Best Paintball Hopper – Paintball Loaders & Electronic Hoppers for 2023

Investing in the right paintball hopper decides whether your future days are going to be delightful or perpetuity hectic in fixing bugs of your newly bought hopper. We’re ready to give an in-depth review after completing our research for the Best paintball Hopper.

Looking for a Paintball Gun Hopper, get an Electronic or an Electric Hopper as they are the best Paintball Loaders. Then your choice; a small, automatic, speed feed or electric hopper but it should be the best one to save you from unwanted issues.

A hopper is an accessory or gear that connects to a paintball marker to allow quickly firing without causing any pause. Moreover, it keeps the round of the ball into the paintball gun before you shoot. To understand more about the essential factors of cheap paintball hoppers yet rich with performance, join our ultimate journey of Paintball Hoppers and Loaders.

Top 3 Paintball Hoppers

During our practical testing, we’ve learned so many crucial aspects that helped us to throw away the poor-quality loaders and judge the material and performance deeply.

If you want to skip the detailed reading then just get one of these best Paintball Loaders. However, if you have got a couple of minutes, I will suggest you go through the article to make the best choice. And especially, navigate through the Buying Guide to have a good understanding of the Loaders.

TOP 10 Paintball Hoppers

Here is the list that helped many players to bring forth the real fun and feel complete while landing in the paintball arena. Similarly, you can also save a lot of bucks by selecting the right option.

Best Paintball Hopper Reviews

Mainly, our continuous effort to find out the best performance, quality, number of rounds, quality of paintballs, and quick shooting ability, is really what the list of top products brings to the table.

1. Virtue Spire IV Electronic – Best Electric Loader

More compact design, easy to maneuver, and sufficient capacity, we are bringing Virtue Spire IV Electronic to the top of the list.

Mainly, this model is designed that has an overall capacity of 220/280 which is sufficient enough to make it the best electric loader for competitive tournaments making it better than any other model on the list.

In essence, we like to connect it with our smartphone via Wi-Fi, and every time we’re about to get out of bullets, it always sends an alert to reload the gun before an empty magazine. Moreover, it’s very efficient to tune the loader. And with an integration of the latest technology, Spire IV is always on the front to utilize the fire rate comprehensively.

Additionally, an android application is available to download and navigate the hopper accordingly. Furthermore, it allows Bluetooth connectivity along with an LED indicator to show the battery status to take care of charging before it gets dead unknowingly. So, this feature becomes a great help.

Moreover, unlike the older models of the spire, this one is built with a unique design for easy cleaning. Furthermore, it is highly customizable and it’s easy to unscrew the parts. Therefore, the exceptional functionality lets you change the colors scheme of your own choice.

Moreover, we had no problem replacing the Spire IV lid with the most reliable speed feed in a few seconds. Furthermore, it is manufactured with a plethora of different colors and advanced technology that makes it a little expensive paintball hopper.

During testing, we’ve used Spire IV too much and now we feel incomplete holding a paintball gun without connecting it. Additionally, it gives the ultimate feed performance combination by fingers mounted on spring, and the other two factors making it our favorite hoppers are paint retention and sag-proof reliability.

2. Dye LT-R – Electronic Paintball Hopper

One of the prominent reasons for Dye LT-R leading in the list of Paintball Hoppers is its effective practicality.

Dye LT-R offers the Feed rate that is second to none.

This craft is our best choice for the best loader that supports electric recharge and retains the quality performance for all styles of players. Additionally, it increases the win rate at a very affordable price tag which is matchless.

Mainly, we like the Patented Rotor Force Fed Technology that increases its capacity to shoot up to 30 balls per second which is an impressive premium level feature in a budget-friendly loader.

While other models with complex designs and hard to dissemble have created trouble for us and we were unable to clean them without carrying an appropriate tool with us. Therefore, Dye LT-R has saved our time and energy.

Also, the well-set torque has a manual setting adjustment that helps the user to turn the indicator light off while using it in dark to stay unrevealed. Having said that, we’ve faced a tiny issue with this model, as it kept jamming. Though, it wasn’t tedious work to fix it by simply sliding the upside down and pulling to solve the jamming issue.

Furthermore, the speed feed installation was quite good but it can be improved a little by removing the pin to the clear-view hopper.

Dye LT-R is easy to maintain and provides you with an intuitive and effortless design. In short, it is our favorite loader with surprisingly budget-friendly.

3. Virtue Spire IR² Electronic – Small Paintball Hopper

We’d like to let you know that this tiny craft is smaller, lightweight, and capable of providing a more reliable sleek design that is easy to use than any other model we’ve tested.

Virtue Spire is the best small hopper that fits the need of beginners and intermediate players. However, we don’t recommend it for experts as it has a bit tricky feeder mechanism to adjust and it can disturb the aim by causing little recoil.

Moreover, it doesn’t cause a jamming problem even though we’ve put low-quality paintballs through this loader intentionally to test its ability. And this hopper came as our best choice.

This craft can hold around 200 paintballs. Moreover, it’s very easy to lid, meaning that whenever the weather changes unexpectedly, it merely takes up to 10 seconds to switch between crown speed and rain lid. Therefore, this feature makes it stand on top of other models.

Additionally, it has a relatively bright LED indicator light that is easy to see in the sunlight and helps you against the struggle to see the status of the hopper whether it’s ON or needs to switch ON.

On the final note, this model is built to win with advanced sensors that provide a constant stream of paint and impressive improvement in its shell quality.

Now, Let’s compare our Top 3 products by watching a video so that we can have a better idea.

4. Empire Halo Too Loader – Speed Feed Hopper

It is a rare occurrence that a loader with the fastest performance is also the one with a lightweight design, that’s what Halo Too Loader brings to the table.

Although this model can hold up to 180 rounds only. However, it has the fastest feed of noticeable 20 balls per second thus making it the fastest loader of all time. In contrast with most other models, Halo Too is very smooth and quick in firing with a premium quality robust build.

Further, despite very reliable sound activation, paint doesn’t break and is easily accessible by using White boxes and Summer Stored paints. In the meanwhile, many loaders cost higher for having such features, so this model is one of our favorites.

Also, its outer shell material is built with high-quality polycarbonate for extra durability than any other model in this range. Like other hoppers, it comes with a bright LED light that alerts the player when the hopper gets low on battery. Furthermore, we had no issue cleaning out all crapload of broken paint inside the hopper and still we found it in its original condition.

It is a budget-friendly product that gives easy and smooth accessibility to last long without frustrating the user. Empire is an exceptionally reliable brand on the market that manufactures various kinds of products and the reason behind its reputation is due to the uncompromising quality of its products.

5. Dye R2 – Automatic Paintball Hopper

If you are more concerned and rely on feed rate while playing, Dye R2 comes with a revolutionary patent-pending adjustable capacity. Also, it has the fastest feed rate of up to 30+ balls per second which is a huge figure as compared to any other model, we’ve used during the testing phase.

Furthermore, it helps the user to maintain the focus on the target while providing a unique designed 20% larger mouth for an easier load.

A Quick Feed system is innovative and redesigned that allows a quick and effortless changing rain lid and is easy to accomplish without using any tool. During the matches, this model always alerted us with a red light to maintain the battery life up to the required numbers. Therefore, it doesn’t draw attention to checking the battery over time.

Moreover, the lid is manufactured with high-quality polycarbonate which makes it slightly lighter than most of the loaders on the market. While testing this exclusively built craft, we are happy to report that it’s not a normal hopper because it is easier to detach and its amazing alert system was worth adding more fun to our paintball match.

Furthermore, we also like its changeable 200-260 paintball capacity and we have seen a noticeable improvement in our game, all these factors make it out Best Automatic gun loader.

Moreover, it has a shark fin at the bottom that works impressively to protect jamming the device. Last but not least, it has an extremely solid frame built with sturdy material that keeps the Dye R2 in its original form for longer use.

If you love to have a variety of colors, Dye R2 is manufactured with multiple colors leaving you standard to choose the one that attracts you most.

6. Empire Prophecy Z2 – Cheap Hopper

It's considered street smartness to find something better while being on a low budget.

Therefore, after deep research, we’ve explored the best cheap model which is manufactured with innovation and unique frame design.

We would reassure you to think high about this durable loader for a while, it is not a bad choice if you want to save your bucks without compromising any necessary factor to save ruining the fun.

It feels like holding a sturdy stone while providing a smooth and high-quality built frame that is being offered at an inexpensive price. Moreover, it can hold up to 200 paintballs that work effectively for long competitions. Further, its ability to prevent frequent reloading during paintball matches is exceptional to stay stress-free for a long time.

Further, it boasts a quick shooting feature with sound-activated while we also feel about its battery housing that didn’t act as we were expecting out of it. Even though, it is a good deal to have it in your paintball match that has a large capacity to hold more paintball.

Moreover, it has a low profile and its weight is minimal that doesn’t feel heavy in long matches. It did a favor for us and provided hassle-free carry throughout the tournament around the field.

It promotes its design with multiple colors shades and its edges are built little curved to prevent any scratches on a bearskin.

7. Tippmann Cyclone – Best Paintball Loader

Tippmann is our all-time favorite brand that always facilitated us with its durable and sturdy frame material with modern design. Mainly, we like its performance particularly its outstanding 15 balls per second feeding paint ability has driven more winning chances for us.

Moreover, it boasts a feeder sprocket that is connected to the air system of this loader helps to synchronize ball feed.

 If you feel the balls are being chopped as it happened with us while using this loader more often.

Then no need to be worried because the solution is very easy and simple. Go with tightening the Allen screw using the right size available tool in its maintenance kit. This one-minute solution saves hundreds of bucks by returning this worthy product.

Mainly, it is a highly protective and well-designed frame. Additionally, we had no problem shooting at our desired rate with its response trigger. While most other models we’ve tested consist of batteries and are not water-resistant but this one has no battery and it makes it a pretty safe hopper.

Moreover, it has a premium quality, quick feed rate, and anti-jamming system. So far, we’ve used it enough and put more than 6-7 thousand balls over some time, it has never broken a single ball but performed impressively for us

Also, it comes in a user-friendly design that no longer needs batteries and it is the best Tippmann product we have ever used.

8. Dye Proto Primo – Best Paintball Feeder

This product by far is one of the top-performance and budget-friendly that offers the best speed feed due to its modern-mechanism-based system.

During our testing, we’ve mounted it on our famous Tippmann Pro marker and this loader performed flawlessly without jamming. This high-speed Proto Primo works perfectly for mechanical auto shots and it’s a perfect economical option for any kind of player.

The exclusive feature we have noticed is that it sorts and funnels paintballs during shooting that is worthy of constant vertical feed. Astonishingly, it can hold 200 paintballs that we usually see in any expensive loader as well, so it’s a plus point.

When we say a high-end product with a low-end range, Proto Primo fits in very well. Moreover, it’s a gravity-fed loader that lowers the factor of jamming and also relieves the pressure on any sort of paintballs. We are thankful to the Dye brand for the transparent, spring-loaded lid that made it easy to reload as compared to many hoppers that have poor reloading systems.

We also like that it offers a higher feed rate and its large opening allows up to 8 balls per second. Thus, we can say that it’s a great function. Moreover, it prevents the pressure of paintball that is chambered for firing, thereby, effectively preventing squished feeds.

We recommend it for beginners and for those who don’t have too much to spend on a loader that has all the features as most other expensive models. Therefore, this craft is just perfect in such circumstances.

9. Empire 200 Round Loader – Best Paintball Hopper 

A standard option for beginners and also effective for kids, this 200 Round Loader isn’t manufactured to perform heavy duty but it is very efficient to perform the basic game features without failing. It comes in a very low-end range with a 200 paintballs holding capacity. It is built with high quality and sturdy material to last longer.

However, it doesn’t provide a good firing rate but it’s a cheap option if you are a starter and it can do the job for you. Moreover, it is easy to reload as it is designed with a spring-loaded cap with a cool modern look.

Its shell is made with extremely tough polymers that guarantee its long-lasting ability. It is crafted with a stylish design and a pared-back black shining surface frame. However, while testing, it jammed a few times and the only thing we did is shaking it a bit and it gets back working properly again.

10. TIPPMANN SSL-200 – Best Paintball Gun Hopper

In the last, we have got covered a product from the most famous brand Tippmann. SSL-200 that performs ultimately up to the mark. It is our favorite electric loader that has a remarkable benefit over a lot of models at this range.

 It is very easy to manage due to its lightweight and ability to fit the most markers available on the market. However, it’s not a good option for experienced paintballers but it tends to work smoothly for intermediate players.

The built-in bend sensor technology helps in keeping the loader activated and it also prevents the mechanism from jamming and chopping. We’re happy to say that this model kept us as fast as we wished to fire without creating the issue of the case of paint. If you don’t have the cash to get the high-end hopper, there is no better model option than TIPPMANN SSL-200 in this low-end range.

Moreover, it works better for mechanical or semi-auto guns with high fire rates while it is not as good with speedball guns as we had expected. We had no issue fitting it on any type of market with its wide-mouthed lid. In essence, it keeps you hidden from danger as it is quiet and produces no sound to fire at the opponents silently.

Buying Guide – Choose the Best Paintball Loader

1. Proficiency Level

(a) Beginner 

If you’re naive, you should not invest in a high-end loader and try to get the one loaded with features. Thus, we recommend, looking for a lightweight model with a simple design and economical but it must be manufactured with sturdy and high-quality material to last long. Having said that, gravity-loaded and electronic hoppers do the best job for beginners.

As gravity models are not battery dependent, they work according to the player’s movements. On the other hand, electronic models are more reliable for the anti-jam feature.

(b) Mid-Range

These mid-range loaders are recommended for those who have done their basic skill learning but don’t possess professional skills yet. However, they are a little more expensive than beginner paintball hoppers due to the addition of features.

As we are promoting on an advanced level, the built-in sensors in these type of hoppers is an exceptional feature that sorts out the movement of paintballs. As soon as the paintball hinders the way of eye rays down the trigger, the next one releases instantly to keep it ready for the next fire.

Further, Cyclone models are efficient for intermediate players because of their efficient loading cyclone feed. These loaders are also manufactured without a battery, so their working mechanism is based on gas that brings the paintball gun into real action.

(c) Professional

For professional players, there are many options available on the market. However, their cost could little too expensive depending on the quality and features. While your preference should be a top-performances loader without compromising the quality too much. Furthermore, these models usually have large paintball holding capacity and higher feed rates than intermediate and beginner level hoppers.

Paintball Hopper Features

(1) Size and Weight

The size of a paintball hopper varies with its capacity to hold several paintballs. So, considering the perfect size for yourself is necessary and will have a huge impact on your paintball playing style. Also, going for the biggest paintball hopper isn’t the wise decision, look for the one which is appropriate and fulfills your requirements easily.

A finely designed loader can hold up to 50 balls minimum. While the expensive and advanced ones offer benefits over your opponent when it comes to reloading by providing a capacity to hold hundreds of balls.

Moreover, weight is also an important consideration for any sort of player. Therefore, the recommended lightweight hoppers with a compact and modern design are a plus because heavyweight is always the cause of distraction and overwhelming frustration.

(2) Compatibility

It is very important to sparingly choose the hopper that is compatible with the paintball marker. Usually, most of the model we’ve tested fits all type of markers perfectly. However, we still recommend checking out the youtube videos to meet the ultimate satisfaction and get the right product. Doing so will prevent you from a loss from returning the model and bearing extra bucks cost.

(3) Durability

Whenever you are choosing any paintball hopper, make sure that it is tough enough to withstand the harsh environment of paintball.

During the game, you may encounter sliding and dropping on the field so the hopper must be robust enough to bear the hits.

If the hopper is made of plastic like most of the hoppers available on the market but still its plastic should be strong and tough to face the grunt of the game.

(4) Budget

One of the main factors while deciding on a paintball hopper is your pocket. However, remember that you do not have to compromise on the quality of the product while trying to save a few bucks. So, this saving may cost you much very soon and you may feel regret about the decision.

(5) Material

Durability and weight will depend directly on the material used for the making of the paintball hopper. Normally, you will find four kinds of materials for the hopper.

(a) Aluminum: Oldest, robust, and tough

(b) Ceramic: Lightweight but easily breakable

(c) Steel: Very strong, Durable but Heavy

(d) Polycarbonate Fiber: State of the art, lightweight, speedy, easy to clean, and durable

(6) Speed Feed & Feed Rate

Speed Feed will help you to fill the paintball gun speedily. Therefore, it comes in very handy to you in the game and they are compatible with most guns.

Mainly, Feed Rate is one of the major factors in your performance during the game. Therefore, you will always like to be on top of the game. So for this purpose, you will like to be firing at a fast rate. However, this will mainly depend upon your comfort level and gameplay.

(7) Anti Jamming Feature

Imagine yourself right on the face of the opponent with a jammed hopper. You are going for a six. So, ensure at every cost that you should buy a hopper that does not jam easily.

(8) Water Resistance

Most of the paintball hoppers in the market are water-resistant for obvious reasons. As Paintball itself makes it wet and also you have to wash it after the game so it is supposed to be water-resistant. Else, it will be destroyed very soon.

Although, it is understood that all paintball hoppers are water-resistant but still make sure that they are truly water-resistant so that you will not spoil your game and mood.

(9) Capacity

Your paintball hopper should be able to handle a maximum number of paintball balls. Therefore, it will give you a definite edge over your opponents. Soon, they will have to take a break to replenish. however, you will be up with your arsenal, ready to pounce upon them.

No matter whether you are a beginner or a pro player, you should have as much capacity as you can afford. Thus, you can play comfortably.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Final Words

After reading the thorough and deep review of each product, we are certain that you should not have any ambiguity left behind about paintball hoppers. Mainly, the authentic information has been narrowed down to select the Best Paintball Hopper wisely with the help of buying guide. Before purchasing any paintball hopper or loader, ask yourself a few questions – what are you going to use it for in the future, what is your playing style, and are you an expert or beginner in paintball.

Understand the factor of the budget, playing requirements, and quality of each product, and then decide wisely to select the one which fits all your needs. However, we have made a few recommendations to ease your effort with our hearts.

Just pick one of our reviewed products and Happy paintballing.