4. Airsoft budget guide, starting under €150/€300

Airsoft doesn't have to be expensive. In fact, you can get off to a great start on a limited budget, as long as you choose wisely. Many beginners make the same mistake: spending money on looks or accessories, while the basics (safety, comfort and practical gear) are not yet in place. The result? A setup that doesn't play well, breaks quickly or needs to be replaced afterwards.

In this airsoft budget guide, we show you how to get started realistically with a budget of less than £150 or less than £300, without making bad purchases and with a setup that you can easily expand later.

Start smart: where should you spend your money?

A good budget setup is all about priorities. There are three layers:

1. Safety (cutting corners here is never a good idea)
2. Comfort (ensures you play longer and better)
3. Practical gear (makes your setup usable in the field)

This order prevents you from having to buy everything again later.

Starting with airsoft for under £150 (realistic and smart)

With £150, you can lay a foundation, especially if you are still renting or have a simple setup. This budget is ideal for someone who wants to find out if airsoft is really for them.

Budget breakdown under £150

1. Eye protection

This is the most important purchase. Choose a model that fits well and is comfortable. This is the only item where you really don't want to go for “the cheapest option”.

2. Face protection

Especially useful for CQB and if you want to keep your teeth (recommended).

3. Gloves

Gloves greatly increase your comfort and prevent painful knuckle hits. This is a small investment with a big impact.

4. BBs

Buy good BBs. Bad BBs are cheap, but they will cost you frustration and malfunctions.

What should you consciously leave out under £150?

• Tactical vest/plate carrier
• Radio + PTT
• Extensive pouches
• Camouflage set (if you don't know your playing style yet)

Under £150, it's all about playing safely, moving comfortably and avoiding irritations.

Starting with airsoft under £300 (best price/quality start)

This is the sweet spot budget for beginners. With £300, you can build a setup that feels complete and is suitable for multiple days of play.

Budget breakdown under £300

1. Eye protection + face protection

Still priority number 1.

2. Gloves + basic clothing

This is where you'll see the biggest gains in comfort and freedom of movement. Think of clothing that can take a beating and is comfortable when running, kneeling and lying down.

3. Carrying solution for magazines

This is where your setup suddenly becomes ‘practical’. Think of:

• chest rig (lightweight and ideal for beginners)
• tactical belt (flexible and comfortable)

4. Extra magazine(s) + speed loader

So you don't have to stop after a few minutes to reload. This immediately makes your game day more enjoyable.

5. Hydration solution

This is a must, especially for outdoor airsoft and warm weather. If you play for longer, you will automatically appreciate this.

Budget tips: how to avoid bad buys

These tips will help you get much more out of your budget:

Don't buy “looks” before you have the basics right

A plate carrier looks great, but if your eye protection fogs up and your shoes are uncomfortable, you won't enjoy it very much.

Choose gear that you can expand later

A good belt or chest rig can always be expanded later with extra pouches. That makes it a smart investment.

Go for comfort and fit

Many beginners buy gear that is too big or too small. A good fit is more important than extra features.

Weather resistance is more important than you think

The United Kingdom = rain, mud and wet grass. Choose gear that can handle that.

Which setup suits your playing style?

Your budget should match how you play.

CQB (indoor / short distances)

• focus on freedom of movement
• lightweight setup
• good face protection

Outdoor / woodland

• focus on comfort and durability
• good shoes
• hydration + carrying solution

Milsim / longer events

• need more capacity
• better organisation of your gear
• comfort is priority number 1

Common budget mistakes

These are the mistakes that really cost you money:

• starting too cheap with eye protection
• buying too many accessories instead of essentials
• not having a plan for magazines / carrying gear
• buying gear that doesn't suit your playing field (CQB vs outdoor)

Useful next steps

Want to further improve your setup? Then check out:

• Airsoft beginner set, complete checklist
• AEG vs GBB vs HPA, which is right for you?
• Common beginner mistakes (and how to avoid them)

With the Airsoft budget guide, you can get started smartly for less than £150 or £300, without unnecessary expenses and with a setup that you can easily upgrade later.