How to Choose the Best Airless Paint Sprayer

Whether you want to paint your kitchen cabinets or refinish your furniture, an airless sprayer makes the job much easier. These sprayers work well with water-based and oil-based latex, stains, lacquers, and epoxies.

Some models feature a large paint container for longer painting sessions, while others have a small canister that requires refilling frequently.

Size

One of the most important things to consider when choosing an airless paint sprayer is its size. You want to get one that’s large enough to handle your projects, but not so big that it’s difficult to use or maneuver. This is especially important if you plan to spray outdoor surfaces or if you’ll be working at heights.

The best choice for most homeowners will be a stationary or stand airless paint sprayer, like our top overall pick, the Graco Magnum X5. This model has a base that sits on the ground or is slightly perched on a small stand and a hose that dips directly into a 1-gallon or 5-gallon can of unthinned paint to draw it up. A long hose extends from the gun for extended reach, and you can switch out the tip to match your project requirements.

The hose can also be upgraded best airless paint sprayer to 80 feet for maximum reach. Airless paint sprayers come with a variety of tip sizes, which are indicated by three numbers. The first number is the orifice size, and the second and third numbers indicate the width of the fan when held a foot away from the surface.

Power

Airless paint sprayers create a fine, high-velocity mist of paint that allows you to apply medium-to-heavy coatings quickly. They eliminate a lot of the masking prep and overspray that comes with brushes and rollers, and they create a smooth, polished finish that looks better than traditional painting techniques.

Choosing the right airless paint sprayer for your projects will depend on several factors, including the size and scope of each job. If you are painting large rooms or exterior surfaces, it’s important to choose a sprayer that can handle the volume of your project. If you’re not sure how much power you’ll need, a model with a variable flow setting can give you the flexibility you need for different types of surfaces.

It’s also a good idea to choose a sprayer with a filter system that prevents impurities from clogging the tip and causing defects in the finish. You should also be sure to clean the sprayer thoroughly after each use and store it in a dry place to avoid corrosion.

Control

The best airless paint sprayers feature adjustable operating pressure, which allows you to control the speed and force of the paint. This makes them a great choice for both DIY and professional painting projects. Many models also come with a filter system that removes impurities from the paint to prevent clogs. This feature is especially important for oil-based paints or coatings, as they can be difficult to clean up. It is also recommended that you lubricate the pump regularly to extend its life.

Another benefit of airless sprayers is that they are easy to use, allowing you to achieve professional-quality results with minimal effort. However, it is important to prepare the surface, properly mix and apply paints or coatings, and avoid overspray. It is also recommended that you wear a mask and cover any furniture in the area, as overspray can easily get onto surfaces not intended to be painted. Moreover, it is important to clean and store the sprayer after each use. This will help extend its life and ensure optimal performance. Some models come on a wheeled cart, making them easier to move around the job site.

Versatility

Whether you’re painting a vehicle with light coats of base, clear or urethane, or spraying a large outdoor surface with an elastomeric coating, your best airless paint sprayer should be versatile enough to handle a range of surfaces. Look for models with adjustable pressure and flow controls that let you slow down or speed up your work to achieve precision and consistency.

Airless paint sprayers use hydraulic pressure to atomize your materials into fine particles, then fan them out over your work to create smooth, professional-quality finishes. While their speed and extensive coverage can be a boon for professionals, the technology’s high-pressure system has a learning curve that may overwhelm novice users. The good news is that with dedicated practice, most can master the nuances of the technology, navigating potential problems like overspray. The Graco Magnum Project Painter, our top overall pick, is an excellent choice for semi-frequent users with a solid level of familiarity with the technology. Its pump also delivers the necessary power for larger projects, with a GPM that can reach a maximum of 30 gallons per minute. It is also compatible with a wide range of tips.

Cost

The cost of an airless paint sprayer can vary greatly depending on its size, power, and features. Typically, smaller, less powerful sprayers are cheaper than larger models. Additionally, electric airless paint sprayers tend to be less expensive than gas-powered models.

This Graco Magnum 5 model offers ample power for large projects, such as decks and whole-house circular saw table exteriors, while also being easy to use and clean. It sprays unthinned latex paint with good coverage, accuracy, and a smooth finish. It can also spray both water- and mineral spirit-based materials, giving you greater flexibility.

This model comes with a PushPrime button for quick and easy starting every time, as well as a power flush adapter that connects to a garden hose for speedy cleanup. It also has a flow and pressure control knob that allows you to adjust the operating pressure within a range of up to 3000 psi. It is important to note that an airless paint sprayer works under high pressure, so it’s essential to handle it with care to prevent injury or damage.