In the realm of painting and finishing, the right tools are crucial for achieving professional and efficient results. Among these tools, one duo stands out – the spray gun and air compressor. This combination provides a consistent and even application of paint, offering a level of precision and control that is hard to achieve with manual methods. But as with all things technical, not all spray guns are created equal, and finding the right one that complements your small compressor can be a game-changer. Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the ‘Best Spray Gun for Small Compressors’, designed to help you navigate through a sea of options and find that perfect match for your needs.
Selecting a spray gun for a small compressor is not as straightforward as it might seem. Various factors come into play, including the type of spray gun, its air consumption, the nozzle size, and the kind of paint job you are planning to undertake. The task becomes more challenging when you consider the variety of HVLP paint sprayers available in the market, each with its own set of features, benefits, and limitations.
Why focus on small compressors, you might ask? Small air compressors, apart from their affordability and portability, are perfect for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, or professionals who require a paint system for smaller projects or jobs with intricate detail. They are compact, easy to maneuver, and ideal for use in confined spaces or for transportation to different job sites. However, their smaller size also means they produce less air volume (CFM) and pressure (PSI), which can limit the type of spray gun you can use.
Our guide aims to simplify this selection process. By focusing on spray guns ideally suited for small compressors, we will unravel the qualities that set the best ones apart. We will delve into how these spray guns function, the key features to look for, and how to ensure they align with your compressor’s capabilities and your project requirements.
Whether you are a hobbyist working on a personal project, a professional painter looking for the perfect tool for small-scale jobs, or simply a homeowner wanting to give your old furniture a fresh coat of paint, this guide is designed to assist you. So, sit back and let us embark on this journey to find the best spray gun for small compressor, ensuring your next painting job is not only successful but also a truly satisfying experience.
This is why I have handpicked the top 7 spray guns from hundreds of products in the market. Use this in-depth review and buyer’s guide to find the best paint sprayer that suits your needs.
Top 7 Best Spray Gun For Small Compressor – Reviewed
Contents
- 0.1 1. Neiko 31215A Gravity Feed HVLP Air Spray Gun
- 0.2 2. Astro Pneumatic Tool 4008 Spray Gun
- 0.3 3. Campbell Hausfeld HVLP General Purpose Paint Spray Gun
- 0.4 4. TCP Global Professional HVLP Spray Gun
- 0.5 5. Devilbiss-GFG670 Gravity Feed Spray
- 0.6 6. DEWALT HVLP Gravity Feed Spray Gun
- 0.7 7. DeVilbiss Gravity Feed StraightLine Spray Gun
- 1 How To Pick Quality Spray Guns for Air Compressors
- 2 Final Verdict
- 3 FAQS
- 3.1 What size compressor is best for spray painting?
- 3.2 What is the smallest compressor for painting a car?
- 3.3 Do all paint sprayers need an air compressor?
- 3.4 Can I use an HVLP gun with an air compressor?
- 3.5 Is it worth purchasing a spray gun?
- 3.6 Can you use a paint spray gun with a small compressor?
- 3.7 What is the minimum compressor size for spray painting?
- 3.8 What are the key factors to consider when choosing a spray gun for a small compressor?
- 3.9 How can I increase the efficiency of my spray gun when using a small compressor?
1. Neiko 31215A Gravity Feed HVLP Air Spray Gun
If you are looking for a heavy-duty spray gun at an affordable price, the Neiko 31215A Gravity Feed HVLP Air Spray Gun is an excellent choice. It features an impressive one-piece all-steel body that ensures you get long-lasting services.
The Neiko 31215A Gravity Feed HVLP Air Spray Gun works seamlessly with a small air compressor to get you a smooth and professional finish. The HVLP gravity feed design pairs beautifully with the three adjustable valve knobs to ensure you get a precision finish when working with finer details.
With an average air consumption of 4.5 CFM, your small air compressor should be more than adequate. Note that the working pressure of the Neiko 31215A Gravity Feed HVLP Air Spray Gun is rated at 40 PSI, with a working pressure of 10 PSI.
What I like about this paint sprayer is the included 1.7mm nozzle. You can comfortably work on different projects without experiencing any problems. This nozzle is perfect for a variety of automotive and household paint, primer, and metallic basecoat.
Included during the purchase are a cleaning brush, metal-air regulator, aluminum cup with lid, and multi-size wrench. You get value for your money when you purchase this impressive paint sprayer. It is an ideal choice for both professionals and regular DIYers.
Neiko Gravity Feed HVLP Air Spray Gun
Pros
- Sturdy steel construction
- Includes an extensive accessory kit
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Smooth, professional finish
- Great for multiple projects
- Easy to clean
Cons
- The hose connection is not standard
2. Astro Pneumatic Tool 4008 Spray Gun
Are you looking for a versatile spray gun that works well with a small air compressor? The Astro Pneumatic Tool 4008 Spray Gun is an excellent choice. You get a 1.8mm nozzle size that suits all the different household and automotive painting jobs. This spray gun also works well with a primer and metallic basecoat, which is a huge plus.
What I like about this model is the gully adjustable fan pattern control that ensures you can work on detailed projects. You will get superb results when using this paint sprayer to paint projects that need a lot of fine detail.
Note that the Astro Pneumatic Tool 4008 Spray Gun also features a one-quart capacity dripless cup that is perfect for household projects. However, it might not be ideal for large projects that need a lot of paint. You will have to constantly refill your cup which is tiresome and time-wasting.
The gun features an exclusive air valve that gives you a precise and professional finish. The compact two-piece construction is also a huge plus since it ensures you get a long-lasting device. Note that this spray gun works well with a small air compressor.
Finally, the Astro Pneumatic Tool 4008 Spray Gun is an easy-to-clean model. You can quickly clean the device after you are done with the project. Proper cleaning ensures that you can get a professional-grade finish on your next spray painting project.
Astro Pneumatic Tool Spray Gun
Pros
- Excellent finish
- More control
- All-purpose versatile design
- 1.8mm nozzle
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Cup has to remain full for a professional-grade finish
3. Campbell Hausfeld HVLP General Purpose Paint Spray Gun
The Campbell Hausfeld HVLP General Purpose Paint Spray Gun requires 4.0 SCFM at 40 PSI making it an ideal choice if you have a small air compressor. The good news is that it is a gravity-feed spray gun that doesn’t need a lot of air pressure.
Note that this spray gun is easy to use making it an excellent choice for both professionals and DIYers. If you aren’t quite familiar with how to use a spray gun, this model was designed for you. Understand that you will quickly learn how to use it effectively and get a professional-grade finish.
What I love about the Campbell Hausfeld HVLP General Purpose Paint Spray Gun are its fine atomization and low overspray. You get to control the spray pattern and fluid/airflow for a smooth finish. Finding the perfect setting for your project is also made quite simple with this paint sprayer.
The polished aluminum housing of this spray gun makes it quite easy to clean. The 600 mL gravity feed design also minimizes material waste. You get to save on time and costs when using this impressive spray gun from Campbell Hausfeld.
The Campbell Hausfeld HVLP General Purpose Paint Spray Gun is ideal for all different types of jobs. It works well with furniture painting, automotive painting, lacquers, clear coats, and basecoats. You certainly get value for your money when you purchase this spray gun.
Campbell Hausfeld HVLP Paint Spray Gun
Pros
- Value for money
- Affordable
- Easy to clean and use
- Heavy-duty construction
Cons
- A bit of an air hog
4. TCP Global Professional HVLP Spray Gun
The TCP Global Professional HVLP Spray Gun is an excellent choice if you plan on working with thick materials. Note that it works seamlessly with a small air compressor even when handling heavy materials such as metal flakes, polyester primers, and latex paints.
The fully adjustable control knobs give you more control when working on your project. You get to control several aspects including air pressure and spray pattern. Ensures that you pick an air pressure setting that works well with your small air compressor.
This spray gun comes with a 2.5mm fluid tip, an air regulator, and a 1-liter Aluminum cup. You can comfortably work on large projects thanks to the cup capacity. You won’t have to make several trips which saves you a lot of time.
What I like about the TCP Global Professional HVLP Spray Gun is that it gets you a consistent spray pattern. If you are looking for a professional finish, this spray gun is an excellent choice. Understand that a good finish is a factor that you need to consider when working on your projects.
When you purchase the TCP Global Professional HVLP Spray Gun, you get a full one-year warranty. Users, therefore, get the peace of mind they need when using this device. You can rest assured knowing that you are fully covered by the warranty.
TCP Global Professional HVLP Spray Gun
Pros
- Fully adjustable control knobs
- High-performance spray gun
- Works with heavy material
- One-year warranty
Cons
- No extra seals are included in the purchase
5. Devilbiss-GFG670 Gravity Feed Spray
The Devilbiss-GFG670 Gravity Feed Spray is a professional-grade spray gun that works well with a small air compressor. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for a high-end spray gun that gets you a smooth finish when working with different materials.
Note that this spray gun is perfect for professionals. It might not be ideal for DIYers because it costs a fortune. However, it is worth every penny you spend due to its many features and excellent quality finish.
What I like about the Devilbiss-GFG670 Gravity Feed Spray are its powerful atomization and minimal overspray. Working on your projects is made easy and straightforward due to these features. Understand that you will always get a perfect paint job with little paint. The lack of overspray saves you a lot of money on paint, especially when working on large projects.
The Devilbiss-GFG670 Gravity Feed Spray is a high-efficiency gravity feed gun that provides fast fluid speed. You can quickly complete large projects when working with this professional-grade spray gun. The good news is that you can use this gun with a variety of paint materials including primers, lacquers, and latex paint.
The Devilbiss-GFG670 Gravity Feed Spray is an ideal choice for professionals who need a versatile spray gun in their workshop. You will enjoy working with this spray gun due to the high-end finish that you get after every project.
Devilbiss-GFG670 Gravity Feed Spray
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Lightweight designs
- Works with a variety of paint
- Great value for money
Cons
- Pricey
6. DEWALT HVLP Gravity Feed Spray Gun
The DEWALT HVLP Gravity Feed Spray Gun is an excellent choice if you are looking for a small, lightweight spray gun. The ergonomic design of this spray gun ensures that you can work for long hours with little to no fatigue.
This spray gun comes at a pocket-friendly price and works well with a small air compressor. If you are on a budget and need a high-end device, the DEWALT HVLP Gravity Feed Spray Gun will suit you. The compact construction of this spray gun ensures you get long-lasting services from this tool.
Note that the DEWALT HVLP Gravity Feed Spray Gun comes with a 600cc aluminum cup with a lid. It is, therefore, suitable for both medium and small projects. You can comfortably use this spray gun for both furniture and automotive painting.
What I found interesting about this spray gun is the 3-year limited warranty. You can rest easy knowing that you are fully covered by the manufacturer. When buying any piece of equipment an extensive warranty will always come in handy.
The DEWALT HVLP Gravity Feed Spray Gun is perfect for beginners and professionals. You will always get a smooth finish when working with different types of paint. However, understand that it might not be suitable for large projects.
DEWALT HVLP Gravity Feed Spray Gun
Pros
- 600 cc aluminum cup with lid
- Heavy-duty construction
- Pocket-friendly price
- Works seamlessly with a small air compressor
- Lightweight and compact design
Cons
- A bit difficult to clean
7. DeVilbiss Gravity Feed StraightLine Spray Gun
The DeVilbiss-802342 Gravity Feed StraightLine Spray Gun is perfect for individuals who need an extensive spray gun kit. You get an accessory kit that includes everything you need for your next painting project.
You get a full-size HVLP spray gun that works well with a small air compressor to get you a smooth finish. Note that this spray gun comes with a 1.3mm fluid tip that is perfect when you need to work on a detailed project.
The DeVilbiss-802342 Gravity Feed StraightLine Spray Gun also features a 1.0mm tip for more demanding tasks. The air-adjusting valve ensures that you have more control over the air and fluid pressure.
What I like about the DeVilbiss-802342 Gravity Feed StraightLine Spray Gun is the ease to use and setup. It is an excellent choice for beginners who are looking to start their first project. You will get an extensive accessory kit and a powerful spray gun at an affordable price.
However, note that the case is not constructed from heavy-duty material. You will need to handle this case with a lot of caution. Understand that you don’t want to drop all your pieces of equipment during a project.
DeVilbiss Gravity Feed StraightLine Spray Gun
Pros
- Smooth, professional finish
- Extensive accessory kit
- Lightweight construction
- Suitable with different types of paint
Cons
- Poor case design
How To Pick Quality Spray Guns for Air Compressors
Spray guns, a staple in the world of painting, are instrumental in achieving professional finishes for various projects, from automotive painting to furniture refinishing. These tools, when paired with an air compressor, provide an even and controllable paint application that’s hard to replicate manually. However, with the extensive range of spray guns available in the market, choosing the right one can seem daunting. This article aims to help you navigate these choices, ensuring you pick a quality spray gun that perfectly matches your air compressor and project needs.
Understanding Air Compressors and Spray Guns
Before we delve into the selection process, it’s vital to understand the relationship between air compressors and spray guns. An air compressor supplies the necessary air pressure that propels paint out of the spray gun. The volume of air that a compressor can deliver is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), while the air pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI).
Different spray guns require different CFM and PSI to operate efficiently. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the compressor’s capacity when selecting a spray gun.
1. Consider the Type of Spray Gun
There are primarily three types of spray guns you can choose from conventional, HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure), and LVLP (Low Volume Low Pressure).
Conventional spray guns offer a high-quality finish but are not as efficient in terms of paint usage, leading to more overspray.
HVLP spray guns are more efficient, providing a superior finish with less overspray, but they require a larger compressor due to their high CFM requirements.
LVLP guns, on the other hand, work well with smaller compressors. They use less air volume but still deliver a high-quality finish, making them a great choice for small-scale tasks.
2. Check the Air Consumption and Compressor Compatibility
The air consumption of a spray gun is a crucial factor that directly impacts its compatibility with an air compressor. If a gun requires more CFM than the compressor can supply, the gun won’t function properly. Ideally, your compressor should be able to produce 1.5 times the CFM that your spray gun requires to cater to any pressure drop in your setup.
3. Examine the Spray Gun Material and Construction
The longevity and performance of a spray gun are largely determined by its build quality. Look for guns made from durable materials like stainless steel or aluminum. Additionally, check for a good-quality nozzle and a robust trigger mechanism, as these parts are crucial for the spray gun’s operation.
4. Evaluate the Cup Size and Type
The cup is where the paint or material is stored during spraying. The size you need will depend on the size of your project. Larger cups are suitable for bigger tasks, while smaller cups are better for detail work. You can also choose between gravity-feed cups (mounted on top of the gun) and siphon-feed cups (located at the bottom). Gravity-feed guns are generally more efficient and easier to clean.
5. Understand the Adjustment Features
Quality spray guns come with adjustable settings that allow you to control the flow of material, the pattern of the spray, and the air pressure. Having these adjustable features provides greater flexibility and precision, ensuring you achieve the desired finish.
6. Read Reviews and Ratings
Lastly, don’t forget to check out product reviews and ratings. These provide valuable insights into the real-world performance and reliability of the spray gun you’re considering.
Conclusion
Choosing a quality spray gun for your air compressor involves careful consideration of several factors, from the type of spray gun and its air consumption to its material construction, cup size, and adjustment features. By understanding these aspects and assessing your specific project requirements.
Attaching your spray gun with an air compressor can seem like a difficult task. However, the setup process is quite simple and straightforward provided you follow the step-by-step guide below. Note that you don’t need to be an expert to set up your sprayer with an air compressor.
Step 1: Identify the connection point
The first step is to identify where your sprayer attaches to the air compressor. Usually, you will need to attach your air compressor to the bottom of your spray gun. However, different models might feature different attachment locations.
Read through the manual of your sprayer if you cannot identify the attachment locations. What if you don’t have your manual? Well, you can look at online instructional videos to help you identify the attachment location of your device.
Step 2: Attach the regulator
Before we attach your best paint sprayers, we need to attach the air regulator to the air compressor. The air regulator is an important piece of equipment that usually comes with your sprayer. Note that it will help you identify the amount of air getting into your sprayer.
Step 3: Attach the regulator hose
The next step is attaching your regulator hose. Note that you will need a female plug for this step. Simply screw it onto the regulator before attaching the hose. Ensures that your hose length is sufficient for the project. A short hose will limit your movement which can impact the finish.
Step 4: Attach the hose to your sprayer
You can then attach your sprayer to the regulator hose. Note that you will only turn on your air compressor once this setup is complete. Set the required PSI on your regulator to get a more professional finish for your projects.
However, note that you will need to pull the trigger before adjusting the PSI. Understand that pulling the trigger will release air and the regulator arrow will drop to the PSI you are using. It, therefore, becomes much easier to make adjustments.
Final Verdict
Although all the model features in this review provide high-quality services, the DeVilbiss 802342 Gravity Feed Spray is the best spray gun for small compressor. You get a sturdy, lightweight design sprayer that includes adjustable control knobs at an affordable price.
Working with the DeVilbiss 802342 Gravity Feed Spray is also quite easy and straightforward. You can quickly learn how to use the sprayer and get a professional finish. Note that this spray gun also works with a variety of paint.
FAQS
What size compressor is best for spray painting?
An air compressor with a motor rating of between 1 to 2 HP is suitable for non-industrial and DIY projects. Ensure that the air compressor is rated at about 6 CFM and a PSI rating of between 30 to 40.
You will get a consistent stream of air that will provide a good-quality finish. However, note that a 2HP air compressor with at least 8 CFM at 40 PSI is adequate for most projects.
What is the smallest compressor for painting a car?
Generally, an air compressor with a tank capacity of 30 gallons is ideal for painting a car. However, you need to ensure that you match the CFM rating of your compressor to that of the gun.
Note that matching the two CFMs will ensure that you get a more professional finish. When working on multiple car painting projects, you will need a large-size air compressor.
Do all paint sprayers need an air compressor?
Understand that not all spray guns will need an air compressor. The gas or electric airless sprayer works without an air compressor. However, you need to ensure that your air compressor matches the spray equipment that you plan on using. Understand that different air drive paint guns will need different pressure ratings.
Can I use an HVLP gun with an air compressor?
Yes, HVLP guns work seamlessly with air compressors to get you a smooth professional finish. However, your compressor needs to deliver enough PSI and CFM for your spray gun. Ensure that you carefully consider the size of your compressor when purchasing a spray gun.
Is it worth purchasing a spray gun?
Yes, using a sprayer saves you a lot of time when compared to the traditional methods of painting. Note that using a brush or roller will take you a lot of time, especially when working on large projects. You will also not get a smooth and consistent finish when compared to using a sprayer
Can you use a paint spray gun with a small compressor?
Yes, you can use a paint spray gun with a small compressor. However, it’s important to ensure that the spray gun’s air consumption (measured in CFM – cubic feet per minute) is compatible with the compressor’s output. Not all spray guns are suitable for small compressors, so it’s important to check the specifications before purchasing.
What is the minimum compressor size for spray painting?
A compressor that provides at least 4 to 5 CFM (cubic feet per minute) at 90 PSI (pounds per square inch) is usually sufficient for most spray painting tasks. However, larger projects or certain types of spray guns may require a higher CFM. Always check the specifications of your spray gun and the task at hand to determine the appropriate compressor size.
What are the key factors to consider when choosing a spray gun for a small compressor?
When choosing a spray gun for a small compressor, consider the following key factors:
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- The air consumption of the spray gun (in CFM) and whether it’s compatible with the compressor’s output.
- The type of project you will be undertaking. Different tasks may require different spray patterns, nozzle sizes, etc.
- The type of paint or material you will be spraying. Some materials may require specific types of spray guns.
- The overall quality and durability of the spray gun. Look for product reviews and ratings to get an idea about the product’s performance and longevity.
How can I increase the efficiency of my spray gun when using a small compressor?
There are several ways to increase the efficiency of your spray gun when using a small compressor:
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- Ensure the spray gun and compressor are compatible in terms of air consumption and output.
- Regularly clean your spray gun to prevent clogs and maintain optimum performance.
- Adjust the pressure and spray pattern according to the task at hand.
- Use a water separator to prevent moisture from the compressor from affecting the spray finish.
- Take breaks to allow your small compressor to recover, as continuous use may overwork the compressor and decrease its lifespan.
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