Hand-painting miniatures can be fun and exciting, but undeniably challenging too. Between the tiny details and the quest for smooth, even coats, it can feel like a battle against the clock (and sometimes, against paint and brushes that just won’t cooperate). An airbrush is one tool that’s essential for beginner miniature painters.
Airbrushing takes your painting to the next level, saving you time and frustration while letting you achieve pro-looking results. Whether you’re aseasoned tabletop gameror just dipping your toes into the world of miniature painting, this guide will help you find the perfect airbrush to unlock the full potential of your figures!
Updated Jul 03, 2025 by Kenny Kimberly:Painting minis is as much fun for some of us as playing games with them is. If you’re looking for a new airbrush, it’s important to have the best one you can find in your hand. We’ve come back to add the Iwata-Medea NEO TRN 2 and make a few changes to our copy.
Iwata-Medea NEO TRN 2 Trigger Airbrush
Fantastic construction, wonderful performance
Iwata-Medea is often seen as the gold standard of miniature airbrushes. With the NEO TRN 2’s stellar construction and build, it’s easy to understand how they amassed such a reputation.
Iwata-Medea is seen as the golden standard of miniature airbrushes. With quality the likes of the NEO TRN 2 airbrush, it’s easy to see why they’re so popular.
This airbrush features a unique 0.5mm needle and nozzle combination that provides you with more control over your brush. This airbrush is best when working with large amounts of paint, such as for larger figures or higher volumes of paint. This brush is ideal for any airbrushing hobby, so don’t hesitate to pick it up!
Master Performance G233 Pro Set
Versatility for Every Project
The Master Performance G233 Pro Set has a set of interchangeable nozzles for finer details and spraying. This will provide you with more control over your airbrushing, helping you tackle any project.
Versatility is something most miniature painters want from their first-ever airbrush. That’s exactly what the G233 Pro Set offers! With three interchangeable needle sizes (0.2mm, 0.35mm, and 0.5mm), you can tackle a wide range of projects.
Want to paint intricate details on miniatures? The fine needles have you covered. Laying down base coats on figures? The larger needle is your friend. All this at a price tag that won’t break the bank – perfect for beginners just dipping their toes into airbrushing. Operating the airbrush is also a breeze, even for those without experience. With a little practice, you’ll be airbrushing like a pro in no time!
Gaahleri Airbrush Kit
The Budget King
For a budget-friendly option, the Gaahleri Airbrush Kit is ideal. This piece comes with two different needle sizes, as well as helpful video tutorials to accommodate beginners!
The Gaahleri Airbrush is a champion for budget-conscious beginners, offering impressive quality without the hefty price tag. Its secret weapon? A superior spray pattern. This airbrush delivers a fine, consistent mist that tackles most paints with ease, even at lower air pressure.
This means less splatter for you and finer details on your miniatures. Cleaning is a breeze too, thanks to the Gaahleri’s unique, multi-fluted nozzle design. Plus, the handy o-ring ensures a secure fit.
Harder & Steenbeck Infinity CR Plus 2in1 Airbrush
Unmatched Precision
Harder & Steenbeck’s Infinity CR Plus 2in1 Airbrush is a great choice for fine details and larger areas. The interchangeable nozzles give you control over these areas, while the easy-to-fill gravity cups lets you easily load your airbrush.
The Infinity boasts a superior spray pattern, especially for intricate details. The 0.15mm nozzle lets you create hairlines and other fine elements with ease, making it perfect for tasks like miniature painting and illustration.
Built to last, the Infinity is constructed with high-quality materials, including triple-plated brass components. This translates to exceptional durability and resistance to solvents, meaning you can expect years of reliable performance.
The Infinity CR Plus 2in1 Airbrush is an investment, but for those who value precision, quality, and versatility, it’s an upgrade that will pay off in the long run. Just be prepared to put in a little practice time to master this exceptional tool.
Iwata-Medea Eclipse HP CS Dual Action Airbrush
Durable and Easy to Maintain
The Iwata-Medea Eclipse HP CS Dual Action Airbrush is great for thick paints and fine lines. This airbrush is notable for being easy to clean and its smooth spraying of backgrounds.
Unlike some airbrushes that struggle with heavier paints, the Eclipse handles them with ease. This makes it perfect for tasks like applying primers and base coats, or using paints with metallic flakes. Built with high-quality parts, the Eclipse is built to last. The large nozzle is easy to remove for cleaning, ensuring you’re able to keep your airbrush performing flawlessly.
The Eclipse offers exceptional control over spray patterns, allowing you to transition from fine lines to broad coverage easily. This makes it versatile for detailed work and larger applications.
Badger Air-Brush Co. Model 105 Patriot
Start Your Airbrushing Journey Here!
For beginners, we recommend the Badger Air-Brush Model 105 Patriot. While the name seems a bit more intense than usual, the specs of this brush are perfect for anyone regardless of skill level!
The Badger Air-Brush Co. Model 105 Patriot is a popular choice for beginners for a reason. It strikes a great balance between affordability, ease of use, and durability, making it a perfect tool to learn the art of airbrushing.
Disassembly and cleaning are straightforward, allowing you to focus on mastering your airbrushing technique rather than wrestling with complicated parts. The 0.5mm needle is less prone to clogs compared to finer needles, which can be frustrating for beginners.
This makes the Patriot forgiving for those still getting used to paint consistencies and air pressure settings. Additionally, the 0.5mm size is suitable for a range of tasks, from priming models to laying down base coats. Badger is known for its quality construction, and the Patriot is no exception. Made in the USA with durable parts, this airbrush can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
Badger Air-Brush Company RK-1 Krome Airbrush
Ultra-Fine Detailing Master
The Badger Air-Brush Company RK-1 Krome Airbrush is an American-made airbrush with two interchangeable needle sizes. The ergonomic design will keep you comfortable, while the stylish storage case keeps your brush safe.
For artists who crave ultimate precision, the Badger Air-Brush Co. RK-1 Krome airbrush is an ideal choice. Interchangeable needle sizes, including a super fine 0.2mm option, empower you to tackle intricate projects with confidence.
Who wouldn’t love to Achieve crisp lines and delicate fades on theirfavorite Warhammer 40K miniatures? The Krome’s innovative features don’t stop there. A trigger-stop function ensures smooth, consistent paint application by preventing accidental overspray. When it comes to cleaning, the Krome’s simple design and open-faced cap make disassembly and maintenance a breeze.
While beginners might find the Krome’s precision a bit daunting, experienced airbrushers and anyone serious about achieving professional-looking results will find this tool an invaluable asset.
Tips & Tricks
With everything discussed, there are still some tips and tricks to look out for! For example, what brands should you keep an eye on? Our favorites are:
Additionally, you should look into mini airbrushes as an alternative. These brushes help you achieve smoother paint application and finer details, as well as applying base coats more quickly. We love them for special effects like smoke, fire, weather, and oceans. However, these are difficult to use, and also require the setup of an air compressor.
Finally, think of the PSI of your airbrush. Some ranges that are great to look into include:
It’s important to consult your airbrush’s manual and compressor’s specifications for recommended PSI ranges.
FAQ
What Is The Best Airbrush Brand?
There isn’t a single “best” brand of airbrush for miniatures. Different brands excel in different areas, and the best choice for you will depend on your budget, experience level, and desired features.
Should I Buy A Mini Airbrush?
Mini airbrushes aren’t a necessity for painting miniatures, but they can offer significant advantages. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
If you’re serious about miniature painting and want to achieve professional-looking results, a mini airbrush is a worthwhile investment. If you’re just starting out or paint infrequently, a good quality brush might be sufficient for now.
Do I Need Protective Gear To Airbrush?
It’s not a bad idea to wear some sort of ventilator or mask to avoid breathing in paint fumes. You also may want gloves and glasses to make sure you don’t get paint where you don’t want it!
