Army Painter Fanatic Paint Sets Review: A Game-Changer for Miniature Painters

Painting miniatures is more than just adding color—it’s about storytelling, atmosphere, and bringing tabletop worlds to life. Over the years, I’ve tried everything from Citadel to Vallejo to Pro Acryl, and while each range has its strengths, Army Painter’s Fanatic line surprised me in the best way. It isn’t just another paint range—it’s one built from years of community feedback, designed to be versatile enough for both new painters and veterans.

First Impressions: Coverage and Ease of Use

When I tested the Fanatic range, the first thing I noticed was the consistency. The paints flow easily from the dropper bottles (goodbye, dried-up flip-tops) and thin down without losing coverage. For tabletop-ready painting, that means fewer coats and faster results. For display-level painting, it gives you more control over layering and glazing.

The range offers over 200 colors—that’s base coats, highlights, washes, and specialty tones—so you don’t feel boxed in. Whether you’re aiming for gritty realism or vibrant fantasy, you’ll find what you need in one system.

Army Painter Fanatic Paint Sets Breakdown

Starter Set

A balanced palette for beginners who just want to paint and play without buying 50 bottles.

Metallics Set

I tested these on a Stormcast Eternal and was genuinely impressed; the Silver had excellent coverage in 2 coats, which beats a lot of other ranges.

Washes Set

If you want instant shading, these are fantastic. A single brown wash brought out the chainmail details on my orc mini in seconds.

John Blanche Signature Set

This one stands out because it channels Blanche’s dark, moody style. It’s niche, but if you like atmospheric, grimdark tones, it’s a treat.

Pros and Cons of Army Painter Fanatic Paints

What I loved:

1. Smooth consistency that works straight from the bottle.
2. Dropper bottles = less waste, easier mixing.
3. Wide color range that covers most needs.
4. Washes are strong performers for beginners.

Room for improvement:

1. Some colors (especially yellows) still need multiple coats.
2. Availability can be spotty depending on your region.

Comparison: Fanatic vs. Citadel vs. Vallejo