Purdy Paint Tray Review
Purdy paint trays are a professional standard in the painting industry, known for their durability and design. This review covers the best Purdy trays, comparing their specs, build quality, and value to help you choose the right one for your next project.
Quick answer
The Purdy 1400 Series 9-Inch Paint Tray is our top pick for its robust construction, non-slip liner grip, and excellent balance. For budget-conscious DIYers, the Purdy Contractor Tray offers a reliable, disposable alternative that still outperforms generic options.
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Research updated June 2026.
Purdy 1400 Series 9-Inch Paint Tray
Durable, balanced, and professional-grade.
| Product | Best for | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purdy 1400 Series | Overall | 1.5 qt, polypropylene | 4.7/5 | Check Amazon |
| Purdy Contractor Tray | Budget/Disposable | 1.25 qt, paperboard | 4.5/5 | Check Amazon |
| Purdy 9-Inch Metal Tray | Heavy-duty | 1.5 qt, galvanized steel | 4.6/5 | Check Amazon |
| Purdy 14-Inch Roller Tray | Large projects | 2.5 qt, polypropylene | 4.4/5 | Check Amazon |
| Purdy 6-Inch Mini Tray | Trim/Detail | 0.75 qt, polypropylene | 4.3/5 | Check Amazon |
Purdy 1400 Series 9-Inch Paint Tray
Best OverallPros
- Rigid, warp-resistant construction
- Non-slip liner retention
- Excellent balance when loaded
Cons
- Higher price than basic trays
- Liners sold separately
The Purdy 1400 Series is the gold standard for professional painters. Its polypropylene build resists warping from solvents and heavy use, while the textured bottom keeps disposable liners firmly in place. Owner reviews consistently praise its stability, noting it does not tip over even when fully loaded with paint.
This tray fits standard 9-inch rollers and includes a deep well for ample paint capacity. The molded-in ridges provide a consistent roller load without splashing. While it costs more than a basic plastic tray, the durability and performance justify the investment for regular users.
Purdy Contractor Tray
Best Budget / DisposablePros
- Very low cost per tray
- Lightweight and easy to discard
- Wax-coated interior resists soaking
Cons
- Not reusable
- Can warp if left with paint too long
The Purdy Contractor Tray is a disposable option designed for quick clean-up. Made from heavy paperboard with a wax coating, it holds up well for a single use without leaking. Owner reviews appreciate the value, especially for jobs with multiple color changes where cleaning a reusable tray is impractical.
While not as rigid as the 1400 Series, it provides a stable platform for standard 9-inch rollers. The ridges are well-formed for even paint distribution. It is an excellent choice for DIYers who want the Purdy brand quality without the commitment of a permanent tray.
Purdy 9-Inch Metal Paint Tray
Best Heavy-DutyPros
- Extremely durable, will not crack
- Magnetic liner retention
- Resistant to all solvents
Cons
- Heavier than plastic trays
- Can dent if dropped
The Purdy 9-Inch Metal Tray is built for the toughest job sites. Its galvanized steel construction is impervious to solvents and will not warp or crack over time. The magnetic rim holds disposable liners securely, a feature praised in owner reviews for preventing liner slippage during use.
This tray is heavier, which some users find reassuringly solid, but it may be less convenient for carrying up ladders. It works with standard 9-inch rollers and is ideal for commercial painters who need a tray that lasts years. The metal surface also cleans easily with a scraper.
Purdy 14-Inch Roller Tray
Best for Large ProjectsPros
- Large capacity reduces refills
- Stable base for wide rollers
- Durable polypropylene
Cons
- Bulky for storage
- Liners are larger and cost more
The Purdy 14-Inch Roller Tray is designed for use with larger rollers, making it ideal for painting walls and ceilings in open areas. Its 2.5-quart capacity means fewer trips to refill, which is a significant time saver on big jobs. Owner reviews note that the wide base provides excellent stability, even on uneven floors.
Like the 1400 Series, it is made from warp-resistant polypropylene and features a non-slip surface for liners. It is a specialized tool, so it is best suited for those who regularly use 14-inch rollers or tackle large-scale painting projects. The trade-off is its size, which requires more storage space.
Purdy 6-Inch Mini Paint Tray
Best for Trim / DetailPros
- Compact and easy to handle
- Perfect for small rollers and brushes
- Minimal paint waste
Cons
- Small capacity requires frequent refills
- Not for large surfaces
The Purdy 6-Inch Mini Tray is the perfect companion for trim work, touch-ups, and small projects. Its compact size fits easily on a ladder shelf or in a tool bag. Owner reviews highlight its convenience for using mini rollers and edging tools, with the same rigid build quality as the larger Purdy trays.
While the 0.75-quart capacity limits its use for large walls, it excels at precision work. The non-slip liner grip is present, and it accepts standard mini-tray liners. It is a great addition to any painter's kit for detail work, reducing paint waste and making clean-up faster.
What to check before buying a paint tray
Choosing the right paint tray involves more than just picking the cheapest option. The tray's material, capacity, and compatibility with your roller size all affect your painting efficiency and finish quality.
Material: Plastic trays (polypropylene) are lightweight and resistant to most paints. Metal trays are extremely durable but heavier and prone to dents. Disposable paperboard trays are convenient for single-use projects.
Capacity: A 1.5-quart tray is standard for 9-inch rollers. Larger 14-inch trays hold up to 2.5 quarts, reducing refill frequency. Mini trays hold less than a quart and are for detail work.
Liner compatibility: Many Purdy trays feature a non-slip or magnetic grip for disposable liners. Using liners makes clean-up much faster and extends the life of the tray itself.
Stability: Look for a wide base and low center of gravity. A tray that tips easily can cause a major mess. The Purdy 1400 Series is specifically praised for its stable design.
Mistakes to avoid when using a paint tray
Even a good tray can cause problems if used incorrectly. Avoiding these common mistakes will save time and improve your results.
Overfilling the tray: Pouring too much paint into the well can cause the roller to become overloaded, leading to drips and splatter. Fill the well only to the bottom of the sloped section.
Not using a liner: Skipping a disposable liner makes clean-up much harder. Paint dries in the tray's ridges, requiring extensive scraping. Liners are inexpensive and save significant time.
Using the wrong roller: Ensure your roller cover width matches the tray. A 9-inch roller needs a 9-inch tray. Using a mini roller in a full-size tray wastes paint and is inefficient.
Ignoring tray stability: Placing a tray on an uneven surface can lead to spills. Always set the tray on a level, stable surface or use a paint tray stand for ladder work.
FAQs
Are Purdy paint trays worth the extra cost?
Yes, for regular painters. Purdy trays are made from thicker, more durable materials that resist warping and last much longer than generic trays, providing better value over time.
Can I use any liner with a Purdy tray?
Most standard 9-inch disposable liners fit Purdy trays, but Purdy's own liners are designed to fit the non-slip grip optimally. Check the tray's specifications for liner compatibility.
How do I clean a Purdy paint tray?
For reusable trays, scrape excess paint into the can, then wash with warm soapy water or use a paint scraper for dried paint. Using disposable liners eliminates the need for cleaning.
What size paint tray do I need for a 9-inch roller?
A standard 9-inch paint tray is designed for 9-inch rollers. This is the most common size and is suitable for most wall and ceiling painting projects.
Is the Purdy metal tray better than plastic?
The metal tray is more durable and resistant to solvents, but it is heavier and can dent. Plastic trays are lighter and sufficient for most residential and commercial work.
Can I use a Purdy tray for staining?
Yes, Purdy trays work well for stains, varnishes, and other coatings. Ensure you clean the tray thoroughly between different types of finishes to avoid contamination.
Do Purdy trays come with a liner?
No, Purdy trays are sold without liners. Liners must be purchased separately. The tray's design is optimized for use with Purdy brand liners.
How long does a Purdy paint tray last?
With proper care and the use of liners, a Purdy 1400 Series or metal tray can last for many years. Disposable Contractor trays are for single use only.
What is the best Purdy tray for a beginner?
The Purdy 1400 Series 9-Inch Tray is the best choice for beginners. Its stability and ease of use make it forgiving, and it will last through many projects.
Can I use a Purdy tray with a paint sprayer?
Paint trays are not designed for use with sprayers. For sprayers, use a spray pot or a dedicated paint sprayer container. Trays are for roller and brush application only.
Our verdict
The Purdy 1400 Series 9-Inch Paint Tray is the best overall choice for its superior build, stability, and liner grip, making it ideal for professionals and serious DIYers. For budget-friendly single-use projects, the Purdy Contractor Tray provides excellent value without sacrificing quality.