choose a model that can suit your needs.
Must-Have Features
If you’re new to sprayer use, then you can anticipate making a big mess the first time you use it. If you choose too high of a flow rate then you’ll end up oversaturating the surface, which can lead to streaks and drips. You’ll also end up wasting a lot of paint. Of course, with time and practice, and the right model, you can end up with a sprayer that will make any painting job around the home or at work, a cinch.
There are several popular models currently on the market. Some are more suited for home use, while the pro quality ones are designed to be used daily and come equipped with powerful motors. Finding the right one can be difficult if you’ve never used a sprayer before. Below, you’ll find many of the important features to look for that can indicate quality and a sprayer that can handle any type of painting job.
Paint Type
Small sprayers may struggle with thicker paint, which means you may need to thin them out a little, which is not ideal. Many sprayers designed for DIY use are designed to spray thinned down emulsion only. If you have special projects you’re working on, then you need a versatile model that can handle any type of paint.
Frequency of Use
Pro quality models come with an annual spray rating, complete with an estimate of how many gallons a model can spray each year. This rating is put in place so that the owner can have the machine serviced once it reaches the max gallon recommendation.
If you’re a pro and you plan on using your sprayer daily, then make sure you find a machine that matches your weekly or monthly spray requirements. If you don’t find a good match, then you may end up spending more time waiting for your machine to be serviced than you will actually using it. Typically, pro quality models are able to spray as fast as the user moves, however, they can also be adjusted to a lower speed if necessary.
Speed
So, just how fast are these sprayers? On average, you can expect to spray a room that’s eight feet by eight feet in as little as ten minutes. Of course, considering that many models spray a mist, there will be plenty of prep work required before you can use the sprayer.
Spray Nozzles and Tips
The spray tips are what controls the rate of flow and the width of the spray that comes from the gun. Every brand and type of paint has its own unique thickness, and every painting task is different. Because of this, you’ll need to manage the amount of paint that comes out of the gun and the size of the spray. When it comes to thinner liquids, such as stains, you’ll need to use a low flow rate, otherwise, you may end up with a thick jet instead of a fine spray. With thicker materials such as oil-based paint, you’ll need to use a much bigger tip.
Most models will come with different nozzle tips that you can choose from based on the type of liquid you’re spraying. Tips are available in different diameters and shapes. Most models will come with a minimum of three tip options, but manufacturers will also sell a variety of tips separately, so you can purchase more if a tip becomes damaged or you need a larger or smaller diameter tip.
Range
Sprayers with a longer range are considered more versatile. This is because they can be used more effectively and easily in any corner of a room. There are a couple of things that can limit a sprayer’s range which includes the paint hose length and the power cord length.
If you’re using a model with a built-in paint container, then a short cord won’t really matter.
If you’re using a model that works directly with a paint bucket, then you’ll need a sprayer that has a cord length of twenty feet or longer.
Capacity
As I mentioned above, there are a couple of different sprayer designs. One will feature a built-in paint container, while with the other option, you’ll feed the sprayer out of a paint can. If you decide to go with a model with a built-in paint container, then you’ll need to look for one that offers a higher capacity. A larger container will allow you to work with fewer interruptions.
Pressure
Be sure to check a sprayer’s pressure rating. A high-pressure sprayer will be more useful than a low-pressure model. Some models may offer pressure that’s up to ten PSIs, which should be more than enough for painting jobs around the home. A high-pressure sprayer will come in handy if you’re using different types of nozzle tips.
Durability
Since these machines have many moving parts, in addition to a motor, they are considered power tools. Because of this, you need to make sure that the sprayer you purchase is reliable and durable. The easy way to do so is to learn more about a particular model’s spraying capabilities. As I mentioned above, each model is rated with how much spray it can handle per year. A higher spray capacity is a great indicator of how durable a machine is.
Warranty
Many of the high-quality sprayers will come with a warranty. Models designed for home use will come with a warranty that ranges from six months up to twenty-four months. Pro quality models will usually come with a longer warranty of three to four years. Since these machines consist of many moving parts, make sure you purchase a sprayer that’s covered by some type of warranty or money-back guarantee, so you can try out the sprayer and return it if it doesn’t perform as expected.
Ease of Use
Using one of these machines correctly is going to take a little practice. You’ll need to learn how to use the right motion when you’re applying the paint to avoid oversaturating a surface. You’ll also need to learn how to adjust the flow rate correctly to prevent spraying too much paint. Many models designed for home use are very beginner friendly. However, I recommend spending an hour or two outside learning how to use this type of power tool, before you bring it indoors and attempt to paint your home.
Price
Of course, pro quality sprayers will cost significantly more than models designed for home use. You can find models designed for home use starting as low as $60, up to $300. Models that are designed for pro use will be much larger and will offer a better paint capacity. They also cost significantly more than sprayers designed for home use, with a cost that ranges from $200 up to $600. If you don’t plan on using a sprayer often, then a moderately priced model should be sufficient.
How to Clean an Airless Paint Sprayer
Staying on top of sprayer maintenance will be crucial. A dirty sprayer will not spray easily. Pressure will be compromised, you may experience a higher volume of mist, and you’ll notice that the sprayer is no longer able to provide even coverage. The end result is a sprayer that may need to be replaced and walls that need to be repainted. So, in order to avoid all of these issues, take the time to properly clean out your sprayer after each use.
Cleaning out a sprayer consists of a few important steps.
- First, you’ll flush out the hose and the machine. To do, you’ll need to fill up the built-in paint container or use a bucket of water and a special cleaning solution that will be run through the hose and machine for several minutes.
- The tips, filters, and spray gun will also need to be cleaned out. Many sprayers will come with filters in the gun and the machine itself. You’ll need to clean out each component using an old toothbrush, solvent wipes, and some warm water, in order to reach every narrow passage.
- The machine should also be prepped for storage. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of storing their sprayer incorrectly. The sprayer should never be left dry unless specified by the manufacturer. When the inside of a sprayer is left dry, any remaining paint will dry and cause issues. If possible, leave the cleaning solution and some clean water in the machine, then use an elastic band and tightly wrap it around the suction hose and the end of the spray gun. Doing so prevents air from entering the inside of the machine, so it will not dry out.
How to Use an Airless Paint Sprayer
Using a sprayer is the fastest way to complete a painting job. Learning how to use one correctly is simple enough, but like with any type of new power tool, practicing will help you achieve the type of pro quality results you’re looking for. Before use, make sure you read the user’s manual from cover to cover.
Take the proper safety precautions and always wear protective eyewear and clothing.
The steps you take to prep a sprayer will differ depending on the model of sprayer you buy. With most models, you will need to:
- Connect the gun and hose
- Flush and prime the machine
- Install the guard and tip
Next, you’ll need to prep the surface you’ll be painting, which is often the most important part of any painting job. With any model you can expect a certain amount of mist, also referred to as overspray. In order to protect surfaces from this mist of paint, make sure you spend time preparing the surroundings. You will need to cover all furniture, baseboards, and trim. When you’re painting outside, take note of which direction the wind is blowing and be sure to cover any shrubs or plants with plastic in order to protect them from overspray.
Spraying Techniques
For pro quality results and even application, follow the steps below:
- Make sure you keep the gun at least one foot away from the surface
- For the best coverage, use a continuous, long motion. Begin your motion before you hit the trigger, continuing the motion once the trigger has been released.
- Spray patterns should be overlapped by fifty percent. To do, you’ll aim the tip of the gun on your next pass, right at the edge of the last painted area. Most manufacturers will include a few basic tips with the machine, but if your model doesn’t come with the right tip, then make sure you order the tip directly from the manufacturer to ensure the type you purchase is compatible with your machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an Airless Paint Sprayer Better?
These machines work better than using traditional painting methods, which means that you’ll be able to get any painting job done faster than you’d expect. The sprayer applies the paint uniformly, so it can produce the perfect coverage for even rough textures, such as popcorn ceilings or any type of uneven surface.
Do I Need to Thin Paint for an Airless Sprayer?
With some models, you will need to thin out the paint before use since paint that’s too thick for a low powered machine can cause clogs and uneven application. This is especially true if you’re using oil-based paint. However, if you purchase a high-powered model, then thinning out the paint will not be necessary.
Is Spraying Better Than Rolling?
Spraying paint is a much faster process, however, you should also take into consideration the extension prep work that’s needed before use. rolling is a much slower process but doesn’t require as much room prep as spraying does.
Can you Paint Cabinets with an Airless Sprayer?
No. You’ll want to avoid using an airless sprayer to paint cabinets since this type of sprayer is not able to break up paint as well as other types of paint sprayers. This can leave a thick, caked on look that will have a negative impact on the quality of your cabinets.
Should you Roll Paint After Spraying?
Using a roller right after you paint with a sprayer you can work the coating into the surface more efficiently, than just spraying alone. This will allow for more efficient paint application; however, you’ll need to be careful to avoid leaving behind roller marks.
Final Thoughts
The best airless paint sprayers offer the easiest way to paint your home. Because of this, you should invest in a model that comes loaded with important features that will ensure ease of use, spraying efficiency, and durability. This buyer’s guide is designed to help you learn more about the features available, so you can choose a powerful model that will help you paint any room in your home in a fraction of the time it would take with a brush or roller. The products that made it onto my list of must-have sprayers each have what it takes to get the job done and earned high ratings for spraying efficiency, range, capacity, and overall quality. When you purchase one of the models from my lineup, you can be confident that you’re getting a high-quality sprayer, one that’s built tough and designed to last.