Hi all, Freddy Miller here. As a long-time paintball veteran, I’m excited to provide my in-depth review of the top 5 paintball starter packs for beginners in 2023.
Having played paintball for over 15 years, I’ve tested out a wide range of gear and packages. In this roundup, I’ll be evaluating the key features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of the leading starter bundles on the market right now based on important criteria for new players.
Whether you’re looking for a high-performance tournament setup or a budget-friendly recreational package, I’ll help you find the ideal starter kit to kickstart your paintball experience. Let’s dive in and get you equipped with the perfect beginner paintball package!
Empire Mini GS Package
Best For Competitions
- Accurate & Efficient
- Lightweight & Durable
- Several shooting modes
- High Quality
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Tippmann Stormer Package
Best For Intermediates
- Dual feed flexibility
- Customization rails
- Reliable performance
- Durable Marker
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Tippmann Cronus Package
Best For Beginners
- All-in-One Bundle
- Easy setup
- Durable Construction
- Affordable entry-level
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1. Maddog Empire Mini GS Starter Package – Best for High-End Players & Pros
Kicking off our list is the high-performance Maddog Empire Mini GS Starter Package, which I found to be the best option for intermediate to advanced players looking for a professional-grade setup right out of the box.
This all-in-one kit centers around the Empire Mini GS electronic paintball marker, which is renowned for its tournament-ready durability and accuracy. As soon as I got my hands on the Mini GS gun, its premium quality and tactical design blew me away.
Weighing in at just 1.6 pounds, the svelte but sturdy aluminum construction feels incredibly balanced in your hands. The embedded pressure sensor gives you total control over the firing modes, with adjustable semi-auto, burst, and full-auto settings up to 20bps for domination on the battlefield.
The Mini GS utilizes a poppet valve system that delivers unrivaled gas efficiency for remarkably consistent velocity shot after shot. I was able to rapid fire off rounds with enhanced precision through the micro-honed ported barrel. The internal break-beam eyes prevent painful chops and jams, while the vented regulator allows tool-less velocity adjustment on the fly.
This marker packages comes with a top-tier thermal lens mask, durable pods and harness, and other accessories to get any tournament player fully prepped for intense paintball competitions straight out of the box. Let’s breakdown everything included:
Marker: Empire Mini GS Paintball Gun
Mask: Empire Helix Thermal Paintball Mask
Hopper: Empire Halo Too Paintball Loader
Harness: Maddog Pro 4+3 Paintball Harness
Pods: Standard 140rd Paintball Pods (6)
Packs: Maddog Neck Protector
After unboxing everything in this bundle, I knew Maddog selected premium equipment to match the performance and quality of the Empire Mini GS marker itself. The thermal anti-fog mask kept my vision crystal clear even after taking multiple hits.
The sturdy harness allowed me to carry the fully-loaded pods and compressed air tank securely. I loved the easy-access design of the wrap-around pod pack for lightning-quick reloads on the field.
Overall, the Maddog Empire Mini GS Package constitutes an professional-level setup ready for tournament action. The tactical marker provides speed, consistency and accuracy to dominate the competition. While the price tag exceeds entry-level kits, serious players will appreciate the long-term value and top-notch equipment included.
Pros:
- Tournament-ready Empire Mini GS marker
- Advanced electronic firing modes
- Enhanced accuracy and gas efficiency
- Anti-fog mask with great vision
- Durable pod harness and packs
- Premium quality accessories
Cons:
- High price for beginners
- Limited color options
- Battery positioning could be improved
#1 Empire Mini GS Starter Package
Best High-End Tournament Marker
- Speed and accuracy
- Extra features and modes
- Quality accessories
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2. Maddog Tippmann Stormer Elite Starter Package – Best for Intermediate Players
For intermediate players looking to upgrade their gear, I recommend the Maddog Tippmann Stormer Elite Starter Package for its tactical performance at a more affordable price point.
The Stormer Elite semi-auto marker serves as the centerpiece, providing reliable accuracy across .68 caliber paintballs. The in-line bolt design feeds smoothly from the hopper, while the composite construction proved ultra-durable even after some nasty spills onto the field.
What sets the Stormer Elite apart is the adaptable dual feed system, which allows you to switch from hopper to magazine fed setups on the fly. The included Picatinny rails are perfect for customizing your marker with scopes and other accessories for true modern tactical simulation.
Here’s an overview of what comes in this intermediate-level bundle:
Marker: Tippmann Stormer Elite Paintball Gun
Mask: Maddog Paintball Mask
Hopper: Proto Primo Paintball Hopper
Harness: Maddog 3+4 Paintball Harness
Pods: Maddog Ultimate Paintball Pods (7)
Tank: Maddog 20oz CO2 Tank
I found the mix of equipment in this kit really maximized the versatility of the Stormer Elite marker. While the mask was basic, it never fogged up even after long matches thanks to the dual pane thermal lens.
The CO2 tank delivered solid consistency without breaking the bank. Carrying the pods on the harness was smooth and comfortable, allowing me to duck, dive and shoot. For intermediate players, you can’t go wrong with the Tippmann Stormer Elite package!
Pros:
- Tactical Stormer Elite marker
- Reliable hopper feeding
- Dual feed flexibility
- Easy to customize
- Thermal mask included
Cons:
- Mask comfort could improve
- No hard case included
- Loader can jam during rapid firing
#2 Tippmann Stormer Elite Starter Package
Best Intermediate Tactical Marker
- Dual feed flexibility
- Customization rails
- Reliable performance
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3. Maddog Tippmann Cronus Tactical Starter Package – Best for Entry-Level Beginners
If you’re just looking to get your feet wet in recreational paintball, the Maddog Tippmann Cronus Tactical Package has everything a beginner needs to enjoy their first day on the field safely.
Competitively priced, the Cronus Tactical marker still delivers reliable performance for casual play. The in-line bolt design fires smooth and steady, handling the recoil of CO2 cartridges without breaking the bank.
Weighing in at 3.7 pounds, the composite construction gives it a military simulation style look and feel. The four Picatinny rails make it easy to add scopes, grips or sights down the road. But it’s ready to shoot straight out of the box!
Here is an overview of what’s included in this entry-level kit:
Marker: Tippmann Cronus Tactical Paintball Gun
Mask: Maddog Fan Goggle Mask
Hopper: Proto Primo Paintball Loader
Harness: Maddog 3+4 Paintball Harness
Pods: Maddog Ultimate Paintball Pods (7)
Tank: Maddog 20oz CO2 Tank
As a new player testing this kit out, I appreciated how the Cronus Tactical marker was ready to shoot moments after unboxing – no complicated setup or calibration required.
The goggles sealed comfortably around my eyes and ears, while providing a clear field of vision. Having the pod pack, CO2 tank, and loader included was really convenient for a worry-free start.
My friends and I were able to just focus on our tactical formations and target practice drills instead of equipment. Overall, it’s an amazing starter bundle for the price!
Pros:
- Durable and accurate starter marker
- Easy to shoot right out of the box
- Tactical rails for customization
- Comfortable goggle mask
- Complete starter accessories
Cons:
- Limited firing speed
- Some misfires during rapid shooting
- Highly entry-level performance
#3 Tippmann Cronus Tactical Starter Package
Best Beginner All-in-One Bundle
- Easy setup
- Durable construction
- Affordable entry-level
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4. Maddog Tippmann TMC MAGFED Starter Pack – Best Mag-Fed Starter Pack
If you enjoy the realism of magazine fed simulation, the Maddog Tippmann TMC MAGFED Starter Package allows beginners to join in the tactical action.
The TMC magfed marker is built for adaptable performance, with the flexibility to load from either a traditional hopper or magazines for more authentic MILSIM battles. The internal gas line and proven in-line bolt system makes for smooth feeding, even under rapid fire conditions.
Weighing in at 3.4 pounds, it handles just like a real rifle. The collapsible stock and adjustable front/rear sights help you hone in on targets for enhanced precision on the field. This affordable bundle comes prepared with a full setup:
Marker: Tippmann TMC MAGFED Paintball Marker
Mask: Maddog Paintball Mask
Hopper: Proto Primo 200rd Paintball Loader
Magazines: ZetaMags 20rd Paintball Mags (2)
Harness: Maddog Tactical Paintball Harness
Pods: Maddog Ultimate Paintball Pods (7)
Tank: Maddog 20oz CO2 Tank
As a newcomer to the more realistic magfed-style of paintball, I loved the versatility of being able to load the TMC marker from both a hopper and magazines. Theincluded ZetaMags securely fed paintballs during even intense run-and-gun exercises.
The CO2 tank delivered consistent velocity despite rapidly dumping magazines downrange. With the included loader, pods, and adjustable stock, the TMC package truly gives beginners an authentic MILSIM experience on a budget!
Pros:
- Marker flexibility with hopper and magazine feeding
- Realistic tactical look and handling
- Durable magazine design
- Adjustable stock and sights
- Complete starter accessories
Cons:
- Magazines can jam during loading
- Low round capacity
- No included hard case
#4 Tippmann TMC MAGFED Starter Pack
Best Beginner Magfed Flexibility
- Speed and accuracy
- Extra features and modes
- Quality accessories
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5. Action Village Kingman Spyder Epic Paintball Gun Package – Best for Budget-Oriented Players
The final starter pack I recommend for beginners is the Action Village Kingman Spyder Epic Package, which delivers solid recreational performance at an affordable budget-friendly price.
The compact Kingman Spyder Epic marker utilizes a proven stacked tube blowback system that uses CO2 pressure efficiently. While limited to semi-auto firing, it can rapid shoot up to 8bps – perfect for target shooting drills and mobile pump play.
Weighing just 2.2 pounds, the aluminum construction gives it durability while keeping it lightweight and comfortable to wield all day long on the field. For entry-level beginners, it’s an excellent starter marker packed with quality accessories:
Marker: Kingman Spyder Victor Paintball Gun
Mask: Empire X-Ray Paintball Mask
Hopper: Proto Primo Paintball Loader
Harness: Warrior Deluxe Paintball Harness
Pods: Dye Alpha Pods (3)
Tank: Empire 20oz CO2 Tank
Testing out this affordable bundle as a new player, I was impressed with how the Spyder Epic marker allowed rapid shots on target. The thermal lens mask proved both protective and comfortable for long matches.
The proto primo hopper fed smoothly even under heavy firing. Having the CO2 tank, adjustable harness, and durable pods provided everything I needed to enjoy a full day shooting paintballs without extra expenses. For beginners on a tight budget, this kit is a fantastic value.
Pros:
- Most affordable starter package
- Reliable Spyder Epic marker
- Lightweight and durable construction
- Anti-fog mask with great vision
- Quick access pod pack
- Complete starter accessories
Cons:
- Limited to semi-auto firing
- No magfed or pump options
- Basic performance for budget pricing
#5 Spyder Epic Paintball Gun Package
Best Budget-Friendly Bundle
- Compact lightweight
- Rapid fire capable
- Smooth blowback action
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Top 5 Paintball Starter Packs Comparison Chart
| Starter Pack | Price | Marker | Mask | Hopper | Harness | Pods | Tank |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maddog Empire Mini GS | $$$ | Empire Mini GS | Empire Helix Thermal | Empire Halo Too | Maddog Pro 4+3 | Standard 140rd | Compressed Air |
| Maddog Tippmann Stormer Elite | $$ | Tippmann Stormer Elite | Maddog Thermal | Proto Primo 200 | Maddog 3+4 | Maddog 140rd | 20oz CO2 |
| Maddog Tippmann Cronus Tactical | $ | Tippmann Cronus Tactical | Maddog Fan Goggle | Proto Primo 200 | Maddog 3+4 | Maddog 140rd | 20oz CO2 |
| Maddog Tippmann TMC MAGFED | $$ | Tippmann TMC MAGFED | Maddog Thermal | Proto Primo 200 | Maddog Tactical 4+2 | Maddog 140rd | 20oz CO2 |
| Action Village Spyder Epic | $ | Kingman Spyder Victor | Empire X-Ray | Proto Primo 200 | Warrior Deluxe 4+1 | Dye Alpha 150rd | 20oz CO2 |
Paintball Starter Pack Buyer’s Guide
For newcomers getting ready to dive into the sport of paintball, having the right gear can make or break your first experiences on the battlefield. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the best starter pack for your needs and budget:
Price Range – Packages range from $100 entry-level bundles to $500+ tournament packages. Set a reasonable budget that fits with how seriously you plan to pursue the sport.
Marker Quality – Look for durable metal construction in the paintball gun for consistent performance. Advanced markers will have electronic firing modes.
Mask Features – Seek thermal lenses to prevent fogging, quality ear protection, and adjustable straps for comfort.
Hopper Capacity – Standard hoppers hold 200 rounds for adequate reloads. Look for quick release lids and anti-jamming technology.
CO2 vs Compressed Air – CO2 is more affordable but can vary in consistency based on temperature. HPA provides more reliable shot velocities.
Pod Pack Comfort – Harnesses should securely carry pods and tanks, while allowing smooth mobility. Padded straps prevent digging and chafing.
Accessory Extras – Look for starter kits that include paintball pods, squeegees, carry cases and other practical accessories you’ll need.
Choosing the right starter bundle for your budget and skill level will ensure you enjoy the fast-paced action of paintball to the fullest!
Paintball Starter Pack Frequently Asked Questions
What’s included in a typical paintball starter pack?
A typical starter pack includes a paintball marker (gun), mask, hopper (ammo loader), CO2 or compressed air tank, harness, paintball pods, and other protective accessories and maintenance tools. Quality and exact equipment varies based on price.
How much do paintball starter packages cost?
Basic starter packs for beginners cost $100-$200. Intermediate kits for more advanced recreational play run from $250-$400. High-end tournament packages with professional gear can cost $500+
Should I buy a starter kit or equipment separately?
Starter kits provide everything you need to start playing paintball in one convenient bundle. Buying gear separately does allow you to customize your setup but will end up costing more. Kits give the best value for new players.
How many paintballs do I need to buy?
It’s recommended to buy at least 2,000 paintballs to have enough ammo for a full day of playing. Most fields require you to buy paintballs at their on-site pro shop for quality and safety standards.
What Safety gear do I need beyond the starter kit?
Safety gear like padding for your chest/arms, head protection, and cleats for traction are also recommended. Make sure to wear long sleeves and pants to protect your skin during play.
What does FPS (feet per second) mean for paintball guns?
The FPS measures the firing velocity of paintballs from the marker’s barrel. Most fields limit FPS to 280 for safety. Professionals use high-FPS markers around 300 for greater range and accuracy.
Getting started in paintball has never been easier thanks to full starter packs that provide all the essential gear straight out of the box.
Just pick the package that best fits your skill level and budget to ensure a seamless entry into this exciting and challenging sport.
With the right preparation, you’ll gain a competitive edge and enjoy the adrenaline-fueled action paintball offers.
