This is a Titan vs Graco duel — one in the blue corner and one in the red — and I’m not just talking about the machines’ color schemes. Both of these forerunners in the paint spraying world offer ranges that include HVLP, airless, turbine-powered and handheld models. Titan Tools Inc. is well-respected in the industry — manufacturing products for painting pros. Its units are well thought out with plenty of attention to detail. Assembled from durable parts, these machines feature bags of paint sprayer technology. Likewise, Graco Inc. boasts a great reputation. Well known for manufacturing sturdy long-lasting units — the brand is a favorite of both contractors and home improvement aficionados. Graco machines are also well designed, with many smart time-saving facets included in their units. But enough small talk, let’s jump straight in and see if one of these behemoths really outshines the other.
Graco Vs Titan paint sprayers.

Titan Tools Inc.


History


Having been in business for just over four decades, Titan Tools is one of the relatively new players on the paint spraying scene. Even over this short time, the company has still introduced many firsts to the market — in the 1970s, a fluid tip that allowed for atomization and variable fan patterns.

In the 1980s, as well as working on the aesthetics of its units, Titan also produced a hydraulic sprayer that allowed conversion between gas and electricity.

In recent years, Titan Tools was acquired by Wagner Spraytech — it now forms the contractor paint sprayer arm of this giant.

Product Range


Titan concentrates its efforts on contractor-grade sprayers for a wide variety of coating scenarios. The full catalog comprises over ten ranges, yet, apart from a few exceptions, the line-up is predominantly an airless affair.

Here is a quick roundup of what it has to offer:

Airless

Its Impact series comprises 10 electric-driven robust machines with time-efficient technology — built for a diverse range of applications. Over 25 years ago, the brand introduced the extremely portable 440I model — it’s still going strong today, as part of this range. At the top end, you can find units like the 1140. This multi-gun machine is capable of an output of up to 400 gallons per week.

The Powrtwin product range paves the way for contractors to switch between gas or electric power — both rapidly and without the need for tools. These machines provide some serious paint spraying muscle, such as the 12000 Plus DI. This flagship model features a 270cc Honda engine, can accommodate up to six guns and pumps a max of 3.15 gallons per minute.

Five units make up the Powrbeast series, and as its name suggests, these units are built for monster-sized jobs. With enough grunt behind them, they can tackle heavy-duty coatings with ease — like the gas-driven 7700 model.

And, on the other end of the scale, the compact Elite series is just two airless units — one gas (3500) and one electric-powered (3000). These cart-style models are serviceable on-site and operate from 300 to 3300 PSI. Furthermore, its PermaStroke technology ensures you never need to replace the clutch, cylinder, piston, or packings again.

HVLP

The Capspray line-up is all about turbine-power and precision for that fine finish. Titan claims its top-end six-stage 115 model is the most powerful HVLP on the market. However, while its 105 brother may be a step-down, it can still handle those highly-viscous coatings.

The FlexSpray is the only handheld unit in its brochure — Titan says it delivers output like an airless with complete HVLP control. Its Quick Change System allows the business end to be swapped over swiftly — the FlexFinish is for high-volume work and the FineFinish for detail or touch-up tasks.

Customer Support


Titan Tools has the standard customer care line that you can call if you need assistance or advice. You will also find a fantastic range of setup and how-to videos available on its website, in addition to a cleverly designed product selector and all user manuals. This means that you have continuous 24/7 support in any possible circumstance — from setup through to troubleshooting. In terms of warranties, Titan claims it has the best and longest in the industry — offering a four-year manufacturer’s defect guarantee.

Who Should Use Titan Products?


The Titan brand’s mission statement says, helping all professional painters be their best leads to better work and a growing business. As you can see, its blurb gears towards the handyman, experts and contractor crews — and the machines reflect this.

Its Powrbeast series is certainly built for beast-like projects. With multi-gun set-ups, like that of the gas-powered 4700, which can take four guns — allowing painting teams to tackle serious commercial, industrial or residential jobs.

The same can be said of the Powrtwin range. These are high-powered machines, geared with the contractor in mind — for applications on a large-scale basis.

In contrast, the lighter and more compact Elite models are suitable for less demanding property maintenance or residential-style applications.

And, for that flawless finish and precision work, I’d suggest the Capspray turbines fit the bill. For example, the 75 is ideal for lacquers, stains and varnishes — perfect for coating cabinetry and furniture.

N

Pros of Titan Products


  • Tried and tested technology.
  • Aesthetically pleasing.
  • Substantial units.
  • Wide range of sprayers for multiple uses.
  • Ideal for the professional.
M

Cons of Titan Products


  • Not suitable for the occasional DIYer or newbie.

Graco Inc.


History


Graco has been on the scene significantly longer than Titan. It started life as the brainchild of Russell Gray back in the 1920s. Gray was a parking lot attendant and became frustrated by the inefficient approach of lubricating cars — by using a hand-operated grease gun. Together with his brother Leil, they formed Gray Company Inc. — laying the foundations for the Graco company we know today. The Russell brothers branched out into the paint spraying industry in the 1940s, after realizing there were more opportunities to be had in the fluid handling industry. Since the company’s creation, Graco has broadened its horizons — pioneering in many industries where fluid handling is a necessity, such as food preparation, automobile servicing and cleaning to name a few.

Product Range


Graco has an extensive fleet of spraying solutions for the consumer — for both the expert and amateur. Like Titan, most of its paint sprayer line-up is airless-centric. Here’s a brief run-through of what you can expect to find:
Airless

Graco is highly acclaimed for its Magnum range, including the likes of the ProX17. With 0.75 horsepower, 3000 PSI and 0.34 gallons per minute, this compact sprayer can still pack a punch. It also features DIY-spec models — such as the Magnum x5.

One difference between Titan vs Graco airless sprayers is that the latter includes a line of handheld units. The TrueCoat models like the 360 DS are capable of spraying in any direction thanks to VacuValve technology.

Moving into commercial territory. Graco has created a trio of handhelds for the expert — which include cordless options. Incorporating reliable DEWALT rechargeable batteries, the manufacturer claims the finish delivered from the Ultra Airless series is comparable to that of the Ultra 395PC model.

The Ultra Max II line-up boasts electric-powered machines with a plethora of productivity-boosting and longevity-enhancing features for the professional. For example, the 695 is built with a durable Endurance pump, hard-wearing Advantage Drive gears and a fatigue-fighting contractor-grade spray head.

Graco also accommodates the contractor who prefers gas power for higher performance rates. The likes of the GMAX 3900 is capable of producing up to 500 gallons per week. Furthermore, consistent with Titan, it also manufactures electric/gas convertible airless sprayers such as the GH230.

HVLP

With up to 95 percent transfer efficiency, the FinishPro HVLP range forms part of the fine finishing sprayers catalog. The FinishPro 7.0, 9.0 and 9.5 sport adjustable turbine speed and an Edge II spray head for fine-tuning control, plus a sturdy but lightweight casing for protection and portability.

Who Should Use Graco Products?


Graco states it has a sprayer for every project — from DIY to Pro. Judging by its line-up, it’s a fair comment.

The TrueCoat collection could appeal to those who seek a handheld sprayer for jobs around the home. These devices fall under the DIY series, which carries a suggested usage of 50 gallons per year.

Graco’s Magnum range is built with the ardent DIYer or handyman in mind. For example, the entry-level X5 is more than capable of tackling decking, border fencing, exterior and interior walls.

However, towards the upper end of this range, such as the ProX19, is geared for higher volume work, expansive projects and more dense materials — suggesting the line can also accommodate the busy contractor or remodeler.

Lastly, when you reach the Ultra Max II range, you’re most definitely in expert territory. Built for daily use and large or high-volume projects, which also accommodate a wide variety of materials.

N

Pros of Graco Products


  • Well established technology.
  • Industrious machines built to last.
  • Sleek pro appearance.
  • Vast availability of sprayers.
M

Cons of Graco Products


  • Could be overkill in features for inexperienced decorators.

Conclusion


With both Graco and Titan being trendsetters in the paint spraying world, it was definitely worthwhile to put them head-to-head to identify which one builds the best sprayer for you. To sum it up. Titan has modern, up-to-date technology in hand. It offers a wide range of sprayers from HVLP through to airless — for the contractor niche of the market. Graco similarly is backed by decades of fluid handling experience and is renowned for great customer service. It also carries a catalog of sprayers for the professional. However, the brand does manufacture machines that could appeal to the avid home improvers among us — like those from the Magnum or Truecoat series. In my opinion, despite a blow by blow account of each brand, there is no clear winner in this Titan vs Graco joust. Both are on par for durability and performance — it all comes down to your individual needs.

FAQs

Q: Where Are Titan Paint Sprayers Made?
Titan paint sprayers are homegrown in the USA. Manufacturing takes place in Minnesota.
Q: Is Graco Better Than Titan?
There is no clear answer to this question. Both manufacturers provide machines with outstanding reliability, performance and finish. One significant difference is that Graco also builds units that appeal to the home improvement aficionado. Titan has stepped away from this niche and caters solely to the contractor market.
Q: Does Wagner Own Titan?

Yes. The Titan Tool brand became part of the Wagner group in 1999. It’s the same company that owns HomeRight and Earlex brands.

Q: Is Airless or HVLP better?
In terms of speed, both airless and HVLP are better than using the old-school brush or roller method. HVLP sprayers are fantastic for small to midsize jobs — precise or finishing work. They reduce overspray due to the fine atomization of particles — but they don’t have the capacity to complete large scale jobs. In contrast, airless sprayers operate at a greater pressure, therefore, are suited towards high-volume or expansive coating work.
Q: Is Graco Better Than Wagner?

Both brands have a solid reputation in the paint spraying world. However, Wagner products concentrate on DIYer and prosumer models. Graco’s catalog also features contractor and industrial-grade machines, as well as units for the serious home improvement enthusiast.

To get an all-around comparison, check out my Graco vs Wagner review here.