7+ best airbrush for Gunpla 2025: Smooth finishes and precision

If you are passionate about Gunpla (Gundam plastic models), you know that painting is where your model truly comes to life. The best airbrush for Gunpla can transform an ordinary kit into a stunning, professional display piece. At Japan Figure, we are dedicated to bringing you the finest tools from Japan, so you can achieve precision, smooth finishes, and vibrant colors in your builds.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned modeler, this guide will help you choose the perfect airbrush for your Gunpla projects.

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1. Why does a good airbrush for Gunpla make a difference in your builds?

A good airbrush is a game-changer for Gunpla hobbyists. Compared to hand painting or spray cans, airbrushes deliver a fine mist of paint, allowing you to layer colors evenly without brush strokes or blotches. This creates a smooth, factory-like finish that is almost impossible to achieve otherwise.

Airbrushes also allow for incredible detailing, from subtle shading on armor plates to realistic weathering effects that make your Gundam look like it just walked off the battlefield. In recent years, more builders have switched to airbrushing because of the precision, efficiency, and limitless customization it offers.

With the right airbrush, you are not just painting, you are elevating your entire Gunpla experience.

2. When should you choose an airbrush to customize your model?

While hand painting is affordable and spray cans are convenient, airbrushes shine when you want professional-quality results.

Airbrush painting vs. hand painting: Hand painting is great for small touch-ups or beginner projects, but it often leaves visible brush marks. Airbrushes deliver smoother coats, better color gradients, and consistent coverage across large surfaces.

When to go for an airbrush:

• For a professional, smooth finish
• When you want precise color control
• For high-detail Master Grade (MG) and Perfect Grade (PG) kits
• To go beyond basic builds with advanced techniques

If your goal is to make your Gunpla look like a collectible masterpiece, investing in a good airbrush is the right move.

3. Top 7+ best airbrush for Gunpla hobbyists approved

Before we dive into each product, remember that the “best” depends on your budget, skill level, and the type of builds you work on. Here are top 7 best Gundam airbrushes loved by modelers worldwide in 2025.

1. Iwata Eclipse HP CS Dual Action Airbrush Gun
2. Tamiya Airbrush System Series No.10 Spray Work
3. Iwata Neo CN Gravity- Feed Dual-Action Airbrush
4. WAVE Materials Ht161 Super Air Brush Advance 02 Air Brush
5. Tamiya Airbrush System No.37
6. Wave Super Airbrush Junior 2 Plastic Model
7. Tamiya Airbrush System No.39

3.1. Iwata Eclipse HP CS Dual Action Airbrush Gun

The Iwata Eclipse HP CS is a gold standard for many Gunpla builders. Its dual-action trigger lets you control both air and paint flow, offering unmatched precision for shading, panel lining, and base coating. The 0.35mm needle strikes a balance between detail work and wide coverage.

This airbrush is also known for its durability and easy maintenance, making it a great investment for serious hobbyists. Whether you are layering subtle gradients or applying bold color schemes, the Eclipse delivers consistently smooth results.

• Price: Around $150
• Needle size: 0.35mm
• Type: Dual action, gravity feed
• Key features: Precise control, easy to clean, durable construction

3.2. Tamiya Airbrush System Series No.10 Spray Work

Tamiya is a trusted name in model building, and the Series No.10 Spray Work lives up to its reputation. Designed specifically for plastic models, it offers excellent atomization, giving your paint coats a professional look.

This airbrush is ideal for beginners moving up from spray cans. Its ergonomic design makes it comfortable for long sessions, and it pairs well with Tamiya’s line of compressors.

• Price: Around $120
• Needle size: 0.3mm
• Type: Dual action
• Key features: Consistent spray pattern, beginner-friendly, works well with Tamiya paints

>>> Buy Tamiya Airbrush System Series No.10 Spray Work now

3.3. Iwata Neo CN Gravity-Feed Dual-Action Airbrush

The Iwata Neo CN is an excellent entry-level choice for those new to airbrushing. It’s affordable without compromising on quality, making it a popular first upgrade for Gunpla hobbyists.

With a 0.35mm needle and dual-action control, it can handle both fine details and broader coverage. The Neo CN is also compatible with low-pressure compressors, which is great for home setups.

• Price: Around $60
• Needle size: 0.35mm
• Type: Dual action, gravity feed
• Key features: Affordable, easy to learn, versatile performance

3.4. WAVE Materials Ht161 Super Air Brush Advance 02 Air Brush

WAVE’s Ht161 Super Air Brush Advance 02 is engineered for precision painting, making it a favorite among detail-oriented builders. Its smooth trigger action allows for effortless control over paint flow.

This airbrush is perfect for fine details like panel lining, weathering, and custom decals. While it may require more maintenance than beginner models, its results are worth it for intermediate to advanced hobbyists.

• Price: Around $140
• Needle size: 0.3mm
• Type: Dual action
• Key features: High-precision control, ideal for detailing, premium build quality

>>> Add WAVE Materials Ht161 Super Air Brush Advance 02 Air Brush to cart

3.5. Tamiya Airbrush System No.37

The Tamiya No.37 offers professional performance in a compact design. It’s particularly good for high-coverage base coats and metallic finishes, where even spray distribution is essential.

This model is favored by builders who want reliable performance with minimal clogging. It’s also a great match with Tamiya’s compressors, ensuring consistent air pressure.

• Price: Around $130
• Needle size: 0.3mm
• Type: Dual action
• Key features: Reliable, clog-resistant, even spray distribution

3.6. Wave Super Airbrush Junior 2 Plastic Model

If you’re on a budget but still want quality, the Wave Super Airbrush Junior 2 is a strong contender. It’s designed for beginners and casual hobbyists who want to experiment with airbrushing without spending too much.

While it may not have all the features of higher-end models, it handles base coats and simple gradients well.

• Price: Around $50
• Needle size: 0.3mm
• Type: Single action
• Key features: Affordable, lightweight, beginner-friendly

>>> Buy Wave Super Airbrush Junior 2 Plastic Model now

3.7. Tamiya Airbrush System No.39

The Tamiya No.39 is a professional-grade airbrush perfect for advanced Gunpla customization. It excels in applying ultra-fine layers of paint, making it ideal for realistic weathering and shading.

Its precision engineering ensures minimal overspray and maximum control, which is essential for working on intricate Gundam parts.

• Price: Around $160
• Needle size: 0.2mm
• Type: Dual action
• Key features: Ultra-fine detailing, professional build quality, minimal overspray

4. How to choose the best airbrush for Gunpla?

Choosing the right airbrush can feel overwhelming, but keeping these points in mind will help:

• Airbrush type: Single action is easier for beginners, double action offers more control for advanced work
• Needle size & spray control: Smaller needles (0.2–0.3mm) are best for detail work, larger needles (0.35–0.5mm) for base coating
• Air pressure & compressor compatibility: Ensure your airbrush works with your compressor’s PSI range
• Build quality & ease of cleaning: Stainless steel parts and accessible design make cleaning easier
• Budget & skill level: Start affordable if you are new, invest in higher-end models as your skills grow

The right choice will make painting easier, faster, and more enjoyable.

5. FAQs - People also ask about the best airbrush for Gunpla

Before wrapping up, here are answers to some common questions about airbrushing for Gunpla.

5.1. What airbrush for Gunpla?

For beginners, the Iwata Neo CN is a great choice. For professionals, the Iwata Eclipse HP CS offers superior control and durability.

5.2. What mask to wear while airbrushing?

Use a respirator mask rated for paint fumes and fine particles. This ensures you avoid inhaling harmful chemicals during long painting sessions.

5.3. Do you need to use primer for Gunpla airbrushing?

Yes, primer helps paint adhere better to plastic surfaces and improves durability. It also reveals imperfections before painting.

5.4. How to dilute paint for airbrushing?

Thin your paint to a milk-like consistency using the recommended thinner for your paint type. This prevents clogging and ensures smooth spraying.

5.5. What do I need to start airbrushing models?

You will need an airbrush, compressor, air hose, paint, primer, thinner, and cleaning tools. Safety gear like a respirator and gloves is also recommended.

Choosing the best airbrush for Gunpla is the key to unlocking your full creative potential. Whether you are after fine detailing or smooth base coats, the right tool can take your Gundam builds from simple to stunning.

At Japan Figure, we bring authentic, high-quality Japanese products straight to your workbench, so your Gunpla projects get the precision and finish they deserve. Start your airbrushing journey today and see the difference for yourself.