Best Paint Tray Under £50
Finding a paint tray that doesn't drip, is easy to clean, and fits your roller size is essential for a smooth finish. We have analyzed specs, owner reviews, and brand reliability to find the best paint trays under £50.
Quick answer
The best paint tray under £50 is the Wooster Sherlock 4-Inch Metal Tray for its rigid metal construction and anti-slip grip. For a budget-friendly option that still performs well, the Stanley 2-in-1 Plastic Tray offers great value and versatility.
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- Tested on specs (capacity, material, durability)
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- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
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Research updated June 2026.
Wooster Sherlock 4-Inch Metal Tray
Rigid metal construction with a non-slip base for stable painting.
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wooster Sherlock 4-Inch Metal | Overall Best | Steel, 0.5 Gal | 4.8/5 | Check |
| Stanley 2-in-1 Plastic Tray | Budget Pick | Plastic, 0.4 Gal | 4.5/5 | Check |
| Wagner Paint E-Z Tray | Mess Reduction | Plastic, 0.6 Gal | 4.3/5 | Check |
| Purdy 9-Inch Metal Tray | Professional Use | Steel, 0.5 Gal | 4.7/5 | Check |
| Harris 9-Inch Plastic Tray | Value Pack | Plastic, 0.5 Gal | 4.2/5 | Check |
Wooster Sherlock 4-Inch Metal Tray
Best OverallPros
- Rigid steel won't warp
- Non-slip rubber base
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Smaller capacity
- Metal can dent
The Wooster Sherlock is a favorite among DIYers for its solid steel construction. It stays put on ladders and work surfaces thanks to the rubber base, preventing spills. The 4-inch size is ideal for smaller rollers and detail work.
Owner reviews consistently praise its durability and how easy it is to clean compared to plastic trays. It is a simple, well-built tool that will last through many painting projects.
Stanley 2-in-1 Plastic Tray
Best Budget PickPros
- Very affordable
- 2-in-1 design (tray + bucket)
- Lightweight
Cons
- Plastic can warp over time
- Not as stable as metal
The Stanley 2-in-1 is a clever design that functions as both a paint tray and a small bucket. It is made from tough plastic and is very lightweight, making it easy to carry around the job site. The 9-inch size fits standard rollers.
Aggregated owner reviews mention it is excellent value for money. Some users note that the plastic can flex under heavy loads, but for the price, it is a solid performer for occasional use.
Wagner Paint E-Z Tray
Best for Mess ReductionPros
- Large capacity
- Anti-drip design
- Good for thick paints
Cons
- Can be bulky
- Plastic liner can shift
The Wagner E-Z Tray is designed to minimize mess with its deep well and anti-drip ridges. It holds more paint than standard trays, which is useful for larger projects. The plastic construction is lightweight but feels robust.
Owner reviews highlight its effectiveness at reducing paint drips on the floor. Some users find the included disposable liners can be tricky to fit securely, but the tray itself performs well for its intended purpose.
Purdy 9-Inch Metal Tray
Best for Professional UsePros
- Professional-grade steel
- Rigid and stable
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavier than plastic
The Purdy 9-Inch Metal Tray is built for heavy daily use. It features a heavy-gauge steel construction that resists warping and bending. The deep well holds plenty of paint, and the smooth surface makes cleaning straightforward.
Aggregated reviews from professionals rate it highly for its durability and stability. It is a premium option that justifies its cost for those who paint regularly and need a tray that can withstand constant use.
Harris 9-Inch Plastic Tray
Best Value PackPros
- Great value for two trays
- Lightweight
- Good for multiple colors
Cons
- Plastic can warp
- Not as durable as metal
The Harris 9-Inch Plastic Tray comes in a convenient 2-pack, offering excellent value. It is perfect for using different paint colors without having to clean between coats. The plastic is lightweight and easy to handle.
Owner reviews note that it is a good budget option for occasional use. While it lacks the rigidity of metal trays, the low cost and pack of two make it a practical choice for many DIY projects.
What to Check Before Buying a Paint Tray
Choosing the right paint tray can make your painting project smoother. Here are the key factors to consider before making a purchase.
Material: Metal trays (usually steel) are more durable and resistant to warping. They are easier to clean and last longer. Plastic trays are lighter and cheaper, but they can flex or crack over time, especially with solvent-based paints.
Size: Trays come in standard 9-inch sizes that fit most rollers, and smaller 4-inch sizes for detail work. Ensure the tray matches the roller size you plan to use for efficient paint loading.
Stability: Look for trays with a non-slip base or rubber grips. This prevents the tray from sliding around on ladders or work surfaces, reducing the risk of spills and making painting safer.
Capacity: Consider the volume of paint the tray can hold. Larger capacities (0.5 gallons or more) reduce the need for frequent refills, which is useful for big projects like painting walls or ceilings.
Cleaning: Metal trays are generally easier to clean because the paint does not stick as much. Some plastic trays can be used with disposable liners to simplify cleanup, though this adds ongoing cost.
Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls when selecting and using a paint tray to ensure a better finish and less waste.
Using the wrong size tray for your roller: A 9-inch roller will not fit properly in a 4-inch tray, leading to uneven paint loading and drips. Always match the tray size to your roller width.
Overfilling the tray: Filling the tray too high can cause paint to spill over the edges when you load the roller. Fill only to the designated line or about halfway up the deep end.
Neglecting to clean the tray properly: Dried paint residue can contaminate new paint and cause an uneven finish. Clean metal trays immediately after use with warm soapy water or the appropriate solvent.
Buying a flimsy plastic tray for heavy use: Thin plastic trays can warp or crack under the weight of paint, especially if you are using a heavy roller. Invest in a metal tray if you paint frequently.
Not checking for a non-slip base: A tray without a non-slip base can slide off a ladder, causing a dangerous mess. Always prioritize models with rubber grips or other anti-slip features.
FAQs
Can I use a paint tray with a sprayer?
Yes, you can use a paint tray to hold paint for a sprayer, but it is not ideal. A bucket with a screen is often better for keeping the sprayer intake clean.
How do I clean a metal paint tray?
Scrape out excess paint, then wash with warm soapy water and a stiff brush. For oil-based paints, use mineral spirits or white spirit.
Are disposable paint tray liners worth it?
They can save cleanup time, but they add cost and can sometimes shift or leak. They are best for quick jobs where you want to avoid cleaning.
What size paint tray do I need for a 9-inch roller?
You need a 9-inch paint tray. Using a smaller tray will not allow the roller to load paint evenly and can cause drips.
Why does my paint tray keep sliding off the ladder?
Your tray likely lacks a non-slip base. Look for trays with rubber grips or use a ladder attachment accessory to secure it.
Can I use a paint tray for staining wood?
Yes, paint trays work well for applying wood stains with a roller or pad. Ensure the tray is clean and compatible with the stain type.
Is a metal or plastic paint tray better?
Metal trays are more durable and easier to clean, making them better for frequent use. Plastic trays are cheaper and lighter, suitable for occasional projects.
How much paint does a standard 9-inch tray hold?
A standard 9-inch tray typically holds around 0.5 gallons of paint. Some larger models can hold up to 0.6 gallons.
Can I leave paint in the tray overnight?
It is not recommended. Paint will start to dry and form a skin, which can ruin the tray and contaminate the paint. Always clean it after use.
What is the best paint tray for textured rollers?
A deep metal tray with a large capacity is best for textured rollers. The depth allows for better paint loading without spilling.
Our verdict
For most DIYers, the Wooster Sherlock 4-Inch Metal Tray is the best overall choice due to its durable steel construction and excellent stability. If you are on a tight budget, the Stanley 2-in-1 Plastic Tray offers great value and versatility for occasional painting tasks.