These are the best five airbrushes and compressors for painting miniatures that make gifts to give or receive this year!
The holidays are here, and you may wonder what airbrush or airbrushes to ask for gifts or what another hobbyist would recommend.
Top Airbrushes for Miniatures that Make Great Gifts!
Here’s a quick top gifts list if you just need to grab one of these best airbrushes out there for painting miniatures!
- Iwata HP-CS
- Badger Patriot 105
- Harder & Steenbeck Ultra
- Harder & Steenbeck Colani
- Harder & Steenbeck Evolution AL
- Harder & Steenbeck Infinity CR Plus
- Badger Air-Brush Co. Sotar 2020-2F
- Harder & Steenbeck – Evolution CRplus
- Badger – Renegade Krome
- Harder & Steenbeck – Infinity Solo
- Iwata – Custom Micron CM-B
- Monument Hobbies Pro Air-TG Pistol Grip Airbrush
- Grex – Tritium TG
Check out the details on all these awesome airbrushes you can’t go wrong with for yourself or as gifts.
#5 Iwata HP-CS:
This multi-purpose, high-paint-flow, high-detail Eclipse Series airbrush covers a wide range of uses. Commonly used to spray premixed or heavier paints, it is well suited for uses demanding precise control of spray when applying moderate-to-large amounts of paint to a variety of surfaces and to various-sized areas. This Eclipse Series brush has established a new benchmark for excellence in an all-purpose airbrush.
· Gravity-feed airbrush features a unique 0.35-mm needle and nozzle combination for fine-detail spraying, but with high-paint-flow capacity
· Generous 1/3 oz. sized cup is designed with a new funnel shape, which makes for easy cleanup and more efficient paint flow
· Automotive artists, fine artists, and students will appreciate how well the Eclipse CS sprays heavier acrylics and Medea Textile Colors while maintaining high-detail spray characteristics
The Iwata HP-CS is a hobby stable that was recommended to me by Kenny Boucher at Next Level painting over eight years ago. 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 on it anymore.
But they also stock replacement needles, nozzles, caps, etc., that you may need from time to time.
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.
It’s good, but there are better airbrushes out there for your hobby dollars when it comes to painting miniatures!
#4 Badger Patriot 105:
The new Model 105-1 “Patriot” is a dual-action gravity feed airbrush; set includes an extra tip and instruction manual.
The Patriot’s innovative precision design is enjoyed by crafters, artists, and hobbyists; Dual action, internal mix, gravity feed
Badger Airbrushes are American Made. One year warranty on mfg defects with a lifetime warranty on the PTFE needle bearing and any factory labor repairs
This is an American-made airbrush that you can find on sale quite frequently, it seems. 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 get recommended by many people out there, and it seems like it’s been growing in popularity recently. I used it a few times earlier in my painting career but gravitated away from it.
#3 Best Airbrushes For Miniatures Under $100: Harder & Steenbeck Ultra
Great choice to start with! High quality airbrush for an affordable price. Same self-centering nozzle used on the higher rank models (exchangeable with Evolution, Grafo, Infinity).
Harder and Steenbeck ULTRA airbrush comes with 0.2mm nozzle set and 2ml gravity cup. For additional purchase, a 0.4 nozzle and 5ml cup available.
Double action gravity feed airbrush.
Dollar for dollar, this is probably one of the best airbrushes for painting miniatures out there. I was shocked when I learned H&S had an airbrush on the market for less than $100! I reached out to Spraygunner and got a demo copy to review, and absolutely loved it. This IMHO is one of the best airbrushes at this price range on the market today.
This is the airbrush I truly wished I had learned on FIRST, as I am sure with the optional upgrades I showcase in our review video, it will last a very long time for any hobbyist!
#2 Harder & Steenbeck Colani:
The Colani is a multifunctional product with over 50 years of experience in the production of paint sprayers. The distinctive design from Luigi Colani gives this instrument adaptable ergonomic characteristics which enable its universal use by both beginners and professionals.
Comprehensive accessories and nozzle sizes from 0.2 and 1.2 mm make the Colani particularly flexible for applications ranging from fine retouching to large surface painting. The dependent double function enables particularly fine work.
This is one of the hardest working, most precise Airbrushes for painting miniatures out there, in my opinion. The Colani is designed with top-notch German engineering for folks that really like the feel of a pistol airbrush handle but with a pincer-style trigger on top that is adjustable for left or right 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 out there.
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. I will never know how they thought of that one, but it shows the attention to detail H&S puts into their products.
#1 Harder & Steenbeck Evolution AL:
Harder & Steenbeck adds a whole new meaning to the term “air brush”: The brand new Evolution ALplus is Harder & Steenbeck’s first airbrush made from aluminum, giving it an almost airy weight of only 56g, just about half as much as a traditional airbrush. And its design is striking as well, with a stylish matte black finish accentuated by chromed open needle cap, cup, lever and centre ring.
The Evolution ALplus is available as a solo model with 0.2 mm fine line nozzle set and 2 ml flow cup and as a Two in One version with an additional 0.4 mm nozzle set and 5 ml flow cup. Other than that, the Al plus has all of the Evolution CRplus models’ tried and tested ergonomics, features and functionalities
My go-to for all airbrushing needs. This baby is everything I have ever wanted in an airbrush and so much more. It weighs about half of a normal airbrush because of its Aluminum barrel and high-quality interior components that are on par with the Colani. I have yet to actually “stain” the aluminum casing with my paints as everything seems to fall off under light scrubbing with a plastic magically bristled brush.
The spring tension is also cleverly adjustable via a screw on the back of the brush, with push on the airflow adjustable on the inside of the air hose interface at the bottom of the brush. This reminds me, 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).
The small paint reservoir (that is upgradable) means I waste way less paint than before and keeps the pot fresher with fewer clogs. It is also adjustable, but all I have ever used on it is the .02 mm fine line nozzle that has had no issues with any paint I have loaded into it as long as it was accompanied by a little Vallejo flow improver per the norm.
It even has the same special pipe cleaners that the Colani does above that really give you an edge maintenance-wise when it comes to the H&S family of airbrushes.
These are my top 5 airbrushes that I’ve had the pleasure of using over the last few years, ranging from under $100 on up.
Personally, I think most folks would be okay to start with the Iwata if it’s all you have access to, or the Ultra, with the Ultra being the better value of the two.
If you want to skip to the head of the class and start at the top, then the two Harder Steenbecks are beyond amazing but be wary, and so is their price. They are, however, two of the best airbrushes for painting miniatures out there.
Harder & Steenbeck Infinity CR Plus:
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 BONUS: Sparmax 1/8″-1/8″coiled air hose and cleaning brush set included when buying form SprayGunner
Badger Air-Brush Co. Sotar 2020-2F:
The 2020 provides the professional illustrator with an airbrush capable of producing the ultimate in fine line detail. It is more precise, more comfortable, and more reliable than any competitor. When fine line detail or the finest paint atomization for a “soft” spray pattern is required, SOTAR is the only choice. Finely pigmented properly reduced paints, water colors, inks, dyes, and low viscosity acrylics can be sprayed with the 2020. The elongated body maintains an efficient distance between trigger and paint reservoir. The trigger and back lever assemble easily thanks to our innovative “track and winged” design. The Sotar has a mounted 1/12 ounce color cup which allows for extended use before having to add color. The fine (black) needle / nozzle will spray a “Hair” line to 3/4-inch (19 millimeter) spray pattern The medium (white) needle / nozzle will spray a “pen” line to 1-inch (25 millimeter) spray pattern The heavy (clear) needle / nozzle will spray a “pencil” line to 1 1/4 inch (31 millimeter) spray pattern.
Harder & Steenbeck – Evolution CRplus:
The Evolution CR Plus from Harder & Steenbeck combines elegance with maximum robustness; it has a high-quality triple coating with a chrome finish. The Evolution airbrush features a Stainless Steel needle & self centering Nickel Silver nozzle as well as its stylish appeal, the chrome plating minimizes allergy risks for anyone who has ever had problems with nickel equipment. The Evolution CRplus is moreover fully solvent-resistant, and fitted with PTFE seals to the nozzle, cup joint and valve.
Badger – Renegade Krome:
Harder & Steenbeck – Infinity Solo:
The high-tech airbrush instrument for professional artists. This new airbrush not only sets new standards in design, it also offers intelligent functions and ergonomic excellence.
Iwata – Custom Micron CM-B:
The Custom Micron CM-B Version 2 by Iwata atomizes and sprays in the same flawless manner with some additional features: an ergonomic square trigger, a crown cap dock on the handle for storing caps and the auxiliary lever is now attached to the chucking guide for easier re-assembly. This CM-B airbrush includes a .18mm nozzle and needle combination for the most accurate detailed spraying, a pre-set handle, adjustable main lever tension and 1.8ml gravity feed cup. Set includes: Custom Micron CM-B, spanner wrench, Superlube, test page and User’s Guide Booklet.
One to Try- Monument Hobbies Pro Air-TG Pistol Grip Airbrush:
Packed securely and ready to spray away the grey. The Pro Air-TG is powered by Grex, another well-known company that is very 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.
Plus, Monument always makes amazing products, so we expect this to be awesome.
The ultimate weapon for your hobby arsenal is here! Monument has partnered with Grex USA to bring you the PRO Air series of airbrushes. The dual action TG is our simple-to-use, pistol grip version that controls both air and paint flow with one easy and comfortable trigger pull. The custom aluminum grip feels great in your hand, and the heavy duty construction guarantees that the PRO Air-TG will stand up to abuse and deliver superior results every time. Made for any level of painter from beginner to pro, It’s never been easier to start airbrushing!
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 holiday buck. Let’s take a look at what the kit includes:
Kit contains –
- PRO Air-TG dual action pistol grip airbrush with 0.3 needle / nozzle
- G-MAC quick disconnect airflow control valve – easily change the PSI to the brush right at the handle!
- x2 interchangeable paint cups – 2ml and 7ml
- x2 Quick-fit needle caps – 1 standard, and 1 crown
- x2 air hose adapters for Paasche and Badger fittings
Grex – Tritium TG:
Grex Tritium.TG5 0.5mm Nozzle Double Action Pistol Trigger Top Gravity Airbrush. Part of our Tritium Series – premium line of double action pistol style trigger airbrushes, the TG combines ease-of-use, comfort, superior detail control and the versatility of using the perfect top gravity cup size for your project. Coupled with several unique and patented features, this airbrush truly is a Grex. Set includes: Tritium.TG Airbrush, 2-ml (1/20 fl.oz) Top Cup w/ Lid, 7-ml (1/4 fl. oz) Top Cup w/ Lid, 15-ml (1/2 fl. oz) Top Cup w/ Lid, Quick-Fit Standard Needle Cap, Quick Fit Crown Needle Cap, Airbrush Carrying Case, Nozzle Wrench. Suggested Applications: Illustration, Fine Arts, Murals, Textiles, Automotive, Makeup, Body Painting, Woodworking, Hobby, Signs, Food and Cake Decorating and more.
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 painting I’ve done over the years it has stuck by me and kept the air pressures on my paints exactly the way I intended. I still use this beast today! It has Airbrush stands 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 to hobby on the go.
Tooty “No-Name” Airbrush Compressor
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.
I think everyone will like the Tooty compressor as well. Right out of the box, you can tell this little guy is different. It seems to be made with more durable coatings and has an operation volume of about 46db, 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.
Recommended Airbrushes & Supplies For Painting Miniatures
Harder & Steenbeck Evolution Airbrush (left) and Colani (right) REVIEW: High-End Airbrushes
- H&S Colani Airbrush– Amazing quality for the price.
- H&S Ultra Airbrush– is Probably one of the best “starting airbrushes” on the market.
- H&S Evolution Airbrush (Lightweight Aluminium)
- H&S Evolution Airbrush (Chrome finish)
- Harder & Steenbeck Infinity CR Plus
- Iwata – Custom Micron CM-B
- Iwata Eclipse Airbrush– An awesome airbrush to get you started.
- GSI Creos .18 Super fine Airbrush Great for the smallest of details.
- Badger Patriot 105
- Badger Air-Brush Co. Sotar 2020-2F
- Badger – Renegade Krome
- Harder & Steenbeck – Infinity Solo
- Monument Hobbies Pro Air-TG Pistol Grip Airbrush
- Grex – Tritium TG
Tooty No-Name Compressor REVIEW: More Than a Beginner Airbrush Compressor
- Sparmax Compressor– Name Brand Super Heavy duty and quiet.
- Tooty No-Name Compressor– This is a solid overall compressor that comes with an air reservoir if your airbrush didn’t come with one.
- Aspire Compressor
- Vallejo Airbrush Flow Improver Makes Airbrushing EASY!
- Vallejo Airbrush Thinner Thinner is great for getting your paints to the right consistency.
- Iwata Airbrush Lube – keep your metals lubed up!
- Grex Airbrush Cleaner – The second you buy an airbrush, you should also invest in some cleaner.
- 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
What airbrushes would make great gifts?
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About the Author: Travis Pasch
Travis Pasch
Job Title: Head Writer & Editor
Socials: @paschbass
About Travis Pasch: Travis has been a Warhammer 40k hobbyist since the 1990s, playing the game since Third Edition. Through extensive traveling, he’s seen a lot of the miniatures hobby from across the world, giving him a unique perspective on the latest gaming topics and trends.
Travis’s brother even owns a commission painting studio, where he’s picked up a lot of good advice and techniques for painting Warhammer and tabletop miniatures over the years, as well. Travis joined the Spikey Bits team in 2019 and has been the lead writer since 2020.
Currently, he’s working on converting all his 40k Adeptus Mechanicus models and becoming a true tech enjoyer, complete with both sad and happy robot noises!
