A reliable paint roller is essential for pretty much any DIY painting project, and considering how affordable most are, there’s really no excuse to not have one or two on hand. These handy little tools allow you to quickly—and more importantly, effectively—cover large areas with paint. They’re significantly wider than paintbrushes, and although they’re not ideal for precision work, their soft covers are designed to evenly spread paint without streaks or brushstrokes. They’re available in a range of sizes, and since they can accept a variety of types of covers, are versatile enough for nearly any paint project.
BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY SET
- Inexpensive
- Includes brushes
- Can be screwed into extension handle
- Flimsy tray may not be durable enough for frequent use
Key Specs
- Roller Length: 9 inches and 4 inches
- Roller Cover: ½-inch nap
- Extension Pole Compatibility: Yes
If you’re starting from scratch and want a low-cost painting kit, this 10-piece roller set from Pro Grade could be the perfect fit. It includes everything you need to get started, including both 9-inch and 4-inch rollers, ensuring that you’ll be prepared for a range of painting tasks.
You also get two pairs of ½-nap roller covers that are easy to wash and reuse for later projects, and three sash brushes for tackling edges and trim work. The 9-inch roller can also accept an extension handle, which is always a nice perk.
- Large quantity of covers
- Inexpensive
- Includes tray
- Cannot fit threaded extension pole
Key Specs
- Roller Length: 4 inches
- Roller Cover: Microfiber and foam
- Extension Pole Compatibility: No
If you’re planning on tackling a smaller-scale painting project or just need to access areas that a larger roller wouldn’t be able to reach, this kit could be a great choice. In addition to the 4-inch roller, it also includes 10 roller covers—five foam and five fabric—so you’ll be prepared to use both oil- and water-based paints.
However, it’s important to note that this roller handle is not designed to fit a threaded extension handle, so it won’t be suitable for reaching elevated areas unless you’re comfortable on a ladder.
