Testor's Blue Mini Compressor

that was my first compressor.  for basic airbrushing, it does its job.  low powered without a regulator nor a moisture trap.  it does get you about 20psi.  when I use it, it has about a 10 minute time window and then it's way too hot to touch.  i don't know if it's just me but the air sometimes has light pulsation as well.  if i were you, i'd opt for a better one with a little more money, like one of them iwatas.  the quality is worth the investment if you don't want to screw up your well built-up kit at the appearance stage, so why get cheap about it.  i kept mine as a spare compressor, and sometimes for a quick primer job, since it's small and cute (LOL) and the fact that it really won't sell for much compared to when i got it for.  live and learn.

I have to agree on that one... that was my first compressor as well.  I think they go for about 85 dollars or so, for $45 more you can get an Iwata Sprint Jet or Badger Cyclone at Hobby Lobby or Michaels and both are well suited for airbrushing models.  If you wait for one of their 50% off coupons, you can get it for less than what the Blue Mini will cost you..

I almost got the mini blue a while back but it seemed not very durable. I went with the Testors AC700 which is the next step up. It has everything you need on it except water trap. If you paint in a non-humid eviroment, you really don't need a moisture trap anyway. I have had no trouble with it overheating and it gives a good , constant airflow. You can do 5-40psi which is plenty. I found it on Froogle for 80.00 plus shipping. It's well worth the money. Check it out....

The mini blue is a very good little airbrush. Does get hot, but it does have an auto shutdown if it gets to hot. Overall a good little compressor.

Been using mine for about two years now. I find that you have to learn great control with the airbrush to get the best results out of using this compressor. Recently, its developed a squeak when it runs, and that makes me nervous. I think its a great beginner compressor. I'll still use mine for a while yet until I find myself really in need of something bigger and better.