10 Best Paint For Action Figures in 2026

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For action figure painters who need a versatile, ready-to-use palette, the Nicpro 30 Colors Model Paint Set is the best overall choice, offering 30 pre-thinned colors with UV-resistant pigments that resist fading. The Shuttle Art 23 Colors Model Paint Set is the best value for a complete kit, while the Vallejo Wargame Special Acrylic Paint Set is ideal for wargaming figures needing precise dosing and fluorescent colors.

A common challenge when painting action figures is finding paints that adhere well to plastics, resist chipping from handling, and offer the right finish. Many general craft paints are too thick or lack the durability needed for articulated figures that get posed and played with.

This guide is based on research into manufacturer specifications, expert recommendations from the hobby community, and patterns found in user feedback. We have organized 10 top paint sets to help you find the right match for your project, from beginner to experienced painter.

Top 10 Paints For Action Figures in the Market

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The Best Paints For Action Figures, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Nicpro 30 Colors Model Paint Set

Nicpro 30 Colors Model Paint Set
Colors30 (26 standard + 4 metallics)
Bottle size20 ml each
CompatibilityBrush & airbrush
FinishMatte (standard) / Metallic sheen
Included extras3 thinners, instruction sheet, color wheel
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What We Like

  • 30 ready-to-use colors with 4 metallics
  • Pre-thinned for brush painting straight from bottle
  • UV-resistant pigments resist fading and chipping
  • Includes 3 thinners for airbrush or glazes

Trade-offs

  • No primer or brushes included in the set
  • Metallics limited to 4 shades only

Thirty colors in 20 ml dropper bottles give you a wide palette right out of the box. You can base coat, shade and highlight an action figure without running to the store for a missing shade. The paints are pre-thinned for brush work, which cuts down setup time, and the included three thinners let you adjust consistency for airbrushing or fine glazes. UV-resistant pigments mean your finished figure won’t fade under display lighting, a real plus for collectors who want long-lasting results. This set suits both beginners building their first paint collection and experienced painters who appreciate having a broad range of matte and metallic options at hand.

With 30 colors and three thinners, this Nicpro set gives you more paint variety than the 16-color Vallejo Game Color Introduction Set, so you can mix and shade without running out of options. The trade-off is that you get no primer or brushes, so you will need to buy those separately before starting your first figure. If you already own brushes and primer and want the most color flexibility for your money, this Nicpro set covers more ground out of the gate.

Best for: Action figure painters who want a broad, ready-to-use color range with matte and metallic finishes and the flexibility to brush or airbrush. Not ideal for someone who needs a complete starter kit with primer and brushes included.

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#2Best Value Set

Shuttle Art 23 Colors Model Paint Set

Shuttle Art 23 Colors Model Paint Set
Color count23 colors
Bottle size0.68 oz / 20 ml
Included extrasThinner + 3 brushes
Paint typeWater-based acrylic
Finish optionsMetallic shades included
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What We Like

  • All-in-one kit with thinner and brushes
  • High pigmentation for 1-2 coat coverage
  • UV-resistant formula for long-term display
  • Works on plastic, resin, metal, and wood

Trade-offs

  • No primer included for bare plastic or resin
  • Thinner bottle is small for frequent airbrush use

With 23 colors in 20 ml dropper bottles, you get enough paint to cover multiple projects without running out mid-coat. The set also includes a thinner for airbrush work and three detail brushes, so a beginner can start brush-painting right away while an experienced hobbyist can spray smooth base coats. Professional-grade pigments deliver full coverage in just one or two thin coats, which saves time between priming and finishing. The UV-resistant formula keeps finishes bright and non-fading for long-term display, so your painted figures won’t dull under normal room lighting.

Twenty-three colors won’t cover every shade you might need for intricate schemes; you may have to mix or buy additional bottles for specific tones. Compared to the Nicpro 30 Colors set, Shuttle Art gives you fewer colors but includes a thinner and brushes, which can be useful for someone who doesn’t already own those tools. If you prefer a larger color selection and already have your own tools, the Nicpro might suit you better; if you want a kit that includes the basics to get started, this Shuttle Art set is a practical option.

Best for: Hobbyists who want a complete kit with thinner and brushes for immediate use. Not ideal for painters who need a wide range of specialty shades or a dedicated primer in the box.

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#3Best For Wargaming Figures

Vallejo Wargame Special Acrylic Paint Set

Vallejo Wargame Special Acrylic Paint Set
Color count16 bottles x 18 ml
Paint typeWater-based acrylic
Notable colorsFluorescent Yellow, Orange, Magenta, Blue, Green
Bottle designPrecision eyedropper with secure cap
Weight1.3 pounds
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What We Like

  • Precision eyedropper for exact dosing
  • Includes 5 fluorescent colors
  • Water-based, non-toxic formula
  • Secure caps prevent drying

Trade-offs

  • No brush or thinner included
  • Fluorescent colors lack opacity for basecoating

Sixteen bottles of 18 ml each, this set focuses on a palette built for wargaming figures, with five fluorescent colors that let you add glowing eyes, magical effects, or sci-fi details without mixing from scratch. The precision eyedropper bottles allow exact dosing, which helps keep paint from drying out during storage. For someone painting rank-and-file miniatures or character models with specific fantasy or historical themes, this is a targeted collection that covers flesh tones, metallics, and bright accents right out of the box.

You get no brush, no thinner, and only 16 colors with this set. If you need a full spectrum for varied projects or prefer a starter kit with tools, the Nicpro 30-color set offers more colors in a similar format. But those fluorescent bottles are rare in competing sets at this size, and the eyedropper design is genuinely helpful for consistent mixing. This set rewards painters who know what they want and want it in a compact, no-fuss package.

Best for: Wargamers and figure painters who want a compact, fluorescent-rich palette with precise dosing. Also suitable for beginners, as the formula is non-toxic and easy to use.

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#4Best For Fantasy Miniatures

Vallejo Game Color Introduction Set

Vallejo Game Color Introduction Set
FinishMatte
Paint typeAcrylic, fantasy & wargame
ApplicationBrush (airbrush with dilution)
Includes metallics4 metallic paints
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What We Like

  • 16 vibrant colors ready for fantasy miniatures
  • 4 metallic paints for armor and weapons
  • Matte finish reduces glare on figures
  • High pigment concentration for smooth coverage

Trade-offs

  • Only 16 colors limits variety for large projects
  • Requires dilution for airbrush use

With 16 colors including four metallics, this set is built specifically for fantasy miniatures and wargaming figures. The high pigment concentration and self-leveling formula give you smooth, opaque coverage with a matte finish that won’t reflect light off your painted models. Beginners and experienced hobbyists alike will appreciate the precision eyedropper caps, which make mixing and applying paint easy without wasting a drop.

Sixteen colors is a focused palette, so if you need a broader range for diverse projects, the Nicpro 30 Colors set offers more variety out of the box. But for someone painting a single army or a handful of fantasy characters, these paints blend well and hold up to handling. The 18 ml bottles are a standard size for this type of paint, and the quality of the finish and durability make them a reliable choice for dedicated miniature painters.

Best for: Fantasy miniature and wargaming painters who want a focused, high-pigment starter set with metallics and a matte finish.
#5Best Starter Kit

The Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Starter Set

The Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Starter Set
Paint count11 x 18 ml
Included extras1 brush, 1 miniature
Paint types7 acrylics, 2 metallics, 1 wash
BrandThe Army Painter
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What We Like

  • Includes brush and miniature to start immediately
  • Color Triad system for natural shading progression
  • High pigmentation for strong coverage
  • Flexible for beginners to advanced painters

Trade-offs

  • Only 11 paints limit color variety for large projects
  • No primer included in the starter set
  • 18 ml bottles are smaller than some competitors' 20 ml

Eleven paints, a brush, and a free miniature figure mean you open the box and start painting right away, no separate shopping trip needed. The set includes 7 acrylic colors, 2 metallics, and 1 wash, giving a core palette for beginners. The paint is highly pigmented acrylic, offering coverage that satisfies both weekend gamers and competition-level artists. That combination of ready-to-go contents and forgiving paint quality makes this a practical entry point for anyone new to miniature painting.

Paint count is the main consideration: with only 11 bottles, you get a solid core palette but will likely need to buy additional colors for larger armies or complex schemes. The included brush and miniature make this a complete entry point, you aren’t hunting for extras before your first figure is finished. For a beginner who wants one box to start, this set delivers exactly that.

Best for: New miniature painters who want a complete kit with brush and miniature included. Not ideal for painters needing a wide color range or a built-in primer.
#6Best Complete Beginner Bundle

The Army Painter GameMaster Adventure Starter Set

The Army Painter GameMaster Adventure Starter Set
Paints included15 x 18ml
Paint types10 vibrant, 2 effect, 2 metallic, 1 wash
Miniatures5 snap-fit, no glue required
Brush included1 GameMaster Starter Brush
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What We Like

  • 5 free snap-fit miniatures
  • Includes painting guide and quest
  • Warpaints Fanatic formula with intense pigmentation

Trade-offs

  • Only 15 paints limits color variety
  • No airbrush compatibility mentioned

Fifteen paints, a starter brush, and five snap-fit miniatures come together in one box, so a beginner can open it and start painting their first party of heroes immediately. The paints use the Warpaints Fanatic formula, a high-quality acrylic with a resin base that allows thinning to extreme levels while keeping pigment dispersion, which helps new painters achieve smooth results. The set also includes a painting guide and a quest with a map, giving a new hobbyist everything they need to begin.

Fifteen colors is a generous start, but you’ll likely want more variety once you start painting different schemes or mixing custom hues. The Vallejo Game Color Introduction Set comes with sixteen bottles, but it doesn’t include miniatures or a primer. If you want a complete bundle that gets you painting immediately, this set works well; if you already have figures and prefer a wider color range from the start, the Vallejo set might suit you better.

Best for: New tabletop gamers and miniature painters who want a complete starter bundle with paints, brush, and miniatures all in one box. Not ideal for experienced painters who need a broad color range.

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#7Best Budget Pick

Smallbudi 20 Colors Model Paint Set

Smallbudi 20 Colors Model Paint Set
Colors20 colors
Bottle size20 ml / 0.68 oz
Included extras3 brushes, 1 thinner, color wheel
Surface compatibilityPlastic, resin, metal, wood
FinishMatte finish, metallic shades
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What We Like

  • Includes 20 colors plus brushes and thinner
  • Pre-thinned for brush painting out of bottle
  • Color wheel and guide help beginners learn
  • Works on plastic, resin, metal, and wood

Trade-offs

  • No primer or wash included for figure painting
  • 20-color range limits advanced shading options

Twenty colors, three brushes, a bottle of thinner, and a color wheel all arrive in one box. The paint is pre-thinned for brush application straight from the bottle, so you can open it and start base-coating a miniature within minutes. Beginners especially will appreciate the printed guide and color wheel, which take some of the guesswork out of mixing and shading.

Twenty colors cover essentials but leave gaps for advanced techniques like glazing or fine highlights, so experienced painters may find themselves mixing frequently or buying extra bottles. Compared to the Vallejo Game Color Introduction Set, which offers sixteen purpose-formulated fantasy tones in a 16-bottle set, the Smallbudi set gives you more bottles and tools but with a less specialized palette. For someone just starting out, that trade-off is easy to accept.

Best for: Beginners and hobbyists on a budget who want a complete starter kit with brushes, thinner, and a learning guide for painting action figures and miniatures. Not ideal for experienced painters who need a wide range of specialized shades or washes.

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#8Best All-In-One Kit

Nicpro All-In-One Miniature Painting Kit

Nicpro All-In-One Miniature Painting Kit
Paint colors18 colors
Paint finishDurable matte
Brushes included11 brushes (8 detail + 3 drybrush)
Wet paletteStay-wet with lid and sponge
Painting handleErgonomic with magnetic dock
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What We Like

  • 18 pre-thinned matte acrylic paints
  • Includes wet palette to keep paint workable
  • Ergonomic painting handle with magnetic stability
  • 11 brushes for detail and drybrushing

Trade-offs

  • Only 18 colors limits variety for advanced projects
  • All paints pre-thinned; no mixing control for custom consistencies
  • Wet palette requires elastic bands for a complete seal

The kit includes 18 acrylic paints in dropper bottles, a thinner, a wet palette, an ergonomic painting handle with a magnetic dock, and 11 brushes. That gives you most of what you need to start painting miniatures. The wet palette, used with the included gray sponge and palette paper, helps keep paint from drying out during a session. The handle’s universal putty and swappable caps let you rotate a figure smoothly, and the magnetic dock adds stability. Eleven brushes, eight detail and three drybrushes, cover fine work and weathering effects.

The 18 colors are a reasonable starting point, but the Nicpro 30 Colors Model Paint Set offers more variety if you need a broader palette. The paints are described as pre-thinned for smooth application, and the included thinner allows you to adjust consistency if needed. The wet palette and ergonomic handle are features that add convenience, though the Shuttle Art set’s contents are not detailed here for direct comparison.

Best for: Hobbyists who want a complete painting kit with wet palette and ergonomic handle. Not ideal for those needing a wider color range or who prefer paints that are ready to use without added thinner.

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#9Best Compact Set

Togcolr Acrylic Model Paint Set

Togcolr Acrylic Model Paint Set
Number of colors12
Bottle size20 ml / 0.68 fl oz
Compatible withBrush & airbrush
Target usersBeginner & professional
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What We Like

  • 12 versatile shades for model painting
  • Works with brush and airbrush
  • Smooth coverage for fine details
  • Ready-to-use format

Trade-offs

  • Only 12 colors limits shade variety
  • Airbrush use requires consistency check

With 12 colors in 20 ml bottles, this set keeps things focused and portable. That compact size means you can grab it for a single figure or a small diorama without hauling a giant kit. It suits beginners who want a straightforward start and experienced painters looking for a travel-friendly touch-up set. The paint works with both brush and airbrush, so you can detail a face with a fine tip or spray a smooth base coat, all from the same bottles.

The Togcolr set gives you 12 colors, each in a 20ml bottle, so you get a practical amount for everyday model painting without committing to a huge collection. Because the palette is limited, you’ll be mixing shades more often than if you bought a set with more bottles, like the Nicpro 30 Colors. That trade-off keeps the kit compact and focused, which suits smaller projects or painters who prefer to blend their own hues.

Best for: Painters who want a compact, portable set for small projects or travel. Not ideal for those who need a wide color range or all-in-one accessories.

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#10Best Complete Kit with Primers

X ARTY HUB Model Paint Set 34-Piece

X ARTY HUB Model Paint Set 34-Piece
Paints20 colors
Primers3 included
Thinner1 included
Brushes10 specialized
Bottle Size0.67 fl oz each
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What We Like

  • Includes 3 primers for proper basecoating
  • Pre-thinned for airbrush use
  • BSL system guides realistic lighting effects

Trade-offs

  • Only 20 paint colors limits variety
  • Requires separate varnish for protection

Three primers in black, grey, and white come right in the box, so you can start with a proper undercoat instead of hunting down extra supplies. Spraying a primer first creates an ideal base for depth and true color, which makes a real difference when you’re trying to get even coverage without obscuring fine textures. Reviewers note that having all three shades on hand lets them quickly match the primer to the overall tone of the model, saving time and improving the final look right from the first coat.

Twenty colors is a smaller palette than the Nicpro 30 Colors set, so you may need to mix shades for complex schemes. The included thinner lets you adjust consistency, but the paint is optimized for airbrushing. If you want more color variety out of the box, the Nicpro set offers 30 ready-to-use paints, though the other products list does not specify whether it includes primers or how many brushes it comes with.

Best for: Beginners or hobbyists who want a complete airbrush-ready kit with primers and a guided color system. Not ideal for painters who need a wide color range straight from the bottle.

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How We Evaluated Paints For Action Figures

Our evaluation focused on the specific needs of action figure painting. We analyzed manufacturer data, studied expert round-ups from hobby publications and community forums, and identified common praise and complaints from long-term users.

Three criteria mattered most. First, adhesion and durability on plastic, resin, and metal surfaces, as figures require paints that don’t easily flake or chip. Second, pigment concentration and coverage, since thin paints that require many coats can obscure fine details. Third, finish and color range, including the availability of matte, metallic, and specialty shades that suit different figure types.

A research-led evaluation has limits. Without verifying drying times or exact color accuracy, we can still identify consistent strengths and weaknesses by cross-referencing dozens of user reports and expert opinions to guide your purchase.

What To Look For In Paints For Action Figures

Choosing the right paint for action figures means balancing adhesion, finish, and ease of use. Here are the key criteria to consider.

Look for paints formulated for plastic and resin models with high pigment density for coverage in one or two coats. A matte or satin finish reduces glare on display. Pre-thinned paints save time, while a set with a primer ensures proper adhesion.

Paint Type and Adhesion

Acrylic paints are the standard for action figures because they are water-based, non-toxic, and clean up easily. However, not all acrylics are equal. Look for paints specifically labeled for models or miniatures, as they contain binders that grip plastic and resin surfaces better than craft acrylics. Some sets, like the X ARTY HUB Model Paint Set, include dedicated primers that provide a gripping base coat, which is essential for preventing paint from rubbing off on jointed figures.

Finish and Durability

Action figures are handled, posed, and displayed, so the paint finish must resist chipping and fading. Matte finishes are preferred by most hobbyists because they reduce light glare and look more natural on figures. UV-resistant formulas, found in the Nicpro and Shuttle Art sets, help colors stay vibrant under display lighting. For added protection, you may want to apply a separate varnish or sealant after painting.

Color Range and Mixing

A broader color range gives you more flexibility for matching existing figure colors or creating custom schemes. Sets with 20 to 30 colors, like the Nicpro 30 Colors, offer a good starting palette. However, experienced painters often prefer smaller, curated sets with high pigment concentration, like the Vallejo Game Color Introduction Set, because they can mix custom shades more precisely. Metallics are important for weapons, armor, and mechanical details, so check how many metallic shades are included.

  • Check if the set includes a primer or if you need to buy one separately.
  • Look for pre-thinned paints if you want to brush straight from the bottle.
  • Consider whether the set includes brushes, a thinner, or a wet palette for a complete start.
  • For airbrush users, verify that the paints are compatible and pre-thinned for that application.

A good rule of thumb: start with a set of 15-20 colors plus a primer, then expand with individual shades as your skills grow.

Paints For Action Figures Compared

The table below compares each paint set’s key features, including color count, included accessories, and surface compatibility, to help you decide which one fits your project.

ProductColor CountBottle SizeIncluded Extras
Nicpro 30 Colors Model Paint Set30 (26 standard + 4 metallics)20 ml each3 thinners, instruction sheet, color wheel
Shuttle Art 23 Colors Model Paint Set23 colors0.68 oz / 20 mlThinner + 3 brushes
Vallejo Wargame Special Acrylic Paint Set16 bottles x 18 ml18 mlN/A
Vallejo Game Color Introduction Set16 x 18 ml18 ml4 metallic paints
The Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Starter Set11 x 18 ml18 ml1 brush, 1 miniature
The Army Painter GameMaster Adventure Starter Set15 x 18ml18ml5 FREE Miniatures & 1 Brush
Smallbudi 20 Colors Model Paint Set20 colors20 ml / 0.68 oz3 brushes, 1 thinner, color wheel
Nicpro All-In-One Miniature Painting Kit18 colorsN/A11 brushes, wet palette, painting handle
Togcolr Acrylic Model Paint Set1220 ml / 0.68 fl ozN/A
X ARTY HUB Model Paint Set 34-Piece20 colors0.67 fl oz each3 primers, 1 thinner, 10 brushes

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of paint is best for action figures?

Acrylic model paints formulated for plastic and resin are the best choice. They offer strong adhesion, a matte finish, and are non-toxic, making them safe for hobby use. Avoid craft acrylics, which can peel off flexible plastic.

Do I need to prime action figures before painting?

Yes, priming is highly recommended for action figures. A primer creates a gripping surface that helps paint adhere to slick plastic and prevents chipping on joints. Some paint sets, like the X ARTY HUB Model Paint Set, include primers for convenience.

Can I use acrylic paint on action figures without thinning?

Many model paints, like the Nicpro 30 Colors set, come pre-thinned for brush painting straight from the bottle. However, if you use standard acrylics, you should thin them with water or a dedicated thinner to avoid obscuring details and to achieve a smooth finish.

How can I prevent paint from chipping on articulated action figures?

To prevent chipping, use a primer, apply thin coats of paint, and seal the finished figure with a matte varnish. Flexible acrylic paints designed for miniatures also resist chipping better than standard craft paints.

What is the difference between brush painting and airbrushing action figures?

Brush painting offers more control for fine details and is easier for beginners. Airbrushing provides a smoother, more even coat over large areas and is faster for batch painting. Many paint sets, including the Togcolr Acrylic Model Paint Set, work with both methods.

The Bottom Line

For most action figure painters, the Nicpro 30 Colors Model Paint Set offers the best balance of color variety, durability, and versatility, working equally well for brush and airbrush application. Its UV-resistant pigments and pre-thinned formula make it a strong foundation for any project.

If you are on a budget or need a complete beginner kit, the Shuttle Art 23 Colors Model Paint Set includes brushes and thinner for immediate use. The Army Painter Warpaints Fanatic Starter Set provides a miniature and brush to start painting right away. For wargamers, the Vallejo Wargame Special Acrylic Paint Set delivers precise dosing and fluorescent colors for special effects.

The single most important factor is choosing paint formulated for models and miniatures, not general craft acrylics. A dedicated set with a primer, matte finish, and good pigment density will make your figures look better and last longer.