An airbrush is a precision tool that works with compressed air, which is used to spray a fine layer of paint onto a surface. This technique makes it possible to create smooth finishes, even transitions, and a level of detail that’s difficult to achieve with traditional brushes. Unlike a spray paint gun or conventional paint gun (such as those used to cover large surfaces like cars or walls, for example), the airbrush is designed for controlled, detailed work.
Over time, airbrushes have moved beyond the automotive art world to become essential tools in many other fields. Today, they are indispensable for painting miniatures or scale models, and they are also widely used by illustrators, body painting artists, makeup professionals, creative pastry chefs, and even nail technicians. This versatility has led more and more people to take an interest in learning how to use them.
However, this same variety of uses (and types of airbrushes) can create confusion at first. There are many kinds of airbrushes, each with particular features that make a difference in specific applications—for example, double-action systems, gravity feed, internal mix designs, or pistol-grip styles. At SprayGunner, we understand that for someone just starting out, choosing their first airbrush can feel complicated if they don’t fully understand what each of these features means or which one best fits their needs.
In this guide, we’ll explain the main differences between the different types of airbrushes. We will cover how they are classified by control type, feed system, and mixing method, as well as the aspects you should consider before making your first purchase. We will also recommend real models you can find in our store, such as the Iwata Eclipse HP-CS or the Harder & Steenbeck Ultra 2024, both excellent choices to get started the right way.
Finally, at the end of this article, you’ll find a FAQ section designed to answer the most common questions people have when taking their first steps into the world of airbrushing. Our goal is that by the time you finish reading, you not only have more clarity, but also the confidence you need to start creating.
How Does an Airbrush Work?
The working principle of an airbrush is quite simple, yet highly effective. By connecting it to a source of compressed air (such as a specialized compressor), a steady airflow is generated that passes through the body of the airbrush. When this stream of air meets the paint at the small nozzle, it creates suction that pulls the paint out and atomizes it into a fine mist. This allows you to apply highly controlled layers with remarkable precision—something essential in projects where fine details matter the most.
The basic components of any airbrush are relatively few, but each one plays a key role. The trigger controls the activation of airflow (and in some models, also the amount of paint). The needle regulates paint flow and precision. The nozzle is where the paint is atomized as it mixes with air. Finally, the paint is loaded through a cup (on the top or side) or a bottle (on the bottom), depending on the feed type of the airbrush. All these parts work together to provide precise control over color application.
Unlike a traditional paint gun, which is designed to cover large surfaces like car bodies or furniture, a precision airbrush is made for smaller, detailed work where the quality of fine lines and soft layers is critical. While a paint gun prioritizes speed and volume, the airbrush focuses on control, finesse, and versatility. This is why it is so widely used in scale modeling, illustration, body art, and other creative applications where the finish is just as important as the technique.
Airbrush Control Types
One of the most important factors when choosing an airbrush is the type of control it offers. This refers mainly to how the trigger works and how it regulates the flow of air and paint. Depending on the control type, the level of precision and versatility of the airbrush can vary considerably, so understanding these differences is essential to making the right choice.
Below, we explain the three most common control types in airbrushes, along with their advantages, limitations, and recommended models you can find at SprayGunner.
Double Action Airbrushes
Double action airbrushes allow you to control air and paint independently, both through the same trigger. Pressing down activates the airflow; pulling back regulates the amount of paint released. This dual control gives you much finer command over the spray, making it possible to create thin lines or smooth color gradients without having to stop and adjust settings.
They are ideal for detailed and professional work, such as miniature painting, technical illustration, advanced modeling, or body art. They do require some practice to master the finger movement on the trigger, but in return, they offer much more versatile and expressive results.
Among the most recommended models in this category are the Iwata Eclipse HP-CS, a classic airbrush useful for almost any kind of application; the Harder & Steenbeck Infinity CRplus, famous for its modular design and precision; and the Badger Renegade Krome, designed for ultra-fine lines and highly detailed work. Many of these airbrushes are also available at SprayGunner as part of an airbrush kit that includes a compressor and accessories (perfect for those who want to start with everything they need from day one).
Pistol Grip & Trigger Airbrushes
These airbrushes feature an ergonomic pistol-style design, where the trigger is pulled with the index finger much like a conventional spray paint gun. They are very comfortable for users coming from the automotive or industrial painting world, since the grip feels familiar and they allow you to cover medium to large surfaces more easily.
In addition to their ergonomic design, many models offer progressive paint control: the more you pull the trigger, the more paint is released. This creates a smooth and natural paint flow that feels intuitive during long sessions.
Standout models in this category include the Grex Tritium TG2, which combines precision and power in a sleek design; the Sparmax GP850, perfect for applying automotive paint or varnishes to larger surfaces; and the Iwata Hi-Line HP-TH, ideal for projects requiring fine atomization with high paint flow.
These airbrushes are highly valued, making them an excellent choice for artists, modelers who work on dioramas, or those customizing helmets, fairings, and other automotive pieces.
Feed Systems: Gravity, Siphon, and Side Feed
In addition to control type, another important factor when choosing an airbrush is the feed system. This refers to how the paint enters the body of the airbrush to be atomized. While all feed systems serve the same purpos (delivering paint to the nozzle) each one has advantages and limitations that can make it more or less suitable depending on the type of project you’re working on.
Below, we explain the three main feed types: gravity feed, siphon feed, and side feed.
Gravity Feed
In this type of airbrush, paint is placed in a small cup located on top of the body. Thanks to gravity, the paint flows directly into the internal mixing chamber, allowing the airbrush to operate at lower air pressures and with reduced paint consumption.
This feed system is perfect for detailed work that requires high precision, such as scale modeling, miniature painting, body art makeup, or nail art. Although the cup usually has less capacity than other systems, it allows you to make the most of every drop of paint.
Recommended models with this system include the GSI Creos PS-270 0.2mm, known for its fine atomization and extreme precision, and the Harder & Steenbeck Ultra 2024, an excellent entry-level choice that is easy to clean and highly versatile.
Siphon Feed
In this case, the airbrush uses a bottle or jar located underneath the body. As air passes through the airbrush, it creates a vacuum that siphons the paint up from the bottle into the nozzle. This system allows you to use larger containers of paint, making it ideal for projects that require extended spraying without frequent refills.
It’s a great option for painting larger surfaces such as dioramas, helmets, car bodies, or decorative work on large formats. It’s also practical when you need to switch colors quickly, since you can use multiple pre-filled bottles.
Among the standout models in this category are the Iwata Revolution HP-BCR, a reliable and powerful option even with thicker paints, and the Affordable siphon feed Air Brush By NO-NAME Brand, which combines ease of use with extended working capacity without frequent refills.
Side Feed
Side feed airbrushes are something of a hybrid between gravity and siphon systems. They use a cup or bottle attached to the side of the airbrush, allowing flexibility in orientation and paint flow. Some models even allow the cup to rotate, which can be very useful for working at difficult angles or when you need a clear line of sight to the work surface.
Although less common than gravity or siphon systems, their main advantage is versatility. However, they tend to be more complex to clean, since the extra connections can trap paint or leak if not properly adjusted.
A great example is the Iwata Eclipse Takumi Side Feed Dual Action Airbrush, which offers professional quality, interchangeable side-feed options, and highly controlled atomization—ideal for advanced users looking for maximum flexibility.
Internal vs. External Mix Airbrushes
Another important way to classify airbrushes is by where the air and paint mix occurs. Although this detail may sometimes go unnoticed, it directly affects atomization quality, line precision, and the types of paint that can be used efficiently. There are two main types, as mentioned earlier: internal mix and external mix.
In internal mix airbrushes, the air and paint combine inside the body of the airbrush, right in the atomization chamber, before exiting through the nozzle. This produces a much finer, more controlled spray, resulting in smoother finishes, thinner lines, and a greater ability to handle detail work. This mixing system is the standard in most modern mid-to-high range airbrushes, especially double-action models. Therefore, these airbrushes are the best choice for applying airbrush paint on miniatures, illustrations, paper art, and precision modeling.
On the other hand, external mix airbrushes work in a simpler way: the air is released first through a nozzle, then it siphons the paint from the outside, where both elements meet just before reaching the surface. While they don’t provide the same level of fine atomization or control, they are more robust and easier to maintain. They also work well with thicker paints or larger surfaces where precision isn’t the top priority.
A good example of an external mix airbrush is the Badger 250 Basic Set, widely used for general tasks such as priming, quick coverage, or painting large objects where fine detail isn’t needed.
If your goal is to achieve smooth, refined finishes with specialized products like airbrush paint, then an internal mix airbrush is the most recommended option. But if you need to apply larger volumes of paint quickly and with minimal hassle, an external mix model can be the more practical choice.
Choosing the Right Airbrush for Your Needs
As you’ve probably realized by now, not all airbrushes are the same—and not all users need the same things. Choosing the right airbrush largely depends on the type of work you want to do, your level of experience, and your budget. Below, we’ve put together some practical recommendations based on different user profiles to help you make an informed decision and avoid frustration when starting out.
If You’re a Beginner and Just Want to Practice
If you’re just getting started with airbrushing and want to learn without spending too much, the best choice is a basic airbrush kit that includes everything you need: an airbrush, a compressor, the hose that connects the two, and some useful accessories. These kits are affordable and easy to use, making them perfect for familiarizing yourself with the basics and practicing without worrying about technical complications.
A great option for this profile is the NO-NAME Beginner Kit, which offers solid performance at an accessible price. You could also consider the Iwata Beginner Airbrush Kit with NEO CN, especially if you’d like to start out with a more precise tool right from the beginning.
If You’re a Modeler Painting Miniatures
For scale modelers—whether vehicles, figures, or dioramas—the best combination is a gravity feed, double action airbrush. This setup allows precise paint control, works well at low pressures, and enables fine lines and smooth layers, which are essential for achieving great finishes on small models.
In this case, ideal models include the Harder & Steenbeck Giraldez or the popular Iwata Eclipse HP-CS, both offering the perfect balance of quality, control, and easy maintenance. These pair perfectly with a compact, quiet, and adjustable airbrush compressor.
If You Paint Helmets, Automotive Parts, or Medium to Large Surfaces
If your focus is more on automotive painting, customizing helmets, fairings, or medium-to-large surfaces, the best option is a pistol grip airbrush with siphon feed. These are more ergonomic for long sessions, allow larger paint capacity, and make it easier to achieve uniform coverage.
Recommended models include the Grex Tritium TG2, Sparmax GP850, and Iwata Hi-Line HP-TH. All of these are compatible with high-flow, stable airbrush compressors.
If You Do Artwork on Paper, Murals, or Fine Graffiti Art
For visual artists working on flat surfaces like paper, canvas, or walls, the ideal choice is a gravity feed airbrush with larger nozzles, since these allow smooth coverage of large areas without sacrificing detail. In these cases, it’s also crucial to have a powerful airbrush compressor, as long sessions require a consistent and stable airflow.
Models that fit well here include the Iwata Revolution CR and the Harder & Steenbeck Evolution CRplus, both known for their excellent atomization quality and reliable performance in extended creative sessions.
If You Want a Versatile, All-Purpose Airbrush
If you’re not yet sure what your main focus will be but want to invest in a tool that can handle multiple tasks, the Iwata Eclipse HP-CS is hands down one of the best options. This airbrush offers the perfect balance of precision, easy cleaning, and durability. It performs well in both detailed projects and broader applications, adapting smoothly to different types of airbrush paint and compressors.
You can buy it on its own or as part of a complete airbrush kit, which makes getting started much easier for anyone who wants to have everything ready from day one.
Recommended Airbrush Kits for Beginners
The wide variety of available components—airbrushes, compressors, hoses, connectors, stands, and paints—can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t have prior experience. That’s why one of the best ways to get started is by choosing a complete airbrush kit that already includes all the essentials you need to begin practicing from day one.
A good beginner-friendly airbrush kit should include a quality airbrush, a reliable and quiet airbrush compressor, hoses and connectors, plus other useful accessories such as stands, droppers, or cleaners. Some kits even include basic paints, which add extra value for anyone still exploring techniques.
At SprayGunner, you’ll find carefully curated kits that cover different user profiles, budgets, and application styles. Below are four of the most recommended options right now, along with a comparison table to help you visualize their key differences.
Recommended Models
- Iwata Beginner Airbrush Kit with NEO CN: Perfect for those who want to start with professional-level gear. Includes a gravity feed, double-action airbrush, a silent compressor, and quality accessories.
- NO-NAME Beginner Kit: An affordable and functional option, ideal for anyone wanting to practice without a large upfront investment. Comes with the basics: simple airbrush, compact compressor, hose, and stands.
- GAAHLERI Ambition Series GTS-06 Serenair Mini Compressor: Recommended for modelers and anyone who values precision. The airbrush in this set offers smooth atomization, excellent for fine details.
Comparison Table of Kits
|
Kit / Model |
Airbrush Type |
Compressor Type |
Best For… |
Accessories Included |
Price Level |
|
Double action, gravity |
Silent, adjustable |
Art, modeling, precise illustration |
Airbrush, Compressor, Spray Out Pot, Complete Course and Exercise kit by Robert Paschal, Colours Acrylic 1 oz Bottles, Airbrush Cleaner, Art Knife and FrisketFilm |
High (270) |
|
|
Double action gravity feed |
Cool Tooty |
General practice, beginners |
Hose, conectors and more |
Low 180 |
|
|
Double action, gravity |
Compact, quiet |
Modeling, fine details |
Hose, airbrush stand |
Low |
All of these kits are ready to use right out of the box and are fully compatible with different brands of airbrush paint. Depending on your focus (practice, fine detail, coverage, or versatility) one of them will be the perfect starting point for your journey with airbrushes.
FAQ – Airbrush Questions for Beginners
We know that getting started with airbrushing comes with lots of questions, especially if it’s your first time using this kind of tool. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions we receive from people taking their first steps with airbrushes.
What’s the best airbrush for a complete beginner?
There isn’t a single “one-size-fits-all” answer, but the most recommended choice is to start with a gravity feed, double action airbrush, since it gives you more control and will be useful both for practice and for future detailed projects. A model like the Iwata Eclipse HP-CS is very versatile, easy to clean, and perfect for learning. You can also choose an airbrush kit that includes everything you need to get started without hassle (see recommendations in the section above).
What needle size should I use for model painting or miniatures?
For scale modeling or miniatures, it’s best to use fine needles—generally between 0.2 mm and 0.3 mm. These allow for thinner lines and better control on small areas. Models like the GSI Creos PS-270 0.2mm or the Harder & Steenbeck INFINITY 2024 CRplus are specifically designed for this type of work.
Do I need a special compressor for airbrushes?
Yes. Not all compressors are suitable. An airbrush compressor should be quiet, have adjustable pressure, and provide a steady airflow. Avoid workshop compressors or large paint compressors—they’re not designed for the fine, controlled use required by an airbrush. Many beginner airbrush kits already include the right compressor (see options above). At SprayGunner, we even offer portable compressors that connect directly or with a hose, making them an affordable, reliable option that works perfectly in a variety of setups.
Can I use regular paint with an airbrush?
Not directly. Regular paints (like craft acrylics or wall paint) are usually too thick and can clog the nozzle. It’s best to use airbrush paint, which has the right consistency for proper atomization. If you want to use non-specific paints, they always need to be thinned correctly with the proper reducer depending on their base (water, alcohol, or thinner).
What’s the difference between a spray paint gun and an airbrush?
While both use air to apply paint, a paint gun is designed to cover large surfaces quickly, like cars or furniture. An airbrush, on the other hand, is meant for detail work where precision, control, and fine finishes are essential. Think of it like comparing a wall roller to a fine detail brush—each has its place.
How often should I clean my airbrush?
Ideally after every session, even if it’s a short one. A basic cleaning means rinsing the cup with thinner and spraying until no residue comes out. If you leave paint inside, it will dry and clog the needle or nozzle. From time to time, you should also do a deep clean by disassembling the main parts.
Can one airbrush do everything?
In theory, a versatile airbrush can adapt to many tasks, but over time you’ll realize there’s no single perfect model for everything. Fine airbrushes are great for details but not for covering large areas, and the opposite is true as well. That’s why many users end up with at least two: one for detail and one for broader applications. Still, for beginners, one good, versatile model is more than enough.
Ready to Start Your Airbrush Journey?
As you’ve seen throughout this guide, the world of airbrushing is as vast as it is exciting. There are many types of airbrushes, each with specific features suited to different needs, work styles, and experience levels. Whether you’re just starting out or already have a project in mind, there’s always a tool that’s right for you.
At SprayGunner, you’ll find a wide selection of airbrushes, complete kits, compressors, and accessories, whether you need them for precision work in modeling, versatile illustration projects, or the power required for automotive customization. We carry the most trusted options and top brands in the market.
Still not sure which one to choose? Our team is ready to help. You can reach out via the chat on our online store, phone, or through social media to get your questions answered before making a decision.