If you're just starting out with airbrushing or simply want to better understand the tool you already have at home, the first thing you need to know is that not all airbrushes work the same way. There are different types, and each one is better suited to a specific type of work, technique, or experience level.
In this guide we explain clearly what types of airbrushes exist, how to use them They differ from each other and in what situations each one fits best. If what you're looking for is a For a comparison of specific models with purchase recommendations, we've included the link to our article. Which airbrush should I choose for model making?
Why are there different types of airbrushes?
An airbrush is essentially a tool that combines pressurized air with paint to create a controlled spray. But the way that paint reaches the airbrush body and how the user controls the amount sprayed are the two factors that result in completely different types of tools.
Airbrushes are classified according to two main criteria:
- The feeding system: how the paint reaches the airbrush (by gravity or by suction).
- The type of action: how the user controls the paint flow (single action or double action).
Understanding these two classifications will help you choose the right airbrush for your type of work and get the most out of the one you already have.
Gravity feed or suction feed airbrush: the difference that matters most
This is the most visual classification and the one that generates the most confusion among beginners. The difference lies simply in the location of the paint reservoir.
Gravity feed airbrush: the standard in model making
In gravity-feed airbrushes, the paint reservoir—usually called the cup—is located at the top of the body. The paint falls by its own weight into the airbrush, hence the name.
Why is it the most used in model making? Because it allows you to work with very little paint without wasting any, it offers very precise flow control and facilitates quick color changes. It's the preferred choice for painting models, miniatures, and figures where detail is paramount.
Its only limitations are that the tank usually has less capacity than the suction tank and that it is not interchangeable in all models.
Suction airbrush: the entry point
In suction airbrushes, the paint cup is located at the bottom of the body. The airflow creates a pressure difference that draws the paint upwards, similar to how a conventional sprayer works.
When does it make sense to use it? Ideal for quickly covering large surfaces, for jobs where precision isn't critical, or as a beginner's tool. Larger capacity, interchangeable paint containers are a plus when you need a lot of paint without stopping to refill.
Its main drawback in model making is that the pressure needed to draw up the paint can make fine control difficult, especially with dense paints.
Single action vs. double action: control in your hands
The second classification criterion has to do with how you interact with the airbrush through the trigger.Here the performance difference is very significant.
Single-action airbrush: simple but limited
In single-action airbrushes, the trigger has only one movement: pressing down. When you do this, air and paint are released simultaneously in a fixed ratio that is set before you start painting, not during.
Who is it useful for? For those starting from scratch and needing to simplify the learning curve as much as possible. Since you don't have to manage two variables at once, the tool is more intuitive and less frustrating in the first few sessions.
Its main limitation is that it does not allow adjusting the amount of paint while painting, which considerably reduces the technical possibilities: you cannot make smooth gradients, lines of variable thickness, or complex shading effects without stopping the work.
Dual-action airbrush: the professional standard
In double-action airbrushes, the trigger has two independent movements: pressing down opens the airflow, and pulling back regulates the amount of paint. The further back the trigger is pulled, the more paint is released and the wider the brushstroke.
Why is it preferred in model making? Because it allows you to adjust the paint flow in real time, without interrupting your work. This is essential for techniques such as shading, zenithal priming, color gradients, or painting lines of varying thickness in a single pass.
The learning curve is somewhat steeper than that of single action, but the difference in results is so remarkable that virtually all modelers with some experience work with double action.
The four possible combinations and when to use each one
Combining the two previous classifications, we obtain four types of airbrushes. Here we explain which scenario each combination is best suited for:
Suction + simple action
The most basic type on the market. Easy to use and clean, with large-capacity reservoirs for wide-coverage jobs. It's the natural entry point for anyone wanting to try airbrushing without investing much. Suitable for uniform backgrounds and bases, but with limited technical capabilities beyond that.
Suction + dual action
It combines the capacity of a lower reservoir with the control of a double-action sprayer. Useful for jobs requiring a large volume of paint but with slightly more precision than a single-action sprayer. Less common in scale modeling, but it has its place in broad coverage projects with moderate detail.
Gravity + simple action
Rare on the market today. The top cup reduces paint waste, but its simple action limits its technical possibilities. It only makes sense as an auxiliary tool for very specific and repetitive tasks where stroke variation is not required.
Gravity + double action
The benchmark combination for model making. Maximum paint utilization, total real-time flow control, and virtually unlimited technical possibilities. This is the type of airbrush you'll find in all mid-range and high-end airbrushes designed for model making: vehicle models, aircraft, ships, figures, and miniatures.
Types of airbrushes according to needle size
Besides the feed and action type, the needle diameter and nozzle is the third factor that determines what kind of work you can do with an airbrush.This classification is especially relevant for model making and figure making.
- 0.2 – 0.25 mm: For very fine lines, extreme details, and smooth shading at small scales, the Gaahleri Mobius 0.2 mm or the Badger Renegade Velocity Ultra Fine are examples of airbrushes designed for this level of precision.
- 0.28 – 0.35 mm: The most versatile range. Suitable for both detail work and medium coverage. The Harder & The Steenbeck Infinity 2024 CRplus 2in1 includes a 0.25 mm needle and a 0.44 mm needle in the same tool.
- 0.4 – 0.5 mm: For uniform bases, primers, and broad coverages. Ideal as a first layer before working on details with a finer needle.
Many modelers work with two airbrushes of different sizes: a fine one for details and a wider one for backgrounds. If you want to start with just one tool, look for a 2-in-1 model that includes two sets of interchangeable needles and nozzles.
What type of airbrush do you need based on your skill level?
If you're just starting out
A single-action suction or single-action gravity-feed airbrush allows you to learn to manage airflow and distance without having to control two variables at once. Dismoer D-102 It is the most common entry option for modelers taking their first steps in airbrushing for models.
If you have basic experience
You can now make the switch to dual action. With a little practice, the added control it offers more than makes up for the adjustment period. The models in the range Vallejo (Innovator, Profinish, Easyair) are preferred in this transition due to their ease of use and reasonable price.
If you are looking for professional performance
The combination of gravity and dual action with 0.2–0.25 mm needles is the standard for optimal results. Harder & Steenbeck Infinity 2024 CRplus 2in1 and the Gaahleri Mobius They are the references for extremely detailed work on models and figures.
Where to buy your airbrush for model making
Now that you know what types of airbrushes exist and how each one works, the next step is to choose yours. In our airbrushes for model making category, you'll find all the models mentioned in this guide, organized by range and availability, with real-time stock and shipping within 24-48 hours from Alcorcón.
Frequently asked questions about types of airbrushes
What is the difference between a gravity-feed airbrush and a suction-feed airbrush?
The difference lies in the position of the paint reservoir. In a gravity-feed paintbrush, the bowl is at the top and the paint flows down by its own weight; in a suction-feed paintbrush, the bowl is at the bottom and the airflow draws the paint upwards. The gravity-feed offers greater precision and less paint waste, making it the most commonly used in model making.
Is a single-action or double-action airbrush better for beginners?
To begin with, single action is easier to use because you only have to press the trigger down. However, if you have some patience to learn, double action is worthwhile from the start: the leap in quality of results is significant, and the learning curve isn't as steep as it seems.
What size needle do I need for painting models?
For most model-making work, a 0.28–0.35 mm needle is the most versatile option. If you want to create very fine details or shading on small scales, a 0.2–0.25 mm needle will give better results. For bases and primers, you can use 0.4–0.5 mm without any problem.
Can I use the same airbrush for bases and details?
Yes, especially if you opt for a 2-in-1 model that includes two sets of interchangeable needles and nozzles, like the Harder. & Steenbeck Infinity 2024 CRplus 2in1. By changing the needle set you have two tools in one, making it the most economical and practical option to start with versatility.
Which airbrush do you recommend as a first dual-action airbrush?
The Vallejo range of models—Easyair, Innovator, and Profinish—are the preferred choice for those transitioning to double-action airbrushing. They offer good build quality, are easy to clean, and are reasonably priced for what they offer. They are especially compatible with the same brand's acrylic paints, which are widely used in the modeling world.