The Ultimate Guide to Paintballs: Types, Sizes, and How to Choose the Right One for Your Game

If you’re passionate about paintball, you already know that your gear matters—but the paintballs you use can have just as much impact as the marker you fire them from. Whether you're a weekend warrior, a tournament competitor, or new to the sport, using the right paintballs can enhance your performance, accuracy, and overall enjoyment.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about paintballs—from the different types and sizes to tips for choosing the right ones and storing them properly.

What Are Paintballs Made Of?

Paintballs are small, round capsules filled with a water-soluble dye (the “paint”) and encased in a gelatin shell. When shot from a paintball marker, they burst on impact, marking the target. High-quality paintballs are biodegradable, non-toxic, and safe for both players and the environment.

Different Types of Paintballs

Not all paintballs are created equal. Here are the most common types available:

1. Field Grade Paintballs

These are ideal for recreational or casual play. They’re usually less expensive, with a thicker shell and less vibrant fill. Great for practice or walk-on games.

2. Mid-Grade Paintballs

A balance between price and performance, these are ideal for regular players who want reliable accuracy and better fill visibility without spending a fortune.

3. Tournament Grade Paintballs

Top-tier paintballs used by professional players. They have ultra-thin shells for easy breakage on impact and bright, high-contrast fill. Perfect for competitive environments where precision and marking visibility matter most.

4. Reusable Paintballs (RUBBER or REBALLS)

Used for indoor training, reballs are rubber-based and don’t burst on impact. They're economical in the long run and great for practice sessions.

5. Winter Paintballs

Formulated to perform in cold temperatures, these paintballs don’t freeze or become brittle, making them essential for winter games.

Paintball Sizes Explained

Most paintballs are .68 caliber, which fits the majority of paintball markers. However, there are other sizes:

.50 caliber – Smaller, used in low-impact games or for younger players

.43 caliber – Often used in pistols or specialized training markers

.68 caliber – Standard size for most recreational and professional games

Make sure to use the correct paintball size for your marker to ensure safety, accuracy, and marker performance.

How to Choose the Right Paintballs

When selecting paintballs, consider the following:

✔ Type of Game

For woodsball or rec games: field or mid-grade is ideal.

For tournament play: go for tournament-grade paintballs.

For practice: use reusable paintballs or cheaper field grade.

✔ Budget

Higher-grade paintballs cost more but offer superior accuracy and visibility.

✔ Marker Compatibility

Always check your marker’s caliber requirements. Using the wrong size can cause misfires or damage.

✔ Weather Conditions

In cold weather, standard paintballs can crack. Use winter paintballs for better durability and accuracy.

Paintball Fill Colors and Visibility

The color of the paint fill isn’t just for aesthetics—it’s also functional. Bright, high-contrast fills (like yellow, orange, or neon green) make it easier to see hits and verify eliminations, especially in competitive or wooded environments.

Storing Your Paintballs Correctly

Paintballs are sensitive to humidity and temperature. To extend their shelf life and maintain performance:

Store at room temperature (around 70°F or 21°C)

Keep away from moisture to prevent the shell from softening

Rotate regularly to prevent flat spots from forming

Avoid direct sunlight and extreme cold

Proper storage can keep your paintballs fresh and effective for months.

Common Issues with Low-Quality Paintballs

Using poor-quality paintballs can result in:

Breaks in the barrel

Inconsistent shooting

Accuracy issues

Staining or poor fill visibility

Marker jams and misfeeds

Always choose reputable brands for a smoother, more reliable game experience.

Where to Buy the Best Paintballs

At East Coast Paintball, we carry a wide range of high-quality paintballs to meet every player’s needs—from beginners to tournament pros. Whether you need bulk paintballs for practice, low-impact .50 cal paintballs for kids, or premium-grade rounds for competition, we’ve got you covered.

All our paintballs are fresh, professionally stored, and competitively priced, so you never have to compromise on quality.

Final Thoughts

Your paintballs matter more than you might think. From game performance and accuracy to overall enjoyment, the right paintballs can elevate your game. By choosing the correct type, size, and grade—and storing them properly—you’ll not only protect your gear but also gain the edge on the field.