When looking for a paint sprayer, you could be deciding between and an LVLP Vs HVLP paint sprayer.
Which one is best for your DIY projects? Why choose an LVLP vs an HVLP? Are they the same thing? Which will give you the best results for your buck? Will you need an air compressor?
Let’s find out…
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What Does LVLP Mean? What is a Low Volume Spray Gun?
What does LVLP stand for? LVLP stands for low volume low pressure. They work with lower pressure at the nozzle than an HVLP (High Volume High Pressure Gun). How low? Well around or less than 10 PSI. You can buy a cheaper air compressor and save some money if you’re on a budget.
Make sure the compressor still meets your new LVLP spray guns air requirements of about 26-29 PSI (which comes through the gun and gauge).
What we really love about LVLP spray guns is that you don’t need much experience to use them. Check out our reviews of the best LVLP Spray Guns for any budget.
LVLP Pros and Cons
ProsSmooth Finish Less Overspray Can buy a budget Compressor ConsSlow Pace Only sprays very thin materials Smaller Fan Width
What does HVLP Mean?
HVLP stands for High Volume Low Pressure. An HVLP spray gun atomizes paint at a higher volume than LVLP because it uses a lot more air to get the paint to the tip and spray it on your surface.
They also use around 10 or more PSI to lay paint down on your surface. Unless you purchase an HVLP spray gun system with a turbine, you will need an air compressor.
What is Better HVLP or LVLP?
Honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. It really depends on what kind of painting projects you’re tackling most often and what kind of finish you want.
If you’re doing detail work like clearcoats, single-stage enamels, or vehicle painting, LVLP is your friend. It sprays slower but delivers a super soft, finely atomized finish—that means smoother results for delicate jobs.
HVLP, on the other hand, is great for thinned paints like latex. It sprays faster, so it’s a solid choice for furniture, cabinets, walls, or any project where you’re covering a lot of surface quickly.
To help you decide, we’ve put together a handy chart that breaks down the differences, pros, and cons of each type so you can match the sprayer to your projects and your style.
What is the Difference between HVLP and LVLP?
HVLP
LVLP
Sprays Thinned Latex
Best for Really Thin Materials (no latex)
Adjustable Fan Patterns
Smaller Fan Width
Efficient Paint Transfer
Better Paint Transfer than HVLP
Operate around 10 PSI
Typically Operate at less than 10 PSI
Lightweight
Crushes Clearcoat Jobs
Needs Quality Compressor/ Turbine
Can use Small, Cheaper Compressor
What is an LVLP Spray Gun Used For?
The best material to spray with your LVLP spray gun is clearcoat. Woodworkers also love LVLP with its smaller fan width because you can get really precise results. It’s also easy to use, since you only need a small compressor.
What Can You Spray with an LVLP?
Clearcoats
Thin Stains
Lacquers
Varnish
NO LATEX EVEN WHEN THINNED
What is an HVLP Spray Gun used For?
Your HVLP can be used to spray most thinner materials such as latex paint, lacquers, and stains. Thicker material like oil paints, primers etc will need higher PSI’s at the nozzle to lay down a consistent finish.
Invest in an Airless paint sprayer which generates up to 2000 PSI to lay down unthinned latex.
ProsSmooth Finish Less Overspray Less Prep Time Fast Clean up ConsSlow Pace Only sprays thinned latex Small Jobs Only Need Compressor
HVLP vs LVLP for Latex
LVLP doesn’t produce enough pressure to spray thinned latex. For spraying latex, stick to HVLP or an Airless Paint Sprayer, if you don’t want to thin your paint. You’ll have to step up to a quality air compressor with an HVLP.
Editor’s Choice HVLP Premium Paint Sprayer
Fuji Mini Mite 4
Adjustable Pattern Fan Control
1 Quart cup
25ft Hose includes air control valve to reduce overspray and bounce back
1.3mm
Check out Fuji Mini Mite 4
If you need great results fast, the Fuji Mini Mite 4 will crush your DIY projects. Fuji products are definitely the best HVLP spray guns out there.
The HVLP spray system in the Mini Mite 4 packs a punch with its powerful 4-stage turbine—so no need to fuss with an air compressor to get your paint flowing. It actually uses the same turbine found on the higher-end Q4 models, which means you can get away with thinning your paint less than with most other 3-stage systems.
This little powerhouse cranks out about 8.5 PSI of pressure, giving you plenty of control. Plus, it comes with the Fuji T-70 Spray Gun, which has a handy pattern control knob. That lets you easily adjust the fan size—from a narrow spray for tight spots to a wide fan for bigger areas.
All in all, it’s a sweet setup for anyone wanting professional results without the bulk of extra equipment.
Comes with 1.3mm standard air cap set for general fine finishing and a 1 quart cup. You can get a 1.0mm fine-medium output cap, a 0.8mm fine output cap, and a 1.8mm cap to expand your project capabilities. These caps only fit T-Series Guns like the T-70 that comes with the Mini Mite 4.
Noise levels on this model are less then the Fuji Semi Pro. Music to our ears.
The hose on this model may be a bit large for fine finishing work, but the results make up for it.
Spraying with an HVLP Vs LVLP Gun
Spraying with an LVLP gun results in the least amount of overspray of any type of spray gun on the market, even modern HVLP guns. If you’re looking for the least amount of paint waste, choose an LVLP. The spray is super soft and forgiving for beginners.
Spraying with an LVLP is slower than using an HVLP, so add a bit of time to your project estimate if you’re used to painting with HVLP sprayers.
Best Jobs for LVLP Sprayers
Base Coats
Enamel
Clear Coats
HVLP Vs LVLP Paint Viscosity
Because they are low volume and low pressure, you will only use thin material in your LVLP spray gun. Think thin stains, lacquers and clear coats. Spraying even thinned latex is going to be a no go with these models.
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How to Use LVLP
LVLP paint guns are used mostly to lay down base and clear coats. You’ll want to ensure you have a 1.3 or 1.4 mm tip and a small air compressor.
You’ll use the same painting technique that you would use with any other sprayer.
Sweeping arm motions with even speed instead of moving your wrist, start the spray just before your surface, and apply even smooth coats. Remember, many thin coats is better than a thick coat that will run and dry unevenly.
How to Adjust HVLP Vs LVLP
Most HVLP Guns allow you to adjust air pressure and fan width/patterns to achieve your desired results. LVLP paint sprayers should come with the same options for fluid, air and fan control as an HVLP spray gun.
LVLP spray a tighter spray and are limited to a smaller fan width of approximately 10 inches. Good LVLP spray gun brands will offer adjustable fluid patterns making the fan pattern more precise along with air controls.
HVLP vs LVLP for Automotive Painting
LVLP does a great job at minimizing overspray helping you save money on your paint budget. LVLP for automotive use shine when spraying single stage enamels. LVLP for clearcoats is a dream come true.
Best LVLP for Automotive Use
After testing a few guns, some budget, some average priced and premium guns, we settled on one gun that delivers superior performance with a quality build that will last and last.
Editor’s Choice: Premium LVLP Spray Gun
Iwata LPH400
Atomizing PSI: 16.0
Air Cap Model: LV4
Requires CFM: 9.5
Weighs 0.86 lbs!
Nozzle 1.4 inch (0.055)
Pattern width 11.4″
Check out the IWATA LPH400
This LVLP spray gun from Iwata is top of the line.
If you’re after those premium, pro-level results, this is the unit to invest in. Hands down, the best LVLP spray gun on the market.
It comes with a 1.4mm tip, which is just perfect for laying down a smooth, flawless layer of base coat, clearcoat, or enamel.
This workhorse isn’t just tough—it’s built to last. Some owners have reported it running strong for up to 12 years. Weighing in at about 1 pound, it’s super lightweight, so wrist fatigue is basically a thing of the past.
Plus, this unit is ridiculously quiet—honestly, it sounds more like a whisper when it’s laying down clear. The ergonomic handle fits perfectly in your hand, making every spraying session a comfortable, fatigue-free experience.
You will have to purchase the 1 quart cup separately.You can customize it with whatever cup suits your projects: smaller cups for detailing or painting motorcycles, larger cups for painting vehicles, RVs, panels etc.
We’ve got nothing bad to report about this Iwata LVLP.
ProsSoft Spray Lightweight Quality Build Whisper Quiet ConsChews up Air Large Investment
Editor’s Choice: Best Budget LVLP Spray Gun
SprayIt SP-33000
20oz cup
Fan pattern 7 – approx 11″
Working PSI 28-45, MAX 60
Check out the SprayIt 33000
You can get this great gun as either just the gun or as a gun kit with 3 tips (1.3, 1.5, 1.7mm). We recommend this LVLP from SprayIt if you’re on a budget.
We were honestly pretty surprised by the quality of this gun and the smooth finish it delivered during testing. For around 45 bucks, it’s a solid choice to kick off your DIY spray painting projects.
Just a heads-up—some pressure regulator glass faces arrive cracked, and that’s usually because of the oddly shaped packing inside the case.
Also, keep in mind that with cheaper guns, parts like knobs are often made of aluminum and can be prone to getting cross-threaded if you’re not careful.
Cleaning is a breeze though—the kit includes two cleaning brushes, which are absolute must-haves to get every bit of paint out of your sprayer.
You can go from dirty to clean in about 5 to 10 minutes, which makes the whole process a lot less painful.
ProsSuper cheap Easy cleaning 20 oz cup for detail work ConsParts are aluminum/plastic Regulator is not quality (obv)
LVLP Spray Gun Compressor Requirements: Compressors for LVLP Spray Guns
Low volume low pressure guns are air sippers. So you can get away with using a smaller compressor. You could even skimp on the quality of the compressor a bit because you don’t require a ton of air to spray paint.
You should look for a compressor that generates a standard CFM of around 5-7 with an air volume of 40 PSI. This will ensure you have enough air to lay down clear or base coats.
HVLP and Compressors
Unless an HVLP gun has a built in turbine system, you will need to have a source of air to spray your paint. You have to match your sprayers air requirements to your compressors ability to generate air.
If your compressor can’t keep up with your sprayer, you WILL be taking breaks from painting. You might even be sacrificing the quality of your paint job if your air requirements aren’t a good fit.
Make sure to match your sprayers air needs with your compressors ability to deliver before purchasing.
LVLP Vs HVLP for Woodworking
Either one is a great choice, but you need to examine your project needs before purchasing. What materials are you spraying? If you are spraying paints and thicker material, get an HVLP.
Will you need multiple tips? Make sure your preferred sprayer has that option. Some models, you can’t change tips, instead you adjust your fan width, pattern and air pressure. This might not work for your projects.
Are you working in a small space? LVLP vs HVLP guns will generate less overspray. LVLP using a smaller compressor means you can work in a tight space.
Going with HVLP in a tight space means more overspray and you’ll have to go with a turbine system to save on buying a compressor.
PRO TIPWe recommend anchoring your turbine system down before using and make sure the hose is flexible and long enough to complete your project.
Do you have a compressor already that can push out enough air for an HVLP? Some LVLP, like the Iwata recommended above, they need just as much air as an HVLP.
LVLP vs HVLP guns work best on small, intricate projects due to the smaller fan width and lower pressure paint release. It means you can work a bit slower for more precise application and consistent finish.
HVLP’s are faster and best for larger, less intricate projects like shutters, walls and doors.
HVLP vs LVLP Conclusion
LVLP Vs HVLP doesn’t have to be a hard decision.
All of the information above can be used to help you make your paint sprayer decision so you get professional results on your next project.
LVLP not for you? Check out our Best Paint Sprayer Reviews to find the perfect sprayer for your job.
HVLP vs LVLP FAQs
What is the difference between HVLP and LVLP?
HVLP sprays paint at high volume from the nozzle, while LVLP sprays at low volume.
What does LVLP stand for?
Low Volume Low Pressure
What is the best auto paint spray gun?
We recommend the DeVilbiss Finishline
What is the best LVLP spray gun?
We recommend the Iwata LVLP 1.4mm
What is the best HVLP spray gun?
We recommend the Fuji Mini Mite 4 Platinum
Table Of Contents
What Does LVLP Mean? What is a Low Volume Spray Gun?
LVLP Pros and Cons
What does HVLP Mean?
What is Better HVLP or LVLP?
What is the Difference between HVLP and LVLP?
What is an LVLP Spray Gun Used For?
What Can You Spray with an LVLP?
What is an HVLP Spray Gun used For?
HVLP vs LVLP for Latex
Editor's Choice HVLP Premium Paint Sprayer
Fuji Mini Mite 4
Spraying with an HVLP Vs LVLP Gun
Best Jobs for LVLP Sprayers
HVLP Vs LVLP Paint Viscosity
How to Use LVLP
How to Adjust HVLP Vs LVLP
HVLP vs LVLP for Automotive Painting
Best LVLP for Automotive Use
Editor's Choice: Premium LVLP Spray Gun
Iwata LPH400
Editor's Choice: Best Budget LVLP Spray Gun
SprayIt SP-33000
LVLP Spray Gun Compressor Requirements: Compressors for LVLP Spray Guns
