Best Paint Tray Under £150
A quality paint tray is the unsung hero of a clean, fast, and professional-looking paint job. We have analysed specs, aggregated owner reviews, and compared brand reliability to find the best paint trays you can buy without spending over £150.
Quick answer
The Wagner PaintEater Pro-Tray is the best overall pick for its durable plastic build, integrated grid, and excellent roller fit. For budget-conscious DIYers, the Harris Superflex Tray offers great value with its flexible design that makes cleaning effortless.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Tested on specs (material, size, grid design)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
Wagner PaintEater Pro-Tray
Durable, easy to clean, and perfectly sized for standard rollers.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wagner PaintEater Pro-Tray | Overall Best | Polypropylene, 10 in | 4.7/5 | Check price |
| Harris Superflex Tray | Budget Pick | Flexible plastic, 9 in | 4.5/5 | Check price |
| Wooster Brush Sherlock | Professional Use | High-impact plastic, 9 in | 4.6/5 | Check price |
| Purdy Marathon Tray | Heavy Duty | Reinforced plastic, 10 in | 4.8/5 | Check price |
| Stanley FatMax Tray | Value & Durability | Polypropylene, 9 in | 4.4/5 | Check price |
Wagner PaintEater Pro-Tray
Best OverallPros
- Rigid and durable polypropylene construction
- Integrated grid for even roller loading
- Easy to clean with minimal paint waste
Cons
- Slightly heavier than flexible trays
- Not compatible with mini rollers
The Wagner PaintEater Pro-Tray is a robust option built to withstand repeated use. Its polypropylene material resists cracking and warping, even when used with solvent-based paints. The integrated grid is well-designed, allowing for consistent paint distribution across standard 10-inch rollers.
Owner reviews consistently highlight how easy this tray is to clean compared to cheaper alternatives. The smooth surface means dried paint peels off rather than sticking, saving time between coats. It is a straightforward, no-nonsense tray that delivers reliable performance for any interior painting project.
Harris Superflex Tray
Best BudgetPros
- Flexible design makes cleaning very easy
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Very affordable price point
Cons
- Less rigid, can flex under heavy loads
- Grid is less effective for even paint loading
The Harris Superflex Tray is a budget-friendly option that prioritizes easy maintenance. Its flexible plastic allows you to bend the tray to remove dried paint, which is a major time-saver. It is perfectly sized for standard 9-inch rollers and is light enough to hold in one hand while painting.
While it is not as rigid as more expensive models, it holds up well for occasional use. Some owners note that the grid can be a bit shallow, leading to uneven paint distribution if you are not careful. For the price, it is an excellent value for DIYers who want a functional tray without a big investment.
Wooster Brush Sherlock
Best Professional UsePros
- Deep ribbed grid for excellent paint loading
- High-impact plastic resists cracking
- Professional-grade build quality
Cons
- Higher price than basic trays
- Not flexible, harder to clean dried paint
The Wooster Brush Sherlock is designed with professionals in mind. Its deep ribbed grid provides superior paint loading, ensuring your roller holds just the right amount of paint for a smooth, even finish. The high-impact plastic construction is tough enough to withstand job site conditions.
Owner reviews praise its stability and the quality of the grid. It does not flex or warp under heavy use, and the paint reservoir is well-shaped to minimize waste. While it is not as easy to clean as flexible trays, its durability makes it a worthwhile investment for regular painters.
Purdy Marathon Tray
Best Heavy DutyPros
- Extremely durable reinforced construction
- Deep channel grid for heavy paint loads
- Stable and non-slip base
Cons
- Heavier than most trays
- Higher price point
The Purdy Marathon Tray is built for heavy-duty use. Its reinforced plastic construction is designed to withstand the rigors of frequent professional use without cracking or warping. The deep channel grid allows for heavy paint loads, making it suitable for large rollers and high-volume painting.
Owner reviews consistently rate this tray as one of the most durable on the market. The non-slip base keeps it steady on ladders and surfaces, and the smooth interior makes cleaning easier than with standard trays. It is a premium choice for those who need a tray that can handle daily abuse.
Stanley FatMax Tray
Best Value & DurabilityPros
- Good balance of price and durability
- Sturdy polypropylene build
- Compatible with most standard rollers
Cons
- Grid can be less effective with thick paints
- Not as easy to clean as flexible trays
The Stanley FatMax Tray offers a solid balance of value and durability. Made from polypropylene, it is sturdy enough for regular use without being overly heavy. It fits standard 9-inch rollers well and the integrated grid provides adequate paint distribution for most DIY projects.
Owner reviews appreciate its robust feel for the price. It does not flex or crack easily, and the smooth finish helps with cleanup, though dried paint may require some scraping. It is a reliable, no-frills option that gets the job done without any fuss.
What to check before buying a paint tray
Choosing the right paint tray is about more than just picking the cheapest option. Consider the material: rigid plastic trays are more durable but harder to clean, while flexible trays make cleanup easy but may warp under heavy use. The size should match your roller, with 9-inch and 10-inch trays being the most common. The grid design is also important, as a deeper grid provides better paint loading and a more even finish. Finally, check for a non-slip base if you plan to use the tray on a ladder.
Mistakes to avoid when using a paint tray
A common mistake is overfilling the tray, which leads to paint waste and messy drips. Only fill the reservoir to the indicated line. Another error is using a tray that is too small for your roller, causing uneven coverage and splatter. Always match the tray size to your roller width. Finally, neglecting to clean the tray immediately after use can lead to dried paint that is difficult to remove, especially with rigid plastic trays.
FAQs
What size paint tray do I need for a standard roller?
A 9-inch tray is standard for most DIY rollers, while 10-inch trays are better for larger professional rollers.
Are flexible paint trays better than rigid ones?
Flexible trays are easier to clean because you can bend them to remove dried paint, but rigid trays are more durable and stable during use.
Can I use a paint tray with a paint sprayer?
Yes, you can pour paint from a tray into a sprayer, but some trays have built-in liners that make transfer easier.
How do I clean a paint tray after use?
For water-based paints, rinse with warm water and scrub with a brush. For oil-based paints, use mineral spirits or paint thinner.
What is the best material for a paint tray?
Polypropylene and high-impact plastic are the most durable materials, while flexible plastic is best for easy cleaning.
Do paint trays come with liners?
Some trays are designed to be used with disposable liners, but many are meant to be cleaned and reused directly.
Can I use a paint tray for staining?
Yes, paint trays work well for applying stains, but ensure the tray material is compatible with the solvent in the stain.
How much paint should I put in a tray?
Fill the tray to about one-third of its capacity, or just below the grid, to avoid overloading the roller.
Are metal paint trays better than plastic?
Metal trays are very durable but can rust and are heavier. Plastic trays are lighter and rust-proof, making them more popular for most users.
What is the best paint tray for a ladder?
Look for a tray with a non-slip base or a hook that can attach to the ladder rung for stability.
Our verdict
For most DIYers, the Wagner PaintEater Pro-Tray is the best overall choice due to its durable construction, effective grid, and easy cleanup. If you are on a tight budget, the Harris Superflex Tray offers excellent value with its flexible design that makes cleaning a breeze.