Airbrushing is a great decorating technique for those looking for a little more speed in their work. They can also be a great choice for decorators who want to branch out and try something new. Airbrushes come in all styles and sizes, so you'll want to know what's on the market before you start shopping. No matter your skill level, it will be easy to take your decorating skills to the next level with cakes, cookies, and other pastries when you invest in a quality airbrushing kit. In this guide, you'll find reviews and information to help you understand the fundamentals of choosing the best airbrush for cake decorating.
Best Pick
The PointZero Airbrush Dual Action Airbrush Kit with 3 Airbrushes is our best pick overall, offering a full package that includes everything that you need, from three different size nozzles to seven downloadable books to assist you in becoming a pro, and even comes with its compressor.
Budget Pick
Our budget pick is the Master Airbrush kit, which features three brushes and a convenient carrying case, along with all of the tools and accessories that you need to get started. This budget-friendly model doesn’t include its own air source, but for those who already have one it could be the perfect choice.
Quick Comparison: Top 9 Best Airbrushes for Cake Decorating
Highlighted Features
The PointZero Airbrush Dual Action Airbrush Kit with 3 Airbrushes has everything that you need to get started right out of the box, including a high-quality braided air hose that measures six feet in length. The guns rely on gravity feed mechanisms and come with different size nozzles to achieve the perfect lines every time. The compressor is quiet and delivers consistent airflow to ensure the best results.
This set is an affordable choice for beginners, offering a little bit of everything you’d need to get your feet wet. It may also be a good choice for the more advanced airbrush artist who just wants a collective kit that isn't overpriced. It offers multiple options for compression, and the trigger system is fairly simple for most people to adapt to. Users report very few issues with clogs and flow issues, as well.Highlighted Features
The Master Performance G233 Pro Set will bring more performance to the table when you need an airbrush kit with everything in one. It relies on a gravity feed system to deliver ink consistently and has steady airflow, thanks to a built-in control valve. Plus, it all comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee from the manufacturer.
This airbrush kit includes all of the tools needed to get started, including separate fluid needles and tips to give you the perfect size for every job. This master kit does not come with an air compressor, so you will need to purchase one separately to put this kit to use. The brushes are easy to assemble and disassemble for simple setup and cleanup, however, which is a big selling point for many.3. Cake Boss 50660 Decorating Tools Air Brush Kit
Highlighted Features
The Cake Boss 50660 Air Brush Kit includes everything that you need to start your airbrushing journey: an airbrush with a rubber hose and air compressor, plastic dropper, A/C adapter, instruction booklet, and a special wrench for the nozzles. It also has a varying case to keep everything organized. It uses a gravity reservoir to distribute color for even spraying and great results.
This airbrush kit also offers single-action operation so that you can control the airflow and color with a single push of the trigger, making it a great choice for beginners or those who don’t want a complicated machine. This kit features professional-quality materials for high-end results and portability when you don’t want a compressor that’s going to take up the entire kitchen.4. U.S. Cake Supply - Complete Cake Decorating Airbrush Kit
Highlighted Features
The Complete Cake Decorating Airbrush Kit from U.S. Cake Supply will get you ready to hit the ground running, including not only everything that you need for your airbrush kit, but also a full array of colors that include: black, silver, red, orange, yellow, green blue, violet, pink, Hawaiian blue, brown, and gold.
This kit also includes a small compressor that provides consistent airflow at variable speeds, making it a great choice for beginners, kids, and everyone in between. The gravity-feed system allows you to drop the color in, squeeze the trigger, and go. Plus, it all comes with the 100% satisfaction guarantee from the manufacturer, giving you peace of mind in your selection. It even includes a food coloring chart guide as a bonus.5. Paasche Airbrush H-Set Single Action Siphon Feed Airbrush Set
Highlighted Features
The Paasche H-Set Single Action Siphon Feed Airbrush Set offers quick, easy spraying with the siphon-feed system and easy control from a single trigger operation. The airflow is smooth, and the color distributes evenly with all three head options, giving better results than many similar products on the market. It also includes a six-foot braided air hose that is durable and will hold up over time.
This airbrush kit also includes a metal cup, bottle assembly, storage bottle, hanger, and a wrench for the nozzle assembly and disassembly. Plus, it all comes in a well-designed box that you can use for storage. The chrome-plated design adds durability and a stylish finish and makes the entire device easy to clean.6. GotHobby 0.3mm Gravity Feed Dual-Action Airbrush
Highlighted Features
This airbrush set from GotHobby is a simple kit compared to the others on this list, but it remains a quality airbrush for those who need something more basic and affordable. When you aren’t concerned about extra nozzles or getting a whole set for your decorating needs, this could be the perfect choice. It does not include an air hose or compressor, but it is typically purchased as a replacement by those who already have compressors at home.
This dual-action spray gun features a chrome finish for easy cleanup, and the removable cover allows you to adjust the spray line. It offers a 1/8" hose connection and also includes a nozzle spanner. This gun is great for the more advanced decorator looking for a precision tool, but only for those who are comfortable with the dual-action design.7. Master Airbrush Cake Decorating Airbrushing System Kit
Highlighted Features
The Master Airbrush Cake Decorating Airbrushing System Kit is a full-featured kit that includes everything that professionals and hobby bakers alike need to airbrush cakes, pastries, and other baked goods. It comes with a quick start guide to get you going, plus a satisfaction guarantee. Plus, all of the edible colors include FDA-approved ingredients and are certified kosher.
This airbrushing kit includes a 0.3mm tip and a 0.8mm tip, along with brushes to keep everything clean and a few other accessories. This portable yet professional-grade system also includes a 10-foot hose so that you have plenty of room to move around.8. PointZero Cake Airbrush Decorating Kit
Highlighted Features
The unique thing about this PointZero Cake Airbrush Decorating Kit is that it includes both single-action and double-action airbrushes so users can choose between the convenience and the extra precision. Plus, it offers a heavy-duty braided cord that won’t bend, kink, or otherwise be easily damaged along the way.
Along with this kit, you also get 12 vibrant, fun colors that are all food-safe and ready to start decorating whenever you are. There is also an instructional DVD and a lot of other resources offered by the manufacturer, as well as seven different airbrushing guides that cover everything from general tips to artistic skills, cake decorating-specific tips, and more. Plus, it all comes from PointZero, a leader in the airbrushing industry.9. Paasche Airbrush H-Card Single Action Airbrush Kit
Highlighted Features
This single-action airbrush kit is fairly basic in its design and included features, but it is made from one of the leading companies in the industry. The H-Card airbrush is a single-action tool, which means you don't need two hands to use it. Plus, it includes a six-foot braided hose that will stand the test of time and ensure that the air is always flowing.
The siphon feed system is best suited for larger jobs and commercial applications, but it can be effective for any type of airbrushing work when there is a need for a higher volume of color. This brush is ideal for beginners and more advanced bakers alike, offering steady control, a simple design, and up to 20 or 25 PSI for all of your banking needs. It also comes from a company that has been in business since 1904.How to Choose the Best Airbrush for Cake Decorating That Turns Heads Every Time
For professional decorators and hobby bakers alike, the right airbrush system can make all the difference in taking your decorating skills to the next level. However, there are some things that you need to consider before choosing an airbrush system, so you will want to do a little research and ensure that you understand all of your options. The list above includes some of the best airbrushes on the market, and we chose them based on all of the elements listed below, among other factors. Read up on what criteria matter most when you’re in the market for the best airbrush for cake decorating.
Single-Action vs. Double Action Airbrushes
There are two kinds of airbrushes available on the market today: single-action and double action. Single-action brushes are the most popular for cake decorating because they allow the user to control the airflow and distribution with a single action.
Some models may require that the user press the trigger harder to achieve a more intense color, even though the airflow may not change. Every model is different, though, so you’ll have to read up on their operation before you buy.
Double-action airbrushes are chosen by some of the more skilled decorators because they do offer more precision and detail than a single-action brush. The only issue here is that the user must control the color and airflow separately. This means they have to press and pull the trigger to get the ideal intensity of color and air pressure.
Depending on how confident you are with the dual-action brush design, it might be best to stick with the single-action unless you are looking for something that offers more precision. If you’re willing to invest the time to learn, a double-action airbrush might be worth checking out later on, but a single-action brush will be more than adequate to start with.
Feed System
The color delivery and distribution system are two of the most important factors when shopping for a new airbrush for decorating cakes and pastries. The feed system is what is responsible for delivering and distributing the ink through the gun and onto the cakes. Cake decorating requires precision, not power, so most baking airbrushes use a gravity feed system that allows the color to rely on gravity to fill the airbrush, meaning less air is needed.
This requires a smaller compressor, but it allows bakers to have better control over their decorating. The gravity feed system is found on almost every set on this list, and it is preferred for several reasons. Of course, those working on a larger scale may prefer to invest in the siphon-feed system, which uses suction to bring the color into the airbrush. This system can hold a lot more color at once, which is why it is better for larger projects or commercial baking applications.
Compressor and Airflow
The compressor is what will generate all of the air that the airbrush needs to work. Most of the airbrush kits on this list include a compressor, although there are a couple of budget-minded kits that don't include an air source. These could be ideal for someone who already has a compressor or doesn't mind finding another source of air.
Finding the right compressor can make all the difference. Too much air will cause splatters and other issues, while not enough will mean that you can’t create the precision designs that you had in mind. You want a compressor that ranges from 18-25 PSI for best results.
You should also look for a compressor or airbrush system that includes a control knob or other mechanism to regulate the pressure in your air compressor so that you get even, consistent flow at any speed or pressure level.
Kits vs. Standalone Brushes
While there are dozens of different airbrushing kits on the market today, there are also single airbrush guns that you can purchase on their own or smaller kits that may only have one brush or a few accessories. Buying a kit is always a better choice for people who want more colors, and these can make great gift ideas, too.
If you want to get the most for your money, you will find it in the airbrush kits listed above, including the Master Airbrush kit. Kits are just convenient because they give you all of the equipment and accessories that you need in a single package. Plus, some of the kits today are impressive in their offerings. You can find kits that include everything from a few extra accessories to a full range of tools, supplies, and more.
Some of the kits above even include colors that you will need to get started, which can save you the extra hassle of buying them separately. It can also be a great way to save money, because the kits are generally more affordable than buying each part or component separately.
The one time that it would be a good idea to buy a standalone brush or a simple set? If you are looking to replace tools you already had and don't need all the extra accessories, or you already have them. Otherwise, you're probably wasting money settling on a single brush when you will have to go out and get all of the accessories later and spend even more.
Other Factors to Consider
The elements above are critical in your choice of which airbrush you want for cake decorating. However, some other factors may play into your decision. Below, you'll find a few of those factors explained in detail so that you know what you are looking for.
Quality
If you want the best decorating results, you have to make sure that you choose an airbrush system with a high-quality airflow system and color distribution method. Most airbrushes use a gravity feed to help reduce the risk of quality issues, but several things could go wrong with an airbrush beyond the ink delivery system. Read up on user reviews and third-party reviews like this to learn about the quality of various brands.
Paint Types
There are also several different paint types and consistencies. Most airbrushing food colors are formulated to be thin and slightly runny, making them perfect for distribution through a tiny nozzle in the airbrush. Thicker paints may prove to be more difficult or cause clogs, so be sure that your airbrush can stand up to the work required. Typically, the product will tell you what it can and cannot be used for, but it helps to be aware of the differences yourself.
Ease of Cleaning
No one likes spending their day off cleaning up. Of course, when you own an airbrushing kit, this is an investment that you will want to keep clean. You should be looking for an airbrush that is easy to disassemble and clean, whether that is by handwashing or by using the dishwasher. Consider the airbrush itself, as well as the various parts, and find a cleaning solution that works for all of them. The best way to clean an airbrush is to rinse it with clean water. You can also try using an alcohol-based solution if you want a deeper clean.
Included Features and Accessories
There are several kits on this list that come with a full set of tools and accessories, including food-safe colors, so that you don't have to make a special trip to the store once they reopen. These brushes often include separate sizes of nozzles so you can find the versatility you need in different thicknesses. Make sure that you look at what you're getting for the money and find the right airbrush kit with all the best accessories and features.
Related Posts
The 15 Best Cake Stands For Upgrading Your Dessert Table Decor
The 10 Best Butter Keepers in 2023
The 12 Best Pot Holders in 2023