Choosing the right gun for those just stepping into the world of airsoft is the most important factor directly affecting the enjoyment derived from the game. If you are new to airsoft and looking for a clear answer to the question “which airsoft gun should I buy?”, you are in the right place.
In this guide, we have compiled the best entry-level airsoft guns under $300 that are durable, long-lasting, and upgradable. While preparing the list, we focused not only on performance but also on the needs of a beginner player, ease of use, and price/performance balance.
What to Consider When Choosing a Beginner Airsoft Gun?
Before buying an airsoft gun, you must answer the following questions:
1. What Type of Gun Do You Want?
- Rifle (AEG)
- Pistol
- SMG / PCC
- Sniper
- Shotgun
- Support Weapon (LMG / SAW)
This decision significantly narrows down the options.
2. Design and Ergonomics
Do you like M4 or AK? Bullpup designs or classic platforms? Remember; you wouldn’t want to use a gun for a long time if it doesn’t feel comfortable in your hands.
3. Budget
In this guide, we have only included options under $300 for the primary weapon. Masks, face protection, and other equipment are not included in this budget.
Best Beginner Level M4 Airsoft Rifles
Specna Arms Rock River Arms CORE EDGE AEG
- Light and durable polymer body
- Gate X-ASR MOSFET
- Quick Change Spring system
- Rotary hop-up and 6.03 inner barrel
- Price: ~$135
One of the best price/performance M4 options for beginners.
G&G CM16 Raider 2.0
- Legendary durability and reliability
- M-LOK handguard
- Lightweight structure
- Price: ~$196
The first choice for many players starting airsoft.
Matrix Calico Jack AEG
- Ambidextrous (double-sided) controls
- Falcon V2 Gearbox
- MOSFET and Quick Change Spring
- Price: ~$215
Ideal for those seeking ergonomics and modern design.
CYMA Platinum M4 QBS
- Full metal body
- External Quick Change Spring (QBS)
- 8mm bearing gearbox
- Price: ~$284
A top-tier beginner model for those who can allocate a bit more budget.
Best Airsoft Rifles Other Than M4
JG G3 (JG K1)
- Suitable for DMR role
- Integrated bipod
- Durable gearbox
- Price: ~$159
Perfect for those seeking long range and stability.
JG AUG Military
- Bullpup design
- Version 3 Gearbox
- Integrated scope
- Price: ~$189
Legendary for those wanting to experience Counter-Strike nostalgia.
CYMA AK-105
- Steel body
- Version 3 Gearbox
- CQB and outdoor compatible
- Price: ~$194
A solid start for those who cannot give up on the AK platform.
Best SMG / PCC Airsoft Guns
Elite Force MP5 SD6
- Classic MP5 design
- Light and balanced
- Version 2 Gearbox
- Price: ~$186
Indispensable for CQB fields.
King Arms PDW-9
- MP5 magazine + M4 control layout
- MOSFET
- Quick Change Spring
- Price: ~$215
Compact, modern, and versatile.
G&G ARP9
- 3-round burst feature
- ETU + MOSFET
- Perfect for CQB
- Price: ~$248
Ideal for those who love fast-paced games.
Beginner Level Airsoft Pistols
Elite Force 1911 Tactical (CO2)
- Strong recoil (blowback)
- Stable performance in cold weather
- Price: ~$124
A classic choice for those preferring CO2.
AW Custom Hi-Capa Ace Competitor
- High gas and round capacity
- Wide upgrade options
- Price: ~$169
The most popular platform for airsoft pistols.
Elite Force Glock 17 Gen 5
- Licensed Glock design
- Ergonomic structure
- Wide spare part support
- Price: ~$179
Perfect for those seeking realism.
Other Categories: Shotgun, Sniper, and Support Weapons
CYMA M870 Tri-Shot Shotgun
- Spring powered
- 3 BB shot
- Price: ~$58
A fun option that should be in everyone’s collection.
VSR-10 Sniper Rifle
- High precision
- Huge upgrade ecosystem
- Price: ~$125
The right address for those wanting to start sniping.
Cybergun FN M249 Featherweight
- Light body
- High rate of fire
- Version 2 Gearbox
- Price: ~$245
Excellent for those wanting to try the support role.
Conclusion: The Best Choices for Starting Airsoft Right
The most important thing in airsoft is to enjoy the game. Choosing the right gun multiplies this enjoyment. If you are undecided, I definitely recommend going to an airsoft store to hold and try the guns.
All the models on this list are reliable, affordable, and long-term upgradable options for beginners.