Building a model car that you are proud of can be an extremely rewarding, albeit challenging, task. Many hobbyists enjoy the painting and designing aspect the most out of the whole process. A good airbrush kit for model cars can either make or break the finished product of your creation. For that reason, you must use only quality products for your unique design!
What Does an Air Compressor Do for Airbrushing
A good air compressor is more critical than you may think for airbrushing. It is essentially what gives an airbrush its charm and quality. An air compressor provides the all-important airflow of the airbrush. You must get a good compressor to go with your model car airbrush kit if you want to make quality models and miniatures.
The airflow of the airbrush dictates how the paint is propelled out of the airbrush. A lousy compressor would spray the color everywhere, inconsistently, inaccurately, or it could even just make the paint leak out of the airbrush. You want a compressor that will shoot the paint out consistently, smoothly, and accurately to get every little detail on your model car perfectly. Don’t settle for less, and keep reading to see some great recommendations!
Best Model Car Airbrush Kit With Compressor
As previously mentioned, the best model car airbrush kit with a compressor needs to spread the pain in a consistently accurate way that is easy for the user. You never know when you will need to do more detailed work or when you want to cover something with paint quicker. Your airbrush has settings for that, but ultimately it is the compressor’s job to make it flow in a way that it is usable.
Too strong of a compressor will splatter paint everywhere, while if it’s too weak, it will just drip out. Your compressor and model car airbrush kit needs to be just right to make the best model car possible. Many people have trouble deciding what to look for in their products, especially with something complicated like a compressor. Do not worry, as this article will tell you all you need to know and look out for in a model car airbrush kit!
Here is a list of some of the best model car airbrush kits with compressors available online without further delay.
1. Master Airbrush Cool Runner II – Best Value Option
When it comes to the best model car airbrush kit with compressor, it’s hard to compare to the Master Airbrush Cool Runner II in terms of quality, value, and user-friendliness. This option is what you want to get if you want the most bang for your buck without compromising quality for your model car build. In truth, it would be difficult to find fault with this kit, and it is recommended to all hobby car builders around the world.
The Master Airbrush Cool Runner II is easy to pick up and use right away. It is intended to be used by professionals, beginners, and hobbyists alike. The quality of the product allows for it to be usable by anyone regardless of skill level. It runs on a powerful 1/5 hp single-piston compressor which you can use for any situation.
Inside the compressor are two large cooling fans designed to keep the compressor from getting hot while in use. It allows the user to continuously use the superior performance machine for long periods without worrying about it. Furthermore, it will ensure that the compressor components will stay in good condition longer, which makes the product more durable. The only thing lacking in this compressor is extra features such as mode switches and pressure control.
The kit comes with everything you need to start model car painting, such as paints and airbrushes. Overall, this airbrush kit and compressor will do the job you need it to do, and it will do it well. It has no noticeable flaws, and it is designed with user-friendliness in mind. It even comes complete with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and you can return the product if you are not completely happy with it.
Pros:
- User-friendly
- Professional grade
- Great value for the price
- Complete
- Perfect for all skill levels
Cons
- Lacks features
2. Master Airbrush Multi-Purpose Gold – Budget Option
If you want something relatively inexpensive while not compromising for something low-quality, then the Master Airbrush Multi-Purpose Gold airbrushing kit is the proper choice for you. It’s quite cheaper than the other options on this list while still maintaining professional-grade performance.
The Master Airbrush Multi-Purpose Gold makes use of a portable-mini compressor, which helps keep its price down. The mini compressor allows you to bring it wherever you need an airbrush. It’s lightweight and compact as well, so storing it in your bag or suitcase is no issue.
The compressor is quite handy with its automatic on/off the system. When using the airbrush, the compressor will “turn on.” When not in use, the compressor shuts off. It makes it incredibly convenient for whatever task, which is what this model car airbrush kit was designed to be.
This kit comes with Master Airbrush’s famous user-friendly airbrush pens. These airbrushes were designed with versatility in mind making them perfect for any task.
Overall, this model car airbrush kit with compressor is the most affordable option on this list, and it happens to be the most convenient and versatile as well. It is perfect for beginners and those just starting as it is extremely simple to use. If you are taking lessons, then this airbrush kit is for you as you can easily take it anywhere you go.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Professional grade
- Portable and convenient
- Extremely versatile
- Automatic on/off system
Cons:
- Weaker than full-sized airbrush compressors
- Lacks features
3. OPHIR Professional Airbrush Kit – High-Quality Option
The OPHIR professional airbrush kit is for model builders who are truly serious about their craft. It features high performance with an extremely powerful air compressor. This model car airbrush kit is perfect for advanced users and beginners alike with its user-friendly airbrush additions.
The compressor itself is a powerful 1/6 HP air compressor that features a large 3L tank. No matter what project you have, the power of this air compressor can more than handle it. It comes complete with an air filter moisture trap to prevent the insides from mold and other forms of water damage. The OPHIR professional air compressor tank also comes with a pressure regulator.
The greatest feature of this air compressor, however, is its amazing two-switch mode. You can switch between the modes depending on how much pressure you need and what tools you are using. The first switch is for the low-pressure mode that comes complete with an automatic on/off feature. This mode is what you will be using primarily with airbrushes. The second switch mode is for high-pressure use for tools that require higher pressure. If you want your model car airbrush kit to be able to do anything well, then this kit is the right one for you.
Pros:
- Professional grade
- Highest-quality
- Two-switch mode
- Automatic on/off system
- Powerful and durable
Cons:
- Pricey
- Not all model builders will make use of the high-pressure mode
4. VIVOHOME 110-120V – Best Features Option
The VIVOHOME 110-120V Professional Airbrushing Paint System is the most high-tech entry on this list. The features on this airbrush system would easily place it as the best model car airbrush kit with compressor available, if only it were more available. Model hobbyists around the world recognize this as one of the best you can get, and as such, they are hard to purchase.
They come with a powerful 1/5 HP compressor and a large 3L tank to accompany them. The oil-free pistons can deliver 23-25L of airflow per minute while staying quieter than most compressors.
The compressor is fitted with a dual-action design that saves paint while spraying it evenly through the airbrush. However, this airbrush system was designed for professionals and enthusiasts, so it may be a little difficult for beginners to use.
Topping off its features is its adjustable pressure with an air filter moisture trap. The airbrush system allows you to accurately regulate the airflow in an easy and convenient manner. It allows you to adjust the paint sprayed for whatever task you are performing. Furthermore, it comes with an automatic on/off system as well.
Pros:
- Professional grade
- High-quality
- Amazing features
- Powerful and durable
- Adjustable air-pressure
- Automatic on/off system
- Dual-action design
Cons:
- Low availability
Tips and Tricks to Make Your Compressor Last
Compressors are rather durable machines that can withstand a lot of use. However, that does not mean that you can just abuse them and hope they last long. Many manufacturers add care instructions for their items, so it would do you some good to follow what is written there.
In general, you want to keep your air compressor away from water as water damage will easily ruin the system. High-quality compressors can be used for long periods of time, but you should still give them ample rest. Furthermore, if you notice your compressor getting a little too hot, it is time for you to give it a break.
Depending on what projects you want to work on, the right compressor for you will differ. Research what you need and make an informed decision using the information placed in this guide!
