Airbrush Compressor
The first step to choosing the right airbrush compressor is knowing what it is and what it does. An airbrush compressor powers an air brush, which is different from a regular brush, and the most commonly used ones are shaped like a pen with different tips to produce different effects. The 'brush' pen also has a small reservoir that holds paint. What happens is that when air from the compressor is applied to the pen, it lifts the paint from the container and forces it through the tip of the pen, applying paint where it is needed. Depending on the model of pen and compressor, the amount of air is either regulated from a button on the pen itself or from a foot pedal.
There are many different kinds of airbrush artists. There are airbrush painters that detail the outside of cars, some that do temporary tattoos, and others that paint on T-shirts, just to name a few. Just as there are different kinds of artists, there are also different airbrush compressors. Compressors for airbrushes have smaller tanks, and lower PSI than larger models. When choosing the right airbrush compressor, you want it to have adjustable flow air pressure regulation in addition to your hand controller.
When choosing the right airbrush compressor, there are a few things you have to consider. One of them is what you are going to use them for. If you are just an at home airbrush artist, then a smaller electric compressor is better. These don't require the same ventilation that gas models require, are much quieter, and are much less expensive than gas models. You also want to find a compressor that is oil free. These may cost a bit more, but you won't have to worry about minute particles of oil getting into your artwork, causing a 'fish-eye' effect. You also want to find a compressor that has a filter for water build up for some of the same reasons.
There are many different brands of airbrush compressors, with Badger, Testor, and Hobbico being among the top ten. Each has an assortment of models to choose from, depending on your applications. If you want a well built, compact product, you may be wise to choose a Testor airbrush compressor. These are small and compact, yet very powerful and quiet.
Unlike most other brands that only offer a one year warranty, Testor offers a two year warranty instead. They have an oil-less diaphragm, which is ideal, because you have the advantages of oil lubrication without the oil coming up into your brush.
Make sure that no matter what brand or model of airbrush compressor you choose that you check around for the best prices. It is important even if you are using some price comparison website that you still check each manufacturer's site you are interested in. While you think you are getting the best deal, extra charges for shipping, taxes and such can affect the price quite a bit.
