Best Paint for Gunpla

Best Paint for Gunpla – Top Picks for 2025

Painting your Gunpla (Gundam plastic models) is one of the most rewarding ways to elevate your model-building hobby, bringing vibrant colors, realistic details, and personalized flair to your kits. Choosing the best paint for Gunpla is crucial for achieving a professional finish that enhances both aesthetics and durability. We’ll review the top paints for Gunpla in 2025, share expert tips, and answer common questions to help you select the perfect paint for your project.

Whether you’re a beginner airbrushing your first High Grade (HG) kit or a seasoned modeler hand-painting a Master Grade (MG) masterpiece, this review covers the best options for various techniques, budgets, and skill levels. Let’s dive into the best paints for Gunpla to make your models shine!

Why Painting Gunpla Matters

Gunpla kits are known for their high-quality plastic and detailed designs, but painting takes them to the next level. Here’s why painting is a game-changer:

Enhanced Realism: Paint adds depth, weathering, and show-accurate colors, making models look like they stepped out of the Gundam anime.
Customization: Create unique color schemes or custom designs to reflect your style.
Detail Highlighting: Painting small parts, like joints or panel lines, enhances intricate details that stickers can’t match.
Durability: Properly applied paint with a topcoat protects your model from scratches and wear.

With countless paint brands and types available, selecting the best paint for Gunpla can be daunting. We’ve researched, tested, and incorporated insights from hobbyist communities and industry sources to bring you the top performers for 2025, ensuring your Gunpla looks stunning and lasts.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint for Gunpla

Before exploring our top picks, here are the critical factors to consider when selecting paint for Gunpla:

Paint Type: Acrylics are versatile and safe for beginners, lacquers offer vibrant finishes for airbrushing, and enamels excel for weathering and hand-painting details.
Application Method: Choose paints suited for your technique—airbrushing, hand-brushing, or spray cans.
Durability: Look for paints that resist scratches and adhere well to plastic, especially for posable kits.
Finish: Matte, satin, gloss, or metallic finishes affect the model’s look and topcoat compatibility.
Toxicity: Opt for low-fume or water-based paints like acrylics for indoor painting, or ensure proper ventilation for lacquers and enamels.
Thinning and Cleanup: Ensure the paint thins easily with the right solvent (water for acrylics, lacquer thinner for lacquers) and cleans up without damaging plastic.
Color Accuracy: Select brands with vibrant, show-accurate colors or mixable pigments for custom shades.
Availability: Check for paints available at hobby shops or online, like Tamiya or Mr. Color.
Primer Compatibility: Use a primer suited for the paint type to enhance adhesion and color vibrancy.
Budget: Balance cost with quality, as premium paints like Gaianotes may cost more but deliver superior results.

With these factors in mind, let’s explore the best paints for Gunpla for 2025, drawing from real-world examples and hobbyist feedback.

Top 5 Best Paints for Gunpla in 2025

After thorough research, hands-on testing, and analysis of customer reviews and industry insights, we’ve selected the top five paints that excel in vibrancy, durability, and ease of use for Gunpla. These paints cater to various skill levels, from beginners to advanced modelers.

1. Mr. Color Lacquer Paint

Best Overall
Price Range: $3–$5 per 10ml bottle
Finish: Gloss, matte, metallic
Key Features: Vibrant pigments, fast-drying, airbrush-ready

Mr. Color by GSI Creos is the gold standard for Gunpla painting, favored by professional modelers for its fine pigments and flawless airbrush results. These lacquer-based paints deliver rich, vibrant colors and dry quickly to a durable finish, ideal for layering and weathering. Available in a wide range of Gundam-accurate colors, they’re perfect for High Grade, Master Grade, and Perfect Grade kits. Use with Mr. Color Leveling Thinner for optimal results.

2. Tamiya Acrylic Paint

Best for Beginners
Price Range: $2–$4 per 10ml bottle
Finish: Gloss, matte, metallic
Key Features: Water-based, non-toxic, versatile

Tamiya Acrylic Paint is a beginner-friendly, water-based option that’s safe for indoor painting and easy to clean up. While technically solvent-based acrylics (requiring Tamiya’s X-20A thinner for best results), they’re versatile for both airbrushing and hand-brushing. Available in a wide color range, including metallics like Gun Metal, they’re ideal for detailing joints or base-coating armor. Their thin coats preserve fine details but may require multiple layers for opacity.

Pros:

Non-toxic with minimal fumes
Easy to thin and clean with water or Tamiya thinner
Wide availability at hobby shops
Great for hand-brushing small details

Cons:

Less durable than lacquers or enamels
Gloss finish can show brush strokes if hand-painted

Why We Love It: Tamiya’s ease of use and safety make it perfect for beginners experimenting with Gunpla painting.

3. Vallejo Mecha Acrylic Paint

Best for Hand-Painting
Price Range: $3–$5 per 17ml bottle
Finish: Satin
Key Features: High opacity, water-based, brush-friendly

Vallejo Mecha Acrylic Paint is tailored for mecha models like Gunpla, offering bold, opaque colors and a satin finish that hides brush strokes. Its water-based formula is non-toxic, making it ideal for hand-painting details like panel lines, sensors, or weathering effects. While suitable for airbrushing with thinning, it excels in brushwork for small parts. Colors match Gundam box art well, though whites and yellows may need extra coats.

Pros:

Excellent for hand-painting with minimal brush marks
Non-toxic and easy to clean
High pigmentation for vibrant colors
Larger bottle size for the price

Cons:

Less durable for heavily handled kits
Satin finish may require a matte topcoat for weathering

Why We Love It: Vallejo Mecha’s brush-friendly formula is a go-to for detailed, hand-painted Gunpla designs.

4. Gaianotes Lacquer Paint

Best for Professional Finishes
Price Range: $4–$6 per 15ml bottle
Finish: Gloss, matte, metallic
Key Features: Ultra-fine pigments, scratch-resistant, Japan-formulated

Gaianotes Lacquer Paint, designed in Japan for hobbyists, delivers ultra-fine pigments and a scratch-resistant finish, making it a favorite for advanced Gunpla builders. Its rich colors and smooth airbrush application are perfect for show-accurate schemes and custom builds. Use with Gaianotes Pro Use Thinner for a durable, glossy finish. Ideal for Master Grade or Perfect Grade kits requiring a premium look.

Pros:

Superior pigment quality for vibrant finishes
Highly durable and scratch-resistant
Smooth airbrush flow with minimal clogging
Tailored for Gunpla and mecha models

Cons:

Higher cost than other brands
Requires ventilation due to lacquer fumes

Why We Love It: Gaianotes offers unmatched quality for modelers seeking competition-ready Gunpla finishes.

5. Tamiya Enamel Paint

Best for Weathering and Details
Price Range: $2–$4 per 10ml bottle
Finish: Gloss, matte
Key Features: Slow-drying, blendable, durable

Tamiya Enamel Paint is a slow-drying, oil-based paint ideal for weathering techniques like panel washes, rust effects, and fades. Its durability makes it perfect for hand-painting details on joints, hydraulics, or battle damage. While it can be airbrushed with thinning, it’s best for brushwork due to its thickness. Use with Tamiya Enamel Thinner and apply over lacquer or acrylic base coats to avoid reactions.

Pros:

Excellent for weathering and blending
Durable finish for handled parts
Easy to hand-paint small details
Non-reactive over other paint types

Cons:

Slow drying requires patience
Strong fumes need ventilation

Why We Love It: Tamiya Enamel’s versatility for weathering makes it a must-have for realistic Gunpla effects.

How to Paint Gunpla: Step-by-Step Guide

To achieve a professional Gunpla paint job, follow these steps:

Prepare Your Workspace: Work in a well-ventilated area with a spray booth for lacquers or enamels. Wear a mask and gloves for safety.
Disassemble the Kit: Separate parts and organize them to avoid losing small pieces. Remove nub marks with sandpaper (400–1000 grit).
Clean the Parts: Wash parts in warm, soapy water to remove mold release agents. Dry thoroughly.
Prime the Surface: Apply a primer (e.g., Mr. Surfacer 1000 or Tamiya Fine Surface Primer) to enhance paint adhesion. Use light gray for dark colors, white for bright colors.
Thin the Paint: Thin acrylics with water or brand-specific thinner (e.g., Tamiya X-20A), lacquers with lacquer thinner, and enamels with mineral spirits to a milk-like consistency.
Apply Base Coats: Airbrush or hand-paint thin, even coats, letting each dry fully (20 minutes for acrylics/lacquers, 24 hours for enamels). Use 2–3 coats for opacity.
Detail Painting: Hand-paint small parts like sensors or joints with a fine brush (e.g., Vallejo Mecha for acrylics, Tamiya Enamel for weathering).
Panel Lining: Use a fine brush or Gundam Marker for panel lines before topcoating.
Apply Topcoat: Spray a gloss topcoat (e.g., Mr. Super Clear) for decals, then a matte or semi-gloss topcoat for a final finish. Allow 24–48 hours to cure.
Assemble and Pose: Reassemble the kit carefully, avoiding paint scratches, and pose your masterpiece.

Pro Tip: Test paints on plastic spoons or spare runners to check color and consistency before applying to your kit.

Tips for Maintaining Painted Gunpla

To keep your painted Gunpla looking pristine, follow these tips:

Handle with Care: Use gloves or tweezers to avoid fingerprints or scratches on painted surfaces.
Store Properly: Display in a dust-free case or store in a cool, dry place to prevent fading.
Clean Gently: Dust with a soft brush or compressed air. Avoid water or cleaners that may damage paint.
Touch Up Scratches: Use matching paint and a fine brush to repair minor chips, followed by a topcoat.
Avoid Harsh Environments: Keep away from direct sunlight or high humidity to preserve colors and topcoats.

Acrylic vs. Lacquer vs. Enamel Paints for Gunpla

Choosing the right paint type depends on your skill level, tools, and project goals. Here’s a comparison:

Feature	Acrylic Paint	Lacquer Paint	Enamel Paint
Durability	Moderate, less scratch-resistant	High, very durable	High, durable but slow-drying
Drying Time	Fast (20–30 min), cures in days	Very fast (10–20 min)	Slow (24–48 hours)
Application	Airbrush or hand-brush; water cleanup	Airbrush; lacquer thinner cleanup	Hand-brush or airbrush; mineral spirits
Fumes/Toxicity	Low, non-toxic (water-based)	High, requires ventilation	Moderate, needs ventilation
Best For	Beginners, hand-painting details	Professional airbrushing, base coats	Weathering, panel washes, details
Brands	Tamiya, Vallejo, Mr. Hobby Aqueous	Mr. Color, Gaianotes, Alclad II	Tamiya, Model Master, Humbrol

Layering Order: Plastic > Primer > Lacquer > Enamel > Acrylic to prevent paint reactions. Use a gloss topcoat between layers if mixing types.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

For safe and eco-conscious Gunpla painting, consider these tips:

Ventilation: Use a spray booth and wear a respirator mask (e.g., 3M 6000 Series) when airbrushing lacquers or enamels.
Non-Toxic Options: Choose water-based acrylics like Tamiya or Vallejo for indoor painting with minimal fumes.
Proper Disposal: Dispose of paint-soaked rags and thinner in accordance with local hazardous waste regulations.
Eco-Friendly Brands: Vallejo and Mr. Hobby Aqueous offer low-VOC formulas for reduced environmental impact.

Creative Ideas for Painting Gunpla

Unleash your creativity with these Gunpla painting ideas:

Show-Accurate Colors: Match colors to anime box art using Mr. Color or Gaianotes for authenticity.
Custom Color Schemes: Create unique palettes, like a neon Zaku or desert-camouflaged Gundam.
Weathering Effects: Use Tamiya Enamel for rust, chipping, or battle damage to mimic combat-worn mechs.
Metallic Finishes: Paint joints and frames with Tamiya Gun Metal or Alclad II for a realistic look.
Panel Line Accents: Highlight panel lines with contrasting colors for a dynamic effect.

Tip: Start with a simple HG kit to practice painting before tackling complex MG or PG builds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best paint for Gunpla in 2025?

Mr. Color Lacquer Paint is the best overall for its vibrant colors, durability, and airbrush performance, ideal for professional Gunpla finishes.

2. Are acrylic paints good for Gunpla?

Yes, acrylics like Tamiya and Vallejo Mecha are beginner-friendly, non-toxic, and great for hand-painting or airbrushing, though they’re less durable than lacquers.

3. Can I use lacquer paint over acrylic paint on Gunpla?

Lacquer can melt acrylic paint unless a gloss topcoat (e.g., Mr. Super Clear) is applied first. Follow the order: primer > lacquer > enamel > acrylic.

4. Do I need a primer for Gunpla painting?

Yes, a primer like Mr. Surfacer 1000 or Tamiya Fine Surface Primer enhances paint adhesion and color vibrancy, especially for lacquers and acrylics.

5. What’s the best paint for weathering Gunpla?

Tamiya Enamel Paint is ideal for weathering, offering slow-drying properties for panel washes, rust, and battle damage effects.

6. Is airbrushing necessary for Gunpla painting?

No, hand-painting with acrylics or enamels works well for details, but airbrushing lacquers or acrylics gives smoother base coats for larger areas.

7. How do I make Gunpla paint more durable?

Apply a primer, use thin coats, and finish with a topcoat (e.g., Mr. Super Clear Matte) to protect paint from scratches and handling.

8. Can I use spray cans for Gunpla painting?

Yes, Tamiya spray cans (lacquer-based) are effective for base coats, but they’re less precise than airbrushing and require ventilation.

9. What’s the best paint for metallic Gunpla parts?

Gaianotes or Alclad II lacquers offer realistic metallic finishes for joints and frames, while Tamiya Acrylic Gun Metal is great for hand-painting.

10. How do I clean up Gunpla paint mistakes?

Strip acrylics with isopropyl alcohol, lacquers with lacquer thinner, or enamels with mineral spirits. Test on a spare part to avoid damaging plastic.

Conclusion – Which Paint Is Right for Your Gunpla?

Selecting the best paint for Gunpla depends on your skill level, tools, and project goals. For professional airbrushing, Mr. Color Lacquer Paint delivers unmatched vibrancy and durability. Tamiya Acrylic Paint is perfect for beginners with its safety and versatility. Vallejo Mecha Acrylic Paint excels for hand-painted details, while Gaianotes Lacquer Paint offers premium finishes for advanced builders. Tamiya Enamel Paint is ideal for weathering and realistic effects.

Proper preparation, thinning, and topcoating are key to a stunning, durable finish. Ready to transform your Gunpla? Choose your paint and start building a masterpiece today!

Best Paint for Gunpla