We’ve created this article to help you choose the best paintball tanks. We have reviewed all types of paintball tanks and discussed their pros and cons. Our goal is to make finding what you are looking for easily.
As we have said, you must understand your needs before selecting a tank. In addition, we also have to consider your budget and what features you want in a paintball tank.
Introduction to Paintball Tanks
It is also important to consider how much shooting you will be doing. Are you planning on playing competitively? If so, you will need a higher-quality tank with more features. If not, you should choose a lower-quality tank that is more affordable.
Lastly, it would be best if you consider your playing style. For example, if you want to shoot at very fast speeds and high rates of fire, then you should look for a high-end tank.
If you plan on playing in tournaments, you should look for a tank with many paintballs. You may also want to look into buying a tank that is designed for tournament use.
Types of Paintball Tanks
There are two main types of paintball tanks: CO2 tanks and High Pressure Air (HPA) tanks.
CO2 Tanks
CO2 tanks were the original air source for paintball guns when the sport was first developed. These tanks store carbon dioxide in liquid form, then expand into gas to propel the paintballs.
CO2 tanks are generally cheaper and more readily available than HPA tanks. They are also easy to refill at various locations, including sporting and convenience stores.
However, CO2 tanks have some drawbacks. The performance of CO2 can be inconsistent, especially in colder weather, as CO2 can struggle to expand from a liquid to a gas. This can result in decreased accuracy and range.
High Pressure Air (HPA) Tanks
HPA or Nitrogen or Compressed Air tanks, store air in a compressed form. These tanks are generally more consistent and reliable than CO2 tanks, providing a steady output pressure unaffected by temperature changes.
Paintball HPA tank is available in two main varieties: aluminium (or metal) tanks and carbon fibre tanks. Aluminium tanks are cheaper but heavier, while carbon fibre tanks are lighter but more expensive.
HPA tanks require special filling equipment, making them more difficult to refill than CO2 tanks. However, many paintball fields and shops offer HPA refills.
HPA paintball tank refill is commonly available at paintball pro shops, fields, and authorized air-fill stations. These locations can safely refill HPA tanks to their designated pressure levels.
In conclusion, the type of paintball tank you choose will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. CO2 and HPA tanks have pros and cons, so it’s important to consider what will work best for you.
Best Paintball Tanks Reviews – Our Top Picks in 2023
As many factors go into choosing a top paintball tank. We have done all the research and have broken down our list based on our review of each paintball tank according to the latest 2023 products.
So, let’s take a look at the top 10 paintball tanks. We have chosen these tanks because they are the best overall tank.
Here are the reviews of the paintball tanks which are best for beginners, intermediates, and veteran players.
1. Tippmann Empire Basics 48ci 3K Paintball Tank
The Tippmann Empire paintball tank is a favourite among players and experts worldwide. A complete package from one of the industry’s most trusted names, born to perfection. The tank comes with the best features for beginners and professionals alike.
It also has a quick-detach top cap that makes filling the tank easy. This tank is compatible with all Tippmann Empire markers and most other brands. It makes it a good option for those who do not have many experiences just getting into the sport.
The best thing is that no additional accessories are needed to attach this tank to your marker. However, you must purchase the right adapter and lock ring.
Is this worth your investment?
Yes, you can tell from looking at the exterior that it looks classy and elegant. In addition, the tank highly performs on a range of markers and offers unparalleled customization options that tanks like these are known for having.
Another pro is that it’s’ made to military and competition standards, thus making it durable for better performance.
The Empire Basics 48ci is easy to fill because of its wide-mouth design. It has a large spout located at the top of the tank. You only need to unscrew the cap and then use your finger to pull out the hose.
It is important to note that this tank is designed for High-Pressure Air (HPA) markers and works best with those operating at 3000 psi or higher.
You should not buy this tank if you own an airbrush marker or one that uses CO2. It is also worth mentioning that a small air filter inside the tank helps remove dust and debris that can obstruct airflow. In addition, the tank will last longer and give you more consistent performance.
- Sturdy construction
- Lightweight design and sturdy build quality
- Good performance on most markers.
- Ease of use and good quality comfort
- Easy to maintain as it doesn’t require any special tools or chemicals
- The tank’s leak-prevention valve is too sensitive
2. Aluminum CO2 Paintball Tank
If you are looking for one of the best paintball air tanks for durability, throw this tank into your consideration list.
Because this tank is made from high-grade aluminium, it’s strong and durable for long-term use, so you won’t have to worry about leaks or corrosion problems like rusting out.
Due to its lightweight construction and rigid structure, this tank can be easily transported and transferred from one of your buddies to the other without much trouble. The ball movement is also quite smooth, making it very easy to maneuver at will with a flick or push of your finger.
We like its Repeater Pin Valve that assures you don’t lose any stored gas or solvent through a sudden leakage. It is an excellent choice for those who want to play in all fields because it has a 20 oz CO2 tank that can supply up to 3,000 psi of Pressure. In addition, it has a quick-detach top cap that makes filling the tank easy and safe.
It is a durable tank, and it comes with a safety purge valve that protects you from accidental depressurization.
In addition, this tank offers you great value for your money because it is made from lightweight aluminium. So if you are looking for a tank that will give you value for your money, I recommend buying this one.
This tank is designed for home users and other players who want something less dangerous than nano-tanks. However, gases can still leak back into the compartment of your marker if the tank isn’t properly sealed against leakage.
- Lightweight and durable construction ensures better performance at high Pressure.
- Smooth and efficient ball movement for a more exhilarating shooting experience.
- Effective leak prevention valve
- Easy to transport as it’s very lightweight
- Consistent performance under various circumstances and weather conditions
- Not very good for long-term storage.
3. Maddog 20 Oz Refillable Aluminum CO2 Paintball Tank
The Maddog is one of the best CO2 tanks for paintball markers which can serve you right after it is filled with paintball gas. In addition, it will come with an extra seal included for further protection against leaks.
Due to its solid construction, it’s durable and designed for ease and convenience rather than just exuberance. However, it can provide high scores or catch the attention of other players, especially those with better guns.
It is built from an aluminium material that seems tough enough to house all types of gases needed, unlike the industry standard plastic, which provides little durability when exposed to being used.
There’ll be minimal liner needed when working with it, thus making this tank effectively serve you if maintained well, as with details like valves and threads. As a result, avoiding disappointment or misfires is only better when regularly using CO2 in your marker.
Why do we love it?
We love this because it is compatible with all standard paintball guns. And is properly designed so as not to cause any leak on this tank and instead protects paintballs inside during their cycling performance when shooting at different areas.
Approximately 800-1000 Shots Per Fill will be enough for one game. In addition, it is designed to ensure you complete safe usage of your paintball gun easily.
This tank, therefore, serves as both the Condenser and Reservoir tank. Moreover, it provides more value for the price than the existing ones in the market.
- Sufficient current-carrying capacity
- Made of sturdy and solid aluminium made material
- Usable for all paintball guns
- Suitable easy use a filling mechanism
- Powers 800 – 1,000 shots per fill
- These are not prefilled
4. HK Army Aluminum HPA Tank – 48/3000
The HK Army aluminium compressed air tank is great for players who want something extremely durable. The black colour of this tank adds an excellent contrast to the bright orange paintballs, making it easier for you to see when you need to make a critical shot.
The aluminium construction of this tank is extremely strong and allows you to use this tank for long periods without any worry. Another thing that you should know is this tank has a flat bottom, making it easy to store upright or on tables.
We love the rubber nipple cover. It provides a better, more unique product to fix leaks in one run. In addition, it is a well-crafted tank that presents you get hold of an aluminium body with proper polycarbonate fittings to avoid leakage.
Padding inside the HPA reservoir ensures constant pressure levels, which maintains your paintball gun at shooting positions and prevents you from aiming inaccuracies as expected, even more later in games.
For its superior performance, this Aluminum Paintball Tank for Air Softening is thick enough to stand up comfortably when sitting and sit tilted back, which means you won’t have to be anxious about any damage such product might cause.
Why do we like it?
We like the Output Pressure 800psi to enable you to consistently obtain your marker’s felt recoil. This paintball tank also has a convenient feature that allows the user to easily remove the cap by turning it counterclockwise.
Doing this will allow the user to quickly check the Pressure and refill the tank without removing the entire cap. Compressed air tank paintball refill is easy and proper, in our opinion.
This great tank must be considered one of our top picks because it is straightforward and efficient at rendering consistent shooting performance.
- Easy to maintain with no leakage
- Sturdy made apart from being safe for the guns
- Highest performance as per its output pressure
- More than perfect finish
- A little heavy for people with medium and small-sized guns
5. Empire Paintball Basic Carbon Fiber Air System
The Empire Paintball Basic Carbon Fiber Tank is an advanced HPA-rated tank that helps you regulate Pressure to your desired level.
This DOT-approved cylinder is efficient and a great addition to the Empire Paintball Basic Carbon Fiber Tank, helping you test different pressures effortlessly. All this added to its impressive construction, makes it one of our top picks.
Additionally, this air system features the best paintball tank regulator that makes changing different pressure levels easily available on a single device, making it possible for maximum accomplishment.
It has a slightly more complex design than its smaller sibling, but that doesn’t mean it is more difficult to use. This tank is also made of extremely durable and long-lasting aircraft-grade aluminium.
It also has a standard 800 psi output pressure and is made with aircraft-grade aluminium construction. A paintball tank is a great option for players needing something simple and reliable.
Is this a better option for paintball?
This tank can help you stay on the offensive for much longer, no matter what type of field or scenario you face. With its high-quality aluminium construction, you have high durability with all the parts of your air system, which works smoothly following your expectations.
All these aspects together make it an excellent choice. You can’t go wrong using the Empire Paintball Basic Carbon Fiber Air System. As a result, we highly recommend this tank as another top choice for personal use or other purposes within our list.
- Long-lasting use
- Signs of durability
- Great design and composition
- Easy to maintain without any leakage
- Installation can be difficult sometimes
6. Action Village 20oz CO2 Paintball Tank
The Action Village paintball tank features the art of superior and efficient cylinders, which offer you an advantage over other paintball tanks. Furthermore, it is a high-quality product made from premium components making it lightweight yet durable in critical situations resulting in optimized performance in such competitions.
Action Village will surely give you the best performance and value for your money because of its durable construction that will hold up against the daily abuse in your game.
This tank’s finish is Black, making it look good and blend in with the environment. The digital pressure gauge will continue working even when the tank is fully or partially submerged.
It is a more recommended product you can use for any paintball game. It has a 20-ounce capacity and is designed to withstand some of the toughest conditions you will encounter in paintball.
You can get roughly 1000+ shots on one tank at a push, and this also means you will get more alternative uses if it runs out of gas as long as there are spare.
Furthermore, the removable pin can be easily replaced for frequent replacement tasks, and if so, it’s not an emergency when you are out of ammunition. Therefore, the whole package is highly worth the peso since you get great value for your hard-earned money.
- A reputable cylinder that is tried and tested through long-lasting testing
- Great performance regardless of weather conditions, including light-up
- Less maintenance is needed compared to other cylinders available in the market today
- Using it with improved paintball guns will give you better results in defeating your opponents
- Lightweight design that does not rot and deteriorate much
- It does not come with instructions and a backpack
7. HK Army Aluminum Compressed Air Tank – Best HPA Paintball Tank
The HK Army 13/3000 is one of the best-compressed air tanks available, trusted by many users.
It is also suitable for novice paintball players who want a lightweight tank with maximum power and durability. It is made from aluminium, which makes it sturdy and durable.
It has a compact design to bring it for outdoor games easily. Also, the design makes it easy to carry around, allowing players to easily travel with it and set up the tank anywhere they want to use it.
It comes with an adjustable pressure regulator to regulate the tank’s Pressure. You can use this tank for both air and HPA fillings.
The pressure gauge is a great feature that allows more accurate air fill as it doesn’t spool back on itself like common models in the market.
Why do we like it?
We love the 800 PSI output air pressure provision, which works well. In addition, it has a lightweight design, so anyone can play easily without the hassle of carrying around other bulky gear that is not useable.
It has a nice wide mouth opening, making it easy to fill and clean. It makes the cleaning process faster and less tedious. You can’t go wrong with this tank if you want a lightweight and affordable tank.
The regulator also ensures that the air pressure inside the tank remains consistent, preventing the tank from leaking. Plus, it includes a nipple cover that protects against dirt and dust. Overall, this is a great tank for both beginners and experienced players.
- Very lightweight construction and ergonomic design for any player to play at ease
- Easy to clean, so you can get it ready quickly when you are playing
- Affordable and can be bought for as low as US$40-$50 ranges
- 800 PSI which works great, especially if you play in dry areas
- Easy to fill
- Quality is not yet proven to be durable in extreme weather conditions.
8. Maddog Compressed Air HPA Paintball Tank
The Maddog 48/3000 HPA Paintball Tank is perfect for players interested in playing paintball during all weather conditions, as they are built with high-quality materials.
Also, it is ideal for players who do not want to worry about the tank size because it has a large capacity.
It is perfect for a paintball marker that uses an external fill or leak-free replaceable adapter, making refilling a simple and quick punch. It has two nozzles, including one you can twist to lock it in place if needed. It has been designed for the stability of operation as well as versatility.
We love its 3000psi regulator, which shows its intensity and strength. It comes equipped with a decent regulator with excellent pressure systems before reaching your mouth (huge). Moreover, it ensures exceptional residual capacity, which bears witness as we check its 40oz paintball reservoir.
This best paintball air tank is certified so you can use it ready-to-play without limitations. In addition, they are perfect for players interested in playing paintball during all weather conditions, as they are built with high-quality materials.
When compared against other giants within the industry, for instance, on the 3000psi side, we must admit that this is a very decent tank and a testament to its durability.
We were blown away at how effortlessly this air tank filled us with power while wearing our masks. Our overall impression of the Maddog 48/3000 is that it’s a great value setup and affordable.
- The sale price is highly competitive against the specs it has going for itself.
- Large reservoir capacity (for regular usage)
- Solid Air regulator that helps to maintain its Pressure outside of your tank
- Easy to fill and empty system
- The hose could be longer
9. Ninja Compressed Air Tank w/ Adjustable Regulator
If you are looking for a low-profile, lightweight tank that you can use with almost any gun, then the Ninja 48 will be perfect for you. It has an adjustable regulator that lets you select between different operating pressures.
The tank is very easy to install and remove, and it features an impact-resistant cap and a heavy-duty valve system. In addition, its aluminium construction ensures that it will withstand intense use in the field.
Considering its well-engineered controls, we find owning this setup a great benefit for anyone looking for maximum control over their experience playing paintball.
Is this worth a Money?
Yes, this is a great buy. You can easily adjust this tank from low, medium, and high-pressure settings. It also comes sealed, meaning it doesn’t require any air systems to work, which cuts down on maintenance time between games.
The regulator is also cheap and makes it easy to make small adjustments to a day-to-day routine. Getting this compressor tank, the idea is that it’s still fully sealed, meaning no chance of leaks or having dribbles of compressed gas boost into your mask.
Moreover, it has a quick-release connection system, allowing you to quickly change tanks without the hassle of tightening and loosening nuts. The air source holder is also very sturdy, and the handle is easy to grip.
The cap that protects the valve is also impact resistant, so rest assured that it will stay on the tank during rough play. All you have to do is screw it on and off easily and quickly in the field. Overall, it’s an excellent investment if you need a reliable, sealed system that will be very effective while playing.
- Energy-efficient and takes up minimal space in the trunk or storage area
- Air Nitrogen environment is the preferred one in outdoor circumstances
- Very compact and lightweight body design with heavy-duty handles
- It does not produce toxic fumes, which could potentially turn into another health hazard for players
- Very rugged construction, reliable set up under any conditions
- A self-contained unit means no main trickling effects or leaks through seals in desired areas
- Pumps themselves with Pressure must use regulator valves
10. Ninja Paintball 4500 PSI Carbon Fiber Tanks – Best HPA Tank for Paintball
The Ninja Paintball Tank is a perfect choice for anyone new to paintball. It’s’ a high-quality tank, which gives you impressive power when looking to get dirty in the field.
You don’t have to worry about its durability when getting smashed on the field with a D.O.T., and T.C approved carbon fibre bottle. The carbon fibre material that makes up the Ninja paintball tank offers a strong resistance that can withstand much damage.
Despite being lightweight, this carbon-fibered tank is still strong. The tank can be removed from the gun easily when filled and has great artwork on itself and the regulator.
This product is designed for serious players ready to take their game to the next level. Next is the high-powered output of the tanks, which can be adjusted up to 800 PSI or down to 200 PSI.
The Ninja 4500 PSI has a pressure range that can suit any user. This feature is also useful as you will never get stuck when playing a game. In addition to this, it doesn’t need much maintenance to keep it running for a longer period.
You will love its lightweight, quick fill, and easy open/close button for opening to start filling your gun. Another reason I like this tank so much because it will last me a beat without needing an upgrade because of the best carbon fiber paintball tank material.
These Ninja tanks are different from standard aluminium Nitrogen-filled air tanks and use only Carbon Fiber regulators, which makes this product dependable in performance and looks-wise. It is useful, especially if you play in different fields and terrain.
You won’t have to worry about your tank not having enough or too much power. In short, it gives you full control of the power output of your tank.
- Easy accessibility towards the tank through well-built fittings
- Lightest-weight carbon fibre design
- Quick fill option available
- High-pressure output up to 4500psi
- Quick response to pressure changes
- Price is high
Best Paintball Tanks – Buying Guide
When it comes to picking a good paintball tank, there are a few things that you should pay attention to.
Pressure
Pressure is the term used to measure momentum. The higher an air tank’s pressure output, the faster it will propel paintballs and move them over a longer distance.
Tanks with larger air volumes should also have high pressures; however, these numbers are relative to one another as most tanks do not deliver their maximum until around 4500 psi or more.
Filling
There exist two ways: compressed fill and open-port fill. Compressed tank systems are the most customer-friendly since your options for filling empty tanks without a paintball tank compressor are limited.
Most compressed-fill air tanks come with a tube that can be filled directly from a water source or other pressurized liquid, such as carbonated beverages.
Size
Volume is always more important than Pressure. There are a lot of small tanks, but that can also cause some clogging problems as well.
So I believe that having a good-sized tank is the way to go, and when comparing them consider not just the price point but also what it can do based on its size.
Paintball Tank Sizes
Tank Size |
Capacity (ounces) |
Capacity (millilitres) |
Capacity (cubic inches) |
Maximum Pressure (psi) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
9 oz |
9 |
266 |
– |
– |
12 oz |
12 |
355 |
– |
– |
20 oz |
20 |
591 |
– |
– |
48/3000 |
– |
– |
48 |
3000 |
68/4500 |
– |
– |
68 |
4500 |
Please note that the capacity for the 48/3000 and 68/4500 tanks is measured in cubic inches, and the maximum Pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (psi).
The capacities for the smaller tanks (9 oz, 12 oz, and 20 oz) are given in ounces and millilitres.
Barrels
Some air tanks will come with excellent barrels but sometimes unnecessarily cost money.
Have something different from others since you have your model and name attached instead of buying another generic paint.
Price
The most expensive paintball gun you buy won’t save your life.
You need to invest in the best equipment for your style and level of play; however, there’s still a price difference between the cheapest air tank and the most expensive one.
Cover
Determining the best paintball tank cover is subjective and dependent on personal preferences.
However, some popular options include neoprene covers and silicone sleeves, which provide protection and insulation for the tank.
Brand
Some brands offer better quality products than others. It is followed by personal preference as well.
Some air tanks are not all they’re trumped up to be; you may want to consider where the company was formed, which other products it has been involved in, and, more importantly, how reputable and reliable it is nationally or internationally, for that matter.
Material
Various materials in the market can be used on-air tanks, whether steel or plastic, while others offer a mix of both.
Aluminum is one type of metal commonly seen around, which also affords lesser weight with approximately 70% metallic strength (aluminium alloy 50%). So you’re the best bet if you want to save costs but still retain durability and longevity for an extended period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is compressed air better than CO2 for paintball?
There is a greater chance of internal failure with HPA because it accounts for less volume.
CO2, however, is still brilliant as air in tanks makes the action extremely violent and much more accurate, especially when playing paintball, where prices are often high.
Should I go for steel or plastic?
Steel generally lasts longer; that’s why most people choose it over plastic because of its durability and lightweight, which means less cumbersome during travel when compared to metal tanks.
Does the paintball tank come with a gauge?
Yes, it may well, but you will find that manufacturers usually start the tanks off with less fill remaining, so this way, it’s far more hassle-free.
What’s the best size compressed air tank for paintball?
You may use any 25 or 50-amp-hour tank to hold 200 rounds. For example, 1 kg/h typically maintains 75 psi at 300 PSI and 1000 psi at 20k lb per square inch (psi) pressure.
With that in mind, if you intend on blowing something up monthly, then the larger 100g tanks are the ones that may achieve this. However, you can use smaller tanks at 1 kg/h to provide bursts of power.
Can HPA tanks explode?
This could be dangerous should you follow some basic health and safety procedures.
You can get an HPA tank mask to ensure that no fumes infiltrate your lungs, which may irritate in the short term or long term, especially if exposed to chemicals like nitrated amines at high temperatures of 300 degrees F being formed from combusting ethanol oil.
What tank should I get for paintball?
The type of paintball tank you should get depends on your specific needs and preferences. For example, if you’re a beginner, a CO2 tank might be a good choice due to its affordability and ease of use.
However, if you’re more experienced and play paintball frequently, you might want to consider an HPA (High-Pressure Air) tank.
HPA tanks are generally more consistent and reliable than CO2 tanks but are also more expensive.
How many paintballs can you shoot with a 3000 psi tank?
The number of paintballs you can shoot with a 3000 psi tank depends on the tank size and the paintball marker you use.
On average, you can expect to get about 10 shots per cubic inch with a 3000 psi tank. So, for example, a 48 cubic inch 3000 psi tank would give you approximately 480 shots.
Are paintball tanks better with CO2 or compressed air?
CO2 and compressed air (HPA) tanks have pros and cons. CO2 tanks are cheaper and more readily available but can be inconsistent, especially in colder weather.
HPA tanks, on the other hand, provide more consistent performance and are less affected by temperature changes. However, they are more expensive and require special filling equipment.
The choice between CO2 and HPA largely depends on your budget, the type of paintball you play, and your personal preferences.
What is the difference between 3000 and 4500 paintball tanks?
The numbers 3000 and 4500 refer to the maximum pressure that the tank can hold in pounds per square inch (psi). So, for example, a 3000 psi tank can hold less air than a 4500 psi tank of the same size.
This means that a 4500 psi tank will allow you to shoot more paintballs before needing to be refilled. However, 4500 psi tanks are typically more expensive and require special equipment to fill.
Final Words
You should also know that paintball tanks are usually classified as either low-pressure or high-pressure. Low-pressure tanks are good for new players and those who just started the game.
Nothing is more important to a paintball player than his tactical gear.
The right paintball tank can make all the difference on the field and help you to win every game, while a bad tank will make your day difficult and even longer on the field. Therefore, you should always choose the highest-rated tank suitable for your gun.
- The HK Army Tank is a powerful option with high Pressure to allow maximum shots while playing on the field. Therefore, getting the right paintball tank won’t be difficult.
- Don’t lean towards the cheapest one, but don’t spend all your paintball budget on it. Maddog CO2 is budget-friendly.
- While the Tippmann Empire is all, you must accomplish difficult tasks while playing paintball.
It is good to know that the D.O.T. and T.C.-approved tanks are tested and proven, so you can rest assured that they are high quality. It’s’ not a difficult task.
Make sure you get the right paintball tank. Don’t lean towards the cheapest one, but don’t spend all your paintball budget on it. Instead, consider your market’s needs when browsing our reviews and find the one that fits your demands perfectly.
