So you’ve made the change from regular brush painting to a HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) paint sprayer to paint the walls of your home? Good choice, HVLP spray guns are incredibly user-friendly and super versatile substitutes for regular brush painting by hand.
However, most wall paints these days are latex-based which can take some of the fun out of using HVLP guns. This is because latex paints are much thicker than other materials, making them harder for spray guns to properly output the paint.
It’s particularly difficult for HVLP guns because they use a low pressure turbine to break up the paint. This can lessen the quality of the finish. The only way to prevent this is by using paint thinners, adding a whole extra step to your painting regime – not ideal!
Don’t waste your time trying to find non-latex paints though, there are HVLP sprayers out there that can handle latex paint. These paint sprayers are changing the game when it comes to painting. They’re super easy to use and provide you with a super smooth finish without having to spend so much time thinning your paint beforehand.
With so many different models to choose from, however, trying to find the right one that will also handle latex paint isn’t easy. So, we’ve done all the research on your behalf!
Keep reading to find our top 5 HVLP paint sprayers for latex paint. We’ve also added an information-packed buyer’s guide to help you get your head around every aspect of the decision making process.
The Fuji 2904-T70 Mini-Mite 4 Platinum spray gun is an excellent up-market option. It’s great for more experienced users as it uses more power than more generic spray guns. It has a four-stage turbine with a maximum PSI of nine.
This is perfect if you’re planning to use latex paints with it because it can quite easily handle unthinned materials while still giving you a smooth finish without clogging the nozzle or creating any overspray, despite the higher power used.
It comes complete with non-bleed technology so it’s perfect for more professional jobs. It also comes with Noise Reduction Covers so it won’t create too much noise pollution either. This will come in particularly handy on big jobs that take a little longer.
Moreover, this sprayer should last you from job to job as its ‘Heat Dissipation Chamber’ is designed to prevent heat build-up, particularly on longer jobs.
It channels the heat into the chamber at the back of the case rather than into the motor. This further minimizes any noise pollution as well as blowing out any dust and trash.
Weighing over 28 lbs this isn’t a very lightweight option but it can be assembled and disassembled with ease. Plus, you can use it with most types of paint material!
Pros
Noise reduction covers – easy on the ears, particularly useful on longer jobs
Non-bleed – no paint drips to worry about!
Spray paint unthinned – no clogging or overspray with four-stage turbine
Portable – easy to carry
Durable – heat dissipation chamber keeps the motor working for longer
The Tacklife SGP15AC HVLP paint sprayer offers you an optimum finish, even with latex paints. According to the brand, it is one of the only sprayers to come with a 1 mm copper nozzle, which will create a super smooth coat of paint.
It also comes with three other nozzles that will let you paint delicately all the way up to bigger spaces. You’ll be able to choose from three different spray patterns too, adjust the air cap to spray horizontal, vertical or in a circular motion at any point during painting.
You’ll save time too, because this sprayer allows you to fill the gun and quickly refill during a job by simply opening the container lid – no need to remove the entire container!
Additionally, you can change the flow of the paint output depending on your needs by simply using the flow control knob.
It’s very easy to clean too as most parts are detachable. It’s easy to avoid mess with this gun, even when changing nozzles. Just follow the instructions provided; just release the pressure in the paint pot and change to the desired nozzle.
Weighing under five lbs it’s very lightweight so hand fatigue shouldn’t be an issue. Plus, it’s super portable.
Pros
Lightweight – weighing just 5 lbs is easy to move and won’t weigh you down
Adjustability – 4 nozzles to choose from & 3 spray patterns
Spray paint unthinned – by switching to the biggest 3 mm nozzle
Cleaning – easy to clean with detachable body
Nozzle – only model to offer copper nozzle
Cons
Some users report this product can be bubbly at times
Complete with two changeable nozzles, the Wagner 0529021 Flexio 890 Stationary HVLP sprayer will let you work on both small, detailed jobs and the other lets you spray more generally – good for use on walls, for example.
Plus, this sprayer enables you to paint an average wall in just five minutes! Unlike its peers, the Wagner is made from plastic making it less durable. However, it remains relatively sturdy and will give you a pretty good supply of power.
It comes with three different spray patterns including horizontal, vertical and round. The air-powered hose is able to handle unthinned paints like latex paints too! To add to this, the X-Boost Power dial on the handle of the gun also enables you to easily adjust the level of pressure.
It’s very user-friendly as it comes with a detailed, easy to read user manual so first-timers can feel confident in what they’re doing. It’s also a great all-rounder, use it for a great finish on furniture, ceilings, walls, cabinets and more.
It’s relatively portable too. At just over 12 lbs, it strikes a good balance between light and heavy or flexy and sturdy – so it’s a great midweigh option. This model also rests on the ground, minimizing arm fatigue, particularly on big projects that may take longer.
Pros
Adjustable – power dial allows to to control the air pressure & regulate paint flow
Multi-purpose – use on furniture, walls, ceilings, trims and more
Low maintenance – easy to clean and store away
Portable – base of the turbine can store the hose and nozzles
Accessories – two nozzles included
Cons
Some users have found this product to produce a little overspray at times
The HomeRight Finish Max paint sprayer can be assembled and disassembled within minutes!
As soon as you’re done with your project, just clean the sprayer with mineral spirits or water depending on what paint you’ve used. After using latex paint you’ll only need to use water! It comes with a cleaning brush as well to speed up the cleaning process.
It’s a very low maintenance option too. Its basic design means it can be used by anyone. If you don’t have time to set up and take apart a complicated machine you’re in the right place because the HomeRight model is super easily assembled and disassembled.
This model can easily handle latex paints as well as a huge range of others such as chalky paints, enamels, stains and much more!
So, while you may only plan to use latex paints on your current project, you’ll still be able to use this gun on future ones where you might wish to use other materials.
It also comes with a viscosity cup to easily measure paint thickness and a material flow control knob to regulate material output, allowing you to completely customize the painting process.
Its brass tip and nozzle is corrosion resistant making it super durable. It also comes with a seal plus splash guard to stop the paint cup from overflowing and leaking. Moreover, you can use this gun to spray in any direction! Choose from horizontal, vertical and a round spray.
This product is extremely portable, weighing just under three lbs! Take it to any job with ease and paint for hours without developing a sore hand.
Pros
Control – viscosity cup allows you to measure paint thickness & regulate paint output
Multi-purpose – can handle almost any material
Adjustable – spray horizontal, vertical & round
Low maintenance – easy to assemble, disassemble and clean
Warranty – this model comes with a two-year warranty to give you peace of mind
Cons
Not the best option for small jobs as it is quite bulky
The Fuji 2203G Semi-Pro 2 is another great HVLP model. More importantly, it is designed to handle latex paint!
The Semi-Pro 2 includes a number of professional features including non-bleed. So, you won’t have to worry about the finish because the Fuji won’t leave paint drips behind.
This gun is made of metal so it’s very sturdy and you can rely on an even finish. It also features a convenient side pattern control knob so you can adjust the fan pattern size from a small circular spray to a wider one – so you can get creative!
Plus, this gun is more powerful than typical HVLP systems. This model has a powerful 1400 watt 2-stage bypass motor so it can handle any type of coating and your job won’t be disrupted by an underpowered spray.
The Fuji Semi-Pro 2 also comes with some great accessories. It has a metal turbine case that is very strong and a handy spray gun holder. Its hose can stretch up to 25 ft. and comes with an air control valve to help minimize overspray.
This particular Fuji model probably is better suited to a professional due to its extra power but that’s not to say you shouldn’t give this gun a chance if you think you can handle it!
It’s not a lightweight option as it weighs just over 26 lbs which is pretty heavy. However, it comes complete with a carry handle and wheels so you would still be able to move it from A to B.
Pros
Control – adjust the fan pattern size from small to large
Suited to most paints including latex
Non-bleed – you won’t have to worry about paint drips with this gun
Hose – 25 ft. hose includes an air control valve to reduce overspray
Portable – metal turbine case with a handy gun holder
Cons
Weight – not a very lightweight option but a handle and wheels make up for this
Best HVLP Paint Sprayer for Latex Paint Buying Guide
There are a few things you need to look out for when searching for the right HVLP spray gun that can handle latex paints.
That’s why we’ve included this handy buyer’s guide to take you through each key element. It’s packed with the relevant information you need to consider before purchasing.
If you require any extra support or have any unresolved questions after reading, check out the ‘frequently asked questions’ section below the buyer’s guide.
Type
Most HVLP spray guns are handled and even battery-operated giving you ultimate free movement making it super easy to paint even the most awkward of spaces.
Other models are stationary, meaning the motor rests on the ground and sends the paint down a hose which you then use to paint your walls. This option is great if you’re concerned about hand fatigue.
Material
You’ll generally come across either a metal or plastic cased HVLP sprayer. Metal models are good for protecting the turbine efficiently making it more durable.
Plastic casings will give the sprayer less longevity but they do make it very lightweight and therefore more portable.
Versatility
Particularly when using latex paint it’s a good idea to look for HVLP sprayers that come with different sized tips and nozzles. This will allow you to choose between different fan patterns and sizes.
Plus, the bigger the nozzle the easier it will be able to spray out thicker paints like latex. This will definitely help you get a smooth finish no matter what pait you plan to use.
Weight
Struggle with arm pain from holding things for too long? Make sure you check the weight of the product before you settle on the right one for you.
Just imagine you have four large interior walls to paint, that’s going to take you some time. A lightweight option will best combat this. Look out for one that is under 10 lbs.
Alternatively, if you need a slightly more robust model, get one that is stationary. This means the weight will be sitting on the floor instead of weighing down your hand!
There are midweight options out there that will tick all your boxes too. Just make sure to read the product description and specifications section well before making your decision.
FAQ’s
What are the advantages of latex paint?
Latex paint is much easier to apply than other paints and it dries quicker. This comes in handy when painting big rooms that could normally take more than a day to dry!
Equally, smaller rooms will dry in no time.
It’s also considerably cheaper than its competitors and any spills or mistakes can be cleaned relatively easily with soap and warm water. It is also available in a variety of finishes like other paints, from glossy to chalky/ matte.
Also, compared to oil paints, latex paint sticks well to most surfaces and is able to retain a lot of flexibility and elasticity.
What materials can I use latex paint on?
Latex paints can be used on a range of surfaces and work well on most. For example, you can use it on metal, concrete, wood, plaster and more.
In recent times, latex paint is mainly used in wall paints, making it a great choice for painting ceilings, walls and trims.
How to use latex paint in a HVLP sprayer?
If your HVLP sprayer is not equipped to handle unthinned paints such as latex paint then you must first thin your paint.
Otherwise it will be too thick for the sprayer to handle and you will most likely achieve an uneven finish.
To do this, mix your paint well before slowly adding small amounts of water until you get the desired consistency. Then, mix thoroughly again. Use a bigger nozzle if you have the option, this will allow you to use less thinning agent.
If however, you have a HVLP sprayer that can handle latex, you may be able to cut out this step or use a lot less thinner, saving you on time and money.
Once your sprayer is loaded and ready to spray, make sure to stand a good distance away from the surface area – at least five to eight inches away if you can.Then push down on the nozzle and start painting. Try not to hover over an area for too long as this may produce some overspray.
What paint is best for spraying walls?
Generally, the paint most often used on walls is latex paint because it dries quicker than most.
