10 Best Cheap Paintball Guns 2026 in the United States

The Maddog Empire Mini GS is a solid choice for anyone seeking an affordable, ready-to-play paintball gun package. It features a .68 caliber electronic marker that offers fully automatic firing with adjustable modes and a decent firing rate of up to 20 balls per second thanks to its electronic loader. The gun uses a compressed air (HPA) system, which is safer and more consistent than CO2, and the included 48ci 3000psi tank can deliver around 450 to 800 shots per fill, making it practical for longer play sessions.

Weighing about 124 ounces (roughly 7.75 pounds), the metal frame and ergonomic design with a wrap-around foregrip make it comfortable to hold and maneuver, although it might feel a bit heavy for younger or smaller players. The gun includes features aimed at accuracy and smooth shooting, like the two-piece ported aluminum barrel and anti-chop eyes to prevent paintball jams. Maintenance is user-friendly with hoseless air transfer and easy access to electronics, which is great for beginners.

The package also comes with a paintball harness and pods for carrying extra ammo, making it a convenient all-in-one starter kit. The weight could be a bit much for casual players, and while the adjustable velocity is useful, the top speed maxes out at 325 FPS, which is standard but not exceptional for competitive play. The tank brand may vary, which could affect performance consistency. This package suits new to intermediate players looking for reliable electronic operation and convenience without spending a lot.

The Maddog Tippmann Cronus Tactical is a solid choice for beginners looking for an affordable paintball gun package. It uses compressed air (HPA), which is safer and more consistent than CO2, offering about 450-800 shots per fill. The marker is semi-automatic, firing one shot per trigger pull, which is standard for entry-level guns. Its aluminum barrel and proven in-line bolt design help with decent accuracy, making it reliable for casual play and scenario games.

Weighing just under 3 pounds, it’s lightweight and features an ergonomic grip with molded rubber, plus four Picatinny rails for adding accessories if you want to customize your setup. Maintenance is straightforward thanks to its simple internal gas line and durable composite body, which can handle rough use without frequent fixes. The package also includes helpful extras: a 200-round hopper, a refillable HPA tank (which needs filling before use), and basic protective gear like an anti-fog mask, padded chest and neck protectors, gloves, and a harness for carrying extra paintballs.

The protective gear is good for beginners, but players looking for advanced protection might want to upgrade over time. The hopper capacity and tank size support extended play sessions, though more experienced players might find the semi-auto firing limits fast-paced action. For those new to paintball wanting a dependable, ready-to-go setup without breaking the bank, this package covers the essentials well.

The Maddog Empire Mini GS Advanced Starter Package is a well-rounded option for anyone new to paintball or on a budget who wants a reliable electronic marker with essential accessories included. This .68 caliber gun uses compressed air (HPA) for consistent performance and comes with a 48ci aluminum tank, which offers a good balance of shots per fill (around 450-800) and lightweight handling despite the gun weighing about 10 pounds. The electronic firing system supports fully automatic and adjustable firing modes, allowing speeds between 250 to 325 FPS, which is suitable for safe and accurate play.

The integrated anti-chop eyes help prevent paintball breaks inside the gun, enhancing reliability and reducing jams, which is great for beginners. The two-piece metal barrel and ergonomic design with a wrap-around foregrip make it comfortable to hold and improve shooting accuracy. Maintenance is user-friendly, with no external air hoses and tool-less access to the loader battery. The package includes a high-speed loader with a 180-ball capacity and a harness with pods for carrying over 500 extra rounds, eliminating the need for additional purchases to get started.

One downside is that the relatively heavy weight may feel bulky during extended play sessions, especially for younger or smaller players. While the gun offers many advanced features for its price, some higher-end markers provide smoother firing and lighter build but at a higher cost. This bundle is an excellent choice for casual or tournament beginners who want a complete setup that balances performance, ease of maintenance, and value.