Along with the increase in popularity with the sport of paintball has come more and more innovation. In this continuously growing sport, the paintball experience has been taken to a new level of extreme. One of the innovations that has been widely accepted is the advent of electronic paintball markers.

Players who are more traditionalists usually challenge modifications to a great extent. As with growth and development in any other sport or industry, there is usually good and a bad that comes with it. The following is a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of the more modern electronic paintball markers in comparison to the more commonly used mechanical semi-automated paintball markers.

Advantages

Electronic paintball markers are generally more accurate and consistent with their shots, and typically shoot faster as well. They are also easier to handle since they are smaller than mechanical markers, providing players with the ability to execute movements easier and shoot more efficiently. Also, as opposed to mechanical markers, they function on a much lower pressure and are able to fire more shots per tank.

The firing mechanism of electronic paintball markers is controlled by battery powered circuit boards that activate solenoids, which causes it to fire. The circuit board fires when the trigger is pulled, activating the gun. Because the circuit boards can be programmed, they can fit various modes of firing. The programmed circuit board controls the solenoids, which manages the airflow and allows each shot to be very fast and smooth.

Regulators are also relied upon by electronic guns, which are devices that intake varying levels of air pressure from a tank and release it at a lower, steady pressure. After firing, there are not as many kicks and recoils because the electronic markers function at lower levels of pressure. This allows for consistent firing.

Disadvantages

Of course, like everything else there are disadvantages to using electronic paintball markers. Because of their electronic nature, they can’t be used in very wet environments, otherwise they might short circuit.

Therefore, if the competition is being held in harsher weather conditions, players who use electronic markers may encounter some issues. However, silicon covers are now being placed on electronic paintball markers by companies to prevent these issues from occurring.

In addition, electronic markers cost a lot more than mechanical markers to buy and repair. Professional servicing is required for repairs because of the intricate programs instilled in electronic markers. To get better performance, upgrades are necessary as well, which is going to cost even more money. Electronic markers use only compressed air to operate, which is more costly than CO2.

Finally, when playing there is always the concern about the battery dying, so you will always need to make sure they are charged beforehand or have extras with you.