- Same core: both are 1/5 hp single-piston Cool Runner II compressors with two fans, 0.8 cfm, 25 L/min and 47 dB.
- The difference: the TC-326T adds a 3 liter air tank for constant pressure and zero pulsation.
- Pressure: the TC-320 lists a 0 to 57 psi range; the TC-326T shuts off at 57 psi and restarts at 43 psi.
- Pick the TC-320 for portability, the TC-326T for fine low-pressure detail.
The TC-320 vs TC-326T choice is simpler than it looks, because Master Airbrush built both on the same Cool Runner II platform. The motor, fans, airflow and noise rating match line for line in the listings.
What separates them is the 3 liter air storage tank on the TC-326T. Below we look at what that tank does, which buyers need it and which kits include each model. Every number comes from the maker's listings, and you can see the full range on the air compressors page.
Master Airbrush Air Brush Kit with Air Compressor TC-320
Master Airbrush 1/5 HP Cool Runner II Dual Fan Tank Air Compressor Kit
TC-320 vs TC-326T: side-by-side specs
Here are both listings in one table. Rows marked the same really are word-for-word matches.
| Spec | TC-320 | TC-326T |
|---|---|---|
| Motor | 1/5 hp single piston | 1/5 hp single piston |
| Cooling | ✓ 2 built-in fans | ✓ 2 built-in fans |
| Airflow | 25 L/min, 0.8 cfm | 25 L/min, 0.8 cfm |
| Noise | 47 dB | 47 dB |
| Air storage tank | ✗ None | ✓ 3 liter |
| Pressure | 0 to 57 psi adjustment range | Auto off at 57 psi, on at 43 psi |
| Regulator and water trap | ✓ Diaphragm regulator with gauge | ✓ Diaphragm regulator with gauge |
| Air-on-demand shut-off | ✓ | ✓ |
| Airbrush holder | ✓ For 2 | ✓ For 2 |
| Hose | ✓ Included | ✓ Included |
| Oil-less, carry handle | ✓ | ✓ |
Master Airbrush Air Brush Kit with Air Compressor TC-320
Check price →Master Airbrush 1/5 HP Cool Runner II Dual Fan Tank Air Compressor Kit
Check price →What does the 3 liter tank actually change?
A single-piston compressor pushes air in pulses. Without a tank, those pulses can reach the airbrush, which shows up as a faint stutter in thin lines at low pressure.
The TC-326T listing says its 3 liter tank allows constant air pressure and zero pulsation. The tank also stores air, so the motor fills it to 57 psi, switches off and only restarts once pressure drops to 43 psi. On paper, that means less running time for the same spraying.
Pressure and tank figures from the listings
TC-320 maximum vs TC-326T cut-off and cut-in points, plus tank size
The TC-320 still has air-on-demand, so it shuts off when you release the trigger. It simply has no reservoir to smooth or store air between strokes.
Which suits your kind of airbrushing?
Models and miniatures
Fine detail at low pressure is where pulsation shows most, so the TC-326T has the edge. Pair it with a fine tip from our best airbrush for miniatures guide.
T-shirts, signs and general crafts
Medium-pressure coverage hides small pulses. The tankless TC-320 handles this well and takes less room on the bench.
Makeup, tattoos and events
If you carry your setup, the TC-320 is the more compact of the two. Both have a built-in carrying handle.
Long studio sessions
Both run cooler thanks to two fans. The TC-326T adds the tank's cycling breaks, which suits all-day work.
Build, cooling and upkeep
Both listings describe the same Cool Runner II engineering. The two built-in fans let each compressor run much cooler for a longer continuous running time without overheating, and both cite a long duty cycle and premium rotor windings that increase lifespan.
Both are oil-less and maintenance free, so there is no oil to check or change. Day-to-day care comes down to draining the water trap, keeping the fan vents clear and checking the hose fittings for leaks.
- TC-320: no tank to drain, the smallest footprint of the two.
- TC-326T: a 3 liter tank that stores air between cycles; give it room on the bench.
- Both: compressor manual and Airbrush Resource Center access card in the box.
Because the motors match, airbrushes, hoses and couplers that work on one will work on the other. Your accessories carry over if you upgrade from the TC-320 to the TC-326T later.
How to choose between the TC-320 and TC-326T
- Check your typical pressure. Mostly low-psi detail points to the tank model.
- Measure your bench. The tank adds bulk; the TC-320 is the compact option.
- Count airbrushes. Both list holders for 2 but have 0.8 cfm, which suits one airbrush spraying at a time. For two at once, look at the twin-piston TC-96T.
- Decide on a kit or standalone. If you need airbrushes too, a bundle may be simpler.
Kits and newer siblings
Both compressors appear in bundles. The TC-320 powers the three-airbrush Cool Runner II kit, covered in our Cool Runner II review. The TC-326T powers the Deluxe G22 kit with 24 acrylic colors.
Master Airbrush also lists the newer TC-420 and TC-426, which follow the same split: tankless and 3 liter tank. Their listings rate 0.85 cfm and describe independent fans for the piston head and motor windings.
Master Airbrush Cool Runner II Air Brush Kit with Air Compressor Dual Fan
Check price →
Master Airbrush Cool Runner II Deluxe Airbrush System Kit
Check price →
Master Airbrush 1/5 HP Cool-Runner Dual Fan Tank Air Compressor Kit
Check price →Still weighing options? See the best airbrush compressor list, the best airbrush kit for beginners, or all airbrush kits.
In the TC-320 vs TC-326T match-up, the motor is a tie: both are 1/5 hp dual-fan Cool Runner II units at 25 L/min, 0.8 cfm and 47 dB. The 3 liter tank is the only real difference.
Pick the TC-326T if you paint fine detail at low pressure or work long sessions. Pick the TC-320 if you want a compact, portable compressor for general spraying. Accessories for either are in the best airbrush accessories guide.
FAQ
TC-320 vs TC-326T: what is the main difference?
The TC-326T adds a 3 liter air storage tank. Motor, fans, airflow and noise are the same in both listings.
Do the TC-320 and TC-326T have the same airflow?
Yes. Both list 0.8 cfm and 25 liters per minute from a 1/5 hp single-piston motor.
What pressure does the TC-326T run at?
It is preset to shut off at 57 psi and turn back on at 43 psi, with a regulator to set working pressure.
Is the TC-320 noisy?
Both listings state 47 dB with oil-less, super quiet operation.
Can either run two airbrushes?
Both include a holder for 2 airbrushes, but at 0.8 cfm they suit one airbrush spraying at a time. The TC-96T twin-piston lists 40 L/min for two.
Do they include a water trap?
Yes. Both listings include a true diaphragm pressure regulator with gauge and a water trap filter.