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HVLP spray guns have a reputation for being tricky to use, but modern HVLP (high volume, low pressure) versions are a different story. Designed with DIYers and hobbyists in mind, these units tend to be easy to use. They can dramatically reduce the time it takes to stain or paint and can help create a beautiful and even finish without brush or roller marks. But how do you find the best HVLP paint sprayer? We vetted and tested several different products across the sector. Our favorite was the Wagner Spraytech Control Spray Max HVLP, which we found offered superior coverage for a very reasonable price.
But there are also several other quality products out there. In fact, with their growing popularity, many different types of HVLP spray guns are now available, so it can be challenging to know which is the right one to buy. To help make the landscape a little less overwhelming, the following is a detailed look at how to choose the best HVLP spray gun, along with a list of some of the best options on the market.
- BEST OVERALL: Wagner Spraytech Control Spray Max HVLP Sprayer
↓ Jump to Review - RUNNER-UP: NeuMaster N3140 HVLP Paint Sprayer
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Vonforn VF803 Paint Sprayer
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR AUTOMOTIVE WORK: DeVilbiss HVLP Gravity Spray Gun Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST COMPACT: HomeRight Finish Max HVLP Paint Sprayer
↓ Jump to Review - BEST WITH COMPRESSOR: Master Elite PRO-44 High-Performance HVLP Spray Gun
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SYSTEM: Fuji Spray Semi-Pro 2 Gravity HVLP Spray System
↓ Jump to Review
HVLP Spray Gun Comparison Chart
| Type | Tank Capacity | Nozzle Size | |
| Wagner Spraytech Control Spray Max HVLP Sprayer | Turbine | Two included (32 ounces and 48 ounces) | 1.3 mm |
| NeuMaster N3140 HVLP Paint Sprayer | Turbine | 30.5 ounces | 2mm, 2.5mm, 3 mm |
| Vonforn VF803 Paint Sprayer | Turbine | 40 ounces | 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, 3mm |
| DeVilbiss HVLP Gravity Spray Gun Kit | Compressor-driven | Two included (8.5 ounces and 20 ounces) | 1.3mm, 1.8mm |
| HomeRight Finish Max HVLP Paint Sprayer | Compact | 27 ounces | 2mm |
| Master Elite PRO-44 High-Performance HVLP Spray Gun | Compressor driven | 34 ounces | 1.3mm, 1.4mm, 1.5mm, 1.8mm |
| Fuji Spray Semi-Pro 2 Gravity HVLP Spray System | Turbine | 13.5 ounces | 1.3mm |
Our Top Picks
Our selection of top picks offers a range of price and performance options, so there’s something here to suit every kind of user. We’ve given each model an award according to its unique strengths to help you quickly find the best HVLP spray gun for particular tasks.
Best Overall
Wagner Spraytech Control Spray Max HVLP Sprayer
What We Like
- Suitable for painting, varnishing, and staining
- Emits horizontal, vertical, and round spray patterns
- Adjustable air pressure
- 20-foot hose and built-in handle for maneuverability
- Easy to assemble, disassemble, and clean after use
What We Don’t Like
- Thick paint must be thinned before spraying
- Not ideal for large surfaces
Specs
- Type: Turbine
- Tank capacity: Two included (32 ounces and 48 ounces)
- Nozzle size: 1.3 mm
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.8/5; Coverage 5/5; Noise 5/5; Value 4.7/5
It’s not easy to pick a single best HVLP paint spray gun, but for its ease of use and all-around performance, versatility, and value, it’s tough to beat this Wagner Spraytech model. It can spray all manner of stain, varnish, and most paint. It comes with a 1.3mm (millimeter) nozzle, but larger nozzles are available. It offers horizontal, vertical, and round patterns with easy adjustment of both air pressure and fluid flow.
The Wagner Spraytech comes with 20 feet of hose, so the user won’t be cramped or need to constantly move the turbine unit around. It only weighs 11 pounds and has a built-in handle, so it’s very portable. Two paint cups are supplied: a metal one that holds 1 quart (32 ounces) and a plastic one that holds 1.5 quarts (48 ounces).
Using a medium air setting, we achieved good coverage and finish results with water-based interior latex paint that had been thinned by about 25 percent. Oil-based stain was even easier to work with since no thinning was necessary. Cleanup was relatively quick and easy.
What our tester says: “I really liked the coverage the Wagner Spraytech Control Spray Max HVLP spray gun offered. When painting a fence, I was able to get the job done much more quickly than anticipated. Thanks to the Wagner Spraytech, the new fence looked great, and cleanup was quick and easy—much faster than if I had used a brush and roller.”—Mike Larson, Product Reviews writer and tester
Get the Wagner HVLP spray gun at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Runner-Up
NeuMaster N3140 HVLP Paint Sprayer
What We Don’t Like
- Portable design
- Easy to clean
- Offers reliably consistent coverage
What We Don’t Like
- All-plastic construction lacks durability
Specs
- Type: Turbine
- Tank capacity: 30.5 ounces
- Nozzle size: 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Coverage 3.9/5; Noise 4.3/5; Value 4.6/5
The NeuMaster handheld HVLP paint sprayer is a powerful turbine sprayer that comes in on the lower end of the pricing scale compared to similar sprayers. A 600-watt motor provides good performance and reliability, and the three interchangeable nozzles allow for a wider range of versatility than is usually found on budget spray guns.
There are three spray patterns: horizontal, vertical, and round. While the air pressure is not adjustable, flow control is. The paint cup holds 30.5 ounces—just under a quart. The 6 feet of hose seems a little restrictive at first, but the compact turbine can be fitted with a shoulder strap for increased mobility. The interlocking head setup makes for easy cleaning.
We appreciated just how portable the NeuMaster was, even with its hose. The strap made it easy to carry around, particularly on a ladder. Overspray was a bit of an issue early in our testing, but once we got used to using the NeuMaster, it proved to be a solid unit.
The NeuMaster HVLP spray gun is particularly useful for painting and staining furniture, cabinets, and other medium-size projects, although it’s not the best tool for fine-detailed work.
Get the NeuMaster HVLP spray gun at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Bang For The Buck
Vonforn VF803 Paint Sprayer
What We Like
- Lightweight construction won’t weigh on the user
- Easy to clean
- High-capacity tank
What We Don’t Like
- Takes a little practice to get consistent coverage
Specs
- Type: Turbine
- Tank capacity: 40 ounces
- Nozzle size: 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, 3mm
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.3/5; Coverage 3.3/5; Noise 4/5; Value 4/5
The Vonforn paint sprayer is a simple air paint spray gun, but it’s capable of handling a wide range of jobs. A turbine-powered sprayer, the Vonforn is an electric spray painter, but it is powered by the body of the gun. In other words, there is no hose connected to a separate power source. With the Vonforn, you simply load up the 40-ounce tank and get to work.
The sprayer comes with four different nozzle tips ranging from 1mm to 3mm, making it a versatile sprayer when it comes to spray patterns and the types of coatings you can run through it. The Vonforn is a particularly lightweight sprayer, perfect for jobs in tight spaces or up on ladders or scaffoldings.
Be warned, though, that the Vonforn does have a little bit of a learning curve. While some of the sprayers we tested were easier to use out of the box, we got great results after spending some time getting acquainted with the Vonforn. As such, plan on getting yourself acquainted with it before jumping straight into your project.
The Vonforn is an affordable, versatile tool for anyone looking for a solid paint sprayer. Just take your time and really learn how to use it.
Get the Vonforn paint sprayer at Amazon or Walmart.
Upgrade Pick
DeVilbiss HVLP Gravity Spray Gun Kit
What We Like
- Looks and feels professional
- Delivers even spray coverage
What We Don’t Like
- Requires an air compressor
Specs
- Type: Compressor driven
- Tank capacity: Two included (8.5 ounces and 20 ounces)
- Nozzle size: 1mm, 1.3mm, and 1.8mm
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.4/5; Coverage 5/5; Noise 4/5; Value 4.7/5
The DeVilbiss HVLP Gravity spray gun kit is a solid sprayer for just about any project, but of all the sprayers we tested, this one worked best on both automotive and marine projects.
This stainless steel air painting spray gun looks sharp and works even better. The kit comes with two tanks: a smaller 8.5-ounce tank that works great for clear coats and a 20-ounce tank that we used for enamel.
In addition, the DeVilbiss includes three different nozzles, as well as a cleaning brush set, a wrench, an air-adjusting valve with a gauge, and a hard carrying case to keep all components organized.
We were impressed with the DeVilbiss’s ability to consistently spray all types of paints and finishes, but we got the best results with lower-viscosity finishes. The biggest downside of this particular sprayer is that you need a decently large air compressor to use it. As the compressor needs to run continuously for best results, you’ll need at least a 20-gallon compressor with this sprayer.
Get the DeVilbiss HVLP spray gun at Amazon.
Best Compact
HomeRight Finish Max HVLP Paint Sprayer
What We Like
- Extremely affordable
- Very easy to use
- Great for those without much DIY experience
What We Don’t Like
- Finish isn’t quite as consistent
Specs
- Type: Compact
- Tank capacity: 27 ounces
- Nozzle size: 2 mm
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3.5/5; Coverage 3.3/5; Noise 4/5; Value 3.8/5
The HomeRight Finish Max paint sprayer might be the best beginner sprayer on the market. This compact model is easy to use right out of the box and comes with vertical, horizontal, and round spray patterns for small- to medium-size paint jobs. We tested this sprayer on furniture, cabinets, and even an outdoor shed.
This affordable handheld paint sprayer comes with a single 2mm brass spray tip and nozzle. The small paint cup can hold up to 27 ounces of latex, chalk, and milk paint as well as thicker paints and products like primers, sealers, polyurethane, stain, and varnish. You can adjust the air pressure with a handy knob located on the side of the unit to adapt to the needs of the project at hand.
Nonetheless, the versatility and ease of use do come with some tradeoffs. Make no mistake, the HomeRight is a good sprayer, but it is also in the economy range when it comes to price. As such, the finishes weren’t as consistent as some of the more expensive sprayers. That said, with projects like sheds or fences, the finish consistency isn’t a huge concern. If you’re looking for a small paint spray gun to paint a car, look elsewhere—but for most projects around the house? The HomeRight is an effective and price-conscious choice.
Get the HomeRight HVLP spray gun at Amazon.
Best Compressor Sprayer
Master Elite PRO-44 High-Performance HVLP Spray Gun
What We Like
- Sprays rapidly while providing even coverage
- Minimal learning curve
- Sleek-looking design
What We Don’t Like
- Requires a compressor to use (purchase separately)
Specs
- Type: Compressor-driven
- Tank capacity: 34 ounces
- Nozzle size: 1.3mm, 1.4mm, 1.5mm, and 1.8mm
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Coverage 5/5; Noise 4/5; Value 4.5/5
Like the DeVilbiss HVLP spray gun, the Master Pro is a professional-style spray gun system that is designed to be used with a continuous air compressor. As far as compressor-driven models go, we liked the DeVilbiss best for automotive and marine applications, but we liked the Master Pro better for overall spray work.
The Master Pro is what’s called a gravity-feed HVLP spray gun. The paint flows from a 32-ounce aluminum cup fitted above the gun. Air comes from an air compressor that’s fed up through the handle. Knobs at the back of the spray gun make fine adjustments to air pressure and fluid flow, allowing for precise control of spray pattern size. An air-pressure regulator is included to manage air from the compressor.
The Master Pro comes with four needle/fluid tip combinations ranging from 1.3mm to 1.8mm. It’s a gun that can spray large surfaces quickly, or it can focus on small areas when necessary.
We had high expectations of the Master Pro, and it managed to meet them. We used the sprayer to stain a large cabinet and were impressed with the coverage. We were also surprised at how easily it handled thicker paints, proving its versatility.
This is not a cheap HVLP spray gun, and the need for an air compressor will add to the price. However, when compared to similar high-performance models, it is very competitive and should provide many years of reliable service.
Get the Master Elite HVLP spray gun at Amazon.
Best System
Fuji Spray Semi-Pro 2 Gravity HVLP Spray System
What We Like
- Powerful 2-stage motor suitable for professional painters
- Adjustable fan control
- Air-control valve reduces overspray and bounce back
- Includes 3 air caps for spraying different materials
- Ergonomic handle, gun holder, and carrying handle included
What We Don’t Like
- Small spray cup
- Heavyweight build may weigh on some users
Specs
- Type: Turbine
- Tank capacity: 13.5 ounces
- Nozzle size: 1.3 mm
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.6/5; Coverage 5/5; Noise 5/5; Value 4/5
If you’re looking for a high-quality spray paint machine that holds its own on the jobsite or for a home renovation, the Fuji Spray Semi-Pro 2 Gravity HVLP spray system could be just the ticket. Powered by 1,400 watts, its 2-stage motor is one of the most powerful on the market, making this top pick reliable and long-lasting. The adjustable fan controls the direction and spray pattern as you work, ranging from a small to a large circular spray pattern, while the air control valve reduces the risk of overspray.
It also comes with a 25-foot hose and carrying handle, making it easy to move from room to room. The HVLP gun is ergonomically designed, and the turbine case includes a gun holder for easy storage.
We found that the Fuji provided excellent coverage and finish results with latex paint that was thinned 25 percent, as well as with oil-based stain. The metal spray gun is more durable than the plastics used in other models, and additional air cap sizes are available for various material types. Though it’s a durable model, some may find this model tricky to move around due to its 25-pound construction.
Get the Fuji HVLP spray gun at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Chose and Tested the Best HVLP Spray Guns
| Products tested | 4 |
| Time spent testing | 8 hours over 2 weeks |
| Tests performed | 5 |
| Price range | $25 to $200 |
To create this guide, we started by scouring retailers, customer reviews, and online chatter to put together a group of options with a diverse price range, a mix of turbine and compressor power, and a range of specialty applications. From here, we selected four for hands-on testing. We put each sprayer through a five-test battery in which we evaluated the following: how quickly the sprayer could go from box to project (ease of setup); what range of viscosity the sprayer could handle (versatility); how easy it was to use (ease of use); how consistent its coverage was (performance); and how easy it was to clean (ease of breakdown).
| Ease Use | Coverage | Noise | Value | |
| Wagner Spraytech Control Spray Max HVLP Sprayer | 4.8 | 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
| NeuMaster N3140 HVLP Paint Sprayer | 4.5 | 3.9 | 4.3 | 4.6 |
| Vonforn VF803 Paint Sprayer | 4.3 | 3.3 | 4 | 4 |
| DeVilbiss HVLP Gravity Spray Gun Kit | 4.4 | 5 | 4 | 4.7 |
| HomeRight Finish Max HVLP Paint Sprayer | 3.5 | 3.3 | 4 | 3.8 |
| Master Elite PRO-44 High-Performance HVLP Spray Gun | 4.5 | 5 | 4 | 4.5 |
| Fuji Spray Semi-Pro 2 Gravity HVLP Spray System | 4.6 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
What to Consider When Choosing an HVLP Spray Gun
HVLP sprayers fall into several different categories, with some being considerably better for particular tasks than others. To help arm you with the information you’ll need while shopping, the following sections cover a range of technical and practical considerations, including how each type of HVLP spray gun functions.
Type
The types of paint sprayers that have HVLP capabilities can be divided into three basic categories: compact models, turbine models, and compressor-driven models.
- Compact models simply plug into the nearest power outlet. They have a small onboard pump that provides air to atomize the material being sprayed. Their size limits their output, though, so they are best for small areas. Cordless HVLP spray guns of this type are also available, though most are very expensive and only run for about half an hour between charges.
- Turbine models are similar in style to professional tools in that a separate turbine supplies air, making them much more powerful than compact models. While the turbine unit itself is usually relatively lightweight, the complete system can still be bulky and harder to move around. HVLP turbine spray guns are great for furniture work, small decks, and siding. They can be used for rooms, but they’re a relatively slow choice for a whole house.
- Compressor-driven models are full-on professional tools often found in automotive body shops. Because these are “low-pressure” paint sprayers, they don’t need a large compressor, and many home users may already own a suitable model. However, even relatively small compressors aren’t particularly portable and need regular maintenance. The big advantages of professional HVLP spray guns are the increased adjustability and long-term durability. They also work quickly, so this may be the best choice for those who plan on regularly painting large areas. Compressor models do have more of a learning curve, but the quality of finish can be virtually flawless.
Both turbine and compressor-driven spray guns need a hose to deliver air, but a short hose can prove restrictive. With professional models, it is possible to purchase a longer hose. However, that’s not usually an option with turbine models, so it’s an important feature to check before buying.
Fluid Nozzle
At the business end of an HVLP spray gun, you’ll find the fluid nozzle or air cap with a central hole through which the fluid sprays. It also has two “horns” on either side that force air into the fluid stream and atomize it, turning it into a fine spray.
The size of the central hole is usually measured in millimeters (mm), and it’s extremely important as it determines the kind of material that can be sprayed. To get the best possible finish, it may need to be changed from one project to the next. Every stain, varnish, primer, and paint has its own viscosity, which indicates the thickness of the liquid. Low viscosity (thin) materials like wood stain may only need a very small hole, perhaps 1mm. High-viscosity (thick) materials like latex paint need a larger hole, around 2 or 2.5mm. Some car body primers need a 3mm nozzle hole.
Some HVLP spray guns come with just a single general-purpose nozzle. While other compatible types are often available at an extra cost, there are spray gun kits that include several different nozzles. Professional HVLP spray guns usually have a separate air cap, fluid tip, and fluid needle, which are all interchangeable. These components provide much of their advanced adjustability.
The fluid nozzle also will control the spray pattern. Professional HVLP spray guns have lots of adjustability, whereas DIY models tend to offer a choice of vertical, horizontal, and round patterns.
Adjustable Controls and Ease of Use
While the fluid nozzle controls the shape of the spray pattern, pressure control impacts the size of that pattern. More material is atomized with higher pressure, so a larger area is covered. Compact models often lack variable pressure control.
There’s a second element to consider. If the pressure is raised and the fluid flow stays the same, there will be wider coverage with a thinner coat. To compensate, flow control is required. The flow control is usually on the spray gun, where it is easy to reach for adjustments.
None of these devices require special power considerations. They all can run off a household supply. With compact and turbine models, the wattage of the motor may need to be checked. Anything under 300 watts might struggle to move high-viscosity material, and durability would also be a concern.
Noise is another issue. None of these machines are particularly quiet, though actual decibel ratings are seldom provided. Ear protection isn’t necessary, but it is recommended if spraying for extended periods.
Maintenance
Cleaning HVLP spray guns is not a difficult procedure, but it can be time-consuming as a certain amount of disassembly is necessary. Perhaps not surprisingly, compact models are the simplest to clean, and professional models are more complex to clean.
It’s important that cleaning is done immediately after the spraying is finished. It needs to be done thoroughly, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Any material that dries inside the gun, particularly around the fluid nozzle, can cause it to spit or clog. A bristle brush, which is usually included with the spray gun, can help with this. Complete aftermarket HVLP spray gun cleaning kits are readily available and inexpensive.
When not in use, it’s a good idea to store an HVLP spray gun in a cupboard or cabinet where it won’t get dirty or dusty. Gun racks are often used to store spray guns in professional environments, but there’s little chance of dirt buildup problems as these guns are typically used daily.
FAQs
The information provided so far has included details to increase the understanding of the HVLP technology and real-world examples of the best HVLP spray gun for different tasks. However, it’s a complex subject, and you may still have questions.
HVLP stands for high volume, low pressure; hence, an HVLP spray gun can move a lot of material quickly. Different models run off a pump, turbine, or compressor.
Conventional spray guns use higher pressure and require a dedicated compressor. They are less efficient than HVLPs, so they can waste more material.
Airless sprayers use a piston to create high pressure. They can be very fast, but fluid control can be difficult. They are OK for spraying a wall, but not for spraying details like window frames.
Many HVLP spray guns can spray polyurethanes, but it does depend on the model. It’s important to check the capabilities before buying. If it has a 1.8mm nozzle or larger, it should be OK. Smaller nozzles would struggle with the viscosity, though the polyurethane could be thinned if necessary.
Professional HVLP spray guns like those found in auto body shops need a separate compressor. Some DIY models come with turbines. Small electric models have a built-in pump.
Always wear safety glasses and respiratory protection. A good-quality half mask has much better filtration than simple disposable paper masks. It’s a good idea to wear lightweight nitrile gloves and some form of ear protection, especially if you’re going to be spraying for an extended period. Never point the spray gun at people or animals.
An HVLP spray gun operates best between 10psi and 30psi.
If not actively working, paint can stay in a sprayer for a few hours, depending on conditions, up to overnight.
For sprayers that need an air compressor, a ⅜ inch hose is standard.
If using a nozzle tip smaller than 2mm, consider thinning. Larger tips are better with high-viscosity paints and primers.
An HVLP spray gun can definitely be an investment, but it can also be a real time saver.
Meet the Tester
Mike Larson is a journalist and DIY enthusiast from Pittsburgh. He is currently renovating his 100-year-old house. When testing products, Mike likes to give as much information as possible and in the most direct way.
Additional research provided by Bob Beacham.
