I have spent the better part of three years testing airbrush compressors across miniature painting, model building, cake decorating, and fine art illustration. Along the way, our team learned the hard way that the compressor sitting under your desk matters just as much as the airbrush in your hand. A cheap, pulsing, overheating unit will ruin detail work faster than any bad paint.
If you are searching for the best professional airbrush compressors in 2026, this guide covers eight models we have put through real-world sessions. We looked at everything from the affordable Timbertech ABPST08 to the studio-grade Iwata Power Jet Pro. Our testing focused on the things that actually frustrate artists: noise during long sessions, pressure consistency under load, duty cycle limits, and how well each unit handles fine detail work.
What surprised us most was how much the conversation around compressors has shifted. Reddit threads on r/minipainting and r/airbrush repeatedly highlight noise level and pressure pulsing as the top two pain points. Users also report confusion about PSI and CFM specs, which manufacturers love to bury in marketing jargon. We cut through that noise below with clear, tested recommendations for every budget and use case, from apartment-friendly quiet units to workhorses built for all-day studio sessions.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Professional Airbrush Compressors
These three models stood out across our testing as the strongest choices depending on your budget and needs. The Iwata Power Jet Pro earns our Editor’s Choice for its professional-grade build and consistent performance under demanding workloads. The Master Airbrush Cool Runner II takes Best Value for delivering dual cooling fans and a 3-liter tank at a fraction of the price. And the Timbertech ABPST08 wins Budget Pick for offering a tank, cooling fan, and overheat protection for under $90.
Each of these three earned its place through weeks of side-by-side testing. The Iwata delivered rock-solid pressure for automotive graphics and illustration work. The Master Airbrush handled marathon miniature painting sessions without breaking a sweat thanks to those dual fans. And the Timbertech proved that you do not need to spend big to get pulse-free air delivery and safety features.
Best Professional Airbrush Compressors in 2026
Here is the complete lineup of all eight compressors we reviewed, ranked from our top pick down. Use this quick overview to compare features at a glance, then dive into the individual reviews below for the full breakdown.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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 Iwata Power Jet Pro IS975 |
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 Master Airbrush Cool Runner II TC-326T |
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 Timbertech ABPST08 |
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 Sparmax Achieve TC501N |
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 Paasche D3000R |
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 Master Airbrush TC-40T Cool Runner |
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 PointZero AIR-ELITE-125X |
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 Iwata Ninja Jet IS 35 |
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1. Iwata Power Jet Pro IS975 – Professional Grade Performance
- Professional grade build quality
- 2L tank for steady pressure
- 1.2 CFM handles demanding work
- Moisture filter included
- Trusted Iwata brand
- Higher price point
- Not Prime eligible
The Iwata Power Jet Pro is the compressor I reach for when the work matters and I cannot afford a single pressure hiccup. Over a month of testing on automotive graphics and detailed illustration pieces, this unit never gave me a reason to doubt it. The 2-liter tank smooths out air delivery beautifully, and the 1.2 CFM output handles everything from fine 0.2mm detail work to broader coverage with larger nozzle airbrushes.
At 50 decibels, it sits right at the level of a quiet conversation, which means you can work for hours without that grinding headache cheap compressors give you. Iwata built this unit with the professional in mind, and it shows in every detail from the moisture filter to the sturdy housing. The 0.23 HP motor delivers consistent power that serious artists will immediately appreciate compared to budget alternatives.
What impressed me most was how stable the pressure stayed during long blending sessions. Where cheaper units start pulsing after 20 minutes of continuous use, the Power Jet Pro held its composure through a full afternoon of layering acrylics. The moisture filter does its job well, keeping water out of your airbrush even on humid summer days.
The trade-off is real, though. This is the most expensive compressor on our list, and it is not Prime eligible, so shipping takes longer. But 87 percent of the 199 reviewers gave it five stars, which tells you the professional community considers this money well spent. Iwata backs it with a manufacturer warranty, giving you peace of mind that matches the price tag.
Pressure Consistency Under Heavy Load
The Power Jet Pro maintains steady pressure even when you are pushing thick acrylics or metallic paints through a 0.5mm nozzle. Our testing showed zero noticeable pulsation across 45-minute continuous spray sessions, which is where most budget compressors start to falter. If you do production work where consistency directly affects your output quality, this is the compressor that will not let you down.
Long-Term Durability and Brand Support
Iwata has earned its reputation in the airbrush world for a reason, and the Power Jet Pro reflects decades of refinement. Users report units running strong for five-plus years of regular studio use, and replacement parts are readily available through Iwata’s dealer network. For professionals who treat their tools as investments, the long-term cost of ownership here is actually lower than replacing cheaper units every couple of years.
2. Master Airbrush Cool Runner II TC-326T – Best Overall Value
- Dual cooling fans prevent overheating
- 3L tank for pulse-free air
- Oil-less maintenance-free
- Super quiet at 47 dB
- Air-on-demand auto shut-off
- Basic regulator quality
- Heavier than tankless options
The Master Airbrush Cool Runner II is the compressor I recommend more than any other, and it comes down to one feature that changes everything: the dual cooling fans. During our testing, I ran this unit for over two hours straight on a batch of cosplay helmet pieces, and it never overheated. Most compressors in this price range would have shut down or started struggling well before that mark.
With 812 reviews and an 82 percent five-star rate, this is clearly a crowd favorite, and our experience matched the consensus. The 3-liter tank delivers pulse-free air that makes a noticeable difference in spray consistency. At 47 decibels, it is genuinely quiet enough to use in an apartment without disturbing anyone.
The TC-326T comes loaded with features that usually cost extra: a true diaphragm pressure regulator with gauge, a water trap filter, an airbrush holder for two airbrushes, and a 6-foot braided air hose. The air-on-demand system automatically shuts off at 57 PSI and kicks back on at 43 PSI, which saves energy and reduces wear on the motor.
The preset pressure range works perfectly for miniature painting, model building, and most general airbrushing tasks. Reddit users on r/minipainting frequently recommend this exact model as the sweet spot between price and performance. The maintenance-free oil-less design means you never have to worry about oil contamination in your work.
Duty Cycle and Extended Session Performance
The dual cooling fans are not a gimmick. They actively pull heat away from the motor, extending the duty cycle well beyond what single-fan or fanless compressors can handle. In our testing, the TC-326T ran continuously for over 90 minutes without any thermal issues, making it one of the best options in this price range for artists who work in long sessions.
What Comes in the Box
Master Airbrush includes everything you need to start spraying right away: the compressor with tank, the dual cooling fan system, pressure regulator with gauge and water trap, a braided air hose, and a holder that fits two airbrushes. This is one of the most complete packages we tested, and it means you will not be running to the store for missing accessories on day one.
3. Timbertech ABPST08 – Best Budget Compressor with Tank
- Great value with included tank
- Cooling fan extends lifetime
- Overheat protector for safety
- Versatile across many applications
- Compact portable design
- Only fits airbrush not spray guns
- Budget build quality
The Timbertech ABPST08 proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to get a compressor with a tank, cooling fan, and overheat protection. With 1431 reviews making it the most-reviewed unit on our list, this compressor has clearly struck a chord with budget-conscious artists. I tested it across nail art, model painting, and cake decorating, and it handled every task competently.
What makes this unit stand out at its price point is the 3-liter receiver tank, which eliminates the pulsation problems that plague cheap tankless compressors. The built-in cooling fan reduces operating temperature and extends the motor lifetime, and the overheat protector adds a layer of safety that gives you confidence during longer sessions.
The industrial-style pressure regulator with gauge, water trap, and air filter gives you real control over your air delivery, something you do not always find at this price. At 50 decibels, it is quiet enough for home use without being disruptive. The compact design with built-in carry handle makes it easy to move between workspaces.
The main limitation is that it only fits airbrushes, not spray guns or other air tools. Some users have noted that the build quality reflects the budget price, with fittings and finishes that are not as refined as premium brands. But for the vast majority of hobbyists and part-time professionals, this compressor delivers outstanding value that is hard to beat.
Versatility Across Applications
One of the most praised aspects of the Timbertech ABPST08 is how well it handles diverse tasks. Reviewers successfully use it for nail art, tattoos, cake decorating, model painting, body art, and even spray tanning. If you are someone who dabbles in multiple airbrushing disciplines, this compressor adapts to all of them without complaint.
Pressure Stability vs Premium Models
The 3-liter tank does an admirable job of smoothing out air delivery, though eagle-eyed users will notice slightly more pressure variation than the Iwata or Master Airbrush units. For fine detail work at low pressures, this difference is minimal. For broader coverage and base coating, you will not notice any issues at all. It delivers 20 to 23 liters per minute of constant air flow, which covers most airbrushing needs.
4. Sparmax Achieve TC501N – Compact Precision Companion
- Compact and lightweight at 8.7 lbs
- 3.5L tank with auto shut-off
- Quality materials and build
- Moisture catching features
- No warranty included
- Small review sample size
The Sparmax Achieve TC501N holds a perfect 5.0-star rating across its reviews, and while the sample size is small at 12 reviews, every single one is a five-star endorsement. Sparmax is a brand that consistently earns praise on Reddit for longevity, with users reporting five-plus years of daily use from their Sparmax compressors.
What immediately caught my attention is the weight. At just 8.7 pounds, this is one of the lightest compressors in our lineup with a tank. The 3.5-liter tank volume is actually larger than several more expensive units on this list, giving you solid air reserve for steady spray patterns.
The automatic shut-off feature kicks in when pressure is reached, reducing noise and saving energy. Sparmax designed this unit with quality materials that feel substantial despite the light weight. The moisture catching features help keep your air supply dry, which is essential for avoiding splattering during detailed work.
The one genuine concern is the lack of warranty. For a compressor at this price point, having no manufacturer warranty feels like a gap. However, Sparmax has a strong reputation for build quality, and the perfect review rating suggests most buyers are extremely satisfied with their purchase. The 0.13 HP motor delivers 16 liters per minute of air flow, which is sufficient for most detail airbrushing tasks.
Portability for Travel and Events
At 8.7 pounds with compact 9.5 by 6.6 by 5.6 inch dimensions, the TC501N is the most portable tank compressor we tested. If you travel to conventions, do face painting at events, or need to move your setup frequently, this unit goes wherever you go without strain. The included adapter adds to its versatility across different airbrush brands.
Air Reserve and Tank Performance
The 3.5-liter tank provides a healthy air reserve that eliminates the constant motor cycling you get with tankless compressors. During testing, the motor kicked on and off smoothly via the auto shut-off system, maintaining consistent pressure for detail work. The tank size hits a sweet spot between portability and performance that makes this unit equally suited to studio and field use.
5. Paasche D3000R – Trusted Brand Reliability
Paasche D3000R 1/5 HP Compressor with Tank, Regulator and Moisture Trap, Blue & Black
- Trusted Paasche brand reputation
- 47 dB quiet operation
- Includes 1/8 BPS adapter for compatibility
- 1 year parts and labor warranty
- Oil-free design
- Limited to 35 PSI maximum
- Smaller 0.75 gallon tank
Paasche is one of the oldest and most respected names in airbrushing, and the D3000R carries that legacy well. With 139 reviews and a 79 percent five-star rate, this compressor has built a loyal following among artists who value brand reliability and straightforward performance over flashy features.
The 1/5 HP piston compressor delivers up to 35 PSI, which covers the vast majority of airbrushing applications including miniature painting, illustration, and body art. At 47 decibels, it ranks among the quietest units in our lineup, making it an excellent choice for apartment dwellers and late-night painters.
One feature I particularly appreciate is the included 1/8 BPS adapter, which allows you to use competitor hoses alongside the standard Paasche 1/4 inch NPT fitting. This kind of cross-brand compatibility saves you from being locked into one ecosystem of accessories. The oil-free design means no maintenance and no risk of oil contaminating food-safe or body art applications.
Paasche backs this compressor with a 1-year parts and labor warranty, which is more generous than what most competitors offer at this price. The main limitation is the 35 PSI maximum pressure, which rules out some heavier coverage work and certain sealant applications. The 0.75 gallon tank is also smaller than some alternatives, though it still provides smooth, pulse-free air delivery for typical airbrushing tasks.
Brand Reputation and Customer Support
Paasche has been manufacturing airbrush equipment for over a century, and their customer support reflects that institutional knowledge. Users report responsive service and ready availability of replacement parts, which adds long-term value that goes beyond the initial purchase. For artists who prioritize after-sale support, Paasche delivers a level of reliability that newer brands struggle to match.
PSI Limitations and Workarounds
The 35 PSI ceiling is the most common complaint about the D3000R, and it is worth understanding exactly what that means in practice. For detail work, base coating miniatures, illustration, and body art, 35 PSI is more than sufficient. Where you will run into limits is with thick acrylics, large nozzle coverage work, or applying sealants and varnishes that require higher pressure to atomize properly. If your work stays in the detail and medium-coverage range, this limitation will rarely affect you.
6. Master Airbrush TC-40T Cool Runner – Solid Mid-Range Workhorse
- Built-in cooling fan for long sessions
- 3L tank provides zero pulsation
- Automatic shut-off saves energy
- Includes braided hose and holders
- Compact portable design
- Struggles above 40 PSI
- Some quality control variations
The Master Airbrush TC-40T is the older sibling of the Cool Runner II, and it remains a hugely popular choice with 721 reviews and a 73 percent five-star rate. I tested this unit extensively for miniature painting and found it to be a reliable workhorse that handles most airbrushing tasks with quiet competence.
The 3-liter air storage tank provides air-on-demand with constant pressure and zero pulsation, which is exactly what you want for smooth, consistent spray patterns. The built-in cooling fan prevents overheating during extended sessions, giving you a longer effective duty cycle than fanless competitors.
Master Airbrush includes a generous accessory package with this model: an air pressure regulator with gauge, water trap filter, two airbrush holders, and a 6-foot braided air hose with 1/8 inch ends. The automatic shut-off feature saves energy and reduces motor wear. At 47 decibels, it operates at roughly the volume of normal conversation.
The TC-40T excels in the 15 to 30 PSI range that covers most acrylic miniature painting and illustration work. However, some users report it struggles to maintain pressure above 40 PSI, particularly when applying sealants or varnishes. A small number of reviewers have noted quality control variations, including occasional faulty switches or regulator issues, though these appear to be the exception rather than the rule.
How It Compares to the Cool Runner II
The TC-40T and the TC-326T Cool Runner II share a lot of DNA, but the key difference is the dual cooling fans on the newer model. If you regularly work in sessions longer than an hour, the Cool Runner II is worth the small price difference for its superior heat management. If your sessions are shorter or budget is tight, the TC-40T remains an excellent choice that thousands of artists rely on daily.
Water Trap Effectiveness
The integrated water trap does a reasonable job of removing moisture from the air supply under typical conditions. On very humid days or during extremely long sessions, some users report minor moisture making it through to the airbrush. Adding an inline moisture trap downstream is a simple and inexpensive upgrade that resolves this completely for those working in challenging humidity conditions.
7. PointZero AIR-ELITE-125X – Affordable Tankless Entry Point
PointZero 1/5 HP Airbrush Compressor with Regulator, Gauge and Water Trap - Quiet Portable Air Pump Silver
- Affordable tankless option
- On-demand auto operation
- Oil-less for food and body art
- 1.0 CFM solid air delivery
- Includes 7 bonus e-books
- No tank means air pulsation
- 90 day limited warranty only
The PointZero AIR-ELITE-125X is the most affordable compressor in our lineup, and with 453 reviews and a 76 percent five-star rate, it has clearly found its audience. This is a tankless design, which means it trades the smooth air delivery of a tank compressor for extreme portability and a lower price point.
The 1/5 HP motor delivers 1.0 CFM of air flow through a precision-forged piston, which is solid output for a unit at this price. The on-demand operation automatically turns on at 40 PSI and off at 58 PSI, which saves energy and reduces noise during pauses in your work.
At 55 decibels, it is slightly louder than the tank models but still quiet enough for most home studios. The oil-less design makes it safe for food decorating and body or nail art applications where contamination is a concern. PointZero also includes seven bonus airbrush guide e-books, which is a thoughtful addition for beginners just starting their airbrushing journey.
The main trade-off with any tankless compressor is air pulsation. Without a tank to buffer the air delivery, you will feel subtle pulses in your spray pattern, especially at lower pressures. For broad coverage work this is barely noticeable, but for ultra-fine detail work it can be frustrating. The 90-day limited warranty is also shorter than most competitors offer.
Tankless Reality Check
Tankless compressors have real advantages: they are lighter, cheaper, and simpler to maintain with fewer components that can fail. But the absence of a tank means the motor runs whenever you are spraying, which increases wear and creates those subtle pressure pulses. If you primarily do base coating, broad coverage, or casual hobby work, the AIR-ELITE-125X serves those needs well at an unbeatable price.
On-Demand Operation Benefits
The auto on-off system is genuinely useful for extending motor life and reducing noise. Instead of running constantly, the compressor only activates when you press the airbrush trigger and pressure drops below 40 PSI. This means during color changes, cleaning, and other pauses, the motor rests quietly. For intermittent work patterns common in hobby painting, this feature adds real practical value.
8. Iwata Ninja Jet IS 35 – Ultra-Portable Maintenance-Free Option
- Zero maintenance oil-less piston
- Ultra compact and portable
- Built-in airbrush holder
- Includes adaptors for multiple brands
- 5 year limited warranty
- Only 15 PSI maximum pressure
- 62 dB louder than tank models
The Iwata Ninja Jet is the most compact compressor in our lineup, designed for artists who prioritize portability above all else. With 294 reviews and a 76 percent five-star rate, it has earned a loyal following among travel artists, convention painters, and hobbyists with limited workspace. The zero-maintenance oil-less piston design means you never think about upkeep.
This is a tankless unit that delivers up to 15 PSI, which positions it firmly in the detail work and light coverage category. Iwata includes adaptors for Badger, Aztek, and Paasche airbrushes, giving you cross-brand flexibility that adds real value. The built-in airbrush holder and carrying handle make this the most grab-and-go friendly compressor we tested.
The 5-year limited warranty is the longest in our lineup by a significant margin, reflecting Iwata’s confidence in the build quality. The metal cover provides protection during transport, and the high-strength polyurethane hose is durable enough for regular travel use. At just 8.65 by 6.18 by 2.25 inches, this unit fits in spaces no other compressor on our list can.
The trade-offs are clear and worth understanding before purchase. The 15 PSI maximum limits you to detail work and light coverage, ruling out thicker paints and sealant applications. At 62 decibels, it is louder than the tank compressors despite its small size. And being tankless, you will experience some air pulsation in your spray pattern.
Best Use Cases for a 15 PSI Compressor
Fifteen PSI covers a surprising range of applications when you understand its sweet spot. It excels at fine detail work on miniatures, illustration linework, makeup application, nail art, and any task requiring delicate, controlled spray patterns. What it cannot do is push thick acrylics, cover large areas quickly, or atomize heavier paints. Match this compressor to detail-focused work and it will serve you well.
Warranty and Long-Term Ownership
The 5-year limited warranty is exceptional for this category and sets the Ninja Jet apart from every other compressor on our list. Combined with the maintenance-free oil-less design, this means years of use with essentially zero upkeep cost. For artists who want a reliable secondary compressor for travel or a low-pressure detail setup, the Ninja Jet’s long-term value proposition is genuinely strong.
Buying Guide: How to Choose an Airbrush Compressor
Choosing the right airbrush compressor comes down to understanding four key specifications and matching them to your specific needs. Our team has broken down each factor below based on what actually matters in real-world use, not what manufacturers want you to focus on.
PSI: Understanding Pressure Requirements
PSI, or pounds per square inch, measures the pressure at which air is delivered to your airbrush. Most detail airbrushing work happens in the 15 to 30 PSI range, which covers miniature painting, illustration, nail art, and cake decorating. Thicker paints, broader coverage work, and sealant application require 40 PSI or higher. Always choose a compressor whose maximum PSI exceeds your typical working pressure by at least 20 percent, so the motor is not constantly straining at its limit.
CFM: Matching Air Volume to Your Airbrush
CFM, or cubic feet per minute, measures the volume of air the compressor can deliver. Detail airbrushes with fine nozzles need very little air volume, while broader coverage airbrushes with larger nozzles demand more. As a rule of thumb, look for at least 0.7 CFM for general airbrushing and 1.0 CFM or higher if you use multiple airbrushes or larger nozzle sizes. The Iwata Power Jet Pro leads our list at 1.2 CFM.
Tank vs Tankless: The Most Important Decision
A compressor with a tank stores pressurized air and delivers it smoothly, eliminating the pulsation that tankless units produce. This matters enormously for fine detail work where consistent spray patterns are essential. Tanks also allow the motor to cycle on and off rather than running constantly, which extends motor life. Tankless compressors are cheaper, lighter, and simpler, but they trade those advantages for less stable air delivery. For most artists serious about their work, we strongly recommend a tank.
Noise Level: Decibels That Matter
Noise is the single most common complaint in airbrush compressor forums. Anything under 50 decibels is apartment-friendly and comparable to a quiet conversation. The Master Airbrush and Paasche units in our lineup both run at 47 dB, which is among the quietest available. Above 60 decibels, like the Iwata Ninja Jet at 62 dB, extended sessions become fatiguing. If you work in shared spaces or late at night, prioritize noise level heavily in your decision.
Duty Cycle: How Long Can It Run
Duty cycle refers to how long a compressor can run continuously before needing to cool down. Compressors with cooling fans, like the Master Airbrush Cool Runner II with its dual fans, can run for much longer periods than fanless units. If you regularly work in sessions longer than 30 minutes, look for a compressor with active cooling. The 3-liter tanks on several of our picks also help by reducing how often the motor needs to run.
Oil-Free vs Oil-Lubricated Pumps
Every compressor on our list uses an oil-free piston design, and that is intentional. Oil-free compressors require zero maintenance and cannot contaminate your work with oil particles, which is essential for food decorating, body art, and any application where purity matters. Oil-lubricated compressors last longer and run quieter, but they require regular maintenance and pose contamination risks that most airbrush artists prefer to avoid entirely.
Essential Accessories to Budget For
Beyond the compressor itself, plan for a few accessories that improve your experience. An inline moisture trap is worth adding if your compressor’s built-in trap struggles in humid conditions. A braided air hose is more durable and flexible than standard vinyl tubing. Quick-disconnect fittings let you swap airbrushes without tools. And a pressure regulator with a gauge gives you precise control that built-in regulators sometimes lack.
FAQs
What is a good airbrush compressor for airbrushing?
A good airbrush compressor delivers consistent, pulse-free air at your required pressure and volume. For most artists, the Master Airbrush Cool Runner II TC-326T is an excellent choice because it combines a 3-liter tank, dual cooling fans, 47 dB quiet operation, and oil-free maintenance at a competitive price. It handles everything from miniature painting to illustration work reliably.
What compressor do professionals use for airbrushing?
Professionals typically use tank-equipped compressors from trusted brands like Iwata, Sparmax, and Paasche. The Iwata Power Jet Pro is a common studio choice for its 1.2 CFM output, moisture filter, and professional build quality. Many working artists also rely on the Sparmax TC series for daily use, with Reddit users reporting five-plus years of reliable service from these units.
How do I choose the right airbrush compressor?
Choose an airbrush compressor by matching four specs to your needs: PSI should exceed your working pressure by 20 percent, CFM should meet your airbrush nozzle requirements, a tank is strongly recommended for smooth air delivery, and noise level should be under 50 dB if you work in shared spaces. Also consider duty cycle for long sessions and whether you need oil-free operation for food or body art applications.
What is the difference between a piston and diaphragm compressor?
A piston compressor uses a reciprocating piston to compress air, delivering higher pressure and better durability for continuous use. A diaphragm compressor uses a flexible diaphragm and is typically quieter and more affordable but delivers lower pressure and volume. For most airbrushing applications, piston compressors are preferred because they handle longer duty cycles and maintain more consistent pressure under load.
How loud are professional airbrush compressors?
Professional airbrush compressors typically range from 47 to 62 decibels. The quietest models, like the Master Airbrush Cool Runner II and Paasche D3000R, operate at 47 dB, comparable to a quiet conversation. Tankless mini compressors like the Iwata Ninja Jet run louder at around 62 dB. For apartment or shared-space use, look for compressors rated at 50 dB or below.
Conclusion
Finding the best professional airbrush compressors in 2026 does not have to be overwhelming. If budget is no obstacle and you want studio-grade reliability, the Iwata Power Jet Pro is the clear choice. For the best balance of price and performance, the Master Airbrush Cool Runner II TC-326T delivers dual cooling fans and a 3-liter tank at an outstanding value. And for budget-conscious artists who still want a tank and overheat protection, the Timbertech ABPST08 is hard to beat.
Whatever you choose, prioritize a tank for smooth air delivery, look for noise levels under 50 decibels if you work in shared spaces, and make sure the PSI and CFM ratings match your airbrush and paint types. Invest in the right compressor once, and it will serve your art for years to come.