Airbrush your Warhammer miniatures with the right equipment from our list of the best airbrushes, compressors, and accessories out there!
Updated November 29th, 2024, by Rob Baer with new information and links to relevant content.
Are you wondering what airbrush to use to paint your new miniatures or Warhammer army, or do you want a recommendation from another hobbyist on their setup?
This guide will help you choose the best airbrush for your miniature painting needs and budget. Many people think airbrushing is only for those who have mastered painting miniatures with a paintbrush, but that’s not true. While using an airbrush requires a different skill set, it’s not considerably more complicated. There is a learning curve, but there will be with any new hobby!
Best Airbrushes for Warhammer Miniatures & Wargames Models In 2025
Here’s a quick list of links to the top airbrushes we recommend so you can pick one or compare models yourself from the product pages and our reviews below. Snag your new airbrush from our handpicked list of models, and give us a high-five in support! Every qualifying purchase helps Spikey Bits keep the lights on and the fun going.
- #10 Badger Air-Brush Co. Sotar 2020-2F
- #9 Badger – Renegade Krome
- #8 Harder & Steenbeck Infinity CR Plus
- #7 Harder & Steenbeck – Infinity Solo
- #6 Iwata – Custom Micron CM-B
- #5 Iwata HP-CS
- #4 Badger Patriot 105
- #3 Harder & Steenbeck Ultra
- #2 Harder & Steenbeck Colani
- #1 Harder & Steenbeck Evolution AL
Plus, there are also some great deals; others are meant for people looking to take things to the next level. We also cheated and put a whopping 12 airbrushes in this post… hey, there’s nothing wrong with two extra airbrushes to look at! We’ll also cover a bunch of compressors and airbrushes that are perfect for any tabletop miniatures game, so you can get a great hobby set up for less!
Image Credit Next Level Painting
Airbrushes are among the most effective tools in a miniature painter’s arsenal. They can be used for various purposes, from applying base coats to miniatures to ensuring perfectly even paint jobs over large surface areas (perfect for things like tanks and large models) and for effects such as color blending, masking, and fine detail highlights.
You can even use the same paints from brush painting in the airbrush if you thin them appropriately (well, except Army Painter Fanatic Metals, they will clog.) However, getting a quality kit is important, as bad airbrushes can break quickly or make learning the skill very frustrating.
The Top 10 (Plus a Little Extra)
Airbrushes have really started catching on for the Warhammer hobby, so here are all our favorites we recommend to anyone who wants to get started painting miniatures with them!
#10: Badger Air-Brush Co. Sotar 2020-2F:
The 20/20 airbrush is designed for professional illustrators and is known for its ability to produce precise and reliable fine-line detail. It is suitable for spraying various types of paints, inks, and acrylics.
The airbrush features an elongated body that efficiently maintains a distance between the trigger and the paint reservoir. Thanks to the innovative “track and winged” design, its trigger and back lever assemble easily. Additionally, it comes with three different needle/nozzle options for different spray patterns.
#9: Badger – Renegade Krome:
This airbrush, designed by professionals to achieve professional results, stands out from other detailed airbrushes with its bright new gravity feed Krome design. It features a “glide coat” finished trigger and rocker lever for a smooth trigger stroke, and its softer trigger tension allows for greater detail control.
The micrometer trigger stop setting enables the user to set and reference spray patterns to 1/1000 of an inch (or millimeter), and it also includes an ergonomic underbody finger rest for enhanced comfort during prolonged detail finishing sessions.
The “Krome 2 in 1” RK-1 Airbrush Kit comes with an ultra-fine Krome airbrush with a 3/8-ounce mounted color cup, an additional fine tip, a fine spray regulator, and a fine needle, all housed in a sturdy, attractive storage case.
#8: Harder & Steenbeck Infinity CR Plus
Here are the specs on this one:
Self-centering socket-type nozzles 0.15mm + 0.4mm Gravity feed 2ml + 5ml cups with lids Precision quick- fix end piece with numbered dial Innovative, adjustable trigger mechanism
As we said, the price is high. However, this is the top shelf of any airbrushes you could use for painting Warhammer miniatures.
#7: Harder & Steenbeck – Infinity Solo:
The high-tech airbrush instrument for professional artists. This new airbrush not only sets new standards in design but also offers intelligent functions and ergonomic excellence. Again, this is another excellent choice for airbrushes for Warhammer miniatures. However, H&S is a brand whose price will reflect its higher quality.
#6: Iwata – Custom Micron CM-B
The Custom Micron CM-B Version 2 by Iwata has the ability to atomize and spray flawlessly, along with some additional features. These features include an ergonomic square trigger, a crown cap dock on the handle for storing caps, and an auxiliary lever that is now attached to the chucking guide for easier re-assembly.
This airbrush model is equipped with a 0.18mm nozzle and needle combination for detailed spraying, a pre-set handle, adjustable main lever tension, and a 1.8 ml gravity feed cup. The set comes with the Custom Micron CM-B, a spanner wrench, Superlube, a test page, and a User’s Guide Booklet.
This is not an airbrush for a beginner, as the needle size is very unforgiving.
#5: Iwata HP-CS
The Eclipse Series airbrush is known for its versatility and is commonly used for applying a wide variety of paints with precise control. It is highly regarded for its ability to maintain high-detail spray characteristics while handling heavier acrylics and Medea Textile Colors.
Key features include a gravity-feed design with a unique 0.35-mm needle and nozzle combination for fine-detail spraying and high-paint-flow capacity, a 1/3 oz. cup with a new funnel shape for easy cleanup and efficient paint flow.
The Iwata HP-CS is a hobby stable that Kenny Boucher at Next Level Painting recommended to me way back in 2010.
It’s easy to obtain as it is stocked by nearly every Hobby Lobby in the country, but they won’t let you use the discount coupon anymore. However, they also stock replacement needles, nozzles, caps, etc., which you may need occasionally.
Overall, it’s a robust airbrush with average-quality internal components that you really have to stay on top of to keep clean after every use. The advantage of the Iwata is that most hobbyists use it, and the parts are readily accessible. The cons are that it is not quite as forgiving as some of the airbrushes below, it’s a bit clunkier, and harder to maintain overall for the casual painter.
#4 Badger Patriot 105:
The new Model 105-1 “Patriot” is a dual-action gravity feed airbrush with an extra tip and an instruction manual. Crafters, artists, and hobbyists favor its innovative precision design. The airbrush, which is American-made, comes with a one-year warranty for manufacturing defects and a lifetime warranty on the PTFE needle bearing and any factory labor repairs.
It’s got a .50 mm single-needle nozzle that’s perfect for spraying most of the paints you’d use on a model. (acrylics, enamels, lacquers, glazes, watercolors, inks, etc.). This airbrush seems to be recommended by many creators in the space, and has been growing in popularity recently. I’ve used it several times early in my painting career but gravitated away from it.
#3: Harder & Steenbeck 2024 Ultra: Rob’s Pick of Best “Cheap” Airbrush For Miniatures
This airbrush is a great starting option, offering high quality at a great price. It features a self-centering nozzle that is interchangeable with other models. It has a 0.2mm nozzle set and a 2 ml gravity cup.
Additionally, a 0.4mm nozzle and 5 ml cups can be purchased separately. This airbrush operates as a double-action gravity feed model. Overall, you can’t go wrong if you’re starting out with this airbrush. While it doesn’t have the most features of some of the airbrushes on this list, it generally goes for around $100, holds up well to painting, and works amazing!
#2: Harder & Steenbeck Colani
Colani has been a versatile product in the market for over 50 years. Designed by Luigi Colani, it offers adaptable ergonomic features suitable for both beginners and professionals. With various accessories and nozzle sizes ranging from 0.2 to 1.2 mm, the Colani can be used for a wide range of applications, from fine retouching to large surface painting. Its dual-function design allows for precise and delicate work.
Rob believes this is one of the hardest-working, most precise Airbrushes for painting miniatures out there. The Colani is designed with top-notch German engineering for folks who like the feel of a pistol airbrush handle but with a pincer-style trigger on top that is adjustable for left or right-handed artists.
The Colani also features Teflon packing insides with robust internal coatings and mechanics that haven’t let me down yet. It also features an adjustable resistance to the trigger and a larger internal area for the paint to mix more thoroughly before it sprays, allowing for some of the most precise control.
You can even purchase special pipe cleaners (and a needle probe) in the exact diameters needed for cleaning the Colani with a looped metal head to prevent contact with the inside coatings. We will never know how they thought of that one, but it shows the attention to detail H&S puts into their products. Find out more about it in our review article or by watching the video below.
#1: Harder & Steenbeck Evolution
The Evolution ALplus is the brand’s first airbrush made from aluminum. This gives it a lightweight feel of only 56g, about half the weight of a traditional airbrush. The design features a matte black finish with chrome accents on the needle cap, cup, lever, and center ring.
The Evolution ALplus is available in a solo model with a 0.2 mm fine line nozzle set and a 2 ml flow cup. Additionally, there is a Two-in-one version with an extra 0.4 mm nozzle set and a 5 ml flow cup.
Apart from these variations, the ALplus shares the same ergonomics, features, and functionalities as the Evolution CRplus models. This is my go-to for all airbrushing needs. This baby is everything I have ever wanted in an airbrush and so much more. Because of its aluminum barrel and high-quality interior components, it weighs about half of a regular airbrush.
I have yet to “stain” the aluminum casing with my paints. Everything seems to fall off under light scrubbing with a plastic-bristled brush. The spring tension is also cleverly adjustable via a screw on the back of the brush.
The airflow is adjustable on the inside of the air hose interface at the bottom of the brush. Both of the tolerances of these H&S airbrushes are so tight you don’t need to use Teflon tape to maintain the air pressure when you connect your compressor air hose (quick releases or otherwise).
Its small paint reservoir (which is upgradeable) means you waste way less paint than before. Plus, it keeps the pot fresher with fewer clogs. It is also adjustable to a larger needle size. However, all we have ever used on it is the .02 mm fine-line nozzle with no issues with any paint. Just make sure you use a little Vallejo flow improver in your mix per the norm.
The Evoluion even has the same special pipe cleaners that the Colani does above. These give you an edge maintenance-wise regarding the H&S family of airbrushes. You can find out more about it in our review article or by watching the video below.
Honorable Mention #1: Harder & Steenbeck – Evolution CRplus:
The Evolution CR Plus from Harder & Steenbeck blends sophistication with exceptional durability. It has a high-quality chrome finish and features a stainless steel needle and a self-centering nickel silver nozzle.
In addition to its stylish design, the chrome plating reduces allergy risks for individuals sensitive to nickel equipment. Moreover, the Evolution CRplus is completely resistant to solvents and equipped with PTFE (Teflon) seals for the nozzle, cup joint, and valve.
Honorable Mention #2: Monument Hobbies Pro Air-TG Pistol Grip Airbrush
It is packed securely and ready to spray away the grey. The Pro Air-TG is powered by Grex, another well-known company that is passionate about its products. I haven’t had a chance to use this one quite yet, but I have used the Grex version it is based on, and I loved that one! The Grex version was one of my first airbrushes for painting miniatures.
Monument Hobbies has stated that this brush will also allow for Grex upgrade parts. Along with a six-year warranty, this is the best bang for your buck. The PRO Air-TG dual-action pistol grip airbrush comes with a 0.3mm needle/nozzle. It also features a G-MAC quick disconnect airflow control valve, allowing for easy PSI adjustment at the brush handle. I currently use the Grex G-MAC value with my H&S Airbrush, as it is one of the best out there.
Additionally, the Pro-Air includes two interchangeable paint cups (2ml and 7ml), two Quick-fit needle caps (standard and crown), and two air hose adapters for Paasche and Badger fittings.
Best Airbrush Compressors & Supplies For Miniature Painting
Harder & Steenbeck Evolution Airbrush (left) and Colani (right) REVIEW ARTICLE: High-End Airbrushes
While getting an airbrush is the best place to start, you need something to push that paint out! Compressors are made specifically for airbrushing but are not all built similarly. Check out our favorites below and some that you can score for a great deal right now. Every qualifying purchase helps Spikey Bits keep the lights on and the fun going.
Sparmax Airbrush Compressor
Sparmax is a bit of an investment, but believe me when I say this thing is a mule. With all of the airbrush painting I’ve done over the years, it has stuck by me and kept the air pressures on my paints precisely the way I intended. I still use this beast today!
It has two airbrush holders on top of the casing, a protective metal shield around the compressor, an on/off switch, and a handle to make everything easier to transport if you have a hobby on the go.
Tooty “No-Name” Airbrush Compressor
Are you tired of sub-par Airbrush compressors overheating or dying on you? Check out the Tooty, the no-name compressor that is far from a beginner. You can tell this little guy is different out of the box. It seems to be made with more durable coatings and has an operation volume of about 46 dB, which is basically ambient outside noise.
Sure, it’ll be a little loud indoors, but most compressors are. The best part is that the tank is one of the largest in its class, and I think it’s a tremendous value for the price.
Timbertech Airbrush Kit with Compressor AS18-2K:
You get a lot with this kit, and while the airbrush might not be the highest quality, it can never hurt to have a backup!
The piston in this oil-less air compressor is maintenance-free and portable. It emits a quiet noise level of 47 decibels and is equipped with a built-in carry handle and light for easy transportation.
With an airflow rate of 20-23 liters per minute, it features auto start at 3 bar and autostop at 4 bar pressure levels. Additionally, it includes a regulator with a gauge, water trap, and air filter, along with safety features such as a pressure relief valve and overheat protector.
This compressor package includes a basic double-action gravity feed airbrush with a 0.30mm nozzle/needle, a 6ft air hose, a mini filter, a cleaning brush, and five paints. It caters to various applications such as design, modeling, artistry, cake decorating, nail art, and spray tanning.
However, it’s important to note that this air compressor is only suitable for airbrushing and not compatible with spray guns or other air tools. The other nice thing is that this comes with two holders, and the reviews have all been positive.
Rooty Tooty Airbrush Compressor by NO-NAME Brand:
While this is a little more expensive than the Timbertech, we already use the bigger version, which works great! Plus, having the extra fan should help. Generally, after using smaller compressors for extended periods, they get hot! In the past, we have had to point a fan at them to cool them off. Now, you shouldn’t have to with this design because it already does it.
The oil-free design compressor features a metal housing, a portable cooling fan on the piston radiator, a 110-volt power supply with a 6-foot cable, an air regulator with a filter and gauge, a 1/6 HP motor, an airflow of 20-23 L/minute, and a noise level of 40 dB.
It also includes a user manual, an on/off switch, and suction cups for added stability. Additionally, every NO-NAME Brand Compressor undergoes inspection and testing at the warehouse in Tampa, FL, before being dispatched to the customer.
Again, it’s a little more expensive, but if you’re willing to pay a few bucks more, this could be a great pickup.
Best Airbrush Accessories for Painting Miniatures:
- Vallejo Airbrush Flow Improver Makes Airbrushing EASY!
- Vallejo Airbrush Thinner Thinner is great for getting your paints to the right consistency. I dont use this, but some folks swear by it!
- Iwata Airbrush Lube – keep your metals lubed up every so often!
- Grex Airbrush Cleaner – The second you buy an airbrush, you should invest in some cleaner. This is CONCENTRATED, so make sure you think it down and use as directed!
- Goose Neck Bottle for Cleaning AB– Clean your AB from every angle with high-powered water!
- Tamiya Masking Tape For Miniatures: 18mm Large, 10mm Medium, 6mm Small
Frequently Asked Questions For Airbrushes
So, you’ve decided to pick up an airbrush and enter the world of smooth gradients, flawless base coats, and the occasional colorful finger? Good choice! Whether you’re here because you’re tired of brush streaks, want to level up your painting game, or just need to justify buying more hobby gear, this is the spot for answers.
What Makes a Good Airbrush For Miniature Painting?
Airbrushes are used for various tasks, such as nail art and auto-body painting, but not all are suitable for painting miniatures. Most of the airbrushes in this guide are “double action,” meaning that the trigger controls airflow through the brush and the paint flow out of the reservoir, allowing for varying brush stroke intensity.
Additionally, the airbrushes in this guide are all “gravity-fed,” which means they store paint on top of the airbrush, which feeds into the paint-and-air mixing chamber under the force of gravity. This makes using small volumes of paint and changing paints easier.
Airbrushes are precision tools with many tiny parts that need regular cleaning to function properly, so this guide prioritizes airbrushes that are easy to clean, easy to use, and made for miniatures. It’s also important to note that some of the brushes in this guide can take a needle finer than 0.3mm, and while airbrushes can produce very fine lines, a size 00 miniature paintbrush can offer greater tactile control over a 0.3mm line.
Overall, you want an airbrush with good spray control (that way, you can paint big tanks and smaller faces) that is durable, easy to clean, and capable of handling acrylic paints well. More importantly, you need to be able to control it yourself regardless of what the specs, or reviews say. Always find what works best for YOU!
Myth Debunked: Airbrushing is NOT Just for Experts
A common myth many hobbyists believe is that airbrushing is only for skilled artists who have mastered traditional brush techniques. However, this is not true.
While airbrushing requires different skills, it is not necessarily more difficult than brush painting. With the appropriate guidance and equipment, even beginners can achieve impressive paint jobs with an airbrush.
Can You Airbrush Miniatures?
Image Credit: Next Level Painting
Of course, it’s a really fun side to the hobby and will help you get more miniatures painted in no time. Even if you’re a beginner painter, airbrushing can help you evolve as a hobbyist.
Is an Airbrush Worth it For Miniature Painting?
Image Credit: Next Level Painting
If you want to paint faster and get more done, then yes! Especially for big things like tanks, monsters, and vehicles. Using an airbrush to paint miniatures will save you a ton of time. However, if you are painting up a few models here and there, it may not be as worthwhile.
What is a Good “Beginner” Airbrush for Painting Miniatures?
Dollar for dollar, the Harder and Steenbeck Ultra 2024 is probably one of the best airbrushes for painting miniatures.
I was shocked when I learned H&S had an airbrush for around $100 on the market! This IMHO, is one of the best airbrushes in this price range today for Warhammer or any miniatures. This is the airbrush I truly wished he had learned on FIRST. I am very sure that the new features and upgrades available for this brush, like the .20 needle set, will last a very long time for any hobbyist!
Final Thoughts on Airbrushing
Choosing the right airbrush and compressor is essential for achieving the best results in your miniature painting and Warhammer hobby. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced hobbyist, having the appropriate airbrush equipment can significantly enhance your painting experience.
When selecting airbrushes and accessories, consider factors such as your budget, skill level, and the specific needs of your projects. By making informed choices, you can elevate your painting game and enjoy the process of creating stunning miniatures and Warhammer models.
Learn More About Airbrushing Miniatures With These Articles
What airbrush or airbrushes do you like the best for painting miniatures or Warhammer? What do you think is a good airbrush for miniature painting?
About the Author: Wesley Floyd
Wesley Floyd
Job Title: Staff Writer
Joined: 2018
Socials: @RealmbrushPainting
About Wesley Floyd: Wes has been in the Warhammer hobby since 2015 and joined the Spikey Bits writing team in 2018. He is known for his satirist takes on trending topics and imaginative yet amazingly affordable hobby solutions to painting Warhammer miniatures.
Imperial fanboy, tabletop fanatic, and the self-proclaimed King of Sprues. He knows for a fact that Mephiston red is the best-tasting paint and is the commission painting equivalent of a Wendy’s 4 for $4. If you like what he writes and want to contact him or have your tabletop minatures painted (to a mostly okayish standard), message him on Instagram.
