The Best Airbrushes
The contemporary artist needs the tools to match, and few innovations in modern painting are as versatile as the airbrush. With an intuitive grip and high-pressure output, these handy gadgets could help you make your mark faster and more gracefully than you could with traditional brushwork. Plus, thanks to the intuitive design of airbrushes, you don't have to be an expert to get quick results when painting makeup, miniatures, or large designs outdoors.
What to Look For
Airbrushes include a range of components and accessories that can set models apart. To find the right option for you, pay close attention to the size of the fluid tips, whether the set comes with a compressor, and whether cleaning tools are included. Those criteria helped us sort the best from the rest during our search for the best airbrushes. For example, our favorite model overall was the G233 Pro from Master Airbrush. This professional offering comes with a range of tips for varied applications, but it’s worth noting that you’ll need to provide your own compressor to get started. If you’re looking for an all-in-one kit that’s great for beginners (and could serve as a great gift), the set from Fehrominger is a great option. Check out the rest of our top picks below and your creative juices will be flowing in no time.
Master Airbrush Master Performance G233 Pro Set
The road to mastery
Stealing the top spot on our list is the affordable G233 from Master Airbrush, a versatile option for experienced hands and novices alike. The 1/3-ounce gravity fluid cup won’t weigh your hand down while you work, yet it will yield enough paint that you won’t have to continually refill it. Thanks to the needles, fluid tips, and air caps also included in the set, you’ll have quick access to a range of weights suitable for wide strokes and finer details.
Pros:
- The design of the cutaway handle makes it easy to clean
- Quick-start guide included
- Preset fluid control knob
Cons:
- Compressor not included
Fehrominger Airbrush Kit With Compressor
Can’t wait to get your ideas down in paint? This all-in-one kit from Fehrominger contains everything you need to get started right out of the box. With a battery-powered compressor included, this airbrush offers cordless fluidity as you work as well as three varied pressure settings to switch between. We appreciate having that level of freedom, especially when painting outdoors or over large surfaces.
Pros:
- Five cleaning brushes of varied sizes make it easy to scrub every hard-to-reach spot inside
- Rechargeable battery can last for up to one hour
- 10CC, 20CC and 40CC paint cups included
Cons:
- Only one 0.3mm tip included
RJ-Global Double Action Airbrush Kit
The pen-like grip of most airbrushes isn’t for everyone. Working extended hours with this grip can lead to hand fatigue for some, especially when working on a larger surface area. If you’re looking for an alternative, this gun-grip design from RJ-Global offers an ergonomic solution. Though it might not achieve the same precision as standard airbrushes when working on fine details, it’s a comfortable substitute that’s sure to find a place in the arsenal of any serious airbrusher.
Pros:
- Supports high pressures up to 50 psi
- Deep trigger bed for superior flow control
- 74.5-inch air hose included
Cons:
- The plastic grip can react to some lacquer and thinner solutions
GoCheer Upgraded 40PSI Airbrush Kit
Bells and whistles
This laden set from GoCheer comes with everything you’ll need to equip your studio or crafting kit. It comes with two nozzles, two needles, and three fluid cups up to 40cc. Throw in an adaptable cabled compressor offering pressure output between 20 and 40 psi, and the result is a real jack of all trades.
Pros:
- Oil-water separator included
- Powered compressor means no charging breaks
- Comes in a neat storage box that’s also ideal for gifting
Cons:
- Instruction manual lacks detail, which can be frustrating for beginners
YF Youfu Cordless Airbrush Kit With Compressor
Free of wires and air hoses, this battery-powered airbrush won’t hold back your creative spirit. The portable compressor boasts up to one hour of constant use per charge and yields an impressive power of up to 32 psi. With USB-C fast charging capabilities, the depleted battery could be replenished in just 1.5 hours, meaning you could be back to work in no time.
Pros:
- Air hose is also included for use with other compressors
- Curved airbrush body is easy on the hand
- Battery-powered compressor is quieter than AC-powered units
Cons:
- Fragile nozzle with no replacements included
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I clean my airbrush?
Keeping the insides of your airbrush clean can prevent clogs and ensure peak performance every time. Once you finish working with your airbrush, or if you plan to take a long break, use cleaning brushes to clean the cavity, nozzle, and fluid cup before any residual paint dries inside. After you brush it down, you can rinse the airbrush’s components with water or alcohol, although strong paints and varnishes might require the use of a specialized cleaning solution.
What makeup can I use in an airbrush?
The nifty airbrush has many applications, and it can be a useful addition to a range of makeup routines. Most liquid makeup solutions are compatible, and you can also purchase products specifically designed for airbrushing. Not all makeup will work though, and oil-based solutions in particular can cause clogs.
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