Badger Patriot 105 vs Iwata Neo CN
Researched by Johnny Alto · last updated July 27, 2026
Short answer: For most buyers, the Badger Patriot 105 is the better pick over the Neo for Iwata CN. For an all-round budget airbrush the Patriot 105 is the better buy.
Badger Patriot 105
For an all-round budget airbrush the Patriot 105 is the better buy. It is made in the USA, its 0.5mm nozzle happily sprays thicker paints and primers as well as base coats, and its parts are cheap and easy to find. It is the durable, versatile value pick that punches above its price, which is why it is a constant recommendation for new miniature painters.
Check price on Amazon Live price on Amazon. Representative image.Both are the budget dual-action gravity airbrushes hobbyists cross-shop below the pricey flagships. The Badger Patriot 105 is US-made with a fine nozzle; the Iwata Neo CN is Iwata's China-made budget line. Here is how they split.
Badger Patriot 105 vs Neo for Iwata CN: what is the difference?
| Pick | Product | Why it makes the list |
|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Badger Patriot 105 | For an all-round budget airbrush the Patriot 105 is the better buy. |
| Finer detail | Neo for Iwata CN | Pick the Neo CN if you want the finest detail on a budget or the Iwata feel to carry up to a flagship later. Its smaller 0.35mm nozzle sprays finer lines than the Patriot's 0.5mm, and it costs less, though it is Iwata's China-made line and handles thick paints and primers less happily. |
Which one should you buy?
The two are close, so the choice comes down to a few things: nozzle, build origin, parts, and upgrade path. Here is how they split.
- Nozzle: the Neo's 0.35mm sprays finer detail; the Patriot's 0.5mm handles thick paints and primers better.
- Build origin: the Patriot is US-made; the Neo CN is Iwata's China-made budget line.
- Parts: Badger parts are cheap and easy to find in the US.
- Upgrade path: the Neo shares Iwata's feel if you plan to buy an Eclipse later.
Head-to-head specs
| Spec | Badger Patriot 105 (pick) | Neo for Iwata CN |
|---|---|---|
| Nozzle | 0.5 mm | 0.35 mm |
| Feed | Gravity, dual-action | Gravity, dual-action |
| Best for | Primers / thick paint | Fine detail |
| Made in | USA | China |
| Approx price | ~$110 | ~$60 |
When to pick the Neo for Iwata CN instead
Neo for Iwata CN
Pick the Neo CN if you want the finest detail on a budget or the Iwata feel to carry up to a flagship later. Its smaller 0.35mm nozzle sprays finer lines than the Patriot's 0.5mm, and it costs less, though it is Iwata's China-made line and handles thick paints and primers less happily.
Check price on AmazonBottom line: the Badger Patriot 105 is the durable, versatile value pick for primers and base coats, while the Neo for Iwata CN sprays finer detail and suits an Iwata upgrade path.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Badger Patriot 105 better than the Neo for Iwata CN?
For most buyers, yes. For an all-round budget airbrush the Patriot 105 is the better buy.
What is the main difference between the Badger Patriot 105 and the Neo for Iwata CN?
Pick the Neo CN if you want the finest detail on a budget or the Iwata feel to carry up to a flagship later.
Which airbrush is better value, the Badger Patriot 105 or the Neo for Iwata CN?
It depends on your budget and needs. The Badger Patriot 105 is the all-round pick; the Neo for Iwata CN wins in the cases below.
Related buying guides
- Air Purifier for Allergies
- Air Purifier for Pets
- Air Purifier for Mold
- Air Purifier for a Bedroom
- Air Purifier for Smoke
This is a research-based buying guide, not a personal hands-on review; recommendations reflect community consensus and verified buyer reviews. Prices and availability are subject to change, so always confirm on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.
← All guides · How we research · About · Affiliate Disclosure · Privacy Policy · Contact