Graco Magnum X5 Airless Sprayer Review

Graco X5

Editor Rating: 4.7/5

Great Product

Graco Magnum X5 Airless Sprayer

Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson

Last modified: Dec 3, 2023 @ 3:24 pm

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Graco X5 Review Summary:

Should you be a homeowner looking to tackle a medium-sized painting project and preferring to save precious dollars by doing it yourself — then the Graco Magnum X5 airless sprayer may be the solution.

To cover large areas, such as sheds, fences, garages, and walls, the Magnum X5 paint sprayer is supplied with a metal SG2 gun. With a sturdy trigger, this ‘pistol’ works with tip sizes up to 0.015-inch.

In combination with a RAC IV 515 tip, it can pump out up to 0.27 gpm (gallons per minute). The suction intake tube, which is flexible, works with one-gallon and five-gallon original containers, so you won’t need to frequently stop and refill.

The spray gun connects to the floor unit through a 25-foot DuraFlex hose. In order to spend less time moving around, a hose of up to 75 feet can be used without diminishing finish quality or stressing the motor.

As part of Graco’s project series — angled at medium-intensity use — there’s a maximum annual recommended usage of 125 gallons. I’d suggest that’s more than sufficient to tackle any project around an average size house.

However, if you want an airless sprayer that can handle light contracting jobs, our advice is to invest a little more money and get a pro-model — such as the Graco Pro X17. That said, the 0.5 horsepower motor at the heart of the Magnum 262800 X5 has an output of up to 3000 PSI, which is more than enough for most home projects.

When it comes to the initial setup, it’s seriously straightforward. A Graco X5 quick start guide is included, plus a full user manual and instructional DVD.

This sprayer is Graco’s midrange machine in its Project Series — being a step above the handled TrueCoat 360VSP and beneath the cart-mounted Magnum X7.

Graco X5 Pros:

N
Appropriate for medium to large household projects.
N
Compact ground-standing pump.
N
Lightweight SG2 gun.
N
25-foot hose.
N
0.5 horsepower output.
N
Easy-to-clean with flush capability.
N
Suction hose eliminates filling.
N
Suitable for use with unthinned paints and stains.
N
Lightweight for a floor-standing turbine.

Cons:

N
Significant vibration on high-pressure setting — liable to ‘walk’.
N
125 gallons per year recommended usage will be insufficient for tradespersons.
N
No integrated storage for gun, tips, or mains cord.
Graco X5 paint sprayer settings.
GRACO Magnum X5 indoor paint sprayer.

Features and Benefits of the Graco X5 Paint Sprayer


Graco describes this machine as a cost-effective solution for both handymen and DIY homeowners.

Let’s take an in-depth look to see if its features satisfy that statement.

Painting Medium Versatility


When you’re choosing coatings, you’ll be reassured to know that the Graco X5 paint sprayer can work with a plethora of mediums. It handles anything from stains to acrylics and latex — typically without any thinning.

As an added bonus, this unit comes with a viscosity cup — allowing you to test your chosen coating medium for dilution requirements prior to use. Used in conjunction with an included run-out table — it means you’re not unpleasantly surprised by paint that refuses to stubbornly spray from the machine.

However, you shouldn’t use block fillers, solvent-based lacquers, or materials that have textured particles in the X5.

Easy Cleaning


The power flush adapter, supplied with the Graco Magnum X5, attaches to a garden hose to speed-up post-project cleaning. This permits you to rinse the system throughout without dismantling — but bear in mind this only works for flushing water-based mediums.

You’ve already saved time painting with an electric sprayer instead of a brush, so why not save time when washing your tools? A job that once took 30 minutes or more now takes ten minutes at the most.

Simplified Priming


Priming is a requirement of all airless sprayers prior to use — ensuring that the complete system is full of your coating medium — without air bubbles or pockets. The Magnum X5 incorporates a proprietary PushPrime feature — eliminating the number of steps required for preparation.

Stainless Steel Pump


A crucial aspect of any paint machine is that its parts are made with quality material. Hence, it’s satisfying to see that the pump in this unit has a hardened stainless steel piston, ensuring a good lifespan and reliable performance.

Compact Design


For a floor-standing airless sprayer, the Graco Magnum 262800 X5 is surprisingly compact — which may appeal to users with little garage or workshop space.

A two-legged stand elevates the machine from the floor — keeping the crucial hydraulic pump away from dirt, dust, and water ingress that could otherwise damage the unit.

Furthermore, a molded handle located on the top of the pump casing allows for straightforward-portability.

Adjustable Pressure Control


A substantial dial located beside the intake tube permits you to fine-tune the pressure — up to a maximum output of 3000 PSI.

This enables you to tailor the power delivery to suit the viscosity of your paint — or alternatively, utilize gentle pressure for precise work or crank it up to high for more expansive projects.

SG2 Spray Gun & Reversible Tip


Included with Graco’s Project and DIY models is the SG2 gun, which has a reversible RAC IV 515 spray tip. This combination is ideal for medium coatings and creates a pattern width of 10 to 12 inches.

If you get a clog — an intermittent issue with all sprayers — you just turn the tip around via an integrated lever and then blow the blockage out. Finally, for a smooth finish, there’s a filter integrated into the handle system, which catches larger particles that would otherwise ruin your final coat.

What Users Say About The Graco Magnum X5?


Enough of my thoughts on this machine — time to examine what guys using the Magnum X5 on a regular basis think about the unit.

Reassuringly, the feedback is positive.

In online reviews, owners of the Graco X5 praise its comfortable and accurate SG2 spray gun, are impressed by its compact design yet powerful 3000 PSI output, and welcome the flush-through easy-clean feature.

Although, not everyone was impressed.

The most common criticism was that while pleasingly lightweight for a ground-standing unit — this lack of heft allowed the sprayer to ‘walk’ when cranked up to high pressure. Additionally, users mentioned that the suction hose struggled to draw the last two inches or so of paint from original containers.

However, everyone agreed that the Magnum X5 delivered a speedy and satisfying finish on the majority of base material surfaces.

GRACO Airless Paint Spray Magnum X5.
GRACO Magnum X5 Airless Paint Spray.

Alternatives to Graco Magnum X5 Airless Paint Sprayer


Despite the positive Graco Magnum X5 reviews, it’s possible that this unit isn’t perfectly suited to your home-spraying requirements.

Hence, if you’re a little nonplussed about this machine, I’ve sourced some alternative options that may fit your demands more accurately.

Graco 17G180 Magnum ProX19


Graco X19
Should you be an extreme DIYer bordering on the semi-pro level — the Magnum X5 may be too basic for your hardcore projects. If you’re nodding your head in agreement, then check out this machine

The ProX19 is a tradesperson-grade sprayer — knocking out the same 3000 PSI as the X5, but with a substantial larger horsepower output (0.88 hp as opposed to the 0.5 hp of the X5) and with a mighty 500 gallons per annum capacity in comparison to the 125 gallons of the X5.

  • Tougher on the bank balance than the Graco X5.
  • Eye-watering 50-foot hose compared to the Magnum X5’s 25-foot.
  • Cart mounted as opposed to the floor stand of the X5.

Graco‌ ‌TrueCoat‌ ‌360 DS


Graco 360 DS
Conversely, should you find the X5 a little over-specced and too sizable for your more reserved home spraying jobs — this handheld airless unit may be more applicable.

The TrueCoat 360DS incorporates the hydraulic pump and paint container into the gun body — admittedly raising the weight, but also negating the need for a ground-unit or suction hose — making it more compact and portable.

  • More pocket-friendly than the Magnum X5.
  • Lower power output — 1500 PSI as opposed to the 3000 PSI of the Graco X5.
  • Requires filling of FlexLiner bags — in contrast with the fill-free X5.

HomeRight Power Flo Pro 2800


HomeRight-Power-Flo-Pro-2800

Loving the Magnum X5 — but just wishing that it was a little more affordable? This machine offers similar features but at a price-point lower than that of the Graco sprayer.

Like the X5, the HomeRight Pro 2800 incorporates a 25-foot hose, an identical 0.5 horsepower output and draws paint directly from one or five-gallon original containers. Although not such a respected brand as Graco — since 2018, HomeRight has been owned by the spraying behemoth Wagner SprayTech.

  • Identical 515 spray tip to the Magnum X5.
  • Slightly lower PSI — 2800 compared to the 3000 of the Graco X5.
  • At 15 pounds, it’s two pounds heavier than the Magnum X5 sprayer.

Conclusion


Compact, powerful, and lightweight — the Graco X5 is a high-end airless sprayer for the keen home-improver.

Its industry-recognized SG2 spray gun delivers a smooth and consistent finish across a wide-spectrum of spraying mediums. And, with a mighty output of 3000 PSI, larger projects should be completed in a time-friendly manner.

Furthermore, a hardened stainless steel pump offers longevity and durability, while a PowerFlush adaptor permits straightforward and hassle-free rinsing at the end of your working day.

Sure, its 125 gallons per annum recommended usage makes it unsuitable for the pro-user — and its tendency to ‘walk’ when set on high pressure could become an annoyance.

Yet, if you want one of the most portable floor-standing units around — I suggest checking out the Graco Magnum X5 Airless Sprayer.

Graco Magnum X5 FAQs

Can I Use Textured Paint With the Graco X5 Paint Sprayer?
This isn’t recommended. The 0.015-inch tip size will struggle with textured paints, leading to clogs.
Are the Instructions for the Graco X5 Paint Sprayer Easy to Follow?
Yes, they are. What’s more, you will get an instructional DVD, Graco Magnum X5 quick start guide, and a comprehensive user manual included.
Will the Magnum X5 Airless Paint Sprayer Work for Small Areas/Projects?
Not for very small areas. The #515 nozzle tip has a spray width of between 10 to 12-inches, which is more suited towards large areas. For smaller projects — nozzle tips #115, #215 or #315 might be a better option.
Where Can I Find the Magnum X5 User Manual?

The X5 manual is available from the official Graco website. You can access the Graco Magnum X5 manual here.

How Much Does the Graco X5 Cost?

The Magnum X5 is a portable and lightweight floor-standing airless sprayer. You can check out the current price of the by Graco Magnum X5 here.

What Are the Uses for the Graco X5 Magnum Airless Sprayer?
With 3000 PSI output and a 515 tip capable of utilizing most stains and paints, the manufacturer indicates that this machine is ideal for spraying:

  • Decking.
  • Sidings.
  • Border fences.
  • Small houses.

  • Walls.
  • Doors.
  • Window frames.