Wagner FLEXiO 690 Review

Wagner Flexio 690

Editor Rating: 4.5/5

Great Product

Wagner FLEXiO 690

Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson

Last modified: Dec 7, 2023 @ 1:48 pm

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Wagner FLEXiO 690 Review Summary:

If you’re completing medium-to-large home spraying projects, you need a machine with more grunt and coverage capacity that a handheld unit can provide — the Wagner FLEXiO 690 may be the solution.

Targeting the demanding DIYer, this HVLP (high-volume low pressure-sprayer) features a floor-standing three psi turbine to take the weight out of your hands and reduce fatigue during extensive jobs

For larger work, such as addressing fencing, ceilings, and walls, the machine includes Wagner’s proprietary iSpray nozzle. It’s capable of dealing with water-based latex paints, often without thinning. For more intricate projects like staining furniture or covering moldings, the unit comes complete with a detail finish nozzle.

A 15-foot hose allows for significant operational freedom, while a bespoke X-boost feature allows you to adjust the pressure of the turbine to suit your spraying medium or demands of your base material.

Three spray patterns and a width-control lever enable you to change your stain, sealer, or paint’s delivery method. A soft carry case means safe storage and effortless transportation of the turbine, guns, paint cups, and hose.

While the FLEXiO 690 remains part of the Wagner range, it is now being gradually phased out and replaced by the newer version, the FLEXiO 4000. This more modern model offers an improved head with less overspray and features fewer components to reduce the risk of breakdown.

Pros:

N
Floor-standing turbine reduces gun weight.
N
X-Boost to adjust turbine pressure.
N
Compatible with unthinned paints.
N
Soft carry bag.
N
Two nozzle heads and cups.
N
Adjustable spray width.
N
Three spray patterns.
N
15-foot hose.
N
Ideal DIY unit for large jobs.

Cons:

N
Superseded by the FLEXiO 4000.
N
Loud operation.
N
Challenging to fit everything into the storage bag.

Features and Benefits of the Wagner FLEXiO 690 Spray System


Wagner describes its FLEXiO 690 paint sprayer as one of the most powerful and versatile DIY machines on the market.

Time to see if it stands up to those lofty claims.

Storage Case


With two guns, two nozzles, a 15-foot hose, mains cord, and a turbine unit, the comprehensive FLEXiO 690 is packed with components. But that brings its own challenges.

If you’re a seasoned DIYer you know the issues.

Misplaced heat gun nozzles, screwdriver tips, and drill bits are an annoyance, waste time, and even make projects a non-starter. Furthermore, your toolbox can be akin to a bottomless abyss — place an accessory in the base tray and it’s lost forever.

For those reasons, it’s pleasing to see that the 690 FLEXiO comes complete with a storage case. It provides satisfying portability but also ensures that all of the gun’s parts remain safe and easily accessible.

That said, it appears Wagner may have been a little stingy in the size department as trying to squeeze everything into the case is a challenge.

Floor-Standing Turbine


Knocking out three psi, the FLEXiO 690 can cover an area of 80 square feet in just five minutes by delivering a mighty 8.2 gallons per hour. If you’re tackling larger work like extensive border fencing, this should provide pleasingly rapid coverage.

Unlike handheld HVLP sprayers, this machine’s turbine is housed in a ground-sitting case to reduce the spray gun’s weight and help you avoid fatigue.

Don’t get me wrong, handheld units have their place. They’re ideal for smaller jobs such as painting cabinets or staining shelving, for example. But unless you have arms like George Foreman (before he started his grilling obsession), any longer than 15 minutes of continuous use and those biceps and triceps are going to start aching.

X-Boost Feature


Wagner’s proprietary X-Boost technology puts you in control of the turbine power.

For highly viscous mediums, such as latex, you can crank up the pressure to better propel these thick paints. When you’re creating a thinner coat of a stain or sealer, for example, it’s sensible to bring the power output down and reduce the likelihood of overspray, wastage, pooling, and dripping.

Lock-N-Go


Unlike many of its competitors, the Wagner 690 paint sprayer is easy to disassemble.

A straightforward flick of a switch and you release the nozzle and cup from the gun’s main housing. Not only does this mean you can rapidly change between the iSpray and Detail Finish heads but it also allows you to break down the unit for effortless cleaning.

Two Paint Containers and Nozzles


You wouldn’t knock in a tack with a jackhammer, nor would you demolish a wall with a toffee hammer (well, unless you’re my wife).

The key is having the correctly sized tool for the job at hand.

Hence, the savvy designers behind the Wagner 690 sprayer have included two nozzles and associated cups with the machine.

The iSpray head is ideal for covering significant expanses — in particular, fences, walls, and ceilings. When used in conjunction with its 1.5-quart (1419 ml) cup, you have the freedom to address a ten-by-twelve-foot area without refills.

For projects that demand a precise finish, such as intricate woodwork or corner moldings, switch to the included Detail Finish head. This sits upon a compact 0.85-quart (800 ml) container, allowing you to squeeze the gun into areas where space is limited.

Just a quick note:

Bear in mind that the included iSpray nozzle is an older incarnation. While it’s a perfectly functional head, it has been significantly improved on the FLEXiO 4000 — a machine that boasts reduced dripping and less overspray.

Customizable Spray Settings


Both the Detail Finish and iSpray nozzles feature a choice of spray patterns (horizontal, vertical, and diagonal), adjustable width settings, and material flow control.

Because of this flexibility, you can tailor your spray method to suit the base medium. For example, spray iron railings with a horizontal pattern and a narrow plume. Slatted fencing, on the other hand, demands a vertical spray with wider coverage.

In addition, the material flow control means you can adjust the rate of delivery and spray a thicker or thinner coat depending on your project’s demands.

What Users Say About The Flexio 690


Despite being superseded by the improved FLEXiO 4000 machine, in my eyes, the 690 remains an impressive large-project sprayer for the ardent DIYer.

But with my limited practical experience of this unit, my opinion may be flawed.

So to ensure the most comprehensive assessment, I sought out genuine Wagner FLEXiO 690 paint sprayer reviews. That is, testimonials from guys using this machine on a regular basis.

And overall, their views were satisfyingly positive.

Owners of the FLEXiO 690 praised its choice of two nozzles and paint cups, welcomed the variable pressure provided by the X-Boost, and lauded the extremely versatile spray settings.

Although, not everyone was overjoyed.

A few people mentioned that the unit is concerningly loud, but I guess if you want serious power that’s a price you have to pay. Some other users shared my criticism that trying to fit everything into the case (and then zipping it up) was tough.

However, everyone seemed to agree that the FLEXiO 690 delivered a satisfying and speedy finish across a wide spectrum of coating mediums.

Alternatives to Wagner FLEXiO 690


Not impressed so far after this Wagner FLEXiO 690 review?

If this machine isn’t hitting all your spraying buttons, stick with me. I’ve sourced some alternative units that may suit your home improvement needs better.

Wagner FLEXiO 4000


Flexio 4000
If you don’t want to compromise with a now superseded machine and want the most modern version available, this unit could be the answer.

The FLEXiO 4000 builds on the success of the 690 sprayer by incorporating an improved iSpray head for less overspray and wastage, and a smoother finish than its predecessor.

  • Harder on the pocket than the 690 model.
  • Fewer components than the FLEXiO 690 for increased reliability.
  • Like the 690, features three spray patterns, two nozzles, and X-Boost control.

Wagner FLEXiO 5000


Wagner Flexio 5000
Love the Wagner brand but think the 690 model is a little under-specced? If so, consider this machine.

Like the 690 sprayer, the FLEXiO 5000 boasts two container cups and nozzles and includes the improved iSpray head. Perhaps the most significant difference is the turbine casing. Not only does this reduce the noise output (a common criticism of the 690) but it also doubles up as a storage box for accessories. And unlike the 690’s carry case everything fits easily.

  • Tougher on the bank balance than the FLEXiO 690.
  • An 11.5-foot hose in comparison to the 690’s 15-foot hose.
  • Like the 690, it also features X-Boost and width control.

Fuji 2202 Semi-PRO 2 HVLP Spray System


Fuji 2202

Want to leave DIY-grade units behind and up your game with a prosumer unit?
If that’s your mindset, I may have the solution.

The FUJI 2202 is a semi-pro level sprayer. It has dropped the flashy designs and plastic casings for a more industrial looking, metal-bodied unit. It’s not just about aesthetics though. Designed for durability and robustness this unit is suited to hardcore DIYers who use a sprayer regularly.

  • Significantly harder on your credit card than the 690.
  • Lengthy 25-foot hose, as opposed to the FLEXiO 690’s 15-feet.
  • 1-quart cup, in comparison to the 1.5-quarts of the 690 model.

Conclusion


If you’re chasing an affordable large-project DIY sprayer, the FLEXiO 690 may appeal.

With coverage 11 times faster than a handheld bush, this machine offers a rapid solution to significant home-improvement jobs with its latex-compatible iSpray head. For smaller jobs where a little finesse is required, you can switch to the Detail Finish nozzle.

Wagner’s proprietary X-Boost feature provides welcome control of turbine pressure. Meanwhile, a choice of three spray patterns, width control, and medium flow adjustment all make for a highly customizable delivery.

Admittedly, the introduction of the FLEXiO 4000 means this machine is now somewhat obsolete. However, at a competitive price compared to the newer model, the Wagner FLEXiO 690 remains an appealing and affordable machine for the keen DIYer, so check it out.

Wagner Flexio 690 FAQs

Q: How Much Does the FLEXiO 690 Cost?

The Wagner 690 FLEXiO is a floor-standing turbine HVLP sprayer. To check out the current cost of the FLEXiO 690.

Q: Where Can I Find the FLEXiO 690 Manual?

The FLEXiO 690’s user guide is available on Wagner’s official website. For rapid access to the FLEXiO 690 manual.

Q: What Are the Uses of the 690 FLEXiO?

As a floor-standing turbine unit that can cover 80 square-feet in just five minutes, the FLEXiO 690 is ideal for spraying:

  • Treehouses
  • Fencing.
  • Decking.
  • Window sills.
  • Doors.
  • Garden furniture.
  • Ceilings.
  • Walls.
  • Workshops and outbuildings
  • Gates.
Q: Is the Wagner 690 FLEXiO Airless?

No. The FLEXiO 690 uses a turbine that delivers pressurized air to atomize your painting medium.

Q: What Size Compressor Do I Need for the 690 Wagner?

As a turbine-powered unit, the Wagner 690 FLEXiO doesn’t need a compressor.

Q: Where Can I Find a Replacement Valve Kit for the Wagner 690?

Parts for the FLEXiO Wagner 690 are available on the official Wagner website. The part number for the valve kit is #0529005.