Using an airbrush to paint on different surfaces has its own advantage. Spraying liquid dye, ink, and other wet substances on the canvas have made DIY works and projects come to life in minutes! That’s why from decorating cakes to even painting cars – airbrush painting is the go-to method today!
However, it’s the compressor that plays a major part in painting with an airbrush. Unless a well-functional and powerful compressor channels the compressed air to the brush, the airbrush won’t have much to brag about! That’s why it’s really crucial to pick up the best airbrush compressors along with a well-designed and fully functioning airbrush.
In this piece, we will look at some of the most useful compressors that you can check out!
What Is Airbrush Compressor?
An airbrush compressor is a regular compressor that provides air support to the airbrush on a restless basis. It typically comes with a compact profile and a lightweight design.
Different Type of Airbrush Compressor
Generally, airbrush compressors come in 3 different forms.
- Piston
- Tankless
- Diaphragm Compressor
Piston: These compressors are the most common ones. They use one or more pistons to bring in and compress the air.
Tankless: Tankless compressor is another type of piston compressor, but it doesn’t come with a tank. Instead, it supplies air immediately as needed.
Diaphragm Compressor: Diaphragm compressors use a rotating diaphragm to bring in air. Then compress and pressurize it to power the airbrush.
Why We Use an Airbrush Compressor
An airbrush compressor provides the compressed air needed for excellent airbrushing and painting. Without a compressor, you can’t ensure the proper flow of the liquid paint over the painting surface. That’s why a well-functional airbrush compressor is a must.
1-Min Quick Review
Don’t have enough time? Well, here’s what you need to know about the compressors
we have gathered.
Editor’s Pick: Master Airbrush Multi-purpose Gravity Feed Dual-action Airbrush Kit TC-20
“A combination of high-airflow, lightweight design, and superior service – it’s a perfect fit for beginners.”
Best Compact: ZENY Pro 1/5 HP Airbrush Air Compressor Airbrushing Kit
“The compact design makes it a very handy device to work on any surface and at any place.”
Best For Cooling: Master Airbrush CoolRunner II Dual Fan Air Compressor
“With the 2-cooling fan system installed, the device offers protection for overheating at a greater level.”
Best For Pressure: AW Pro 1/3 HP Twin-Cylinder Airbrush Compressor
“It offers the maximum pressure of 100 psi for any compressor at this level.”
Best For Handling: Badger Air-Brush Co. TC910 Aspire Pro Compressor
“The built-in handle of this one is quite convenient to hold and use. It eventually makes it a functional portable device.”
Best For Smoothness: TIMBERTECH Professional Upgraded Airbrush Compressor
“Having a zero-pulsation system, the device runs as smoothly as it can to offer a vibration-free air supply.”
Best Design: Grex GCK03 Airbrush Compressor Combo Kit
“Along with top-class pressure supply, the compressor is a pretty well-designed one to add to the look of your workplace.”
Top 7 Best Airbrush Compressors Review
Here’re the 7 airbrush compressors that we have picked for you from the hundreds of options available. Read till the end to find your match right away!
1. Master Airbrush Multi-purpose Gravity Feed Dual- action Airbrush Kit TC-20
To begin with, we have picked something that you can take home right away. Meet the TC-20 from Master Airbrush Store. This one is a high-performing compressor that lets you employ pressure up to 57 psi. A ⅕ HP single-piston compressor powers this device for maximum smoothness in airflow.
Coupled with a 6-feet braided air hose, you can easily use it from a distance. Then again, the compressor comes with an airbrush holder on it where you can attach 2 airbrushes. On top of that, the compressor is very lightweight and portable for your daily use. Convenient, comfortable, and easy to use – that’s what the TC-20 is all about.
What We Like
(+) Pressure Adjustment
The pressure adjustment option of this device is pretty impressive. You can choose from 0 up to 57 psi according to your need. The pressure gauge on the machine lets you clearly observe the pressure count to apply pressure properly.
(+) High Airflow
Having a ⅕ HP single-piston air compressor as the main powerhouse, the device offers a pretty high air volume of 0.7 CFM and up to 25 liters/min airflow. This makes your brushing work very easy and convenient.
(+) Air-On-Demand
The device features an air-on-demand option that lets the machine automatically shut off when it is not in use. This saves the compressor from wearing out pretty soon and ensures that you can enjoy the service on a long-term basis.
Keep In Mind
(-) Non-removable Water Trap
The water trap on this machine cannot be removed. So, don’t even try it. This may cause some problems while you are trying to clean off some water trapping.
This One Is Good For
(+) Auto Shut Off
Running the compressor even if you are not operating the machine will definitely pose your device at risk of wear and tear in the long run. So, the automatic shut-off feature is a real deal in this piece.
2. ZENY Pro 1/5 HP Airbrush Air Compressor Airbrushing Kit
Coming second is the Zeny Pro 1/5 HP Airbrush Kit. This one is yet another lightweight and compact air compressor that makes your DIY work pretty much easier than you can think. The fact that the device can be easily placed on any tabletop, you can imagine how easy it will be to use it for rather simple and quick projects.
Then again, the device boasts a ⅕ horsepower machine inside to provide the pressure you need for your airbrush. With 3 liters of air capacity, the machine can provide up to 95 psi for the best output. Not to mention, having an auto turn on the option, it will automatically turn on when the pressure reaches 43 psi.
What We Like
(+) Top Pressure
It’s not that you need a high-pressure capacity for most of your DIY works, but having a high-range option is obviously a better choice. That’s why the machine offers you a maximum pressure of 95 psi, which is kind of a giveaway in this one.
(+) Long Hose
Even if the compressor is 6 feet away from you, it’s still going to be a lot more comfortable for you to work with. Thanks to its 6-feet long hose, you can conveniently get your hands into the places where it’s hard to reach.
(+) Compact
Even if the machine comes with a ⅕ horsepower, the design doesn’t have to be an enormous one to support it. That’s why the compressor is a compact one and lightweight, as well. There’s a handle on the device that can be used to transport the machine from room to room easily.
Keep In Mind
(-) Need To Fit Yourself
According to some of the customers, the compressor came with scattered parts, which they had to assemble and fit themselves. So, you better be prepared for this.
This One Is Good For
(+) Compact Design
Its compact design is what makes it a really excellent device. You can put it anywhere around you for its exclusively smaller design and make the best out of it, even in tighter places.
3. Master Airbrush CoolRunner II Dual Fan Air Compressor
Another top-class airbrush compressor is the Master Airbrush which is fully equipped with a ⅕ HP motor inside. The single-piston motor is no ordinary one that you can find in the market. It comes with an internal cooling system that makes it a pretty cool motor to work with. The cooling system keeps the machine cool while it is in operation to ensure top-class performance.
To add to that, the motor doesn’t make much sound when it is running, either. It produces a low sound that makes it comfortable to work with. The best part is, you can attach 2 airbrushes to the device for commodious working.
What We Like
(+) Internal Cooling System
The first thing that turns heads for this device is the internal cooling system. It has 2 cooling fans inside that constantly supply air to the motor for it to keep cool. This is what prevents the machine from overheating and ensures high-class performance.
(+) Air-On-Demand
This is familiar, right? The air-on-demand system in this device is a very effective way to save the device from wearing out quickly. For this method, the device will automatically shut off the air when you are not using it.
(+) Quiet Operation
What most users complain about an airbrush compressor is the way it sounds while operating. Most common devices make a weird mechanical sound which is inevitable but not so soothing. This machine here has an option. It produces only 47 dB of sound when it is running, making it comfortable for your ears.
Keep In Mind
(-) Pressure Fall
When you have set the pressure and start using the airbrush, the machine decreases the pressure, and it takes about a minute for the pressure to rise.
This One Is Good For
(+) Cooling System
The 2 fans that are continuously cooling the machine are the most exciting addition to the motor. It actively makes sure that the machine isn’t overheating.
4. AW Pro 1/3 HP Twin-Cylinder Airbrush Compressor
If you are not interested in those old-fashioned compressors that hardly add to the look of your workstation, we have got news for you. Own the AW Pro ⅓ HP twin-cylinder compressor. This one is a twin-cylinder airbrush compressor, which gives you the option to store more air than any regular compressor out there.
Apart from that, the pressure handling option of this compressor is pretty impressive, as well. It can deliver up to 100 psi or pressure that you can use for any larger projects, too. That, too, with low noise produced. Again, it has an automatic start and shut option to make sure the device doesn’t wear out.
What We Like
(+) Huge Capacity
It’s no brainer to get that the device comes with better and higher capacity than any other compressor out there. This is because of its twin-cylinder system. It gives you about 3.5 liters of air tank capacity that actually works great for long-hour work.
(+) Power Pressure
Unlike most common compressors in the market, the pressure capacity of this device is actually pretty impressive. Although you don’t need to exercise this, the machine can offer around 100 psi pressure when needed. This is why it suits great for any large DIY project, too.
(+) Auto Start/Off
Not to mention, this compressor comes with an automatic start and switch off technique. When the device reaches around 43 psi, the compressor starts automatically. On the other hand, if the device is not running for a few moments, it will automatically switch off to save power and the device, as well.
Keep In Mind
(-) Connection Needs Adapter
The ⅛-inch connection of this device needs an adapter to connect. So, you need to purchase an adapter separately for this.
This One Is Good For
(+) High Pressure
The device can provide as much as 100 psi pressure so that you can use it for multiple projects, including larger painting projects.
5. Badger Air-Brush Co. TC910 Aspire Pro Compressor
With what many would call a box-shaped design, the Badger TC910 compressor found its place in our list. That’s because the lightweight and simple design are very comfortable to handle and use. Most compressors in the market may not be as convenient to handle as this one, thanks to its simplistic fashion in the making.
Apart from that, the compressor comes with a huge air capacity of one gallon, to be exact. Not only is it huge, but it also comes with a moisture filter to keep it well-functioning for a long time. And not to forget, it also has a protection system for overheating, which makes it safer, as well.
What We Like
(+) Air Capacity
The first and foremost thing that makes it a useful compressor is its air capacity. It is equipped with around a gallon of air capacity with a built-in tank. So, you can easily use it for different projects, not limited to small DIY works.
(+) Overheat Protection
Another useful feature of this device is thermal overload protection. It can immediately cool it down when there’s an issue of overheating in the motor. This gives you the proper protection you need from overheating.
(+) Easy To Transport
Even though the device is a bit larger than the average compressors we have seen till now, you can still carry it around pretty easily. Thanks to its comfortable built-in handle, you can easily pick it up and move it from place to place.
Keep In Mind
(-) Regular Needs To Be Assembled
The regulator doesn’t come assembled. So, you need to mark that you will have to spend a few moments assembling the regulator.
This One Is Good For
(+) Convenient Handle
The built-in handle is a very useful one, considering the weight and size of the device. You can use the handle to pick and move without putting in much effort easily. If you want to carry the compressor conveniently, this one can be a good choice.
6. TIMBERTECH Professional Upgraded Airbrush Compressor
Using an airbrush compressor simply can’t get any more exciting if you are using the Timbertech Professional Airbrush Compressor. This one is a full package of multiple benefits that you need for your next project! From an auto-start and shut-off function to efficient air pressure delivery, you get what you need in one package.
Then again, it comes with zero pulsation that allows you to have a smooth and soothing experience. Plus, its excellent heat dissipation system and cooler method make it a perfect device to work on a continuous basis for a long time.
What We Like
(+) Zero Pulsation
One of the most efficient features of this compressor is the zero-pulsation option. This ensures the pressure is constant without any hiccups, something you may want to spend extra bucks on. Then again, as it doesn’t cause any pulsation, it’s quite smooth and comfortable to work with.
(+) Heat Dissipation System
Having a large fan attached, you can easily see how the machine is being cooled down every other minute. To keep the machine cool, the device introduces a heat dissipation system. This eventually prevents overheating and keeps it cool.
(+) Soft Grip
Timbertech took the gripping of the compressor quite seriously. This shows pretty clearly as they have placed rubber feet under the machine. Doing this has posed two benefits. One, it made its grip on the surface pretty well. No matter where you are placing the device, it’s going to grip on it. Two, it’s not going to leave any scratch on the surface.
Keep In Mind
(-) Outlet Fitting Issue
The outlet fitting doesn’t always fit the airbrush hose of this machine. This may cause some further issues for setting it up for your job.
This One Is Good For
(+) No Pulsation
The device does an incredible job of making sure that there’s no pulsation when it’s running. This helps you to work on your project without any vibration and achieve the result you are planning on effortlessly.
7. Grex GCK03 Airbrush Compressor Combo Kit
We finally wrap it up for the best airbrush compressor reviews with the Grex GCK04 airbrush compressor. It’s a portable, quiet, and pretty stylish-looking piston-style compressor. It houses a ⅛ HP powerful motor that makes your everyday airbrushing job smooth and comfortable. The device comes with an air regulator and pressure gauge to precisely measure pressure on it.
Apart from the fact that it looks amazing, the compressor is pretty lightweight, as well. This makes it very easy and convenient to carry it around in the workplace.
What We Like
(+) Lightweight Design
If you are looking for a compressor for your DIY tasks, this one would be a perfect choice. Why? Well, as it comes with an incredibly handy design that weighs exactly below 6 pounds. This makes it quite portable and very extremely handy.
(+) Quiet
Yes, the machine makes very low sound compared to its most common counterparts in the market. Its quiet operation makes it very suitable for household works, a place where you don’t want any sound pollution at all.
(+) Unrestricted Airflow
No hiccups, no jams – only clean airflow. This is how the device is designed to work. It ensures that you get unrestricted airflow towards your airbrush for the maximum potential of your project.
Keep In Mind
(-) Gravity Cups May Miss Out
If you are going for the combo pack, there’s a possibility that the 7mL and 15mL gravity cups may not be included in the package, as complained by some users.
This One Is Good For
(+) Lightweight Design
There’s literally no competition for it in this genre when it weighs just below 6 pounds. You can literally pick it up with your left hand and move it around as per your need.
How to Choose an Air Brush Compressor?
When you are going for an airbrush compressor, make sure you are considering the following factors.
Application Type: Depending on what you are going to do, you can pick a compressor with a tank or no tank. If you are going to paint a large surface, a compressor with a tank will benefit. As for painting on small surfaces, a compressor with no tank might work perfectly.
Tank Capacity: The more capacity the tank comes with, the better it is for you. Lower tank capacity will result in limited application.
Thread Output or Motor: As for the motor, if you are using a tank-based compressor, you may want to go for a ¼-inch thread. On the other hand, if you are into a dry piston compressor, then 1/8-inch is good enough. However, most compressors use 1/6 HP motors.
Airbrush Pressure: This again depends on your intention. If you are painting a car, you will need a pressure of 80 to 100 psi for it. If you are painting something smaller, the requirement for pressure will reduce, as well.
Duty Cycle: Duty cycle refers to how long you can run a compressor before turning it off and putting it to rest. A 50% duty cycle would mean you need to run it for 30 minutes and cool it down for another 30 minutes. The more the duty cycle, the better it is.
Auto-Stop Function: Auto-stop function will make sure that the device is not running even if you are not using it. This protects the machine and motor from being damaged and prevents wearing out.
Hose Length: Hose length should be around 6 to 10 feet, depending on your needs. The longer the hose, the more freedom you will get to sneak into different spaces with the airbrush.
Accessories: A compressor may come with a number of accessories. Try to grab as much as possible under the budget you have set. Usually, an airbrush compressor will come with airbrushes, paints, hoses, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How to Connect an Airbrush Hose to a Compressor?
Ans. First, make sure the power is off and unplug the compressor from the outlet. Then disconnect the airbrush from the connector. Gently loosen the connection nut between the connector and compressor connector by turning it counterclockwise.
Q2. How much is air pressure required to operate an airbrush?
Ans. For airbrushing, at least a pressure of 30 psi is needed. If you need more efficiency, you can use up to 65 psi pretty easily.
Q3. How to remove moisture traps on airbrush compressors?
Ans. Take the pressure out of the system prior to opening the drain plug. Turn it off and allow the air to get out through the trap. This pressure drop can spread the rusty water at the lower part of the tank and the trap. When the pressure becomes normal, you can clean the lower part with a few cotton buds.
Final Word
The best airbrush compressor may not be the cheapest one out there, but it will definitely be worth your penny. It’s the only thing you have to rely on if you need to distribute the paint on the surface evenly.
However, you can pick any of the reviewed compressors from the list here being blindfolded. Still, if you are not quite tight on your budget, we recommend you go for the TIMBERTECH Professional Upgraded Airbrush Compressor. The compressor comes with the least pulsation and vibration while in operation and offers the best grip on the surface possible.
Then again, if you are up for finding out more options, you can easily use our buying guide for that!
Happy painting!
