In 2024, the leading paintball guns haven’t undergone significant changes, but below, you’ll discover some exciting new additions. Check out my favorite paintball guns in various categories, ranging from beginner-friendly options to magazine-fed ones. I’ve personally used all of these and reviewed most of them on my YouTube channel.

Best beginner gun for more people
Best tournament paintball gun
Best mag-fed paintball gun
Best mechanical paintball gun
Some more great paintball guns

Best beginner gun for more people


Planet Eclipse EMEK

Planet Eclipse introduced the revolutionary GammaCore bolt system in the Gtek, and it has been a tremendous success, contributing to the Emek’s excellence as a great gun.


Trigger Type: Mechanical Barrel Type: Single Piece Barrel Length:10in Battery: None Weight: 878 (g) Operating Pressure: 135 PSI

The Emek from Planet Eclipse has become a sensation in the paintball community, emerging as the top-selling gun for the past 6 years. And it’s easy to see why! Priced under $300, the Emek offers remarkable value.

With the GammaCore bolt system, shared with the 180R and CS3, the Emek operates smoothly at just 135 PSI. This translates to quiet shots, minimal recoil, and the ability to handle delicate paintballs effortlessly.

Not only does the GammaCore ensure top-notch performance, but it also makes the Emek one of the most reliable paintball guns around. Trusted by paintball fields globally as their preferred rental gun, it proves its durability against the challenges posed by new players.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro in need of a reliable backup or a beginner looking for the best deal, the Emek delivers unbeatable performance, durability, and affordability. It’s a true game-changer in the paintball world.

Tippmann Stormer

Tippmann has been a trusted name for decades, renowned for crafting top-notch and dependable paintball guns. The Stormer continues this legacy.


Trigger Type: Mechanical Barrel Type: Single Piece Barrel Length:10in Battery: None Weight: 1729 (g) Operating Pressure: 750 PSI

Tippmann is globally recognized for making the toughest and most reliable paintball guns, and the Stormer proudly carries on that reputation. Constructed with a lightweight yet sturdy composite material, the Stormer delivers the same robust performance as other Tippmann models but with a more agile feel.

A great feature of the Stormer is its top picatinny rail, offering plenty of space for various attachments. Whether you’re looking to enhance accuracy with a scope or tackle low-light scenarios with a flashlight, the Stormer has got you covered. Additionally, there’s a range of stock and barrel upgrades available, allowing you to tailor your setup to your liking.

With the Stormer, Tippmann maintains its reliability and durability while incorporating modern features and the freedom to personalize your paintball gun. It strikes the perfect balance of toughness, versatility, and adaptability for players seeking top-notch performance on the field.

Best tournament gun


Planet Eclipse CS3

The CS3, Planet Eclipse’s top-tier flagship, boasts all the high-end features the brand offers. With the addition of the new OP core, Planet Eclipse has crafted the ultimate high-end gun of 2023.


Meet the Planet Eclipse CS3, a top-tier choice in paintball guns. Yes, it comes with a price tag just shy of $1800, but the greatness it brings is well worth it.

Experience fantastic ergonomics, unwavering reliability with the GammaCore bolt system, and the precision of the S63 PWR barrel. The CS3 isn’t just a gun; it’s a ticket to the best support in the paintball community. Planet Eclipse is known for exceptional customer service, standing firmly behind their products.

What sets the CS3 apart is its highly adjustable mechanical frame. Tailor it to your unique trigger finger for optimal performance. While it demands a significant investment, the CS3 delivers unmatched quality and performance.

The Shocker paintball guns have been a top choice for the past two decades, and the latest model, ERA, is no exception. Featuring the renowned Freak XL barrel, it stands out as one of the lightest guns while being available at half the price of other high-end guns. Check it out!


Trigger Type: Electronic Barrel Type: 3 Piece Freak XL V2 Insert Barrel Length:15 Battery: Single 9v Weight: 815 (g) Operating Pressure: 110 PSI

The Shocker ERA brings several welcomed upgrades compared to its predecessor, the Shocker AMP. These include a larger fore-grip and updated air transfer pipes.

The bolt design remains similar but with slight improvements, featuring higher flow and an adjustable o-ring for better cold weather performance. The Twist-Lock bolt design allows for easy, tool-less removal, simplifying maintenance. Operating at an impressively low pressure of 110psi, the ERA can handle delicate paintballs without breaking in the breech.

Whether you prefer electronic or mechanical, the ERA offers an optional mechanical frame that can be quickly changed with just one screw, aided by the higher flow bolt for mechanical operation.

Best mechanical paintball gun


Planet Eclipse Etha 3m

Planet Eclipse hit a home run with the Emek, and now they’ve taken it up a notch with the Etha 3M – an upgraded version of the Emek. Sporting an on/off ASA, two-piece barrel, aluminum feedneck, and an adjustable trigger, it’s a solid choice for paintball enthusiasts.



Trigger Type: Mechanical Barrel Type: 2 Piece Shaft Barrel Length:14.5in Battery: None Weight: 905 (g) Operating Pressure: 135 PSI

Introducing the Etha 3m – the paintball gun we’ve all been waiting for! It’s an upgraded version of the Emek, boasting the same reliable GammaCore bolt system but with added enhancements.

Equipped with sought-after upgrades like a POPS on/off ASA for easy air tank removal, a quick-release bolt for hassle-free maintenance, an aluminum feed-neck for durability, a two-piece barrel for improved accuracy, and an adjustable trigger for a customized shooting experience, the Etha 3m offers incredible value. If purchased separately, these upgrades would cost over $300, but you can have them all in the Etha 3m for just $110 more than the Emek. It’s a fantastic deal that delivers top-notch performance without breaking the bank!

Best magazine fed paintball gun


Planet Eclipse EMF100

The EMF100 stands out as the top choice for a magazine-fed paintball gun. It utilizes the Planet Eclipse Gamma Core bolt, the same system found in the Etha 3M, and is compatible with the Dye DAM Magazine.


Trigger Type: Mechanical Barrel Type: 2 Piece Shaft  Barrel Length:14.5in Battery: None Weight: 1559 (g) Operating Pressure: 135 PSI

The Planet Eclipse EMF100 is a versatile paintball gun that supports both loader and magazine use. Thanks to its Gamma Core drivetrain, you’ll enjoy precise and quiet shots perfect for tactical gameplay. Operating at a low pressure of 135 PSI, it delivers excellent performance comparable to high-end tournament guns.

Ideal for stealthy woodland play, the EMF100 allows silent movement. It’s equipped with Picatinny rails on the barrel shroud and body’s top, offering the freedom to attach accessories like scopes or flashlights.

Planet Eclipse EMF100 Review

Other great paintball guns


Tippmann TiPX

The top choice for a paintball sidearm is the Tippmann TiPX. With a limited selection of pistols in paintball, the TiPX has taken the lead since its release. It operates with 12-gram CO2 cartridges, accommodates various magazine lengths, and offers exciting upgrade options.


Trigger Type: Mechanical Barrel Type: 1 Piece Barrel Length:6.25in Battery: None Weight: 884 (g) Operating Pressure: 650 PSI

The Tippmann TiPX is a compact yet potent paintball pistol designed for ease of use and mobility on the field, making it the perfect sidearm for your mag-fed setup. With its robust build, the TiPX can handle the rigors of intense gameplay.

The standard TiPX includes 8-round magazines and operates on 12-gram CO2 cartridges. For added flexibility, you have the option to use larger magazines and incorporate the Remote Line Kit Adapter to utilize a larger compressed air tank.

Empire Mini GS

The Mini GS stands out as one of the smallest and most cost-effective choices in paintball. Its compact size makes it ideal for kids. It delivers fantastic shots, features a great two-piece barrel, on/off ASA, and a superb magnetic trigger.


Trigger Type: Electronic Barrel Type: 2 Piece Driver Barrel Length:14in Battery: 1x 9v Weight: 883 (g) Operating Pressure: 180 PSI

The Mini GS has built a solid reputation as one of the best mid-range paintball guns priced under $400. It’s perfect for players wanting to upgrade without breaking the bank.

Designed mainly for speedball, the Mini GS is versatile across all game types. It has impressive features like an easy-to-use on/off ASA, a comfy rubberized fore-grip, and a two-piece barrel. With its lightweight design, minimal kick, and multiple firing modes.

In summary, the Empire Mini GS offers fantastic value for its price and is highly esteemed by players. If you’re on the lookout for a reliable and affordable paintball gun, this one is definitely worth considering.

Dye DSR+

The DSR+ by Dye stands out as the quietest paintball gun in 2023. It offers excellent shooting performance, minimal noise, and hardly any recoil. Equipped with a legendary Dye Ultralite barrel, quick-release bolt, and a comfortable grip.


Trigger Type: Electronic Barrel Type: 2 Piece UL-S Barrel Length:14in Battery: 1x 9v Weight: 920 (g) Operating Pressure: 105 PSI

The Dye DSR+ is a high-end paintball gun designed to rival competitors like the Shocker ERA and Planet Eclipse 180R. Priced at $1000, it boasts advanced features that enhance your gameplay.

In terms of looks and feel, the DSR+ closely mirrors its predecessor, the original DSR, retaining the same trigger frame and fore-grip. However, it comes with notable improvements. The Edge2 trigger, though it may look a bit unconventional, performs exceptionally well. The ARC+ bolt ensures a smooth and remarkably quiet shot, and the new Solenoid Flow Restrictor (SFR) allows you to customize air usage according to your preference.

Overall, the DSR+ surpasses the original DSR, providing reduced kick and a quieter shot. If you’re in the market for a high-end paintball gun, the Dye DSR+ stands out as an excellent choice that won’t let you down.

Author

Yo! My name is Brad Johnson, I'm the author/creator/owner/janitor of Paintball Ruined My Life. I worked in the paintball industry for over 16 years, before starting this website and my YouTube channel.