The 13 Best Airsoft Guns For Beginners To Get In 2023

Airsoft sounds like fun but you’re not sure how to begin?

Choosing between the best airsoft guns for beginners can be hard.

But luckily for you, we did the research on what experts recommend, and what reviewers say about airsoft guns fit for newcomers in the scene.

AEGs (Automatic Electronic Guns) are the best option for a beginner, since they’re versatile and powerful.

So most of our recommendations will be AEGs. 

But stick around as we’ll also recommend some shotguns, SMGs, pistols and sniper rifles. 

Best Airsoft Guns For Beginners

Here we go!

#1 G&G M4 CM16 Raider

The G&G M4 CM16 Raider is our go-to recommendation for all beginners. It’s a versatile, durable, and pretty powerful AEG (Automatic Electric Gun).

And it’s not too expensive either.

Now don’t expect a technical behemoth.

G&G’s M4 only clocks in at around 350 FPS, and the build is not ambidextrous.

But thanks to its adjustable hop-up and versatilty, it’s a wonderful choice. You won’t need to throw it out once you learn more about airsoft and want something stronger, or some attachments. 

You’ll be taking this M4 to games for years to come.

Oh, and – since this is your first gun, don’t forget to buy the parts you need. You should at least get a battery and charger.

If you get G&G’s M4 from Evike though, they have a package with everything you need.

#2 Lancer Tactical Gen 2 Airsoft M4 Carbine 10″

Lancer Tactical’s second generation of airsoft M4 carbine is another great option for beginners.

Like most M4 designs, Lancer Tactical’s AEG is great for beginners thanks to its ergonomic design, and compatibility with a lot of attachments.

You’re getting a 370-390 FPS rifle, with adjustable rotary hop-up, and a lightweight reinforced polymer construction.

This makes Lancer Tactical’s M4 easy to use, and good enough for any scenario you’d take it to. 

It’s lower on our list because of its magazine size. 

But it’s still one of the best airsoft guns for beginners.

#3 Colt Licensed Full Metal M4A1 Carbine Airsoft AEG Rifle

If you’re not in a rush to get your gun, and you want a Colt licensed full metal M4A1, this AEG is probably the best option for you.

It’s slightly more expensive than the other two entries on this list, and it’s only available for pre-order, with an ETA for January 2023.

But if you like the M4A1, it’s one of the best airsoft guns for beginners.

Here’s why:

• Full metal receiver and body
• Adjustable hop-up
• Detachable carrying handle
• 390-460 FPS range
• Comes with a battery and charger

This gun also has stellar reviews all over the web, so if you’re looking for a reliable choice, Cybergun’s Colt Licensed M4A1 is a great choice.

#4 ARES Amoeba GEN5 M4 12″

The ARES Amoeba fifth generation M4 is a durable, powerful, and might I add – sick looking AEG.

Its distinct barrel gives it a unique feel, and its specs are pretty good.

Here’s what you get if you buy the ARES Amoeba Gen5 M4:

• Durable nylon fiber build
• Aluminum guards with Picatinny rails
• Adjustable stock
• Adjustable hop-up
• 380-400 FPS of power
• 300 rounds hi-capacity magazine

Amoeba’s adjustable stock makes it very versatile. You can keep it full-length if you want the AR experience, or you can push it in when you need a compact AEG.

The only problem?

The ARES Amoeba is pretty expensive. $100 over what we’ve shown you so far.

So if you’re looking for an affordable option, this is not the best pick for you.

#5 FN Herstal Licensed Full Metal SCAR-L Airsoft AEG

If you like the SCAR-L and you want to sport it at your next airsoft game, FN Herstal’s llicensed full metal SCAR-L is probably the best gun for you.

Cybergun’s licensed version of the SCAR-L mimics the original in more than just looks.

It has a metal upper receiver, and a full-length Picatinny rail, just like the real SCAR-L.

On top, this AEG comes with extendable folding stock, adjustable cheek rest, and adjustable hop-up.

The power’s not too bad either.

380-400 FPS is a decent range for any AEG, and it’s good enough for any beginner that likes FN Herstal’s SCAR-L design.

This AEG is slightly more expensive than Colt’s or G&G’s M4s.

But it’s still pretty affordable, making it a great choice for beginners.

#6 JG M4A1 Carbine AEG

If you’re looking for an affordable version of the M4A1 carbine, JG’s AEG is the best choice.

Just because it’s cheaper doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing too much though.

JG’s M4A1 has a durable polymer receiver, full outer barrel metal assembly, and reinforced internals to guarantee a long lifespan for your airsoft gun.

The power is pretty good too. 380-460 FPS is a decent range for experienced users and beginners alike.

It also has an adjustable hop-up and a high-capacity metal magazine.

Basically, anything you’d ever need in the best airsoft gun for beginners.

It’s lower on our list because it has some ABS plastic components. But that doesn’t change the fact that it’s a good choice.

#7 Softair Licensed Kalashnikov Full Metal AKS74U

If you want a Kalashnikov as your first airsoft gun, the AKS74U from Cybergun is a good pick.

AKs might not be the most versatile gun out there.

But they’re still excellent.

And they have a unique design that’s attractive if you’re going for a specific feeling on the airsoft field.

This particular choice doesn’t disappoint. 

Here are its main features:

• Full metal receiver, stock, and outer barrel assembly
• Reinforced gearbox
• Integrated AK side rail
• 360-420 FPS
• High-capacity 500 rounds magazine
• Real wood furniture

It doesn’t come with a battery or charger, so you’ll need to get those yourself. But for the low price point it’s at, this Softair licensed Kalashnikov is a great choice if you like the look and feel of AKs.

#8 King Arms TWS M4 Striker Ultra Grade

King Arms isn’t the most popular maker of airsoft guns. And it’s definitely not the best on this list. 

However, it’s still a decent brand.

And their TWS M4 Striker Ultra Grade is one of the best airsoft guns for beginners.

Here’s why:

• Durable nylon fiber receiver
• Retractable PDW-style stock
• Full-length top rail for optics
• 400-415 FPS
• Adjustable hop-up
• Vertical grip, magazine, and sights included in the pack

That’s quite a lot of power. 

Don’t get me wrong, this AEG isn’t perfect. A lot of users complained about different parts of the gun.

And most worryingly for a beginner – the magazine only supports 140 rounds. When you’re just getting started, you’re going to miss a few shots, so hi-cap magazines are really helpful.

If you like the look, and you’re angling for a powerful gun, King Arms’ TWS M4 is a great choice though.

#9 H&K UMP Competition Series Airsoft AEG Rifle

If you’re looking for sub-machine gun, there are very few options more popular than the UMP.

And H&K’s Competition Series UMP is one of the best airsoft guns for beginners.

Functionally, there are very few differences between airsoft rifles and SMGs. At the core of it, this gun is still an AEG, just like all other entries on this list.

So let’s go over its stats:

• Fully licensed H&K gun
• Top and front rails for accessories
• Integrated sights
• Folding skeleton stock
• Full-metal internal parts
• 315-345 FPS
• Adjustable hop-up
• 400 rounds high-capacity magazine.

While this is a regular AEG form a technical viewpoint, the difference is in design and feel. If you want your first gun to be an SMG, H&K’s UMP is a great choice.

Just remember that it doesn’t have the strongest build. The receiver, outer barrel, some grips, and the stock are all made out of ABS, which is a big downside. Especially for its price range.

If you want a cheaper option, you can check out:

#10 FN Herstal Licensed P90

Cybergun’s FN Herstal officially licensed P90 is a great option if you’re a beginner and you want an SMG.

It has a durable polymer build, an ergonomic design, ambidextrous controls, 400-410 FPS of power, an adjustable hop-up, and plenty more.

It’s basically the perfect gun for an SMG lover.

Especially thanks to its multiple packages, and hundreds of positive reviews on Evike alone.

Oh and, its very cheap too. At the time of writing, you can get the gun, battery, and charger for under $200.

So why is it so low on our list?

Unfortunately, this P90 model is often out of stock. If you’re lucky and it’s available when you check it out, don’t miss out on the opportunity to get an amazing gun!

#11 UTG Multi-Shot Combat Tactical Shotgun Airsoft Gun

The UTG Multi-Shot Combat tactical shotgun isn’t the best airsoft shotgun out there. But if you’re a beginner, and you want an affordable close-quarter option, you can give it a closer look.

It firs 3 BBs per shot, it has a decent spring-powered mechanism, and 320 FPS of power.

Don’t expect the full shotgun experience though! This version doesn’t have things like simulated blowback.

But for a beginner’s airsoft gun, The UTG multi-shot is a great choice.

#12 Umarex Fully Licensed GLOCK 17 Gen4

If you’re a beginner and you’re looking for a reliable sidearm, you can’t really go wrong with a glock.

And Umarex’ fully licensed Glock 17 is probably the best option on the market.

Here’s why:

• Durable polymer frame & aluminum slide
• Fully licensed Glock build, sights, trigger safety, and accessory rail
• 320-350 FPS power
• 17 rounds magazine
• CO2 firing mechanism
• Realistic simulated blowback

The Umarex Gen 4 Glock is not cheap.

But if you want an airsoft pistol, it’s as close to the real thing as you can get.

#13 JG VSR-10 Airsoft Bolt Action Sniper Rifle

If you’re looking for a decent and affordable airsoft sniper rifle, the VSR-10 from JG is probably the best option for you.

Like in the case of SMGs, don’t expect a firing experience as authentic as wielding a real sniper rifle.

Your range is limited when using airsoft guns.

But for the feeling of being a sniper, you can give this gun a closer look.

It has:

• High-quality aluminum trigger assembly
• Polished aluminum cylinder with a brass head
• Adjustable metal hop-up
• Harris-style bipod leg
• Sturdy polymer stock
• Impressive 400-475 FPS of power
• 30 rounds magazine

And the best part?

The entire gun + bipod and sights package is less than $200.

Choosing The Best Airsoft Gun For Beginners

If you’re not happy with our picks and you want to do your own research, here’s what you should keep in mind.

Beginners can find the most success with guns that are:

• Affordable. You don’t want to sink $1000 in a gun before you know if you even like airsoft
• Reliable. Nobody likes an airsoft gun that dies on you when you need it the most.
• All-in-one. Full packages (with batteries, chargers, attachments) are better for beginners, as they allow you to jump on the field in no time.
• Automatic Electric Guns. AEGs are by far the best option for a beginner, as they’re versatile, durable, and usually powerful enough.

These are the most important things you should keep in mind when browsing for the best airsoft guns for beginners.

Conclusion: What Are The Best Airsoft Guns For Beginners?

In my opinion, the best airsoft gun for a beginner is whichever gun gets you into this world and makes you feel the thrill of an airsoft game. 

If your only option is a $50 knock-off, all made out of plastic, go for it.

It won’t be the most fun experience, but it’ll get you started.

If you have the money, and you want a better gun as a starter, the G&G M4 CM16 Raider is my go-to recommendation.

You can’t go wrong with it.