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Best Paintball CO2 Systems of 2026

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Arlen Smith

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Paintball CO2 systems are essential for anyone who plays paintball. These systems are used to power the paintball gun, allowing players to shoot paintballs at high velocities. CO2 systems come in different sizes, ranging from small 12-gram cartridges to large tanks that can hold up to 20 ounces of CO2. They are easy to install and can be refilled at paintball shops or sporting goods stores. The size of the CO2 system you need depends on how often you play and how much you shoot. They are an essential part of any paintball player's gear, providing the power needed to dominate the playing field.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Paintball CO2 Systems

#TOP 1

Guard Dog Security 12g CO2 Cartridges Pack of 25

Guard Dog Security 12g CO2 Cartridges Pack of 25 Cover

Guard Dog Security 12 Gram Co2 Cartridges, Non-Threaded, CO2 cartridges BB Gun, CO2 BB Pistol, CO2 Airsoft Pistol, and CO2 Paintball Markers, Snug fit, Solid Seal (Pack of 25)

The Guard Dog 12g CO2 Cartridges offer a steady and reliable power source for your airsoft, BB, or paintball guns, letting you shoot quickly without power drops. These cartridges fit most CO2-powered guns, making them a versatile choice whether you use a pistol, rifle, or paintball marker. Made from durable steel and filled with pure CO2 gas, they ensure a tight, leak-free seal for consistent performance. Plus, their unthreaded design makes installation quick and easy—just push the cartridge in, and the gun’s piercing mechanism does the rest. This means less hassle and more time enjoying your shooting activities.

9.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting canisters
  • No leakage issues
  • Easy installation and use
  • Good packaging
  • Decent inflation capacity

What Customers Say

"I rely on these CO2 canisters for my pellet pistol, and I’m impressed by how many shots I get from each one. The pack will definitely last me for a long time—excellent value!"

"I found the gas cylinders easy to install and operate, and the packaging was top-notch. One cylinder fills my BBs at least twice, which is really convenient."

"These canisters performed exactly as expected—no leaks at all, and I got the full use out of every one."

#TOP 2

Umarex 12 Gram CO2 Cartridges

  • Umarex
  • 2211300
  • Multi
  • One Size
Umarex 12 Gram CO2 Cartridges Cover

Umarex High-Grade CO2 Cartridges for Pellet Guns, BB Guns and Airsoft Guns, 12 Gram (Pack of 30)

Umarex CO2 Cartridges are essential for keeping your air gun in top shape. The clean CO2 ensures that your air gun performs well over time without dirtying the internal valves. You can expect a varying number of shots per cartridge, depending on your specific air gun model. Available in both 12-gram and 88-gram sizes, these cartridges provide flexibility for different needs. However, be aware that availability is limited to certain zip codes, so check your location before purchasing.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • consistent performance
  • affordable price
  • good power
  • versatile use
  • cost efficient

What We Don't Like

  • occasional missing unit
  • delivery issues

What Customers Say

"I've tried several brands, but these are by far the best CO2 cartridges for my airsoft and pellet guns. They're always consistent, provide solid power, and are cost efficient."

"For my P2P HDX68, these cartridges are reliable and work perfectly. The price is great, and I have no complaints at all."

"The quality and power of these are impressive. I use them for multiple types of guns and they perform really well."

#TOP 3

Hawki CO2 12g Cartridges (5 Pack)

Hawki CO2 12g Cartridges (5 Pack) Cover

Hawki CO2 12 gram Cartridges for Air Guns/Airsoft Pistols/Paintball Gun (5 Pack)

The Hawki CO2 Cartridges are designed for use in air guns, airsoft pistols, and paintball guns, providing a versatile solution for enthusiasts. Their unthreaded design allows for easy installation—simply push them in for quick use, saving you time and effort. These cartridges are compatible with popular brands, ensuring that you can use them with your existing equipment. Moreover, the high-quality gas ensures stable power output, enhancing the performance and longevity of your gear. Proudly made in America, these cartridges also adhere to strict safety regulations, giving you peace of mind with every use.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Good quality cartridges
  • Works as promised
  • Correct size for pellet guns
  • Convenient 25-pack
  • Reliable performance

What We Don't Like

  • Some leaks
  • Hard to fit

What Customers Say

"I'm pleased with the quality of these CO2 cartridges—they arrived in a box and work exactly as the manufacturer claimed."

"This 25-pack of CO2 cartridges fits my pellet gun perfectly. Glad to find the right size and amount for my needs."

"These cartridges are truly top shelf—credit to both the seller and Amazon for delivering a great product."

#TOP 4

Byrna 12g CO2 + Oiler Cartridges Pack

Byrna 12g CO2 + Oiler Cartridges Pack Cover

Byrna 12 Gram CO2 + Oiler Cartridges | 10 Count Pack | for Byrna LE/HDXL/SDXL and TCR - (9 CO2 + 1 Oiler Cylinders)

The Byrna CO2 Oiler Pack offers a convenient set of ten 12-gram CO2 cartridges designed specifically for Byrna launchers like the LE, HDXL, SDXL, and TCR models. Inside the pack, you'll find nine regular CO2 cartridges plus one special cartridge that contains oil for maintenance. Using this oil cartridge every fifth time helps keep your launcher well-lubricated and running smoothly, saving you time and effort. Installing the cartridges is easy—you simply replace them as you normally would, and the oil cartridge works automatically while you fire. This pack ensures your device stays in top shape and performs reliably during use.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Includes maintenance oil cartridge
  • Easy installation and use
  • Compatible with multiple Byrna models
  • Maintains optimal launcher performance

What We Don't Like

  • Somewhat expensive

What Customers Say

"I appreciate that these cartridges are ready for quick reloads and that one comes with oil for easy launcher maintenance. This makes using my Byrna much more convenient."

"The product feels a little pricey, but I’m happy with the quality and the added benefit of keeping my Byrna oiled."

"Although I haven’t tried my Byrna HDXL yet, I’m really looking forward to it and enjoy showing it off to friends with photos. Can’t wait for my first use!"

#TOP 5

Daisy 5-Pack 12g CO2 Cartridges

  • Gamo
  • 997580-611
  • Silver
Daisy 5-Pack 12g CO2 Cartridges Cover

Daisy unisex adult 5 Count 12 gm cylinders CO2 Cartridges, Silver, pack US

The Daisy CO2 Cartridges Pack offers five high-quality 12-gram cylinders designed to provide a steady and reliable source of gas for your airgun. This pack ensures consistent performance, helping you achieve accurate shots every time you use your airgun. With premium construction, these cartridges are built to deliver dependable power, so you can focus on your shooting without worrying about gas leaks or inconsistencies. Trust in Daisy’s reputation for quality and reliability to enhance your airgun experience with these easy-to-use CO2 cartridges.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Good sealing performance
  • Long-lasting CO2 cartridges
  • Trusted Daisy brand
  • Easy to install
  • Consistent power and accuracy

What We Don't Like

  • Packaging sometimes opens in shipping
  • Price fluctuations

What Customers Say

"I've had a great experience with these CO2 cartridges—they're easy to load, seal perfectly, and I consistently get 50-60 shots per canister with my BB pistol. The power and accuracy stay strong almost to the end, and I appreciate the reliability I've come to expect from Daisy. The only minor issue is the packaging, which some people say can open up during shipping, but mine arrived just fine. Highly recommend for anyone wanting dependable performance."

"These cartridges have worked flawlessly and delivered impressive longevity in my Daisy BB pistol. No leaks, no issues—just solid, reliable performance every time I use them."

"Every cartridge in my box was in perfect condition, and I can see why Daisy is considered the top brand for BB guns. I'm happy with the purchase and would definitely stick with this brand for my future needs."

#TOP 6

Daisy 25 Count CO2 Cylinder

  • Daisy
  • 997025-101
  • Silver
  • 12gm
Daisy 25 Count CO2 Cylinder Cover

Daisy Outdoor Products 25 Count CO2 Cylinder, Silver, 12gm

The Daisy 25 Count CO2 Cylinder is a premium set of cylinders for air gun shooting. With exceptional quality and unmatched accuracy, these cylinders are a dependable gas source that will deliver consistent, reliable shots. Daisy is known for their quality and reliability, and this set of CO2 cylinders lives up to that reputation.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Reliable performance
  • Universal compatibility
  • Good value for money
  • Long shelf life
  • Easy installation

What We Don't Like

  • Packaging may vary

What Customers Say

"I've been using the Daisy CO2 cylinders for all my airgun activities, and they've never let me down. The reliable performance and generous 25-count pack mean I can shoot for longer without worrying about running out. I also appreciate the universal fit—these work with all my airgun models. Highly recommend for anyone serious about their airguns."

"What stands out to me is the consistent quality of these Daisy cartridges. They're easy to install, and so far, I haven't had a single dud. The chrome finish makes them look great, and the price is better than most competitors. Definitely a solid buy."

"I've tried other brands, but Daisy's CO2 cylinders always arrive in good condition and work perfectly in my pistol. They last through several magazines, and I haven't had any issues. For the quality and price, they can't be beat."

#TOP 7

GreatWhip 25-Pack 12g CO2 Cartridges Non-Threaded

GreatWhip 25-Pack 12g CO2 Cartridges Non-Threaded Cover

GreatWhip 25 x 12g CO2 Cartridges Non-Threaded Compatible to CO2 BB Gun, Air Gun, Airsoft Gun, Air Pistol, Air Rifle (25 Count)

The GreatWhip CO2 Cartridges are designed for easy use with their non-threaded design, letting you simply push the cartridge into your air gun without twisting. This makes loading quick and hassle-free. Filled with pure CO2 gas, these cartridges avoid oils or lubricants that could harm your equipment, ensuring your air gun stays in good condition. Each cartridge is securely built to prevent leaks, helping you get consistent shots whether you’re target shooting or using other CO2-powered gear. Plus, they work with a wide range of guns like airsoft pistols, BB guns, and paintball markers, making them a versatile choice for many users.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Great value for price
  • High quality cartridges
  • Consistent performance
  • Works well with upgrades

What Customers Say

"I really appreciate the excellent deal on these CO2 cartridges. The quantity for the price is hard to beat, and I want to thank both the seller and Amazon for offering such a great product."

"Using these cartridges with my Byrna, I consistently get over 50 shots per cartridge. They are truly high quality and work perfectly with my upgraded setup."

#TOP 8

JT Paintball 88/90g CO2 Tank

  • JT
  • Silver
JT Paintball 88/90g CO2 Tank Cover

JT Paintball JT 88/90gram CO2 Tank - Prefilled - 3 Count

The JT Paintball CO2 Tank is perfect for paintball, airsoft, or airgun enthusiasts. It can be used as a threaded 88g cartridge and comes prefilled for your convenience. With this tank, you can enjoy uninterrupted playtime without worrying about refills. Its versatility makes it a great choice for various shooting activities. The durable construction ensures long-lasting performance, while the prefilled air provides you with immediate usability. Say goodbye to interruptions and enjoy seamless shooting experiences with the JT Paintball CO2 Tank.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Lightweight for kids
  • Good value price
  • Compatible with Bryna Mission 4
  • Decent number of shots per tank
  • Fun shooting experience

What We Don't Like

  • Some tanks arrived empty
  • Missing paintballs in box

What Customers Say

"My grandson was absolutely thrilled with his new paintball gun—he couldn't wait to start shooting! The product itself deserves five stars for the sheer excitement it brought. Although the box said paintballs were included, they were missing, so we had to purchase some separately."

"I had to get an adapter since these didn't fit my standard paintball gun at first, but once I did, they worked just fine. They're lightweight, making them easy for kids to handle."

"These work perfectly with my Bryna Mission 4 and are probably the best deal out there. I usually get around 72-76 shots per tank, which is fantastic. I’ll definitely be ordering again!"

#TOP 9

Crosman 12 Gram CO2 Cartridges (40 Pack)

Crosman 12 Gram CO2 Cartridges (40 Pack) Cover

Crosman 12 Gram CO2 (40 Cartridges)

The Crosman CO2 40 Pack offers you a reliable supply of 12-gram CO2 cartridges, perfect for powering your paintball gear or airguns. With 40 cartridges included, you get plenty of fuel to keep your activities going without frequent stops to refill. These CO2 powerlets are designed to deliver consistent pressure, ensuring smooth and steady performance every time you use them. Whether you’re out on the field or practicing at home, this pack gives you the convenience of having a large quantity of cartridges ready to go when you need them most.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • 12-gram CO2 cartridges
  • Pack of 40 cartridges
  • Consistent pressure delivery
  • Suitable for paintball systems

What We Don't Like

  • Poor packaging protection
  • Occasional price increases

What Customers Say

"For the price, this box of 40 is a fantastic deal. The performance rivals or even surpasses pricier brands I've tried."

"I've stuck with this brand for years because of its consistency and reliability. My only gripe is that the packaging could use more protection—my last order arrived with some cartridges loose, but at least I got an extra one. I'll keep buying, hoping for better shipping next time."

"Nunca vi cilindros de CO2 em um estado de conservação tão perfeito. Só não compro de novo porque o preço subiu quase 50% em poucos dias e tiraram o frete prime."

#TOP 10

Spozer 12g CO2 Cartridges 25 Pack

  • Spozer
Spozer 12g CO2 Cartridges 25 Pack Cover

Spozer 12g CO2 Cartridges – 25 Pack, Non-Threaded Snug Fit, Compatible with CO2 BB Guns, Airguns, Air Pistols, Rifles, Airsoft, Pellet Guns, Paintball Markers & Accessories

The Spozer CO2 Cartridges offer a versatile solution for your air-powered equipment, including BB guns, air pistols, rifles, and paintball markers. Their smooth, non-threaded design makes loading quick and hassle-free, so you can spend more time shooting and less time fumbling with cartridges. These cartridges fit snugly to prevent leaks, protecting your gear and ensuring each shot has consistent power. Plus, they contain pure CO2 without any oil or additives, which means your equipment stays clean and free from residue buildup. This clean, reliable gas source helps maintain your gear's performance and longevity.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Good value 25-pack
  • Consistent performance
  • Decent shot count per cartridge
  • Comparable to other brands

What We Don't Like

  • Occasional empty cartridges

What Customers Say

"I typically get about 50 accurate shots per CO2 cartridge with my .177 pellet gun. Overall, they work fine, though I did find a few empty cartridges in the box—pretty much average based on my experience."

"This 25-pack is one of the best deals I’ve found so far, and I feel that these cartridges perform just as well as any others I’ve used. I’ll definitely purchase them again."

Paintball CO2 Systems Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Guard Dog Security 12g CO2 Cartridges Pack of 25 Cover

Guard Dog Security 12g CO2 Cartridges Pack of 25

#TOP 2 Umarex 12 Gram CO2 Cartridges Cover

Umarex 12 Gram CO2 Cartridges

#TOP 3 Hawki CO2 12g Cartridges (5 Pack) Cover

Hawki CO2 12g Cartridges (5 Pack)

#TOP 4 Byrna 12g CO2 + Oiler Cartridges Pack Cover

Byrna 12g CO2 + Oiler Cartridges Pack

#TOP 5 Daisy 5-Pack 12g CO2 Cartridges Cover

Daisy 5-Pack 12g CO2 Cartridges

#TOP 6 Daisy 25 Count CO2 Cylinder Cover

Daisy 25 Count CO2 Cylinder

#TOP 7 GreatWhip 25-Pack 12g CO2 Cartridges Non-Threaded Cover

GreatWhip 25-Pack 12g CO2 Cartridges Non-Threaded

#TOP 8 JT Paintball 88/90g CO2 Tank Cover

JT Paintball 88/90g CO2 Tank

#TOP 9 Crosman 12 Gram CO2 Cartridges (40 Pack) Cover

Crosman 12 Gram CO2 Cartridges (40 Pack)

#TOP 10 Spozer 12g CO2 Cartridges 25 Pack Cover

Spozer 12g CO2 Cartridges 25 Pack

Brand Guard Dog Security Umarex Hawki Byrna Gamo Daisy GreatWhip JT Crosman Spozer
Color Silver Multi CO2 12g Cylinders (5 Pack) Silver - Silver silver Silver - -
Model Name CO2 Cartridges High-Grade CO2 Cartridges for Pellet Guns, BB Guns and Airsoft Guns CO2-12-5 - - 7025 GRT-CO2-12G-25-BOX 90 Gram CO2 Tank - -
Sport Airsoft, Paintball - Airsoft, Paintball, Target Shooting Airsoft, Paintball, Target Shooting - - Airsoft Airsoft - -
FTB Score
9.9
9.8
9.6
9.4
9.4
9.2
9.2
9.2
9.1
8.9
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is better HPA tank or CO2 tank?

An HPA (compressed air) tank is generally considered better than a CO2 tank for paintball. HPA tanks provide more stable pressure, which results in consistent performance even during rapid firing or in cold weather. Additionally, HPA tanks eliminate issues like frost on the marker body and improve accuracy due to better velocity consistency.

2. Can you use Sodastream CO2 in a paintball gun?

Yes, you can use Sodastream CO2 in a paintball gun. There are Pro-Series Adapters available that fit both paintball and Sodastream bottles, thanks to the CGA320 thread. These adapters are designed for proper horizontal installation of the regulator.

3. Can you fill a paintball CO2 tank with an air compressor?

No, you cannot fill a paintball CO2 tank with an air compressor. An air compressor is not suitable for filling CO2 tanks. CO2 tanks require a bulk CO2 tank with a valve specifically designed for filling them with CO2 gas. Hand or tire pumps are also not suitable as they cannot reach the higher pressure required by paintball tanks.

4. How many paintballs can a 90 gram CO2 tank shoot?

A 90 gram CO2 tank can shoot up to 300 paintballs, depending on usage. The JT 90 gram prefilled CO2 tank is compatible with most paintball markers and provides enough CO2 for several rounds of gameplay.

5. Is compressed air better than CO2 for paintball?

Compressed air (HPA) is generally considered better than CO2 for paintball. While CO2 tanks are more accessible and easier to find, compressed air tanks offer more consistent and reliable performance. Compressed air is particularly preferred by more experienced players due to its better performance and consistency.

6. How many years is a CO2 tank good for?

A CO2 tank is typically good for five years before it needs to be re-certified. The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires most portable CO2 tanks, including both new and used ones, to undergo re-certification every five years. This process includes hydro-testing to ensure the tank's safety and integrity.

7. How much pressure should be in a CO2 tank for a paintball gun?

A fully charged CO2 tank for a paintball gun should have an internal pressure of approximately 1100 psi at 87.9°F. However, at higher temperatures like 120°F, the pressure can reach nearly 2000 psi, which is higher than the designed service pressure of the cylinder.

8. How much does it cost to fill up a CO2 tank on a paintball gun?

The average cost to fill up a 20oz CO2 tank for a paintball gun is around $5.00. This price may vary slightly depending on the location and specific store, but $5.00 per fill is a common price range at most sporting goods or paintball stores in the USA.

9. How many shots can you get out of a 3000 psi paintball tank?

To estimate the number of shots from a 3000 psi paintball tank, multiply the tank's volume (in cubic inches) by 12. For example, a 48 cubic inch (CI) tank would provide approximately 576 shots. This calculation applies to 3000 psi tanks; for 4500 psi tanks, multiply the volume by 17.

10. How many shots do you get from a 12 gram CO2 cartridge?

A 12 gram CO2 cartridge can deliver a minimum of 30 shots and a maximum of 200 shots, depending on the specific CO2-powered device you are using. The number of shots can vary based on factors such as the marker's efficiency, firing rate, and other variables.

Editor's Notes

During our paintball co2 system research, we found 24 paintball co2 system products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 111,661 customer reviews through our big data system to write the paintball co2 systems list. We found that most customers choose paintball co2 systems with an average price of $20.72.

The paintball co2 systems are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of paintball co2 systems, including Guard Dog Security, Umarex, Hawki, Byrna, Gamo. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 573 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Arlen Smith Avatar

Arlen Smith

Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.