Wagner vs Graco Paint Sprayers

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Are you looking for the best paint sprayer? You will find a variety of options. However, the two best paint sprayer brands are Wagner and Graco paint sprayers. From starting painting projects up until now, I’ve had the chance to test out different models from both Graco and Wagner. Also, I have covered the Wagner vs Graco reviews for DIYers and homeowners. Today, I decided to compare different Wagner and Graco models in this guide.

So, Which paint sprayer brand is best for you? I will help you determine that by providing you with the facts, basic differences, and also product reviews for each brand.

There are plenty of similarities between these two companies, so it’s hard to choose. For example, each claims to use modern spraying techniques, and they both have many years of experience. However, there are a few differences between Graco and Wagner products. I have considered each company in more detail and highlighted both its strengths and its weaknesses.

Wagner vs Graco paint Sprayer

In the first place, you probably think of Graco, which offers airless sprayers, and Wagner, which offers air-powered sprayers. The statement isn’t strictly true as both companies offer products on both ends of the air/airless category. 

Graco introduced the FinishPro HVLP series, including models like the 7.0, 9.0, and 9.5 Contractor Sprayers, as well as the Graco G40 air-assisted airless spray guns. Meanwhile, Wagner offers the Control Pro airless series, featuring models such as the Control Pro 170, 190, and 130 airless sprayers. I also tried Graco gx21 VS Wagner pp 90 extra for different projects, you can read the details later in this blog.

Wagner paint sprayer Comparison

• More than 20 years ago, Wagner began selling paint sprayers and related accessories. The company is known for providing quality products at an affordable price. Its innovative technology, such as iSpray nozzles, turbines, and powerful motors, is a major selling point. 
• Wagner recognizes that not every individual is a professional painter, so they offer a wide range of products for painters with different levels of skill.
• For parts and complete units, Wagner paint sprayers include a one-year warranty. Most of the company’s reputation is based on its HVLP products. However, Wagner offers both sprayer types and specialized sprayers such as the Studio Home Decor, which has a distinct market niche.
• Graco vs Wagner Airless Paint Sprayer: Wagner also uses HEA (high efficiency airless) technology on its airless sprayers. For instance, the Control Pro 130. When we compared it with standard airless sprayers, HEA produces 55 percent less overspray, a welcome development for spray users.
• A Wagner sprayer can be selected from two different HVLP sprayer lines: FLEXiO and Control Pro sprayers. The FLEXiO 3000 and 5000, are best suited for larger projects, whereas Control sprayers are intended for smaller projects and staining.

Wagner paint sprayer customer service

Wagner reviews reveal that customers have a strong sense of satisfaction with the company’s customer service. You can visit Wagner’s website to find warranty details and a service center near you. The most valuable asset is their troubleshooting and how-to videos – when confronted with a new task, it’s much easier to do it after you’ve seen it done. 

There is also a live customer service hotline operated by Wagner. So you can get technical support and assistance in choosing replacement parts.

Price range

The Wagner company is known for its spray painting technology, so you might expect Wagner products to be pricey. However, wagner airless sprayers offer a budget-friendly option for users, with their top models priced above $200.

In addition to airless sprayers, Wagner also offers HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) sprayers at competitive prices. Wagner HVLP sprayers are known for their affordability, with prices typically ranging from around $100 to $300, depending on the model and features. Despite their lower price range, Wagner HVLP sprayers still deliver satisfactory performance and ease of use, making them a popular choice on the market.

Who should you use Wagner Products for?

Wagner offers a wide range of sprayers to handle any task. However, if you look closer, you will find that these sprayers are lacking in time-saving options or the capacity that contractors need for large jobs.

They are powerful enough but they lack a certain level of visual appeal. Wagner spray paint guns, on the other hand, will satisfy the need of DIYers and homeowners.

Graco Paint Sprayer Comparison

• If you are a homeowner or a commercial painter, you can trust Graco paint sprayers to last for years in most cases.
• Graco is primarily known for its airless sprayers, the company also produces innovative HVLP spray guns, like the FinishPro 7.0.
• Models like the TrueCoat 360 are designed for DIYers, while Graco Pro 210ES and Graco Magnum X19 boasts professional features and is made for tradespeople. It offers reliability, accuracy, ease of cleaning, and time-saving features in every Graco sprayer.

Graco paint sprayer customer service

Additionally to their great products, Graco offers excellent customer service. During your one-year warranty period, if you ever have a problem with your graco paint sprayer, call them and they’ll either replace the whole unit or ship you a replacement part.

If you need a replacement part quickly, you can find a Graco service center around the world. 

Price range

Graco tends to be positioned at the higher end of the price spectrum, with their top models costing over $300. It is not the cheapest sprayer on the market, but quality usually has a price. If you care for your sprayer properly, its long lifespan will repay you many times over. This price range might exceed homeowners’ budgets looking for paint sprayers.

Why Should You Use Graco Products?

Graco offers a sprayer to suit every use, from occasional handymen to contractors of all sizes.

If a painting contractor comes from a field that values time, then its features will help minimize work hours and maximize profits. However, the Graco sprayers may appear confusing to a DIYer due to their advanced features.

The Graco line also looks professional and can assist professionals in making an all-important first impression on clients.

Graco vs Wagner paint sprayer

Setup

Setting up both Graco and Wagner airless sprayers is generally hassle-free, even for beginners. Detailed instructions accompany these tools, ensuring a smooth assembly process. Both brands offer options for priming and spraying, making it difficult to go wrong if the instructions are followed. While newcomers may find Graco sprayers slightly more challenging to set up, the overall setup experience is straightforward and beneficial for users seeking ease and convenience in the setup process.

Performance of wagner paint sprayer vs graco

When it comes to performance, both Graco and Wagner Airless Sprayers offer several benefits that benefit various painting projects.

Wagner, known for its HVLP sprayers and High Efficiency Airless (HEA) technology, provides users with reduced overspray levels, making them suitable for precision work. The continuous spray and variable tip sizes of Wagner sprayers allow for versatility in handling both small and large projects. These sprayers are also easy to clean and offer more control due to their lower operating pressure, typically around 900 PSI. However, the EZ-Tilt Power Painter has a pressure of approximately 2,000-2,500 PSI. These HEA Pro tip produces softer spray and smoother finish.

On the other hand, Graco airless units excel at efficiency and power. They operate at higher pressures, offering better handling of a wide range of materials and viscosities. The inclusion of features like the RAC IV SwitchTip allows users to quickly clear clogs and continue spraying without downtime. Graco systems can also support longer hoses, making them ideal for high-point jobs such as multi-story homes.

Both brands provide reliable and accurate results while saving time. Wagner sprayers are popular for their affordability and user-friendly features, making them perfect for DIY experts. Graco units, while often pricier, offer professional-grade performance, durability, and are favored by contractors and professionals in the painting industry.

Application

When it comes to application, Graco offers a wide range of sprayers that cater to various skill levels and job types. This makes them beneficial for everyone from DIYers to professional contractors. However, for beginners, Graco sprayers can be overwhelming due to their numerous advanced features, unless choosing handheld models.

Graco products excel at handling large projects and professional work, providing time-saving features and increased capacity. Wagner sprayers, however, are ideal to DIYers and home improvement projects. While they may lack the same efficiency and capacity as Graco, Wagner units operate at lower pressure, offering easier control, particularly advantageous for beginners.

Do you know that?

Wagner PowerTex has demonstrated its capacity for multiple heavy applications when paired with the right troweling technique. In contrast, Graco King units are specifically engineered to conquer the most challenging environmental conditions. They excel at handling demanding protective coatings and corrosion control tasks.

Overspray

HVLP (High-Volume, Low-Pressure) paint sprayers were specifically developed to provide quick and even paint application while minimizing excessive overspray, which can result in droplets and uneven coatings on surfaces. By operating at low pressure, these sprayers reduce both overspray and wear on the pump and spray tip.

Recently, high-efficiency airless (HEA) tips have emerged, allowing for coatings to be sprayed at 1000 PSI while achieving the same flow and production levels as standard airless tips but with up to 55% less overspray.

Unlike airless spray guns, HVLP guns offer an additional control knob for regulating air flow, granting users greater control over fan size and resulting in less overspray. This makes HVLP sprayers an excellent choice when working with costly paints, preventing wastage and ensuring efficient coverage.

Product Comparison: Graco TrueCoat 360 vs Wagner Flexio 590

(Wagner vs Graco Handheld Sprayer)

Wagner flexio 3500 vs Graco truecoat 360

I have noticed that Graco 360 and Wagner Flexio 3500 differ significantly in design and functionality. Graco 360 features a robust stainless steel build with a substantial 25-gallon capacity, ideal for larger projects. It offers variable speed control, reversible spray tip, and VacuValve technology for versatile painting.

In contrast, Wagner Flexio 3500 emphasizes portability, boasting a compact, 10% lighter design with a 1.5-quart plastic tank. It excels in versatility, accommodating various materials, and employs X-Boost turbine technology for efficient, 10x faster coverage.

In my opinion, each caters to distinct needs, with Graco 360 suited for sizable tasks and Wagner Flexio 3500 providing flexibility for diverse projects.

Product Comparison: Wagner Control Pro 130 Vs Graco Magnum Project Painter Plus

I found Wagner’s Control Pro 130 to be very easy to use. As long as you follow the instructions, you will not have a problem assembling the Control Pro 130 despite having no previous experience with paint sprayers. On the other hand, Graco Magnum Project Painter Plus can be challenging to use at the beginning for beginners.

As compared with the Wagner Control Pro 130, the Graco sprayer has fully adjustable pressure so you can control paint flow for any project.

Wagner has a 25-foot hose that is sufficient for home use (as I use it for furniture and wall painting). However, if you want to complete long projects without stopping then you can use Graco project painter which comes with a 50-foot hose so that you can carry it around easily.

Wagner paint sprayers claim that its HEA technology is designed to reduce overspray up to 55%, providing softer spraying with smooth results. Practically in my case, the overspray was not excessive, but I did get some overspray while using the Wagner sprayer. However, the 517 nozzle that came with the Graco sprayer creates a lot more overspray and uses more paint.

Graco vs wagner airless paint sprayer summary:

Overall, both sprayers (Wagner Control Pro 130 and Graco Magnum Project Painter Plus) have their own strengths and weaknesses, but I am more satisfied with Wagner Control Pro 130 sprayer and feel it will serve me well for a long time. Over time, I got better at using it and I am sure your experience will be similar to mine. This Wagner sprayer was quite pleasant to use, and now I have a new way to apply paint.

Graco gx21 vs Wagner pp 90 Comparison

I recently got my hands on the Wagner PP90 Airless spray kit, specifically the extra skid version. It’s touted as one of their latest entry-level pro sprayers, and I’ve been eager to put it through its paces and share my thoughts with you all.

Wagner pp 90 review

First off, let’s start with some specs. The PP90 boasts a flow rate of 1.6 liters per minute, putting it right in line with other airless sprayers in its category. At around 800 pounds, it’s competitively priced, and weighing in at just 10 kg, it’s remarkably lightweight for an airless sprayer, making it easy to move around on the job.

When I unboxed it, I found a generous 15-meter hose, which provides ample reach for most projects.

Plus, there’s the Vector Pro gun complete with a guard and a HEA tip 517, which I must say, is a real gem for emulsions. Also included is a bottle of east glides throat seal and a handy pouch for the spanners. Oh, and I must not forget the pressure gauge, a useful tool for keeping track of your spraying pressure.

Now, let’s talk performance. I’ve got picture above to show you just how well this little machine handles itself. From thick emulsions to primers, it tackled everything with ease, requiring minimal thinning compared to similar sprayers. Plus, it excelled at spraying topcoats on walls and woodwork, delivering flawless results without a hitch.

So, what do I like about it? Well, for starters, its lightweight design makes it a dream to lug around, especially if you’re trekking from your van to the job site. And its compact, sleek build not only looks good but also makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s reassuring to know that it can handle a variety of coatings, making it perfect for domestic use.

One standout feature for me is the handy ball release valve, which makes priming the machine a cinch and saves me from having to resort to tapping it with a hammer—a small but significant detail that speaks volumes about Wagner’s attention to user experience.

But like anything else, I noticed that there are a couple of things that could be better with the PP90. The suction hose assembly, while easy to clean, is a bit rigid and cumbersome to maneuver, especially when transferring between paint tubs. I’d love to see a more flexible design here to make the process smoother.

Additionally, it would be nice if Wagner included a fine finish tip for woodwork alongside the standard guard and tip. It’s a small addition that would enhance the versatility of the sprayer and provide a more comprehensive package for users.

Overall, though, I’m thoroughly impressed with the Wagner PP90. It’s a solid performer that ticks all the boxes for me. With proper maintenance and care, I can see it being a reliable companion for years to come. I’d give it a solid nine out of ten—the slight drawbacks are minor compared to its overall performance and value.

Graco gx21 Review

I have also tried this brand new Graco GX21 Cordless spray machine, and tested its performance last month ago.

First off, let me run through what I got in the package. Along with the unit itself, I received a four-finger SG3 gun, a Rack X Guard, LP 517 and FFLP 310 spray tips, a 15-meter Blue Max 2 LS hose, two 54-volt 6-amp Power FlexVolt batteries, and a DeWalt fan-cooled fast charger. Impressive lineup, right?

Now, onto the specs. I was thrilled to see that the cordless version matches its corded counterpart in terms of maximum tip size, fluid flow, and pressure capabilities. Plus, the addition of a powerful brushless motor not only extends the runtime but also enhances portability due to its lighter weight.

Performance-wise, Graco claims that this machine can spray up to 11.5 liters on a single battery charge, and the fast charger can juice up a 6-amp hour battery in under an hour. I put these claims to the test, and here’s what I found:

For the first test, I sprayed standard emulsion at 1500 psi, and with a fresh battery, I got just shy of 14 liters in about 17 to 17 and a half minutes. Next up, I used a 310 tip at around 1200 psi to spray furniture coating, and it lasted for over half an hour, covering a fair amount of area.

One thing I appreciated was the machine’s automatic shutdown feature when the battery level gets low, preventing any issues with maintaining pressure. And I must mention the convenience – no more lugging around noisy generators on-site. Just charge up the batteries beforehand, and you’re good to go.

I recommend you to plan your battery usage strategically for larger jobs, but considering the money saved on generators and fuel, not to mention the portability and ease of use, the Graco GX21 Cordless is definitely worth the investment. Overall, I’m thoroughly impressed with its performance, and I believe it’s going to be a hit in the industry.

Wagner Flexio 3500 Vs. Graco TC Pro

Unboxing the Graco cordless airless paint sprayer, I was impressed by the package contents: the sprayer, a DeWalt battery charger, two DeWalt batteries, four plastic cups, cleaning liquid, and extra parts. Before diving into painting, I ensured the battery was fully charged and familiarized myself with the sprayer using the manual.

The Graco sprayer, compared to my Wagner Flexio, presented a learning curve due to its complexity and professional-grade features. Despite the initial challenges, the cordless and standalone design was a plus.

However, the surprising loudness of the Graco machine necessitated ear protection during use. I encountered an issue where the sprayer thought it was low on paint, causing interruptions. Yet, a simple adjustment to ensure the paint reached the top of the canister resolved this.

In the initial painting with the Graco sprayer, I noticed splotchiness and had to spray closer and increase pressure to achieve an even coat. This might be attributed to the machine needing time to warm up or user error due to my unfamiliarity.

After the first coat, comparing the results with the Wagner, the Graco sprayer showed a more cohesive and less splotchy finish. The Wagner, on the other hand, exhibited streaks and uneven coverage.

Applying a second coat, the Graco sprayer continued to outperform the Wagner. The wood grain and repairs were less visible, providing a smoother finish.

In conclusion, both paint sprayers (Wagner 3500 and TC Pro) can yield similar results, but the Graco requires a steeper learning curve and has a more involved setup and cleanup process. The Wagner is deemed more beginner-friendly and offers ease of use. The Graco’s advantage lies in its battery operation, eliminating the need for cords and offering improved maneuverability. It’s great for a polished finish, making it a good pick for users with experience ready to learn its details. However, for beginners seeking efficiency, the Wagner remains a reliable option despite requiring more time and effort.

Wagner Power Painter Plus Vs Graco X5 Magnum Sprayer

In my experience, I initially opted for Wagner Power Painter Plus as a testing purpose for a home renovation project that involved painting both walls and ceilings. For smaller areas and testing purposes, the Wagner performed adequately.

However, when it came to tackling larger surface areas, especially ceilings, it fell short. The constant need for refills and the inability to efficiently maneuver with the sprayer on a ladder proved to be frustrating obstacles.

The unit holds about a quart of paint, so there may be frequent refill breaks during use. However, it’s versatile and can spray in both vertical and horizontal directions by simply adjusting the nozzle.

Cleaning the sprayer is straightforward, with parts easily disassembled for thorough cleaning. I suggest you properly clean the sprayer after each use to maintain its longevity. The sprayer is electric and comes with its own cord, but overspray can be an issue, so caution is needed to avoid spraying unwanted areas. I recommend you to wear protective gear like safety glasses and a respirator mask due to the paint mist emitted during spraying.

After doing some research and thinking it over, I decided to stick with my trusty Graco Magnum X5 for my painting projects. And let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint.

First off, the Graco X5 has a bigger capacity, meaning I didn’t have to stop and refill it as often. Plus, it’s super efficient, so I could keep spraying without constantly stopping.

The precision of the spray control on the X5 is top-notch. It gave me a really smooth finish with hardly any overspray. And let’s not forget about the attachment for painting ceilings without needing a ladder. That was a game-changer for safety and efficiency.

One thing I really love about the Graco X5 is how it can draw paint directly from the bucket. No need to pour paint into a separate compartment, which not only saves time but also cuts down on mess.

The long paint hose that comes with it is another huge plus. It gave me plenty of reach, so I didn’t have to keep moving the sprayer around as much.

Now, it’s worth mentioning that the Graco X5 does have higher pressure, so you’ve got to be careful when using it. 

Sure, it might cost a bit more upfront than some other options like Wagner, but believe me, the performance and efficiency of the Graco X5 make it worth every penny, especially if you’re tackling bigger projects or using it professionally.

Can you use emulsion in a Wagner paint sprayer?

Absolutely, you can use emulsion paint with a Wagner paint sprayer. Wagner paint sprayers are specifically designed to handle water-based paints such as emulsions. It’s also advisable to thin the emulsion paint to the recommended consistency for your specific Wagner model. This step is important for achieving optimal results when using a paint sprayer.

For outdoor emulsion paint, it’s advisable to select paint sprayer like the Project Pro 119 or Graco models. The Wagner Project 115, due to its reservoir size, may not be the most suitable choice for the thickness of outdoor emulsion paint.

To prepare emulsion paint for spraying, a commonly recommended ratio is 70% paint to 30% water. Some painters may prefer an 80/20 ratio, but it’s essential to adjust based on the specific thickness of the paint.

Conclusion On Wagner vs Graco:

Two well-known paint spraying industries claim to meet every customer’s needs, and theoretically, they both do. There can’t be a clear winner however, as to which manufacturer is best for your needs. Ultimately, it comes down to your own decorating needs or preferences. 

FAQS On Wagner vs Graco

Are Wagner and Graco spray tips interchangeable?

Typically, these are 7/8 fittings, which make them interchangeable between different brands. Graco FFLP tips fit in the Graco RAC-X holder, while Wagner HEA tips use the Wagner Trade Tip 3 holder (i.e. an FFLP tip will not fit on a Wagner gun without switching the tip holder, etc.). In addition, you can use spray guards on spray guns of all brands and models.

Is Graco Better than Wagner?

Spray guns made by both companies deliver great performance. So, the decision between Wagner and Graco sprayers is largely dependent on your needs.

If you’ve used a paint sprayer before, or if you are handy enough to buy an airless paint sprayer for large projects, then we recommend the Graco Airless Paint Sprayer more than any other product. However, The Wagner HVLP sprayer is popular because of its ease of use and affordable prices. You can use Wagner sprayers for any indoor or outdoor projects.

Is there a good paint sprayer for home use?

There are several paint sprayers on the market that are specifically designed for home use. Wagner offers units in various sizes that are professional, easy to use, and cover most home improvement projects. For example, Wagner 0518080 Control Spray Max HVLP Paint Sprayer.

What type of paint sprayer do professionals use?

It is no secret that many contractors say that Graco and Titan sprayer’s durability and unique time-saving features set them apart from other manufacturers.

Do Wagner Sprayers use airless technology?

Yes, Wagner offers a line of HEA airless sprayers called Control Pro. Newbies and professionals alike will benefit from the HEA technology, which reduces overspray, gives you longer lasting tips, and requires minimal effort from you.

Is Graco better than Titan?

Graco vs Wagner vs Titan

Both Titan and Graco sprayers perform well, but Graco sprayers are easier to clean and disassemble than Titan sprayers. On the other hand, Wagners are best choice for home improvement projects, particularly for beginners.

Is Graco paint sprayer a good brand?

In our research, we reviewed dozens of airless paint sprayers based on their performance, durability, capacity, flow rate, ease of use and overall technology. There is no doubt that Graco paint sprayers are one of the most reliable sprayers available on the market today. These sprayers are good for both professionals and DIYers.

Among the sprayers they offer are airless, HVLP, and pneumatic sprayers. It is reported that Graco paint sprayers produce quality results. Graco airless sprayers are mostly recommended for larger painting projects.