Best Handheld Paint Sprayer Tested By Professionals

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Spray guns with fast setup, simple clean-up, and no training requirements are always the demand of the painters. Seasoned DIYers may think that paint sprayers are only for professionals, but you can save yourself a ton of time and effort with a little practice. With these sprayers, paint is applied by squeezing a trigger instead of rolling it or brushing it. They create a wide, even spray by blasting paint through a nozzle. Portable and compact designs make them the best handheld paint sprayer.

A high quality spray gun is an easy-to-use tool for doing small to medium-sized painting jobs like ceilings, cabinets, fences, or exterior walls. It will be our pleasure to assist you after filtering through thousands of sprayers out there just to satisfy your needs and make your work easier. Thus, when you finish reading this guide, you will be able to choose the handheld paint spray gun for your needs.

Don’t worry, our range covers affordable to high-end options so that you will not be disappointed.

Best Handheld Paint Sprayer Chart

IMAGE	PRODUCT		PRICE
	Graco True Coat Sprayer		Check on Amazon
	Home Right Electric HVLP Sprayer Read Full Review		Check on Amazon
	Graco Ultra Max Airless Paint Sprayer		Check on Amazon
	Wagner Control Spray Max Read Full Review		Check on Amazon
	Wagner Power Painter Spray Gun Read Full Review		Check on Amazon

5 Best Handheld Paint Sprayers for Easy Handling

1. Graco True Coat 360– Best Handheld Paint Sprayer

• Product Specs: 
• Reversible spray tip
• 25 gallons
• FlexLiner Bags

In Graco’s Project Series, the Graco17D889 paint sprayer is excellent for use indoors or outdoors. It is designed for DIYers and homeowners who want to tackle small to medium-sized projects with ease.

Paint sprayers made by other manufacturers do not have the 42-ounce flex-liner paint bag. In addition to being recyclable, the flex-liner paint bag is easy to use and offers a time-saving feature.

You can squeeze the bag so that any air in it is forced out after placing the appropriate amount of paint in it. Also, you can easily change colors and clean up afterwards.

The good part is that you don’t need to worry about punctures or ruptures of the bag since it is held in place in a formed holder. Also, you can control the speed with this paint sprayer since it has both low and high speeds. Its low setting reduces overspray and allows you to control paint placement more easily, while the high setting makes it easier to paint large areas with fewer coats.

I found its vacuum valve technology a unique feature which can be turned in any direction while in use without losing its prime.

You can move the item or contour your body to paint it on the desired area using this method. Plus, you will create a closed vacuum system by simply pressing any excess air out of the paint bag.

A stainless steel pump on the sprayer prevents rust and corrosion. This Graco airless sprayer can spray thick paint materials because its stainless steel piston pumps can deliver a large amount of pressure. Moreover, you can prevent paint clogs with its Reverse-a-Clean system.

Useful Resource: To learn more about TrueCoat 360 airless models, click here.

The Graco 17D889 model is the perfect airless spraying equipment for your needs. Those who wish to paint faster will find this paint sprayer ideal.

2. Graco Ultra Max Cordless-Best Cordless Handheld

• Product Specs: 
• Triax Piston Pump system
• Pro Connect technology
• RAC X special Spray Tips

It’s no surprise that sprayers can get stuck or lag when starting up if you’ve ever used them before. However, the Graco Ultra Max Cordless comes with a Triax piston pump which solves the problem completely.

A Triax Triple pump is both durable and lightweight. Plus, you can adjust the pressure for different types of materials with the ProControl II pressure control, and it also makes sure the pressure won’t fluctuate during spraying. It offers consistent coverage.

It is equipped with Graco’s Pro Connect technology, which ensures that the pump can be replaced quickly and without downtime. Graco’s piston pump is unlikely to malfunction, but Graco manufacturers will fix it if it doesn’t work properly.

The sprayer tips will give you a different result, so if you plan on using the sprayer for various tasks, you’ll be pleased to know, it has a variety of tips. With this piston pump, you can use spray tips ranging from .008 to .016, and RAC Graco spray tips that offer greater control.

When you use these tips, you can spray at half the pressure, giving you more control over the paint and allowing it to reach further. However, changing tips is simple with a screwdriver, though.

In place of plastic containers, flexLiner bags are used with the Graco Ultra Max. You can simply dispose of dirty bags or you can wash them if you wish to reuse them.

In addition, if you use different materials, this sprayer can be helpful for you. Several bags are advantageous because you can fill them with different materials and easily switch from one bag to another.

The Graco Ultra Max Cordless Sprayer is our favorite graco model when it comes to portability. With this model, you don’t have to worry about extension cords.

Similar to Graco Ultra model, this sprayer also includes two XR lithium-ion cells and a battery charger from DeWalt. The batteries provide continuous use for around one hour on a single charge.

Moreover, sprayers and their associated nozzles, bags, and power packs can be safely stored and transported in a durable storage bag.

If you’re looking for a convenient sprayer that you can carry anywhere then Graco Ultra Max Cordless is a great option. As per my experience, this sprayer is versatile and durable enough. So, you can count on it to last for a long time. You’ll find its performance to be among the best on the market.

3. Home Right C800766, C900076-Best Handheld Electric Paint Sprayer

• Product Specs: 
• 3.1 pounds
• Brass spraying tip
• Seals and Splash Guard

If you plan to do your projects yourself, then HomeRight HVLP sprayer is a great purchase, seriously. It offers a lot of functionality in such a small package. I have also tried Home Right C800971 (upgraded model of Home Right C800766) for various projects.

It is equipped with a 27-ounce large container, so you can cover a large area before refilling. However, it uses more paint since they provide more even application.

A primary feature of this product is adjustable nozzles so that the spraying pattern can be adjusted to vertical, horizontal, or circular directions.

Another feature of this electric sprayer is that it is compatible with many types of paints, including stain, sealers, varnish, enamel, milk and chalk paints, oil and water-based coatings.

A single coat should provide good coverage. However, It is necessary to thin the paint material enough to ensure proper spraying by the nozzle. This makes it an excellent finish for furniture, cabinets, interior wall painting, and much more.

A brass spray tip of this sprayer provides better performance and ensures the sprayer will be functioning for a long time.

You can hold the product comfortably in one hand, which means you can paint from various angles. The components are all in one package, so a power cord needs to be connected.

Overall, Home Right provides people with a high-quality small paint sprayer at an affordable price. An easy-to-use small sprayer offers a lot of capacity to paint and is also suitable for use with a wide variety of materials and coatings. Therefore, the Home Right C800766 is a perfect addition to any toolbox. You can read the detail Finish Max Sprayer Review.

4. Wagner 0525027 Power Painter-Best Handheld Airless Paint Sprayer Review

• Product Specs: 
• Dual tip system
• 360-degree spraying
• Ez tilt suction tube

Airless paint sprayers are almost a requirement in every DIYer’s garage, and Wagner’s Power Painter Plus is a popular choice when it comes to quality and control.

Wagner Power Plus Paint Sprayer easily works on medium-sized projects, unlike many other sprayers in its price range. This spraying model can also be used on larger surfaces, such as exterior and interior walls, large furniture, sheds, outdoor fences, and patios.

This spray gun has an innovative dual-tip feature that provides greater control and coverage while reducing overspray. Dual tips form a vacuum as a result of Optimus Dual Technology.

The EZ tilt technology facilitates overhead and angle spraying using a patented flexible suction tube, which can be used inverted. You get more uniform atomization and coverage with the combination of a piston pump and a dual tip.

Moreover, one-quart paint cup reduces frequent refills. Upon removal of the cup, the specially designed valve at the end of the suction tube holds on to the paint.

We have noticed that the sprayer doesn’t require re-priming when there’s still paint or stain in the tube. You just have to refill the cup and start using it again. The product is designed to be applied with oil-based or latex paints, stain and paint sealers, or wood sealers. Read more!

Wagner has a reputation for quality and durability in power painters. This Wagner power painter is perfect for DIY experts seeking a powerful, affordable hand spray gun capable of completing a variety of medium sized jobs with dense materials.

5. Wagner 0518080 HVLP Sprayer For Home Use

• Product Specs: 
• 1.5 Quarts tank volume
• Customizable paint flow setting
• 20-ft. hose

Wagner is one of the strongest brands in the paint sprayer market, offering an affordable range of very reliable and popular models to consumers. Wagner 0518080 HVLP Sprayer could be an appealing option if you’re looking for an easy-to-use sprayer for finishing tasks.

A Wagner HVLP sprayer is great for beginners as it is compact, easy to operate. Additionally, the Wagner 0518080 sprayer is corded, electric, so no recharging is required.

The Wagner spray gun features a stationary base with a motor and a turbine with various settings to adjust through a control knob. In this way, you won’t get tired as easily, and you can paint for longer.

As per our experience, a lengthy hose is very helpful in tight spots where a brush or roller might not reach. Having a 20-foot hose with this sprayer means you can move a long distance with your spray gun. In addition, this makes ladder-reaching coverage possible for many projects.

You can apply lacquers, sealers, stains, latex paint or oil-based paint with this Wagner sprayer. It appeals to many users because it has many functions and features and has been designed specifically for home use and DIY projects.

Using HVLP technology, liquids are separated into very fine particles for smooth and even coverage. It gives a professional appearance to your painting project. Plus, a double air filter ensures that your paint is evenly coated.

With this system, you can control the nozzle’s position for different spray patterns. Also, you can exchange your liquids quickly and start painting as soon as you get your device out of the box. On top of that, this system features an easy-fill paint container and the Wagner lock and go’ system.

Wagner air sprayer are designed to be easy to maintain. With the Wagner Lock N Go system, cleaning is quick and easy. After each use, you should rinse it thoroughly and make sure there are no residues.

Whenever you use latex or water-based stain or paint, clean the sprayer with soapy water and use mineral spirits with oil-based paints.

Many homeowners enjoy the simplicity and functionality of the Wagner Control Max Sprayer in detail, and it’s easy to use even for beginners right out of the box. Moreover, you can use this hand paint sprayer to paint small areas without overspray.

Factors To Consider When Buying A Handheld Paint Sprayer

Buying a paint sprayer is a wonderful idea because of its great benefits. But how should you choose the paint sprayer among so many options?

Well, you should first consider the following aspects to find a model that meets your needs and expectations. Therefore, before making a decision, read through our buying guide!

1. Popular Types of Handheld Sprayers

These sprayers fall into two main categories:

Airless Sprayers– It is probably clear from its name that sprayers use no air to push paint through. These paint sprayers use the power of an electric motor to push paint materials up the nozzle and out at high pressure. The most common surfaces on which they are used are walls, fences, sheds, garages, and doors.

This sprayer saves you time and allows you to work faster. Furthermore, you can use oil-based and water-based paints with these sprayers. People with more experience and professionals tend to use them because they need little practice working with these sprayers. However, some models are easier to operate and specifically made to appeal to DIYers.

HVLP Sprayers– A huge benefit of HVLP sprayers is that they do not require a powerful motor. These are sprayers that use very low pressure to atomize paint materials, creating a very fine finish.

However, these sprayers use a lot more paint. You can use them for medium painting projects at home like furniture, cabinets, windows, pipes, etc. There was greater use of oil-based paint with these sprayers than with water-based paint.

2. The Power Source

No one can deny the popularity of battery-operated, cordless models since their portability makes them very handy wherever they are needed. However, if you don’t want to get stuck in the middle of the painting project, you may want to charge the batteries before starting the work.

3. Sprayer tips

Spray tips are available for most sprayers, and they are used to change the type of paint you’re spraying. The sprayer tip needs to be large if you use undiluted paint and a small tip for thin paint.

These sprayers are extremely versatile in their use and applications. Despite their functions, when it comes to selecting tips, they don’t get as much attention as they should. They cannot use some paints since they have smaller motors because you have a limited choice of nozzle and tip sizes.

4. Speed control

The majority of models feature speed control. Most commonly, the dial will have two settings: low and high. It would help if you chose a high speed for large jobs and a slow speed for detailed jobs. Make sure the spraying model you select can control the sprayer’s speed.

5. The Right Size Of Paint Container

The paint cup on most sprayers holds half a quart of paint, and some sprayers hold more or less paint, depending on the brand. You can purchase different cups with different capacities for your model from the manufacturer.

6. Weight

It is important to consider the overall weight of the paint sprayer before purchasing it since you will have to hold the entire unit. A lighter unit will be more convenient to use for a longer time.

Be sure to add the weight of the paint, the batteries, and the power cords when calculating the weight of these spraying models.

7. Price

You should pick a paint sprayer that fits your budget. Spending too little may result in poor quality and reliability. Conversely, overspending may lead to regret.

8. Warranty

Do not overlook the warranty. Typically, the more expensive sprayers will have longer warranty periods. Be sure to investigate all the details before you buy.

Is it better to paint by hand or sprayer?

Deciding whether to hand paint or use a sprayer depends on a few things: how big your project is, how smooth you want it to look, and your budget. If you’re redoing a big project, like kitchen cabinets, a paint sprayer is great for a quick and flawless finish.

But for smaller jobs, like painting a piece of furniture, a good brush works well and is cost-effective. It’s about what your project needs. Small or detailed jobs might be fine with a brush, while larger ones benefit from the speed and accuracy of a sprayer. Sometimes, using both methods works best for different parts of your project.

How To Clean Handheld Paint Sprayer?

• It is always a good idea to perform pressure relief before cleaning your sprayer.
• Make sure the fluid intake and drain tubes are removed and any paint that has yet to dry is wiped off the outside.
• Afterwards, you can disassemble each part and scrub all the parts separately(Clean the nozzles, pump, hose, spray gun, spray tips, guard and filter).
• Maintaining a clean and dry sprayer will ensure your sprayer is ready to use.

Final Words

Paint Sprayer is easy to find if you keep your painting needs in mind. As you already read, the Graco 17D889 True Coat is our top pick for the best hand held sprayer because it has amazing advanced features and a user-friendly design that make it worth the purchase. Plus, for those that can’t afford it and are on a budget, the Home RightC90007 sprayer could be a good option that will let you enjoy your hobby while being economical. In contrast, the premium, Graco 17M367 Cordless Paint Sprayer is a powerful airless sprayer that can handle any professional finishing task.

The best way to begin your painting career or expand your hobby is to buy a top-quality paint sprayer. All the sprayers mentioned above have unique features that can make a great addition to any tool kit.

FAQ’s

Q. How good are handheld paint sprayers?

These paint sprayers are very useful for most jobs but not recommended for painting walls. This type of sprayer is great to work with because you can move around with it easily. These sprayers work well on rough or uneven surfaces. However, if you’re a professional painter, you probably wouldn’t be willing to use these sprayers for a large job.

Q. How to use a handheld sprayer?

These sprayers are the easiest to use of all sprayers. To use the sprayer, you must put paint into the paint cup and spray it.

• You should wear the right safety gear. Like gloves, a face mask and goggles are a must.
• Cover the area in slow and steady motions.
• Apply a thin layer of paint over the previous layers to create a smooth finish.

Q. What handheld paint spray gun to use for spraying cars?

Yes, in some cases, a handheld option can be useful for painting on vehicles. It is much better to use a gravity sprayer for applications involving general paint and clear-coating. However, these sprayers can come in handy if you want to paint the door, frames, under the dashboard, or inside the cowl.

Q. How to unclog the handheld Wagner paint sprayer?

There are multiple ways to clean the nozzle. You can also soak the sprayer in water for a couple of minutes and then blow air through it while it is still wet. If blowing doesn’t work, use a cotton bud or a needle to get rid of the residue. or You may use cotton buds or a needle if you cannot blow the paint out.