Graco 390 vs 395 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Graco 395 & Graco 390 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Graco 395 rather than the Graco 390. 

Why Do I Recommend The Graco 395

  • The Graco 395 features a brushless DC motor for longer lifespan and reduced maintenance, while the Graco 390 uses a brushed DC motor that requires periodic brush replacement.
  • Graco 395 comes with SmartControl electronic pressure management for steadier spray patterns and less overspray, whereas the Graco 390 includes only a basic mechanical pressure control.
  • It supports maximum 0.023 inches tip size for spraying thicker coatings and achieving faster coverage, while the Graco 390 supports maximum 0.021 inches tip size.
  • The Graco 395 delivers a higher 0.54 gallons per minute flow rate to speed up large projects, whereas the Graco 390 delivers around 0.47 gallons per minute.
  • Graco 395 includes the Contractor PC gun with a lighter trigger pull for reduced fatigue during long sessions, while the Graco 390 uses the standard Contractor gun with a heavier trigger pull.
  • It maintains more consistent pressure under extended hose lengths for even finishes on large job sites, whereas the Graco 390 can experience slight pressure drop.
  • The Graco 395 operates more quietly and generates less heat for improved comfort and motor efficiency, while the Graco 390 produces more noise and heat due to its brushed motor design.
  • Graco 395 provides slightly stronger torque to handle higher-viscosity materials with less thinning required, whereas the Graco 390 has lower torque.

Maybe the Graco 390 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Graco 395. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureGraco 395Graco 390
Motor TypeBrushless motorCarbon-brush motor
Max Nozzle Size0.023″0.021″
Flow Rate0.54 gpm0.47 gpm
Horsepower~ 7/8 HP TEFC / DC higher torque~ 5/8 HP DC
Pressure ControlElectronicAnalog control
Spray Gun IncludedContractor PC gunContractor FTx gun
Power ConsumptionMore efficient; less heat, stable power deliveryLess efficient under load, more heat in motor
Ergonomics of GunLighter, more ergonomic, adjustable trigger, rebuildable easilyHeavier, older trigger / less adjustable
Performance Under LoadBetter maintained pressure under load; more consistent outputGreater drop in pressure/tip performance when load increases
PriceCheck Graco 395 PriceCheck Graco 390 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Maximum Operating Pressure: Both sprayers reach a maximum of 3300 PSI, allowing professional-level atomization for smooth finishes across a variety of coatings without pressure drops. This ensures consistent spray patterns for both small and medium-sized projects.
  • Stainless Steel Frame: Each model is built on a durable stainless steel frame that resists corrosion and provides long-term structural strength, making them suitable for frequent jobsite use.
  • Endurance Pump Design: Both use Graco’s Endurance Pump, known for reliability and long service life, which reduces downtime and maintenance costs during heavy-duty work.
  • ProConnect Pump Replacement System: Each sprayer includes the ProConnect system, allowing quick on-site pump swaps without special tools, minimizing job interruptions when pump servicing is required.
  • RAC X Guard & SwitchTip Compatibility: Both accept the same RAC X Guard and SwitchTip nozzles, giving users flexibility to change spray patterns or handle different paint viscosities quickly.
  • Easy-Out Pump Filter: Both come with an Easy-Out filter to trap debris before it reaches the tip, preventing clogs and helping maintain a consistent spray pattern.
  • Compact Stand-Mounted Design: Each sprayer uses a compact stand configuration that is easy to carry and fits well in tight workspaces or transport vehicles.
  • Supports Water- and Solvent-Based Paints: Both can handle a wide range of coatings, from latex to solvent-based paints, giving professionals versatility across multiple applications.
  • Contractor-Grade Performance: Each is designed for professional contractors, offering robust duty cycles and dependable performance for daily commercial painting tasks.
  • 0.017–0.021 Tip Common Range: Both operate efficiently with standard tip sizes between 0.017 and 0.021 inches, covering most interior and exterior painting needs.
  • Weight Range about 12–13 kg: Both units have similar overall weight, making them equally portable and easy to move around job sites.
  • 7.5 m (25 ft) Standard Hose Included: Each package typically includes a 25-foot hose, providing ample reach for most residential and light commercial projects without needing immediate upgrades.

Common Features

FeatureGraco 395Graco 390
Maximum Operating Pressure3300 PSI3300 PSI
Stainless Steel FrameYesYes
Endurance Pump DesignYesYes
ProConnect Pump Replacement SystemYesYes
RAC X Guard & SwitchTip CompatibilityYesYes
DC Motor TypeYesYes
Adjustable Pressure ControlYesYes
Supports up to 200 ft HoseYesYes
Suction Hose for Direct Paint SupplyYesYes
PushPrime Fast PrimingYesYes
Easy-Out Pump FilterYesYes
Compact Stand-Mounted DesignYesYes
Supports Water- and Solvent-Based PaintsYesYes
Contractor-Grade PerformanceYesYes
0.017–0.021 Tip Common RangeYesYes
Weight Range about 12–13 kgYesYes
7.5 m (25 ft) Standard Hose IncludedYesYes
Price Check Graco 395 Price Check Graco 390 Price

FAQ

What is the primary use of the Graco 395 and Graco 390 sprayers?
Both models are professional airless paint sprayers designed for residential and light commercial painting projects, ideal for walls, ceilings, fences, and small to medium exteriors.

Are the Graco 395 and 390 suitable for both interior and exterior painting?
Yes, each sprayer can handle interior and exterior applications, providing consistent coverage and a smooth finish on surfaces such as drywall, siding, trim, and doors.

Do the Graco 395 and 390 support thick coatings like latex or acrylic paints?
Yes, both are built to spray thicker materials such as latex, acrylics, and primers when used with the appropriate tip size and pressure settings.

What is the maximum operating pressure of these models?
Each sprayer operates at a maximum pressure of 3300 PSI, delivering strong atomization and a fine spray pattern for professional-quality finishes.

Do they come with a spray gun included?
Yes, both models include a professional-grade spray gun, with the Graco 395 typically shipping with the Contractor PC gun and the 390 with a Contractor gun.

Can I use long hoses with these sprayers?
Yes, both can handle up to 200 feet of hose, allowing flexibility to move around large job sites without repositioning the base unit.

Is there a difference in the motors used in the two models?
The Graco 390 uses a brushed DC motor, while the Graco 395 is equipped with a brushless motor that provides greater durability and consistent power under heavy use.

Are these sprayers easy to prime before spraying?
Yes, both feature Graco’s PushPrime system, which allows for quick and reliable priming to reduce setup time and ensure smooth operation.

How easy is it to clean the Graco 395 and 390 after use?
Cleaning is straightforward because both have an Easy-Out pump filter and a direct suction hose, enabling efficient flushing with water or appropriate solvents.

Can the pumps be replaced on the job site?
Yes, both models use the ProConnect pump replacement system, which lets you swap the pump quickly on-site without specialized tools.

Are these sprayers portable enough for a single person to carry?
Yes, with weights in the 12 to 13 kilogram range and a compact stand design, each can be carried and transported by one person.

What tip sizes are compatible with these sprayers?
Both work well with RAC X SwitchTips and commonly use tip sizes between 0.017 and 0.021 inches for most painting tasks.

Can I spray solvent-based paints with these models?
Yes, both the Graco 395 and 390 are compatible with a wide range of water-based and solvent-based coatings when used with the proper cleaning and maintenance procedures.

Is there a significant price difference between the two?
Yes, the Graco 395 generally costs more due to its brushless motor, higher flow capacity, and enhanced electronic pressure control.

Which model is better for frequent professional use?
The Graco 395 is typically recommended for more frequent or demanding professional jobs because of its more powerful brushless motor and improved pressure regulation, while the 390 is well-suited for lighter professional or residential projects.