I just got one of these $70 airbrush and usb compressors for Christmas and I definitely recommend it if you live in an apartment building since they're a lot quieter than a full-sized compressor and now I don't have to take a rattle can and models out into the street while my neighbors shout "VANDAL!" or "NEEERD!" at me until I scurry away under a hail of thrown trash and stones.
I am thinking about it for similar reasons. Apartment building life and an autistic 5 year old who is sensitive to sound makes me hesitant to spring for an airbrush with a full tanked compressor. Plus if the compressor lasts and I can upgrade the brush over time all the better.
@@Cowgirlsteve26 The TH-cam channel Blackjack Legacy did a decibels comparison between the handheld/usb airbrush and a fully tanked compressor as well- they aren't silent, but they are for sure way more quiet than the full kit air compressor.
I am interested in the potential lifespan of this tool. Maybe in several months we could revisit this to see if it still holds up. To see if it still holds a 30ish psi or if it overheats more quickly.
Definitely seconded on this, we need an update after a few hundred models or something. However, based on the cost, if you go wear out this device any more slowly than you would go through a few cans of spray primer, then the value for money is unbeatable. I would imagine heat would be one of the primary issues affecting its longevity, and I wager you could slap a cheap heatsink somewhere on this sucker to mostly solve that problem.
I would be surprised if they last over a year. The Iwata and sparmax mini compressors for nail art usually last about a year and they are supposed to have better quality standards than a random chinese gadget. In the end if we factor in the replacement costs, it would be better to get from the get go a decent chinese oil compressor with a small tank. Im curious to see that little thing connected to an actual pressure gauge, cause I bet that it doesnt keep 30 psi stable pressure.
@@joek600 Tank compressors have their own downsides, though, with noise being a big one for some people, and space being another. So really we're comparing to the cost of what those folks would go to, which is rattle cans. If this outlasts 5-6 cans of primer, it's already a bargain. Jon demonstrated that in terms of operation it works fine.
ive had mine for close to 6 months now, previously the compressor was the major hinderance to using airbrushes, with this I have used it way more than i intended. well worth it.
My daughter and I are just starting to paint minis and learning the whole process together. As long as this thing doesn't break in like a week, it's definitely going to be a birthday present for her here in like 6 months when she's probably going to be ready to up her game.
I picked up that compact compressor last year at the start of lockdowns. I use it mostly for priming and I believe it works great for that purpose. It allows me to easily paint in my workspace without needing to go to the garage and I understood the value when winter came around and I could paint inside without too much of a mess. I also use a compact spray booth too. It removed my biggest excuse in my painting workflow which was getting outside to prime.
I’m on the same boat! Got a cheap airbrush and portable compressor for priming and varnishing last year. It’s a great alternative to priming with spray can.
Tankless compressors are really bad for doing anything besides just base coating a few minis at a time. If you're clairvoyant and so 100% positive that this is all you will ever do, those tankless compressors are fine. The problem is that if you ever decide you want to try to do more, you'll have to buy a new compressor and you're just throwing away the money you spent on the tankless one in the first place. Or more realistically, you'll try to just shoe horn your tankless compressor into a role it was never designed to serve while you try and learn and it will be super frustrating. You'll probably fail repeatedly and give up at this point. That's probably a much worse result than the alternative. If you really need something small and portable, check out something like the california air tools 1 gal tank compressor. It's pretty compact and comes built into it's own frame with integrated carrying handle. Comes in two form factors. CAT-1P1060S and CAT-1P1060P. They're basically the same machine, just rotated 90 degrees from each other. The 1060S looks a little more compact overall. From experience, one of these will produce a steady 45PSI and that's way more than you need for anything you want to do with miniature painting and can do basically everything you want for flat panel painting too. You would have to clear coat flat panel work with an airbrush instead of a spray gun but that's doable. Probably not good enough for t-shirts though. Something like that should really should keep you going unless and until you get really serious about airbrushing and, at that point, you're probably not really going to be too interested in the manufactured "airbrush" compressors anyways. People tend to either just use the shop air compressors with lots of power or salvage a refrigerator compressor and use that. Those can push hundreds of PSI and are really quiet.
@@ColonelSandersLite The items you listed are 30lbs and over $125. Neither portable nor cheap. For under $60 when there is an Amazon coupon, the battery-powered is fine for my use case, priming miniatures. That is my biggest barrier to getting miniatures painted as I only have limited time and space. No, it is probably not a good option for more detailed airbrushing but I believe for many like me, this works for what it is and I am not trying to make it more than a simple way to zenithal prime my miniatures. Because of work, family, etc., my painting often starts at midnight. Nobody wants to hear a loud noise at that time. I can sneak into the basement, prime a few miniatures and then go to bed which is often what I do. I do not believe that anyone thinks this is a great piece of kit, but it is convenient for priming or base coating. It is the same reason why sometimes it is just more convenient and cheaper to get a tool at Harbor Freight especially if it is something that will not be used often and you do not care if it breaks or if it gets lost. After a year + of use, it does exactly what I need and nothing more.
@@SamBalducci You can get the ones I mentioned for about a hundred if you watch for a deal. Just $40 more than the $60 you say. As for the weight, I consider 30 pounds to be pretty portable. I don't think I would want to try and put it on a bike and ride around town with it but just moving it around the hobby area or from the garage to the hobby area is fine. Anyways, like I said - tankless is fine right up until the point you want to try to go beyond just doing a simple base coat. If that's all you're ever going to do. It's a *good* option. The second you decide to do more though? You just wasted $60 to save $40. The harbor freight tool analogy isn't a good match. You see, a harbor freight impact driver will actually work as an impact driver. It will accept standard impact sockets, drive them, and impact. Sure, it may be flimsy and break if you use it too much but it will actually do the job right up until that happens. Those tankless air compressors though? They run constantly, will not let you pull a fine line worth a damn, and make the airbrush behave unpredictably. Learning with one of those is a lot like trying to learn how to draw with a pen that keeps cutting out. It can be done but It's *really* frustrating. And yeah, I know this from hard experience.
I have been using this for about 3 months and wanted to give an honest review here just incase any fellow gamers went looking for a review here. I use this airbrush for priming, zenithal highlighting and some blends on larger models and terrain, I haven't tried anything that I would call "Super delicate" work like some things Jon demonstrates in this video. My first note is that you will get MUCH better performance directly connecting the compressor to the airbrush, the air pressure from the hose was just extremely minimal (could be good for the aforementioned delicate work), I had better results with that configuration. I think this is a very solid option to get you going and is very versatile with alot of the situations I've considered using an airbrush in. Overall Im very happy with the $70 ive spent and I've learned alotin the last 3 months. If you do not have an airbrush and want to build up some experience before dumping $500 into a "legit" setup I highly recommend giving this a shot!
Sorry bro, that award goes to Ruins of Kunark. Seriously though: This looks like a really nice tool for the folks (like me) who were pretty scared to start. Thanks for sharing and testing it out, Jon!
Way back when, my first airbrush compressor was a badger tankless oilless diaphram type, similar to what you have. I had nothing but problems. With no tank to even out the flow you will get a pulsing spray pattern, especially noticeable on the finest lines. The quietest airbrush compressors are made with refridgerator motors, but they are pricey, and they still make some noise. Alternatively you can lease a tank of CO2 from a welding shop, but they are heavy to transport. I ended up using a cheap, very loud compressor, but putting it in my garage. I ran an airline and a remote switch, I can't hear it at all from the house.
These mini pumps are normally used in cosmetic service for painting nails. Some companies in China saw the potential and started rebranding (or even redesigning) them for hobby purposes. The one that is reviewed in this video is one of the latest designs.
If I'm interested in picking one of these up as just the compressor (so I can buy a nicer airbrush instead of paying for a cheap one it comes with), what would these things be called and where can I find them? I've been digging around on amazon for one of these things being sold as just the compressor, but literally all of them are in "kit" form and come with a cheapo airbrush I don't really want.
I bought one myself a couple of months back. After my first two sessions, I found that the compressor didn't stop unless I switched it off. I checked for leaks in valves but couldn't find any. Bear in mind, this was my first airbrush and may have damaged it without knowing. It still works well enough even with the compressor constantly running.
hey man just wanted to say you finally made me get an airbrush - and I got the same thing as on the video. You were right on everything: speed, quality...everything improved so fast and so easy to maintain. Thanks chief
I've got a great outdoor airbrush space, but right now it's -23 C. This looks like something I can use inside without having to have a large setup. I'm tempted.
Jon, I have a compressor similar to yours. I ended up buying an air tank upgrade kit from Aliexpress to convert the compressor from tankless to one with a tank. Having done so, the airflow I get now from the compressor is a lot more consistent.
As someone who's very limited on hobby space I can't say how awesome seeing something like this is. Been wanting to try airbrushing for a long time and this is what I needed to take the plunge.
I used one of these before upgrading to a tank since I had enough space to airbrush. It worked great for priming and base coats, but mine did have issues after about six months. It still works and I use it for spraying varnish outside in the summer, but the power button has become loose so it takes a bit of finagling to get it to turn on now. It's a super starter compressor though!
Another great video, Jon! Thanks for taking the time to put this together. Speaking of hobby desks there at the end, I selfishly have a video idea for you. “How to start designing your hobby space”. I’ve seen a few videos from a number of folks talking about this but a lot of them, obviously for good reason, have a purpose like getting a TH-cam set together. I like this videos and I like watching them but i have a hard time translating into a practical application for a pleeb such as myself. Just for thoughts, how you want to approach how much room you have to work with, where you should put your stuff especially if you have windows… etc. Including some recommendations on desks and storage ideas, where to put all your delicious paints, lighting ideas…etc. Or should I get into dojo and flesh out these questions more? Thanks again for being awesome!
The compressor is the main reason I never even thought about starting airbrushing. I do not have the space for it. But with this ... maybe I should give airbrushing a chance ^^ Thanks for reviewing this product Jon! But I would be reeeeeaaaally interested if you find any shortcomings with it in the coming weeks (overheating etc.).
Everyone has got the space for an airbrush compressor. heck even spray booths can be found that are the size of a dinner plate. Peoples preconceptions are generally their biggest obstacles
@@EnterTheFenix See, I always have to remind people who say "it doesn't take up that much space" that my hobby area is already overcrowded with a number of other things that "don't take up that much space", either. Your preconception is that everyone's hobby space is the same as yours.
@@devonwilson8306 I had to deal with that a lot, too. I haven't got room for all the stuff I already have, and there's definitely nowhere to put a compressor.
I honestly love your work, paints, vids, and podcasts! One day I hope to be as good of a mini painter as you and I can’t wait for the day that you decide to go for Golden Demon. Jon you are an inspiration and my personal hero! Slay that gray!
Just ordered this from the affiliate link, the weather is getting colder here and priming is more difficult so having a quick and decent way to prime and undercoat is worth the price alone. If you move quickly there is an additional 8% off at Amazon in the UK.
Stuck it on my wishlist, literally what I need as i have limited space and will really help. I have been hand priming recently as far too cold to spray can in UK at the minute ☹️
I’m looking for one that will ship to Luxembourg…seems like your video has them all sold out! :) great work dude, keep it up! As soon as they are back I’ll get it from your affiliate link 👍🏻
I’ve seen these around the Gunpla community, mostly because of the price and rather ease of use. They seem like a great first step in airbrushing. I could see picking one up if I need to do some quick highlighting or if I’m painting one mini. Great video and review of one of these kits!
The best accessory for any compressor is an air tank. The compressor tops-off the tank, and the tank supplies steady pressure. Your hose didn't compromise the performance because even the small volume worked a little like a tank to help even out the flow. But if you're replacing your compressor, Harbor Freight, and other hardware outlets, have good "pancake" job-site compressors for around $70. They are perfect for hobbyists.
@@boxdogminis I agree with the above. I have a rather large Porter Cable air compressor that I originally got for power tools which I ended up using for airbrushing (since that kept it a lot busier than sitting in the garage when I wasn't using my nailgun). Aside from the size (not too much of a problem because it sits under my table) it's much better than any of the "airbrush compressors" I've used. One big upside is the tank which allows you to run the motor temporarily, get a good amount of air and then paint in silence for a decent amount of time without the constant hum of a smaller tankless compressor. It can sit on the ground without issue because the compressor itself sits above the tank. I bought it at home depot and I think I just picked up some random air compressor accessories that had what I needed to connect to my airbrush... but I have a Paasche airbrush so for that I needed the standard power tool style "quick connect air hose" to 1/4" NPT adapter to plug the end of my tube into.
My partner bought me this for my birthday and I have to say I'm over the moon with it! I pared this with a "VIVOHOME" Portable Airbrush spray booth and it is perfect for an apartment and 100% portable setup. This is my first airbrush and I really feel like it is PERFECT as such. I'm learning fundamentals and yet still getting great results with the brush included. As you said in the future I can upgrade to a better brush and this one will still stay useful for priming and varnishing. If nothing else, this is amazing for people needing to prime indoors due to living in crazy hot and humid climates. Or place like the midwest where it is hot and humid in the summer and extremely cold in the winter. The paint booth can vent out a window or door, or you can make a box filter at the end of it and it works totally fine. One comment to note, this model does come with two plastic paint wells that can be swapped with the metal one, they feature more of a gradient at the bottom so this may be a good option for people who are bothered by the lip on the metal well.
This is great timing as I've been thinking of pulling the trigger (eh? EH?) on the MH airbrush for a minute now, but wasn't sure if I wanted to spend $240/+compressor. I've been using one of those handheld battery powered ones (not this one however) for base coating and priming for ~8 months and honestly it works pretty well. But now that I've gotten the swing of cleaning/caring for and using one, I'd like to up my game. I have the space but honestly I like the portability of the handheld unit, I'm certainly going to consider grabbing this one with the tubing.
Thank you. I watched this video at least four times and finally got one of these. I have ALWAYS wanted an airbrush but that compressor was the big hurdle. Been using this a ton, handed it off to my wife and she loves it too. We're making a seven foot volcano prop for Halloween and the compressor was in my pocket three to five hours as we painted the lava. Battery lasted that whole time, never got hot. Just used it for my first slap chop base coating and having a blast. So absolutely worth the seventy bucks.
I'm suprised your compressor lasted that long. Mine crapped the bed at around the 1 year mark. I invested in a California Air Tools tanked model from the 'quiet' series and have been loving it for a couple years now.
Just bought the same one Jon used in this video. Super surprised how well the compressor and brush combo worked. Was able to lay down nice primes and basecoats very well. Going to recommend this to my mech modeler friends!
5:33 you have the link to the quick disconnect? Or at least the make and model? I just got the YouFu and I'm happy with the included airbrush, but I'd like to use my current one as it has all the different needles. Thanks for this review. I had watched it months ago but only recently decided to give the compressor a try. yeah, it's already seeing work in my priming.
Just throwing this out there - I ordered the one from the UK Amazon link, it arrived and the pump didn't work at all. Fully charged it and the charging light confirmed this, however there was no light, no sound, no nothing coming from the pump, clearly faulty and is now "Currently Unavailable." I would purchase with caution.
I actually got gifted a similar portable airbush recently. It's awesome for letting me experiment and see if I like airbrushing (which it turns out I very much do). I fully expect I'll be upgrading my setup before long, but considering my one was pretty cheap (not that I paid for it), it's doing an alright job at getting my foot in the door.
I didn't have this brand, but I bought a similar one early last year. It was a fantastic purchase, and also came with an airbrush. It didn't last very long however. After just a few long sessions with it, it started getting very unreliable - no matter how much I cleaned it or took it apart, it would just sputter and clog within a minute or so. (long sessions being about 4 hours of just priming things, but spread a couple weeks apart.) So, I'd love to see you come back to this one in a month or two and just give an update on how it is holding up.
@@adamlee2550 far too many 😅. I think one of those sessions was a full 2k point marine army, and another was a ton of GSC stuff. But I also do it while something's on the tv, so I'd prime a bit, get distracted for a few minutes, prime some more, check my phone for a few, prime, etc.
I just picked one of these up bc of this video. Have stayed away from airbrushing for a long time and this was a great entry into it. So far I love it!
6:40 later in de video I can see some speckling after all (like at 9:21 with the blue ink already applied). Difficult to prevent if you use white ink undiluted. In some cases this doesn't matter, but in others like if you put a very transparant paint like an ink over the top, it can. I found the best way to avoid speckling is to thin it about 50/50 with airbrush thinner. Definitely worth a try! A higher PSI also helps, but not as much as the thinning.
Good advice! I found a nice trick to reduce speckling is to apply multiple coats, or a gray (or other intermediate) undercoat. There is some speckling here on the sword, but around the top it looks really smooth. Don't think it's the filter in this case, but just a bit of sloppiness on the blade (which is painted over with metallic anyway) as the Model was primed blue, which is still shining through.
This video is really helpful for people like me who wants to get into painting but constantly moves so I don’t want to get a big compressor and carry them every time! Love this, definitely getting ons
It would be great to see a follow-up. If this is legit, I would definitely get into airbrushing, as this is so convenient compared to a normal one for me. If you do make a follow-up, could you include buying tips, like what to look out for ect. You mentioning getting a version with a hose was a very good point.
I really like this and I might have to check it out. As someone who doesn't have a dedicated painting space (currently my kitchen table), I was wondering how I would ever make an airbrush work. But a portable until with a hose (I would make sure to get the one with the hose so I could upgrade my airbrush), I think this could work for me. Thanks for the review!
I'm still skeptical, but even though I _have_ a compressor, if that gadget works reliably it would be the perfect thing to use when I'm just working on one model and I've got my equipment put away in the garage and I don't want to drag it all out.
Cool! If this thing holds up long term, it takes care of one of the big hurdles to airbrushing! Now can we get airbrushing that also doesn't need a well-ventilated area?
If you're using acrylics, an open window is sufficient. I might recommend wearing a regular ol' mask (but in the last two years, you've got a bunch of those, don't you?) But a well-ventilated area is not really a requirement.
When you are applying a shadow from below its called a nadir shadow. We use the term zenithal highlight all the time, but I almost never see anyone referring to its opposite by name. Anyways awesome video!
I use these for my temporary tattoo booth, they're amazing. Fun tip: Get a manifold and you can use multiple at once if you need a bit more pressure, particularly useful when cleaning.
This has been the most useful single video around minipainting for me! The high initial investment and the big air compressor has kept me out of airbrushing. This wireless compressor is a total game changer. I ordered one and will try it out :).
John, I saw your compressor set up and as an engineer I can tell you that most likely you technically don’t need a new compressor but rather a tank to store the compressed air in. (In the end you might still end up buying a new one which has a tank already integrated with the compressor ;)) The tank is crucial for constant pressure output as the compressor will fill it up at a higher pressure than you require and the output of that tank will be regulated at the pressure you want to spray with. With this system, the jerks from the compressor you are currently facing will be eliminated completely ;) So don’t buy a compressor without a tank !
quick tip in regards to oil washing (also good for streaking grime). avoid cotton buds/q-tips or anything that can leave small fibres stuck to the paint. a better option would be to use eye shadow applicator sticks. they dont cost too much, do the same job and dont fall to bits. for larger surfaces, you can also use a micro-fibre/anti-static cloth, that you would normally use for cleaning screens.
Great video! I always stayed away from airbrushing because the cost of getting into it plus the amount of time spend on finding the perfect product for me was just off putting. This thing seems like the perfect thing for me since I only want to use an airbrush for base coating. Alas, it is not available in germany. Feelsbadman
I have a similar USB C compressor with closer to 20PSI output that I got used off eBay with a jacked up needle that I fixed with some sandpaper. I'm still new at using it. So I'm not yet great at cleaning it properly after use. When it's properly clean it handles Vallejo primer with a bit of alcohol to thin it acceptably well and lasts a long time. It's also super good for dusting things off instead of compressed air cans.
Airbrushing is such a game-changer, especially with regards to painting Warhammer armies of almost any kind. Being an army painter without an airbrush is just...madness :D If this little compressor gets more people to try airbrushing, that's awesome! Also - really cool result on that Lich king. Been thinking of buying this game (it's a bit pricier due to the license).
I just got one of these (well, one with a round compressor/handle) - It's AMAZING for: Laying down primer, base coat, and a then a zenithal base coat. Hand paint details, apply shade. Job done for Tabletop standard. WELL worth the money.
I have one of these hand-held compressor airbrushes, got it as I live in an apartment so a loud vibrating compressor and permanent painting booth is a non-starter. Mine is a very similar but not exact of the one shown (mine has a push on paint cap lid), I have been able to paint a nice load of models on a single charge with my off-on nooby painting speed I was able to paint for 2 hours or so between charges. (USB charging) As mine does not have a hose I do notice that the battery/compressor does become hot in the hand after constant use which doesnt get hot enough to be unholdable, but I think it gets the actual airbrush hot which really drys out / gums up paint flow. On the whole though I do love it, I only use it for undercoating, I'm no artist so I havent really tried to do anything fancy with it. For what I need its perfect.
So glad you made this video. I have been using mine (Autolock cordless Airbrush Kit, with high and low pressure settings) for a few months, with great success. My first airbrush in 30 years of painting minis! It's been a great way to learn this tool, starting with zenithal priming and working my way up to some detail work. Mine doesn't have the hose but the Master airbrush fits directly to it, giving me some options and ability to quick swap. Others have shown these in use with modeling and canvas painting and so far, it's performed well. It's been a very useful and cost effective tool for me. Speeding-up my process over a brush and providing me more control and consistency over a rattle can. Great to see a luminary in mini painting is finding these useful as well. :D
Oh my god THANK YOU! I've been wanting to start using an airbrush for a while now and any TH-cam videos I've found recommend stuff that costs like £150 and I just can't afford that. The one in this video is perfect so I can dip my toes into the world of airbrushing without spending lots of money
John needs a compressor with a tank :) Good review mate. Interesting solution for those with space issues. I'd be curious to know the sustainability of the battery regarding charge/recharge. Also, is there any kind of battery indicator on the battery? Would suck to be mid paint and the battery dies.
My son. The day you were "crafted", the very "paint bottles" whispered (spilled) the name Ninjon. My child. I watched you with pride, as you grew into an a weapon of compressive power!
I've never airbrushed before and I just started getting into miniatures. I think the size and price, as well as your review, convinced me to give this a shot.
I gotta say that im shocked that I, in a financial post apocalyptic wasteland called Greece, have better gear than a pro. These little compressors usually are fixed on your airbrush and basically turns it to single action. The one you have is of the very few that can accept a cord. The problem is that even these wont last very long before starting to provide inconsistent air pressure or die out. Generally air compressor without tank = pressure issues right away or down the line, because the motor never stops working. Some air compressors try to compensate by using the cord as a sort of air container. A decent chinese air compressor with a small tank comes around 130 euros and thats with a metric tone of taxes added in. Im sure that in US you can get a better deal. They are quite small and portable. They are not loud but they can be annoying to other people if you share the room. The answer to that are the Silent Compressors like those from Sil-Air. They are based on refrigeration compressors and combined with a tank they can be as silent as your average fridge. Those go from 300 to 500 euros. But the cool thing is that you can very easily make a DIY one if you recycle (or buy) a freezer compressor and a roof fire exstinguisher or a similar small tank. I made mine for less than 100 euros, it has a 14Lt tank that allows 45 min of continuous spraying before the motor kicks in and even then its just a refrigerator humming sound. Works perfectly for the last 6 years now.
After months of thinking about it, being too scared of the unknown, not really knowing where to start, I just bought my wife her first airbrush setup and items needed to get started thanks to your videos. I appreciate what you do, thank you!
Okay... If I could get my hands on this I would use it for mini painting. The whole "dedicated space" is a big issue for me since I live in a 3rd-floor apartment with NO space to airbrush. I don't even have a dedicated painting room. I paint in my kitchen on my old island. Cover it with a mat so I don't get paint on the table I eat on and yeah, that's my "dedicated painting area". My kitchen table. Also where I build terrain. And where I draw and write. I do have a balcony and I could take this little sucker out there and airbrush. Always wanted to use an airbrush for my terrain as well.
There are ones like this on Amazon. There are ones like this for body paint and face makeup that are meant to be portable and I think these have just been rebranded for models.
Haha So I am not the only one who paints at my kitchen table? 😂 But this little airbrush got me excited as I didn't know such things existed and it is pretty adorable too!
I have one that looks like a carbon copy of this airbrush set, but the branding is different. Different but just as weird. Anyhow my compressor unit can get very hot after about 30 minutes of almost constant use. Too hot to hold. Anyhow I can confirm that the little compressor is pushing out a steady airflow right until the last second when it runs out of battery and stops. Also @ninjon: i've been watching your channel for a while, and i have to say that I like your content the most of all the miniature painter youtubers. I can't quite put my finger on why, but your format clicks the most with me. Seeing what you are doing and listening to you narrating and explaining, i find it very useful! Keep up the good work!
Very cool! Ordered one. I have other airbrushes but lack the space for a permanent airbrush station and hate the setup/tear down every time I want to use it, when I really only use it to prime/varnish. Excited to see if this gets me using an airbrush more!
Jon, you’re really coming into your own on this one. I LOVE how the “gloves are off” and the sarcasm and attitude flow like the Mississippi in early May.
What a long way the hobby has come. I’f I’d ever imagined in the late 80s that an industrial airbrush ( which I used for art ) would become plug + play it would blow my tiny mind 💪🏻🤣 actually, thinking about this. This airbrush compressor is the equivalent of like say a guy who uses a Wacom ( 32 inch big boy one ) moving to an iPad Pro. Yeah the Wacom is Better. But a lot of the time you don’t want to go to the other room put the pc on & work in you giant 12k x 12k canvas. You just want to grab that iPad put Procreate on and bang one out, quick and dirty 👀 ( we’re still talking about art right? 🧐 yes! ) this is the airbrush you will actually use , cause it’s easy.
i got one of these some time ago for shits and giggles while i had a full airbrush set up already. ive been pushing these towards new gunpla builders, glad to see it here
I've been eyeing this model (or similar ones) for a while and mostly been on the fence... well you convinced me. Just pulled the trigger. Incidentally I did a double take when I saw the price though - you said 70$ but when I checked the Canadian Amazon link you provided I expected an increase due to the exchange rate (naturally) but it's a whopping 230 Canadian... which is MUCH higher. Ended up buying it from the US site (where it IS at 70 USD) and even counting exchange shipping and import comes up to 100 CAD. So fellow Canucks: go to the US site if you want to take the plunge ;)
Just ordered a portable airbrush first airbrush ever so pretty stoked to se how it works. Most boring part for me is Priming and (base coating by brush) the real fun starts for me when that is done. Hope it at least works or Priming,Base-coating and Varnishing , Rattle cans is not always an option for me due to weather being either to cold/humid or windy and the neighbors always look at me like im some weirdo 😆
definitely gonna get one of these. I'm a super casual painter, and all of my "stuff" is in my (computer, not miniature) office. I need to be portable; I want to grab a couple of drawers, take them elsewhere, and start painting. I've already ditched my light in favour of one a Cobalt Keep painting handle for this same reason. never though airbrushing would be possible as a result, but this definitely satisfies my criteria thanks for the video
Well you sold those out in the UK & USA, Canada and Australia just need to clear out the last few ;0) I'll be looking out for the restock Wife's a powered wheelchair user, nice days we drive out somewhere pretty, set her easel and paints up on the tail lift like it's a porch. I set up to detail and finish minis next to it - because! no airbrush! Now there will be! You did that Jon!
This is cool. Was considering an airbrush when I got into 3d printing, but was really dreading the whole big compressor thing. So nice to know this exists as an option.
I finally caved and picked one of these sets up, and it has been a rocky start. One of the issues was a near-constant dry tip and clogged nozzle, and thanks to the wisdom of my local game store it turns out that even with a 0.3 needle, 30~ psi is higher than ideal. The compressor and brush do not have pressure controls (nor did I expect them to, you get what you pay for) and the option to set a mechanical limit on the amount of paint that drains onto the needle does little to compensate. I also wasn't using proper paints to mitigate stronger airflow over the needle. I've been trying multiple paint brands and lines (Citadel air, contrast, using air caste thinner, using water, Ammo paints, AK paints, etc) thankfully Vallejo has a model air series of paints that have been working well. It took a really strong cleaner (Obscurium airbrush restorer) to clean out layers of clogs (yes, layers) but once the brush was clean and I loaded an appropriate paint into the cup I was airbrushing down paint to my heart's delight. Investing in a new line-up of paint is annoying (mostly limited practical storage options in my living space, I budget for Citadel/GW prices) but not a deal breaker. In the future, I intend to start with finding a lubricant for the needle to at least delay the time it takes to dry paint into clogs. Stepping up from lubricants, I'll take a shot in the dark and look for a way to restrict air between the compressor and brush. Eventually I'll bite the bullet and buy a dedicated compressor, and if I'm being truthful, is the most effective solution but I hate waiting for mail.
I got what looks to be that exact one with a different name on the box. After a little bit of tuning and getting used to it, I really like it. My first airbrush.
I got one of the ultra quiet makita air compressors. Doesn't get hot and you can air up your tires or run a nail gun. My one gallon tank one weighs 27lb and has a carry handle.
I actually picked up one these recently. They're really good for priming,it's great for that. Now,the bigger concern is what can go wrong with the compressor and the airbrush. I've seen people saying theirs fell apart after few days of usage and even some the compressors came apart while it people were using them. Paid about 89.99 Canadian for mine.
Ok so I've picked up one of these and something that I think is really important - it works MUCH better connected directly to the compressor without the hose. I tried first with the hose and it was pretty disappointing. Seems just fine though with the direct connection.
Love the channel. You helped me up my painting game greatly. From a foreigner living in China I can tell you they have handheld battery powered gadgets literally for everything and mostly of decent quality. BTW ‘you fu’ means ‘blessed’ (literally ‘having good fortune’).
Holy Mackaronis! You may have FINALLY convinced me to get an air brush! I've wanted one for a while for exactly this: quick priming and zenithol madness, but the compressor has been the biggest impediment. Thanks for the review!
Legend, I been looking at one of these for a while. The algorithm must have sensed it. And low and behold I must have missed this video. Thanks man you are a star
This is exactly the kind of thing I needed to pick up airbrushing. My friends are have been telling me to start airbrushing but I never had the space for an air compressor in my place, this might be just the thing I need
I had great experience with my air compressor sil-air 15 , bought used no problems at all of overheating or bad flow. And noise is close to nothing. Give a look to that model for your next air compressor.
I mostly wanted something mainly for smoother zenithal highlighting, than spray cans, but the effects you were able to pull on the Lich King's sword, Frostmourne, was damn impressive. I think I'm sold on this. Might attach it with Gaahleri airbrush in the future if I need something better, and keep the included brush for priming/varnishing
I have a very confined hobby space that is overflowing with a lot of stuff that individually "doesn't take up _that_ much space", so I have been reluctant start using an airbrush. And I've got no place to spray with a rattlecan either (I live in an apartment building, no basement, attic, garage or porch). So I picked up a couple of different models of "cordless" airbrushes and I've found them satisfactory for priming and basecoating (and varnishing if I'm willing to take it apart and gice it a deep cleaning after doing so). One of the airbrushes is really good (though the needle cap is vented around the sides so I can't easily block the nozzle for backflow). The other one is merely satisfactory. But I've got to say, it's allowed me to do stuff that I used to have to do with a brush, and get better results at the same time. Plus the primer is more durable _and_ thin when applied this way.
Great vid Jon you sir have earned your tendies. I just ordered one to help me keep my sanity while the wife and I are staying at the McDonald’s house keeping our future painter where she belongs. This should help scratch the itch while I’m away from home
I just got one of these $70 airbrush and usb compressors for Christmas and I definitely recommend it if you live in an apartment building since they're a lot quieter than a full-sized compressor and now I don't have to take a rattle can and models out into the street while my neighbors shout "VANDAL!" or "NEEERD!" at me until I scurry away under a hail of thrown trash and stones.
If it makes you feel any better, I can call you a nerd in your apartment if you'd like.
Wish I'd have done this before springing for a compressor and all the converters 😂
Thank you! I’m thinking about one for an introduction to airbrushing. I’m at college full time so the size and noise are definitely appealing
I am thinking about it for similar reasons. Apartment building life and an autistic 5 year old who is sensitive to sound makes me hesitant to spring for an airbrush with a full tanked compressor.
Plus if the compressor lasts and I can upgrade the brush over time all the better.
@@Cowgirlsteve26 The TH-cam channel Blackjack Legacy did a decibels comparison between the handheld/usb airbrush and a fully tanked compressor as well- they aren't silent, but they are for sure way more quiet than the full kit air compressor.
I am interested in the potential lifespan of this tool. Maybe in several months we could revisit this to see if it still holds up. To see if it still holds a 30ish psi or if it overheats more quickly.
Same here, that's my concern.
Definitely seconded on this, we need an update after a few hundred models or something. However, based on the cost, if you go wear out this device any more slowly than you would go through a few cans of spray primer, then the value for money is unbeatable. I would imagine heat would be one of the primary issues affecting its longevity, and I wager you could slap a cheap heatsink somewhere on this sucker to mostly solve that problem.
They make battery powered nailguns for cunstruction and those have lasted us a few months and still going strong.
I would be surprised if they last over a year. The Iwata and sparmax mini compressors for nail art usually last about a year and they are supposed to have better quality standards than a random chinese gadget. In the end if we factor in the replacement costs, it would be better to get from the get go a decent chinese oil compressor with a small tank. Im curious to see that little thing connected to an actual pressure gauge, cause I bet that it doesnt keep 30 psi stable pressure.
@@joek600 Tank compressors have their own downsides, though, with noise being a big one for some people, and space being another. So really we're comparing to the cost of what those folks would go to, which is rattle cans. If this outlasts 5-6 cans of primer, it's already a bargain. Jon demonstrated that in terms of operation it works fine.
ive had mine for close to 6 months now, previously the compressor was the major hinderance to using airbrushes, with this I have used it way more than i intended. well worth it.
Hey man its been sometime can you give us an update, how is your experience overall? thanks !
My daughter and I are just starting to paint minis and learning the whole process together. As long as this thing doesn't break in like a week, it's definitely going to be a birthday present for her here in like 6 months when she's probably going to be ready to up her game.
Three more months
Did you get it yet?
Did she like it
Did it broke ?
Can't leave us hanging like this bro.
I picked up that compact compressor last year at the start of lockdowns. I use it mostly for priming and I believe it works great for that purpose. It allows me to easily paint in my workspace without needing to go to the garage and I understood the value when winter came around and I could paint inside without too much of a mess. I also use a compact spray booth too. It removed my biggest excuse in my painting workflow which was getting outside to prime.
I’m on the same boat! Got a cheap airbrush and portable compressor for priming and varnishing last year. It’s a great alternative to priming with spray can.
Tankless compressors are really bad for doing anything besides just base coating a few minis at a time. If you're clairvoyant and so 100% positive that this is all you will ever do, those tankless compressors are fine. The problem is that if you ever decide you want to try to do more, you'll have to buy a new compressor and you're just throwing away the money you spent on the tankless one in the first place. Or more realistically, you'll try to just shoe horn your tankless compressor into a role it was never designed to serve while you try and learn and it will be super frustrating. You'll probably fail repeatedly and give up at this point. That's probably a much worse result than the alternative.
If you really need something small and portable, check out something like the california air tools 1 gal tank compressor. It's pretty compact and comes built into it's own frame with integrated carrying handle. Comes in two form factors. CAT-1P1060S and CAT-1P1060P. They're basically the same machine, just rotated 90 degrees from each other. The 1060S looks a little more compact overall. From experience, one of these will produce a steady 45PSI and that's way more than you need for anything you want to do with miniature painting and can do basically everything you want for flat panel painting too. You would have to clear coat flat panel work with an airbrush instead of a spray gun but that's doable. Probably not good enough for t-shirts though.
Something like that should really should keep you going unless and until you get really serious about airbrushing and, at that point, you're probably not really going to be too interested in the manufactured "airbrush" compressors anyways. People tend to either just use the shop air compressors with lots of power or salvage a refrigerator compressor and use that. Those can push hundreds of PSI and are really quiet.
@@ColonelSandersLite The items you listed are 30lbs and over $125. Neither portable nor cheap. For under $60 when there is an Amazon coupon, the battery-powered is fine for my use case, priming miniatures.
That is my biggest barrier to getting miniatures painted as I only have limited time and space.
No, it is probably not a good option for more detailed airbrushing but I believe for many like me, this works for what it is and I am not trying to make it more than a simple way to zenithal prime my miniatures.
Because of work, family, etc., my painting often starts at midnight. Nobody wants to hear a loud noise at that time. I can sneak into the basement, prime a few miniatures and then go to bed which is often what I do.
I do not believe that anyone thinks this is a great piece of kit, but it is convenient for priming or base coating.
It is the same reason why sometimes it is just more convenient and cheaper to get a tool at Harbor Freight especially if it is something that will not be used often and you do not care if it breaks or if it gets lost.
After a year + of use, it does exactly what I need and nothing more.
@@SamBalducci You can get the ones I mentioned for about a hundred if you watch for a deal. Just $40 more than the $60 you say. As for the weight, I consider 30 pounds to be pretty portable. I don't think I would want to try and put it on a bike and ride around town with it but just moving it around the hobby area or from the garage to the hobby area is fine.
Anyways, like I said - tankless is fine right up until the point you want to try to go beyond just doing a simple base coat. If that's all you're ever going to do. It's a *good* option.
The second you decide to do more though? You just wasted $60 to save $40.
The harbor freight tool analogy isn't a good match. You see, a harbor freight impact driver will actually work as an impact driver. It will accept standard impact sockets, drive them, and impact. Sure, it may be flimsy and break if you use it too much but it will actually do the job right up until that happens. Those tankless air compressors though? They run constantly, will not let you pull a fine line worth a damn, and make the airbrush behave unpredictably. Learning with one of those is a lot like trying to learn how to draw with a pen that keeps cutting out. It can be done but It's *really* frustrating. And yeah, I know this from hard experience.
@@ColonelSandersLite missing the point 🤦🏽♂️
I have been using this for about 3 months and wanted to give an honest review here just incase any fellow gamers went looking for a review here. I use this airbrush for priming, zenithal highlighting and some blends on larger models and terrain, I haven't tried anything that I would call "Super delicate" work like some things Jon demonstrates in this video. My first note is that you will get MUCH better performance directly connecting the compressor to the airbrush, the air pressure from the hose was just extremely minimal (could be good for the aforementioned delicate work), I had better results with that configuration. I think this is a very solid option to get you going and is very versatile with alot of the situations I've considered using an airbrush in. Overall Im very happy with the $70 ive spent and I've learned alotin the last 3 months. If you do not have an airbrush and want to build up some experience before dumping $500 into a "legit" setup I highly recommend giving this a shot!
$500? My airbrush and compressor cost ~ $200.
Sorry bro, that award goes to Ruins of Kunark. Seriously though: This looks like a really nice tool for the folks (like me) who were pretty scared to start. Thanks for sharing and testing it out, Jon!
How dare he insult the grandeur or the Iksar. Send him to the Field of Bone!
wtb fbss pst
Camp Check
Train to zone.
Way back when, my first airbrush compressor was a badger tankless oilless diaphram type, similar to what you have. I had nothing but problems. With no tank to even out the flow you will get a pulsing spray pattern, especially noticeable on the finest lines. The quietest airbrush compressors are made with refridgerator motors, but they are pricey, and they still make some noise. Alternatively you can lease a tank of CO2 from a welding shop, but they are heavy to transport. I ended up using a cheap, very loud compressor, but putting it in my garage. I ran an airline and a remote switch, I can't hear it at all from the house.
This was great Jon, I’d love to see a follow up where you can find it’s limits, like does it overheat after a certain amount of time etc
These mini pumps are normally used in cosmetic service for painting nails. Some companies in China saw the potential and started rebranding (or even redesigning) them for hobby purposes. The one that is reviewed in this video is one of the latest designs.
If I'm interested in picking one of these up as just the compressor (so I can buy a nicer airbrush instead of paying for a cheap one it comes with), what would these things be called and where can I find them? I've been digging around on amazon for one of these things being sold as just the compressor, but literally all of them are in "kit" form and come with a cheapo airbrush I don't really want.
I bought one myself a couple of months back. After my first two sessions, I found that the compressor didn't stop unless I switched it off. I checked for leaks in valves but couldn't find any. Bear in mind, this was my first airbrush and may have damaged it without knowing. It still works well enough even with the compressor constantly running.
hey man just wanted to say you finally made me get an airbrush - and I got the same thing as on the video. You were right on everything: speed, quality...everything improved so fast and so easy to maintain. Thanks chief
This is exactly the sort of thing I needed to find out about to finally get in to airbrushing. Thank you, Sir!
I've got a great outdoor airbrush space, but right now it's -23 C. This looks like something I can use inside without having to have a large setup. I'm tempted.
Jon, I have a compressor similar to yours. I ended up buying an air tank upgrade kit from Aliexpress to convert the compressor from tankless to one with a tank. Having done so, the airflow I get now from the compressor is a lot more consistent.
This, I did a lot of research when getting mine and tanked air compressors just offer so much more performance for such a small upgrade cost.
How do you search for that? I failed several times
As someone who's very limited on hobby space I can't say how awesome seeing something like this is. Been wanting to try airbrushing for a long time and this is what I needed to take the plunge.
Wow. I was just doing some research on airbrushes, so this is convenient advice! Picked it up through your UK link - thanks, man!
I used one of these before upgrading to a tank since I had enough space to airbrush. It worked great for priming and base coats, but mine did have issues after about six months. It still works and I use it for spraying varnish outside in the summer, but the power button has become loose so it takes a bit of finagling to get it to turn on now. It's a super starter compressor though!
Invest in a compressor with a tank when you replace it, you'll never have pulsing problems like that again
Another great video, Jon! Thanks for taking the time to put this together.
Speaking of hobby desks there at the end, I selfishly have a video idea for you. “How to start designing your hobby space”. I’ve seen a few videos from a number of folks talking about this but a lot of them, obviously for good reason, have a purpose like getting a TH-cam set together. I like this videos and I like watching them but i have a hard time translating into a practical application for a pleeb such as myself.
Just for thoughts, how you want to approach how much room you have to work with, where you should put your stuff especially if you have windows… etc. Including some recommendations on desks and storage ideas, where to put all your delicious paints, lighting ideas…etc.
Or should I get into dojo and flesh out these questions more?
Thanks again for being awesome!
The compressor is the main reason I never even thought about starting airbrushing.
I do not have the space for it. But with this ... maybe I should give airbrushing a chance ^^
Thanks for reviewing this product Jon!
But I would be reeeeeaaaally interested if you find any shortcomings with it in the coming weeks (overheating etc.).
Everyone has got the space for an airbrush compressor. heck even spray booths can be found that are the size of a dinner plate. Peoples preconceptions are generally their biggest obstacles
@@EnterTheFenix cool, glad you came into my apartment to figure out where I can put one that wouldn't be an inconvenience, thanks.
@@EnterTheFenix See, I always have to remind people who say "it doesn't take up that much space" that my hobby area is already overcrowded with a number of other things that "don't take up that much space", either. Your preconception is that everyone's hobby space is the same as yours.
@@devonwilson8306 I had to deal with that a lot, too. I haven't got room for all the stuff I already have, and there's definitely nowhere to put a compressor.
I honestly love your work, paints, vids, and podcasts! One day I hope to be as good of a mini painter as you and I can’t wait for the day that you decide to go for Golden Demon. Jon you are an inspiration and my personal hero! Slay that gray!
Just ordered this from the affiliate link, the weather is getting colder here and priming is more difficult so having a quick and decent way to prime and undercoat is worth the price alone. If you move quickly there is an additional 8% off at Amazon in the UK.
Thanks for the support, friend!
Likewise! Only 7 left in stock now!
All gone now.
Stuck it on my wishlist, literally what I need as i have limited space and will really help. I have been hand priming recently as far too cold to spray can in UK at the minute ☹️
I’m looking for one that will ship to Luxembourg…seems like your video has them all sold out! :) great work dude, keep it up! As soon as they are back I’ll get it from your affiliate link 👍🏻
I’ve seen these around the Gunpla community, mostly because of the price and rather ease of use. They seem like a great first step in airbrushing.
I could see picking one up if I need to do some quick highlighting or if I’m painting one mini.
Great video and review of one of these kits!
The best accessory for any compressor is an air tank. The compressor tops-off the tank, and the tank supplies steady pressure. Your hose didn't compromise the performance because even the small volume worked a little like a tank to help even out the flow. But if you're replacing your compressor, Harbor Freight, and other hardware outlets, have good "pancake" job-site compressors for around $70. They are perfect for hobbyists.
Any specific recommendations on these? Or advice on the correct attachment accessories?
@@boxdogminis I agree with the above. I have a rather large Porter Cable air compressor that I originally got for power tools which I ended up using for airbrushing (since that kept it a lot busier than sitting in the garage when I wasn't using my nailgun). Aside from the size (not too much of a problem because it sits under my table) it's much better than any of the "airbrush compressors" I've used. One big upside is the tank which allows you to run the motor temporarily, get a good amount of air and then paint in silence for a decent amount of time without the constant hum of a smaller tankless compressor. It can sit on the ground without issue because the compressor itself sits above the tank. I bought it at home depot and I think I just picked up some random air compressor accessories that had what I needed to connect to my airbrush... but I have a Paasche airbrush so for that I needed the standard power tool style "quick connect air hose" to 1/4" NPT adapter to plug the end of my tube into.
only downside is they are LOUD
@@mastafoo886 Yes, the cheaper ones are noisy. Search for "Quiet Air Compressor" About $125 and up. Choose one with a tank and good customer reviews.
My partner bought me this for my birthday and I have to say I'm over the moon with it! I pared this with a "VIVOHOME" Portable Airbrush spray booth and it is perfect for an apartment and 100% portable setup. This is my first airbrush and I really feel like it is PERFECT as such. I'm learning fundamentals and yet still getting great results with the brush included. As you said in the future I can upgrade to a better brush and this one will still stay useful for priming and varnishing.
If nothing else, this is amazing for people needing to prime indoors due to living in crazy hot and humid climates. Or place like the midwest where it is hot and humid in the summer and extremely cold in the winter. The paint booth can vent out a window or door, or you can make a box filter at the end of it and it works totally fine.
One comment to note, this model does come with two plastic paint wells that can be swapped with the metal one, they feature more of a gradient at the bottom so this may be a good option for people who are bothered by the lip on the metal well.
This is great timing as I've been thinking of pulling the trigger (eh? EH?) on the MH airbrush for a minute now, but wasn't sure if I wanted to spend $240/+compressor. I've been using one of those handheld battery powered ones (not this one however) for base coating and priming for ~8 months and honestly it works pretty well. But now that I've gotten the swing of cleaning/caring for and using one, I'd like to up my game. I have the space but honestly I like the portability of the handheld unit, I'm certainly going to consider grabbing this one with the tubing.
Thank you. I watched this video at least four times and finally got one of these. I have ALWAYS wanted an airbrush but that compressor was the big hurdle. Been using this a ton, handed it off to my wife and she loves it too. We're making a seven foot volcano prop for Halloween and the compressor was in my pocket three to five hours as we painted the lava. Battery lasted that whole time, never got hot. Just used it for my first slap chop base coating and having a blast. So absolutely worth the seventy bucks.
I'm suprised your compressor lasted that long. Mine crapped the bed at around the 1 year mark. I invested in a California Air Tools tanked model from the 'quiet' series and have been loving it for a couple years now.
Thanks highlighting this! Ordering one soon. Space was my main factor in not getting an airbrush, and this solves that issue.
have been waiting for a good review of these types of airbrushes. So glad it's coming from you, Ninjon!
Just bought the same one Jon used in this video. Super surprised how well the compressor and brush combo worked. Was able to lay down nice primes and basecoats very well. Going to recommend this to my mech modeler friends!
I'd love to see a long-term review of this thing; come back to it in, say, six months of use and see if it's still holding up well.
5:33 you have the link to the quick disconnect? Or at least the make and model? I just got the YouFu and I'm happy with the included airbrush, but I'd like to use my current one as it has all the different needles. Thanks for this review. I had watched it months ago but only recently decided to give the compressor a try. yeah, it's already seeing work in my priming.
Just throwing this out there - I ordered the one from the UK Amazon link, it arrived and the pump didn't work at all. Fully charged it and the charging light confirmed this, however there was no light, no sound, no nothing coming from the pump, clearly faulty and is now "Currently Unavailable." I would purchase with caution.
I actually got gifted a similar portable airbush recently. It's awesome for letting me experiment and see if I like airbrushing (which it turns out I very much do). I fully expect I'll be upgrading my setup before long, but considering my one was pretty cheap (not that I paid for it), it's doing an alright job at getting my foot in the door.
I didn't have this brand, but I bought a similar one early last year. It was a fantastic purchase, and also came with an airbrush. It didn't last very long however. After just a few long sessions with it, it started getting very unreliable - no matter how much I cleaned it or took it apart, it would just sputter and clog within a minute or so. (long sessions being about 4 hours of just priming things, but spread a couple weeks apart.)
So, I'd love to see you come back to this one in a month or two and just give an update on how it is holding up.
4 hours of priming?
How many minis are you buying?
@@adamlee2550 far too many 😅. I think one of those sessions was a full 2k point marine army, and another was a ton of GSC stuff.
But I also do it while something's on the tv, so I'd prime a bit, get distracted for a few minutes, prime some more, check my phone for a few, prime, etc.
I just picked one of these up bc of this video. Have stayed away from airbrushing for a long time and this was a great entry into it. So far I love it!
6:40 later in de video I can see some speckling after all (like at 9:21 with the blue ink already applied). Difficult to prevent if you use white ink undiluted. In some cases this doesn't matter, but in others like if you put a very transparant paint like an ink over the top, it can. I found the best way to avoid speckling is to thin it about 50/50 with airbrush thinner. Definitely worth a try!
A higher PSI also helps, but not as much as the thinning.
Good advice! I found a nice trick to reduce speckling is to apply multiple coats, or a gray (or other intermediate) undercoat. There is some speckling here on the sword, but around the top it looks really smooth. Don't think it's the filter in this case, but just a bit of sloppiness on the blade (which is painted over with metallic anyway) as the Model was primed blue, which is still shining through.
This video is really helpful for people like me who wants to get into painting but constantly moves so I don’t want to get a big compressor and carry them every time! Love this, definitely getting ons
It would be great to see a follow-up. If this is legit, I would definitely get into airbrushing, as this is so convenient compared to a normal one for me. If you do make a follow-up, could you include buying tips, like what to look out for ect. You mentioning getting a version with a hose was a very good point.
Love the purple shadows! Really adds to the feel of the Artwork.
I really like this and I might have to check it out. As someone who doesn't have a dedicated painting space (currently my kitchen table), I was wondering how I would ever make an airbrush work. But a portable until with a hose (I would make sure to get the one with the hose so I could upgrade my airbrush), I think this could work for me. Thanks for the review!
Saaaaaame! This could be a game changer!
I'm still skeptical, but even though I _have_ a compressor, if that gadget works reliably it would be the perfect thing to use when I'm just working on one model and I've got my equipment put away in the garage and I don't want to drag it all out.
Cool! If this thing holds up long term, it takes care of one of the big hurdles to airbrushing! Now can we get airbrushing that also doesn't need a well-ventilated area?
If you're using acrylics, an open window is sufficient. I might recommend wearing a regular ol' mask (but in the last two years, you've got a bunch of those, don't you?) But a well-ventilated area is not really a requirement.
When you are applying a shadow from below its called a nadir shadow. We use the term zenithal highlight all the time, but I almost never see anyone referring to its opposite by name.
Anyways awesome video!
interesting. thank you
Marco Frisoni calls it Genital Highlight, which is much more fun though
I use these for my temporary tattoo booth, they're amazing. Fun tip: Get a manifold and you can use multiple at once if you need a bit more pressure, particularly useful when cleaning.
This has been the most useful single video around minipainting for me! The high initial investment and the big air compressor has kept me out of airbrushing. This wireless compressor is a total game changer. I ordered one and will try it out :).
how did you like it?
Love it! Lots of folks tell me they can't make a dedicated space or the noise of the compressor is too much. This product should help tremendously.
John, I saw your compressor set up and as an engineer I can tell you that most likely you technically don’t need a new compressor but rather a tank to store the compressed air in. (In the end you might still end up buying a new one which has a tank already integrated with the compressor ;))
The tank is crucial for constant pressure output as the compressor will fill it up at a higher pressure than you require and the output of that tank will be regulated at the pressure you want to spray with.
With this system, the jerks from the compressor you are currently facing will be eliminated completely ;)
So don’t buy a compressor without a tank !
Ayy I may not be an engineer but that was also my first thought. He needs a tank and a quality regulator.
And, a water trap... between the tank and brush.
quick tip in regards to oil washing (also good for streaking grime). avoid cotton buds/q-tips or anything that can leave small fibres stuck to the paint. a better option would be to use eye shadow applicator sticks. they dont cost too much, do the same job and dont fall to bits.
for larger surfaces, you can also use a micro-fibre/anti-static cloth, that you would normally use for cleaning screens.
Great video! I always stayed away from airbrushing because the cost of getting into it plus the amount of time spend on finding the perfect product for me was just off putting. This thing seems like the perfect thing for me since I only want to use an airbrush for base coating.
Alas, it is not available in germany. Feelsbadman
I have a similar USB C compressor with closer to 20PSI output that I got used off eBay with a jacked up needle that I fixed with some sandpaper. I'm still new at using it. So I'm not yet great at cleaning it properly after use. When it's properly clean it handles Vallejo primer with a bit of alcohol to thin it acceptably well and lasts a long time. It's also super good for dusting things off instead of compressed air cans.
Airbrushing is such a game-changer, especially with regards to painting Warhammer armies of almost any kind. Being an army painter without an airbrush is just...madness :D If this little compressor gets more people to try airbrushing, that's awesome! Also - really cool result on that Lich king. Been thinking of buying this game (it's a bit pricier due to the license).
I just got one of these (well, one with a round compressor/handle) - It's AMAZING for: Laying down primer, base coat, and a then a zenithal base coat. Hand paint details, apply shade. Job done for Tabletop standard. WELL worth the money.
I have one of these hand-held compressor airbrushes, got it as I live in an apartment so a loud vibrating compressor and permanent painting booth is a non-starter.
Mine is a very similar but not exact of the one shown (mine has a push on paint cap lid), I have been able to paint a nice load of models on a single charge with my off-on nooby painting speed I was able to paint for 2 hours or so between charges. (USB charging)
As mine does not have a hose I do notice that the battery/compressor does become hot in the hand after constant use which doesnt get hot enough to be unholdable, but I think it gets the actual airbrush hot which really drys out / gums up paint flow.
On the whole though I do love it, I only use it for undercoating, I'm no artist so I havent really tried to do anything fancy with it. For what I need its perfect.
So glad you made this video. I have been using mine (Autolock cordless Airbrush Kit, with high and low pressure settings) for a few months, with great success. My first airbrush in 30 years of painting minis! It's been a great way to learn this tool, starting with zenithal priming and working my way up to some detail work. Mine doesn't have the hose but the Master airbrush fits directly to it, giving me some options and ability to quick swap. Others have shown these in use with modeling and canvas painting and so far, it's performed well. It's been a very useful and cost effective tool for me. Speeding-up my process over a brush and providing me more control and consistency over a rattle can. Great to see a luminary in mini painting is finding these useful as well. :D
I've not owned an airbrush before, and I'm sold. I'll use your affiliate link :)
Just watched one of your videos while searching at this, did not expect to see you here.
How is the airbrush? Does it still work or were there issues after a few months?
Oh my god THANK YOU!
I've been wanting to start using an airbrush for a while now and any TH-cam videos I've found recommend stuff that costs like £150 and I just can't afford that. The one in this video is perfect so I can dip my toes into the world of airbrushing without spending lots of money
John needs a compressor with a tank :) Good review mate. Interesting solution for those with space issues. I'd be curious to know the sustainability of the battery regarding charge/recharge. Also, is there any kind of battery indicator on the battery? Would suck to be mid paint and the battery dies.
This is exactly what ive been waiting on to start airbrushing since i have limited hobby space. Im definitely picking one up
My son. The day you were "crafted", the very "paint bottles" whispered (spilled) the name Ninjon. My child. I watched you with pride, as you grew into an a weapon of compressive power!
I've never airbrushed before and I just started getting into miniatures. I think the size and price, as well as your review, convinced me to give this a shot.
I gotta say that im shocked that I, in a financial post apocalyptic wasteland called Greece, have better gear than a pro. These little compressors usually are fixed on your airbrush and basically turns it to single action. The one you have is of the very few that can accept a cord. The problem is that even these wont last very long before starting to provide inconsistent air pressure or die out.
Generally air compressor without tank = pressure issues right away or down the line, because the motor never stops working. Some air compressors try to compensate by using the cord as a sort of air container.
A decent chinese air compressor with a small tank comes around 130 euros and thats with a metric tone of taxes added in. Im sure that in US you can get a better deal. They are quite small and portable. They are not loud but they can be annoying to other people if you share the room. The answer to that are the Silent Compressors like those from Sil-Air. They are based on refrigeration compressors and combined with a tank they can be as silent as your average fridge. Those go from 300 to 500 euros. But the cool thing is that you can very easily make a DIY one if you recycle (or buy) a freezer compressor and a roof fire exstinguisher or a similar small tank. I made mine for less than 100 euros, it has a 14Lt tank that allows 45 min of continuous spraying before the motor kicks in and even then its just a refrigerator humming sound. Works perfectly for the last 6 years now.
After months of thinking about it, being too scared of the unknown, not really knowing where to start, I just bought my wife her first airbrush setup and items needed to get started thanks to your videos. I appreciate what you do, thank you!
Okay... If I could get my hands on this I would use it for mini painting. The whole "dedicated space" is a big issue for me since I live in a 3rd-floor apartment with NO space to airbrush. I don't even have a dedicated painting room. I paint in my kitchen on my old island. Cover it with a mat so I don't get paint on the table I eat on and yeah, that's my "dedicated painting area". My kitchen table. Also where I build terrain. And where I draw and write. I do have a balcony and I could take this little sucker out there and airbrush. Always wanted to use an airbrush for my terrain as well.
There are ones like this on Amazon. There are ones like this for body paint and face makeup that are meant to be portable and I think these have just been rebranded for models.
Haha So I am not the only one who paints at my kitchen table? 😂
But this little airbrush got me excited as I didn't know such things existed and it is pretty adorable too!
I just recently got an airbrush, it's pretty fun to play around with!
I have one that looks like a carbon copy of this airbrush set, but the branding is different. Different but just as weird.
Anyhow my compressor unit can get very hot after about 30 minutes of almost constant use. Too hot to hold.
Anyhow I can confirm that the little compressor is pushing out a steady airflow right until the last second when it runs out of battery and stops.
Also @ninjon:
i've been watching your channel for a while, and i have to say that I like your content the most of all the miniature painter youtubers. I can't quite put my finger on why, but your format clicks the most with me. Seeing what you are doing and listening to you narrating and explaining, i find it very useful! Keep up the good work!
Thanks for the kind words Atilla, glad to have you here!
Very cool! Ordered one. I have other airbrushes but lack the space for a permanent airbrush station and hate the setup/tear down every time I want to use it, when I really only use it to prime/varnish. Excited to see if this gets me using an airbrush more!
Jon, you’re really coming into your own on this one. I LOVE how the “gloves are off” and the sarcasm and attitude flow like the Mississippi in early May.
Switched to one of these a few years ago (different off brand) and still use it to this day, works great for me!
What a long way the hobby has come. I’f I’d ever imagined in the late 80s that an industrial airbrush ( which I used for art ) would become plug + play it would blow my tiny mind 💪🏻🤣 actually, thinking about this. This airbrush compressor is the equivalent of like say a guy who uses a Wacom ( 32 inch big boy one ) moving to an iPad Pro. Yeah the Wacom is Better. But a lot of the time you don’t want to go to the other room put the pc on & work in you giant 12k x 12k canvas. You just want to grab that iPad put Procreate on and bang one out, quick and dirty 👀 ( we’re still talking about art right? 🧐 yes! ) this is the airbrush you will actually use , cause it’s easy.
That's just a great analogy haha. Still dreaming of a Cintiq haha.
As someone who had a Cintiq and got rid of it because of my ipad...This is the best analogy ever lol.
i got one of these some time ago for shits and giggles while i had a full airbrush set up already. ive been pushing these towards new gunpla builders, glad to see it here
I've been eyeing this model (or similar ones) for a while and mostly been on the fence... well you convinced me. Just pulled the trigger.
Incidentally I did a double take when I saw the price though - you said 70$ but when I checked the Canadian Amazon link you provided I expected an increase due to the exchange rate (naturally) but it's a whopping 230 Canadian... which is MUCH higher. Ended up buying it from the US site (where it IS at 70 USD) and even counting exchange shipping and import comes up to 100 CAD. So fellow Canucks: go to the US site if you want to take the plunge ;)
They are out of stock. Damn Ninjon and his endorsement!
Just ordered a portable airbrush first airbrush ever so pretty stoked to se how it works.
Most boring part for me is Priming and (base coating by brush) the real fun starts for me when that is done.
Hope it at least works or Priming,Base-coating and Varnishing ,
Rattle cans is not always an option for me due to weather being either to cold/humid or windy and the neighbors always look at me like im some weirdo 😆
Ooof, "tankless compressor"... jesus dude
definitely gonna get one of these. I'm a super casual painter, and all of my "stuff" is in my (computer, not miniature) office. I need to be portable; I want to grab a couple of drawers, take them elsewhere, and start painting. I've already ditched my light in favour of one a Cobalt Keep painting handle for this same reason. never though airbrushing would be possible as a result, but this definitely satisfies my criteria
thanks for the video
"My tankless air compressor" uhhhh... not saying you 100% need one... but like...
Everyone told me not to get one... I didn't listen and I'm glad. My little "cordless" airbrush is great especially for inks.
Well you sold those out in the UK & USA, Canada and Australia just need to clear out the last few ;0)
I'll be looking out for the restock
Wife's a powered wheelchair user, nice days we drive out somewhere pretty, set her easel and paints up on the tail lift like it's a porch. I set up to detail and finish minis next to it - because! no airbrush! Now there will be!
You did that Jon!
This is cool. Was considering an airbrush when I got into 3d printing, but was really dreading the whole big compressor thing. So nice to know this exists as an option.
You should use a makeup remover wedge sponge instead of a Q-tip. The Q-tip can leave little cotton fibers on the surface of the mini.
I finally caved and picked one of these sets up, and it has been a rocky start. One of the issues was a near-constant dry tip and clogged nozzle, and thanks to the wisdom of my local game store it turns out that even with a 0.3 needle, 30~ psi is higher than ideal.
The compressor and brush do not have pressure controls (nor did I expect them to, you get what you pay for) and the option to set a mechanical limit on the amount of paint that drains onto the needle does little to compensate. I also wasn't using proper paints to mitigate stronger airflow over the needle.
I've been trying multiple paint brands and lines (Citadel air, contrast, using air caste thinner, using water, Ammo paints, AK paints, etc) thankfully Vallejo has a model air series of paints that have been working well.
It took a really strong cleaner (Obscurium airbrush restorer) to clean out layers of clogs (yes, layers) but once the brush was clean and I loaded an appropriate paint into the cup I was airbrushing down paint to my heart's delight. Investing in a new line-up of paint is annoying (mostly limited practical storage options in my living space, I budget for Citadel/GW prices) but not a deal breaker.
In the future, I intend to start with finding a lubricant for the needle to at least delay the time it takes to dry paint into clogs. Stepping up from lubricants, I'll take a shot in the dark and look for a way to restrict air between the compressor and brush. Eventually I'll bite the bullet and buy a dedicated compressor, and if I'm being truthful, is the most effective solution but I hate waiting for mail.
I got what looks to be that exact one with a different name on the box. After a little bit of tuning and getting used to it, I really like it. My first airbrush.
Ninjon thinks Lich-King was the GOAT expansion?
I knew there was a reason I liked this channel!
I got one of the ultra quiet makita air compressors. Doesn't get hot and you can air up your tires or run a nail gun. My one gallon tank one weighs 27lb and has a carry handle.
I actually picked up one these recently. They're really good for priming,it's great for that. Now,the bigger concern is what can go wrong with the compressor and the airbrush. I've seen people saying theirs fell apart after few days of usage and even some the compressors came apart while it people were using them. Paid about 89.99 Canadian for mine.
Ok so I've picked up one of these and something that I think is really important - it works MUCH better connected directly to the compressor without the hose. I tried first with the hose and it was pretty disappointing. Seems just fine though with the direct connection.
Love the channel. You helped me up my painting game greatly. From a foreigner living in China I can tell you they have handheld battery powered gadgets literally for everything and mostly of decent quality. BTW ‘you fu’ means ‘blessed’ (literally ‘having good fortune’).
this sounds exactly like what i need. I only wanna use an airbrush for varnish and priming (base coating wraithbone for contrasts)
Holy Mackaronis! You may have FINALLY convinced me to get an air brush! I've wanted one for a while for exactly this: quick priming and zenithol madness, but the compressor has been the biggest impediment. Thanks for the review!
Smooth brushwork on the light bronze trim. Cheers
Legend, I been looking at one of these for a while. The algorithm must have sensed it. And low and behold I must have missed this video. Thanks man you are a star
This is exactly the kind of thing I needed to pick up airbrushing. My friends are have been telling me to start airbrushing but I never had the space for an air compressor in my place, this might be just the thing I need
This looks like a great way to get into airbrushing. It's very tempting.
I also love pandemic and Warcraft and that is the best expansion.
Thank you for doing this. I’ve been thinking about this set up and now I know I’ll go for it.
love the monument airbrush in the intro!
I had great experience with my air compressor sil-air 15 , bought used no problems at all of overheating or bad flow. And noise is close to nothing. Give a look to that model for your next air compressor.
I mostly wanted something mainly for smoother zenithal highlighting, than spray cans, but the effects you were able to pull on the Lich King's sword, Frostmourne, was damn impressive. I think I'm sold on this. Might attach it with Gaahleri airbrush in the future if I need something better, and keep the included brush for priming/varnishing
I have a very confined hobby space that is overflowing with a lot of stuff that individually "doesn't take up _that_ much space", so I have been reluctant start using an airbrush. And I've got no place to spray with a rattlecan either (I live in an apartment building, no basement, attic, garage or porch). So I picked up a couple of different models of "cordless" airbrushes and I've found them satisfactory for priming and basecoating (and varnishing if I'm willing to take it apart and gice it a deep cleaning after doing so). One of the airbrushes is really good (though the needle cap is vented around the sides so I can't easily block the nozzle for backflow). The other one is merely satisfactory.
But I've got to say, it's allowed me to do stuff that I used to have to do with a brush, and get better results at the same time. Plus the primer is more durable _and_ thin when applied this way.
Great vid Jon you sir have earned your tendies. I just ordered one to help me keep my sanity while the wife and I are staying at the McDonald’s house keeping our future painter where she belongs. This should help scratch the itch while I’m away from home