Paintball guns are air-powered devices that fire gelatin-coated paint capsules at speeds up to 300 feet per second, used in competitive tournament play, recreational scenario games, and backyard target shooting. Whether you are shopping for your first one or upgrading from a rental, knowing where to buy and what separates a reliable option from a regrettable impulse purchase saves you money and frustration on the field. The market ranges from mechanical models under $100 to tournament-grade setups topping $1,500.
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What Are Paintball Guns and Who Needs Them
A paintball marker is a pneumatic device that uses compressed air or CO2 to propel .68 caliber rounds at a regulated velocity. The sport traces back to 1981, when the first game was played with forestry marking pistols. Today it spans backyard skirmishes, organized speedball tournaments on inflatable bunker fields, and multi-day woodsball scenario events across hundreds of acres.
Frequent players benefit most from owning their own paintball equipment. Rentals at most fields cost $15 to $30 per session, and the loaner guns tend to be heavy, poorly maintained, and inaccurate. After four or five outings, rental fees alone exceed the cost of a solid entry level option. Competitive players, scenario enthusiasts, and anyone who plays more than twice a month should consider buying rather than renting.
5 Features That Separate a Good Paintball Gun From a Bad One
The right choice balances reliability, accuracy, and maintenance simplicity for your playing style. Here is what matters most before you spend a dollar.
Firing mechanism: mechanical vs. electronic. Mechanical models use a simple trigger and piston system with fewer moving parts, making them cheaper and easier to maintain. Electronic paintball guns use a battery-powered circuit board to control the firing cycle, enabling higher rates of fire (up to 15+ balls per second) and multiple firing modes. Beginners usually start mechanical; intermediate and tournament players move to electronic.
Air source: CO2 vs. HPA. CO2 tanks are inexpensive but inconsistent in cold weather because the liquid-to-gas conversion rate drops. HPA (high-pressure air) tanks, often wrapped in carbon fiber for lighter weight, deliver stable pressure shot after shot. Most mid-range and high-end markers require HPA. Budget models typically accept both.
Hopper compatibility. A hopper is the loader that feeds rounds into the breech. Gravity-fed hoppers work fine for mechanical setups, but electronic models outrun them. If you plan on buying an electronic unit, pair it with a force-fed paintball loader like the Dye LT-R or Virtue Spire to avoid chopping balls in the breech.
Barrel quality and bore sizing. The gun barrel directly affects accuracy. Stock barrels on budget models are serviceable but not precise. Upgrading to a 2 piece barrel kit lets you match bore size to the round diameter, reducing breaks and improving consistency. Brands like Dye, the veteran manufacturer, and Planet Eclipse, one of the most respected names in competitive play, offer barrel kits for most popular platforms.
Weight and ergonomics. A unit you carry for three or four hours in the woods needs to feel balanced. Tippmann, the Indiana-based company that has built military-sim and recreational models since 1986, produces the Tippmann Cronus Tactical and Tippmann 98 Custom, both of which prioritize ruggedness over low weight. Planet Eclipse options like the ETHA 3 tend to be lighter and more ergonomic for fast-paced play. Handle several before committing.
Buying Mistakes That Cost Paintball Players Money
The most common mistake new buyers make is choosing a paintball gun based on looks instead of play style. Here are pitfalls worth avoiding.
Overspending on your first marker. A beginner does not need a $900 Planet Eclipse Geo or a Luxe, the high-end electronic option made by DLX. Start with a proven entry level choice in the $100 to $250 range, learn the fundamentals, then upgrade once you know whether you prefer fast-paced bunker play or wooded scenario games.
Ignoring the total cost of paintball equipment. The gun itself is only part of the expense. You still need a mask with thermal lens, a tank, a hopper, and pods or a harness. Budget $150 to $250 on top of it for everything else. Buying a cheap single-pane goggle leads to constant fogging and a miserable day.
Buying a used marker without testing it. Used options can be great deals, but one with worn bolt O-rings, a leaky solenoid, or a corroded trigger assembly will cost more to fix than you saved. Always ask to air it up and shoot a few rounds before handing over cash.
Choosing CO2 for an electronic marker. Liquid CO2 can damage electronic solenoids and circuit boards over time. If you buy an electronic model, plan on using an HPA tank from day one. The upfront cost is higher, but it protects a much larger investment.
Where to Buy Paintball Guns In Store
Buying in person lets you hold the gun, check the trigger pull, and compare weight before committing. Here are the main brick-and-mortar options.
Walmart
Walmart, the largest brick-and-mortar retailer in the U.S., carries a small selection of beginner options in some locations, though availability varies by store. Most Walmart stores stock entry-level Tippmann and Spyder models in the sporting goods aisle alongside paintballs and CO2 cartridges. Call your local store before driving over, because many locations have shifted inventory to online-only fulfillment. Prices tend to be competitive on starter kits and bundle packages that include a mask and a small supply of ammo.
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Dick’s Sporting Goods stocks a broader selection than most general retailers. The paintball section typically sits near airsoft and Nerf products. You can find Tippmann Cronus Basic kits, Spyder paintball guns, and occasionally mid-range options from HK Army, the brand known for aggressive designs and tournament-grade accessories. Use the store locator on their site to check stock at your closest location before visiting.
Local Paintball Pro Shops
Many paintball fields run on-site pro shops that sell and service markers. This is the best place to handle high-end options you will not find at big-box retailers. Staff at a dedicated pro shop can walk you through the differences between a mechanical option and an electronic Mini GS, help you pick the right tank size, and even let you test-fire on their chronograph. Prices run slightly higher than online, but the hands-on advice is worth it.
Where to Buy Paintball Guns Online
Online retailers offer the widest selection, the best prices, and the convenience of side-by-side comparison. These are the top destinations for buying online.
Amazon
Amazon, the largest online retailer, lists hundreds of options from entry level to professional paintball grade. The category is labeled “paintball markers” rather than guns. Prime members get free two-day shipping on most items, and verified buyer reviews help you compare real-world durability across sellers. Browse the full paintball section on Amazon to compare options.
Lone Wolf Paintball
Lone Wolf is a dedicated retailer with one of the deepest inventories online. They stock everything from beginner options like the Tippmann Cronus to tournament-level offerings from Planet Eclipse, DLX (makers of the Luxe series), and Dye including the M3+ line. They also carry a wide selection of cases, barrels, and upgrade parts. Their support team actually understands the products they sell.
ANS Gear
ANS Gear is an authorized dealer for most major paintball companies, with frequent sales and clearance sections where you can find last-year models at steep discounts. They carry Azodin, the brand known for affordable semi automatic options, along with Smart Parts (now GOG Paintball, which continued the Smart Parts legacy of innovation), HK Army, and most other manufacturers. Worth checking if you want the best prices on reliable equipment.
Discount Paintball
Discount Paintball specializes in both new and used markers. For budget-conscious buyers, their refurbished section is worth browsing. They inspect and test every used unit before listing it, which removes most of the risk of buying secondhand. New options from Kingman Spyder, Azodin, and Tippmann round out their catalog.
Top Picks: Best Paintball Guns for Every Budget
These picks cover four price tiers based on verified performance, durability ratings, and feedback from active teams and players.
Best budget: Tippmann Cronus Tactical. Built like a tank with a proven Tippmann 98 internal platform, the Cronus Tactical adds Picatinny rails for accessories like sights and foregrips. Runs on CO2 or HPA. Around $80 to $110. Ideal first option for woods players. Check price on Amazon
Best mid-range: Planet Eclipse EMEK 100. This model uses the Gamma Core bolt system, the same drivetrain found in units costing three times as much. Mechanical operation with a smooth trigger pull, extremely air-efficient, and practically maintenance-free. Around $250 to $290. Loved by intermediate players and seasoned veterans alike. Check price on Amazon
Best electronic under $500: Empire Mini GS. This compact model packs tournament features into a small frame. Pressure-regulated bolt system, tool-free bolt removal, and multiple firing modes. Around $300 to $370. A strong pick for players stepping into competitive play. Check price on Amazon
Best high-end: Planet Eclipse CS3 Pro. For serious tournament players, the CS3 Pro represents the top offering from one of the most decorated brands in the sport. Smooth shot quality, quiet operation, and extremely consistent velocity. Around $1,400 to $1,600. Overkill for casual play, but if you compete on organized teams, this is the benchmark. Check price on Amazon
| Pick | Type | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tippmann Cronus Tactical | Mechanical | Budget woodsball | $80 – $110 |
| Planet Eclipse EMEK 100 | Mechanical | Mid-range all-around | $250 – $290 |
| Empire Mini GS | Electronic | Competitive speedball | $300 – $370 |
| Planet Eclipse CS3 Pro | Electronic | Tournament play | $1,400 – $1,600 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Paintball Guns
What is a good entry level paintball gun?
The Tippmann Cronus and Planet Eclipse EMEK 100 are the two most recommended entry level options. The Cronus costs under $100 and handles rough treatment well, making it a solid first choice for new players. The EMEK costs about $260 but offers a smoother shooting experience that many beginners appreciate from day one.
How much do paintball guns cost?
Cheap options start around $50 to $80 for basic mechanical models. Mid-range electronic models run $250 to $500. Professional-grade paintball markers from Planet Eclipse, DLX Luxe, and Dye range from $800 to over $1,600. Your total budget should also account for a mask, tank, and hopper.
Do paintball guns use CO2 or compressed air?
Both. Budget mechanical models usually accept CO2 or HPA tanks interchangeably. Most electronic options require HPA because liquid CO2 can damage solenoids and internal seals. HPA provides more consistent velocity and is the standard at organized fields and tournaments.
Can I shoot a paintball gun in my backyard?
Legality depends on your local municipality. Some cities and HOAs prohibit discharging projectile devices on residential property. Check your local ordinances before setting up a backyard range. Always wear a full-face mask rated for paintball impact, and never shoot toward roads, neighboring properties, or unsuspecting people.
What is the difference between speedball and woodsball?
Speedball is fast-paced play on small inflatable-bunker fields, requiring compact and lightweight models optimized for high rates of fire. Woodsball takes place in wooded terrain and favors heavier, more durable designs styled after tactical firearms. Some models work well for both styles.
Start by deciding whether you will play mostly in the woods or on speedball fields, because that choice narrows your options by half. Set a total budget that covers the marker, mask, tank, and hopper together. If you can, visit a local pro shop or a sporting goods store to handle a few models before ordering. For the widest selection of paintball guns at competitive prices, check Amazon or a dedicated retailer like Lone Wolf or ANS Gear. The right choice is the one that fits your play style, your budget, and your hands.
Reviewed by the wheretobuyguides.com editorial team. Last updated: April 2026.