Features Of Harbor Freight's Newest Handheld Paint Sprayer (And If It's Worth Buying)

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When used correctly, a handheld paint sprayer can be faster than a brush or roller and usually leaves a smoother finish. Most use HVLP technology (high volume low pressure) and are broadly divided into two types: pneumatic guns for automotive and industrial work, and electric guns for painting and staining walls, fences, etc. When we looked at the best Harbor Freight paint sprayers, most models were pneumatic, but their newest handheld paint sprayer is an electric model designed to appeal to DIY enthusiasts. As expected, it has a competitive price tag, but what do you get for your money, and is it worth buying?

The lightweight Avanti High-Performance Handheld HVLP Paint and Stain Sprayer is an upgrade to the brand's popular AV-100 with a 25% larger spray pattern for faster coverage. A variable trigger gives precise control over material delivery, and there are horizontal, vertical, or round spray patterns. The standard nozzle sprays a variety of paints, stains, and varnishes, and an extra nozzle is included specifically for latex. The 1½-quart cup can hold enough material to cover up to 150 square feet.

It's a comprehensive specification. The price tag of $119.99 compares favorably with leading competitors, so it should be worth buying. But, as a new release, the Avanti AV-200 has limited customer feedback to judge real-world performance. However, we can compare the specifications against competing tools to see if we can draw any conclusions.

The two best-known paint sprayer brands are probably Graco and Wagner. Graco's closest rival is the Evo Plus, with a list price of $169.00, but it does offer four nozzles rather than two, giving greater control over flow rate and spray pattern. Wagner has the Flexio 2500 at $174.99. Its prime feature is an X-Boost turbine for faster spraying, but it only has one nozzle.

For those looking for budget-priced competitors, the hugely popular Homeright Quick Finish Paint Sprayer is around $60 on Amazon. Again, it only has one nozzle, but if you're looking for value for money, it's difficult to argue with over 18,000 buyers giving it an average 4.2-star rating. DIYers who would prefer the convenience of a cordless paint sprayer compatible with batteries from DeWalt or other power tool brands can find tools for under $50.

Each of these handheld sprayers has its particular strengths, but with practice and the right preparation, it should be possible to get a perfect finish every time with any of them. From the information we have so far, Harbor Freight's newest handheld paint sprayer certainly seems worth buying, but it's also well worth checking what the opposition has to offer before making your decision.