Top 10 Best Paint Brushes for Applying Paint on Your Walls (UK 2025)

Whether you are refreshing a single room or tackling a full house renovation, the finish of your walls is only as good as the tool you use to apply the paint. In these modern days, the UK market offers a sophisticated range of brushes designed to handle modern low-VOC emulsions and high-pigment trade paints with ease.

The right brush doesn’t just make the job faster — it delivers a streak-free finish, holds more paint to reduce dipping time, and provides the precision needed for clean, accurate cutting-in along ceilings, corners, and skirting boards.

In this guide, we break down the top 10 paint brushes currently available in the UK, assessing bristle retention, paint pick-up, and ergonomics to help you achieve a professional-grade finish on any wall painting project.

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Top 10 Best Paint Brushes in the UK Compared

1. Harris Essentials Walls & Ceilings Paint Brush Set | Pack of 5

Finding a decent brush on a budget is usually a gamble. This Harris set is the exception. It is a basic, reliable pack for anyone staring at a room that needs a quick refresh. You get five brushes, which is plenty for swapping between wide skirting and the fiddly bits around light switches.

The synthetic heads are soft enough to move the emulsion around without leaving deep ridges. They feel light, they don’t shed much, and you won’t feel guilty if you accidentally ruin one. It is a solid, honest starter kit.

Key Features

• Variety pack with five brushes across four different widths.
• Synthetic filaments designed for consistent paint pick-up and flow.
• Stainless steel ferrules to prevent rusting after cleaning.
• Slim handles for a lighter grip during long afternoons.
• Water-based, friendly bristles that rinse clean under a tap.

Pros

• Extremely affordable for a full set of five tools.
• Different sizes make cutting around sockets very simple.
• Synthetic bristles hold their shape better than cheap natural ones.
• Light enough to use for hours without hand cramps.

Cons

• Plastic handles can feel a bit flimsy if you apply heavy pressure.
• Not designed for high-gloss or professional trade finishes.

Why we recommend The Harris Essentials Walls & Ceilings Paint Brush Set

We recommend this set for quick DIY updates. It is the most cost-effective way to get every brush size you need for a standard room renovation.

Check prices on Amazon: Harris Essentials Walls & Ceilings Paint Brush Set | Pack of 5

2. Harris Essentials Walls & Ceilings Paint Brushes, 3 Brush Pack

If the five-pack we just looked at felt like overkill for your small spare room, this three-piece set is the leaner alternative. You still get that dependable Harris quality, but without the extra clutter in your shed. It features the three most common sizes—1 inch, 1.5 inch, and 2 inch.

These are perfect for those annoying bits around light switches or the tricky line where the ceiling meets the wall. The synthetic bristles work wonders with standard water-based emulsions, holding enough paint so you aren’t constantly dipping back into the tin.

Key Features

• Includes three versatile sizes: 1″, 1.5″, and 2″ brushes.
• Soft synthetic filaments designed specifically for water-based emulsion paints.
• Ergonomic plastic handles are designed for a comfortable, easy grip.
• Stainless steel ferrules to prevent rusting during the drying process.
• Optimised for interior flat walls, ceilings, and cutting in tasks.

Pros

• Extremely affordable price point for a reputable household brand.
• Very easy to clean using just warm soapy water.
• Compact set size is perfect for quick touch-up jobs.
• Bristles stay intact well, avoiding those annoying hairs in your paint.

Cons

• Lacks the tiny 0.5″ brush found in the larger 5-pack.
• Not suitable for oil-based paints or heavy-duty outdoor masonry.

Why we recommend Harris Essentials 3 Pack

It is a brilliant, no-nonsense starter kit. If you want a smooth finish on your interior walls without overspending, this set hits the spot.

Check prices on Amazon: Harris Essentials Walls & Ceilings Paint Brushes, 3 Brush Pack

3. Genixart Angled Cutting in Paint Brushes 5 Pack

If you’re tired of using masking tape every time you hit a corner, this Genixart set is a great shout. It’s a step up in variety compared to the Harris Essentials packs because it introduces “angle sash” brushes. While the Harris set focuses on flat surfaces, two of the brushes here are cut at a slant.

This slant acts like a guide, helping you “cut in” along the ceiling or skirting board with a much steadier hand. You get five brushes in total, mixing those clever angled tips with standard flat ones for larger areas. The rubber grips are a nice touch, too, especially if your hands tend to get cramped after a few hours of painting.

Key Features

• Five-brush kit including 2 angled sash brushes and 3 straight flat brushes.
• Wavy nylon filaments designed for high paint pick-up and smooth release.
• Soft-grip rubber handles provide better control and comfort than hard plastic.
• Stainless steel ferrules epoxied to prevent bristle loss and rust.
• Compatible with both water-based emulsions and oil-based stains or gloss.

Pros

• Angled tips make painting sharp edges around windows and doors much easier.
• Rubberised handles offer a premium feel that doesn’t slip when wet.
• Great versatility for indoor walls and outdoor fences or decks.
• Very easy to clean; the nylon bristles don’t hold onto paint stubbornly.

Cons

• Bristle retention can be hit-or-miss compared to high-end trade brands.
• Nylon bristles can be a bit too soft for very thick, textured masonry paint.

Why we recommend Genixart Angled Set

We recommend this set for anyone tackling trim and edges. The angled brushes save a huge amount of time on “cutting in,” giving you a sharper finish with less stress.

Check prices on Amazon: Genixart Angled Cutting in Paint Brushes (5 Pack)

4. Harris Seriously Good Walls & Ceilings Paint Brush Set (5 Pack)

Now we are moving up a gear. While the Harris Essentials we started with are great for quick, cheap fixes, the “Seriously Good” range is where you go if you actually value your sanity. The big selling point here is the “No-Loss” technology.

If you’ve ever spent half your afternoon picking tiny black hairs out of wet white paint, you’ll know why that matters. These feel a bit more substantial in your hand, and the synthetic blend is specifically tuned for emulsion, so the paint doesn’t just sit on the tip—it actually flows onto the wall properly.

Key Features

• Patented No-Loss technology designed to stop bristles from falling into your wet paint.
• Five-piece set with a 0.5″ detail brush, plus 1″, 1.5″, and two 2″ brushes.
• Specialised synthetic filament blend for a smoother finish with emulsion paints.
• Ergonomic handles featuring Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) for a better, softer grip.
• Stainless steel ferrules to prevent rust during storage and cleaning.

Pros

• Saves a massive amount of time since you aren’t constantly checking for stray hairs.
• The 0.5″ brush is a gem for getting right behind pipes or around narrow trim.
• Noticeably better paint pick-up than the budget Essentials or the Genixart packs.
• Cleans up very quickly with just warm water, keeping the bristles soft for next time.

Cons

• More expensive than the entry-level sets, though the time saved usually justifies it.
• Still a mid-range brush, so it lacks the ultra-fine finish of the Harris Ultimate series.

Why we recommend Harris Seriously Good 5 Pack

This is the “sweet spot” for most home decorators. It’s affordable enough for DIY, but high-quality enough that you won’t be frustrated by shedding bristles.

Check prices on Amazon: Harris Seriously Good Paintbrush Set, 5 Pack

5. Harris Trade Angled Sash Brush (1.5″)

If you’ve already tried the Harris Essentials or the Seriously Good sets, you’ll notice this Trade version feels a bit different. It’s designed for those who spend all day with a brush in their hand. The biggest change is the long wooden handle—it’s built for balance and a controlled grip when you’re reaching for the top of a door frame.

Since it’s an angled sash brush, it’s far more precise than a standard flat head. It’s the kind of tool you grab when you want to skip the masking tape and just trust your hand to get a sharp line against the ceiling.

Key Features

• 1.5-inch angled profile specifically designed for precise “cutting-in.”
• Extra-long wooden handle provides superior balance and reach for tricky spots.
• Fine-tipped synthetic filaments help reduce visible brush marks for a smooth finish.
• Rust-resistant stainless steel ferrule ensures the brush lasts through multiple washes.
• Vapour box compatible, making it a handy choice for professionals or serious DIYers.

Pros

• The angled head makes painting straight lines along skirtings much faster.
• Long handle allows for a more relaxed grip, which saves your hand from cramping.
• Excellent paint pick-up and release compared to the budget Harris tiers.
• Very easy to clean and maintains its sharp shape after drying.

Cons

• The wooden handle can get stained easily compared to plastic versions.
• Only one brush is included, whereas the other Harris packs we discussed offer more variety.

Why we recommend Harris Trade 1.5″

This is the ultimate precision tool. If you have a lot of trim or window frames to do, the control you get here is worth every penny.

Check prices on Amazon: Harris Trade Angled Sash Brush 1.5″

6. Fit For The Job 5 pc Mixed Sizes Paint Brush Set (H3)

If you’re looking for the absolute most “bang for your buck” on this list, this is it. While the Harris Trade brush we just discussed is a specialist tool, this Fit For The Job set is a general-purpose powerhouse. For the price of a single coffee, you get five brushes, including a wide 2.5-inch option that is great for larger flat areas of wood.

These aren’t fancy, but the synthetic bristles are surprisingly decent. They handle everything from thick emulsions to runny wood stains without much fuss. They are the ultimate “worker” brushes for a busy weekend of DIY.

Key Features

• Comprehensive five-piece set ranging from a tiny 0.5″ to a wide 2.5″ brush.
• 100% synthetic filaments designed for a smooth finish with all paint types.
• Rust-proof stainless steel ferrules to ensure longevity after washing.
• Contoured handles are shaped to provide a steady grip for various hand positions.
• Versatile design suitable for walls, ceilings, woodwork, and even metal.

Pros

• Incredible value, offering five distinct sizes for an extremely low price.
• The 2.5-inch brush is a great addition for covering larger surfaces quickly.
• Easy to clean under a tap, making them reusable for multiple projects.
• Lightweight design prevents wrist fatigue during long painting sessions.

Cons

• Not as thick as trade brushes, so you may need to “dip” into the paint more often.
• The finish might not be as laser-smooth as the Harris Seriously Good range.

Why we recommend Fit For The Job

We recommend this set for anyone who wants a “one-stop shop” for a full room renovation. It’s the most cost-effective way to get every size needed for walls, skirting, and windowsills in one go.

Check prices on Amazon: Fit For The Job 5 pc Paint Brush Set

7. ZYBUX Professional Paint Brushes (5 Piece Pack)

If you’re looking for a set that sits somewhere between the super-cheap Fit For The Job pack and the more established Harris Seriously Good range, these ZYBUX brushes are worth a look. They claim a “No Loss” design, which is a bold promise for a budget set.

You get a standard selection of sizes, including two of the chunky 2-inch brushes, which is great if you’re tackling walls and don’t want to stop to clean a single brush halfway through. They’re simple, bright red, and designed to handle everything from standard emulsion to more rugged masonry paint.

Key Features

• Five-piece set featuring 0.5″, 1″, 1.5″, and two 2″ brushes.
• High-quality synthetic bristles designed for a smooth, even paint flow.
• Ergonomic handles are shaped to reduce hand fatigue during long DIY sessions.
• Specifically built to work with watercolours, acrylics, and household emulsions.
• Easy-clean design that only requires a quick rinse under the tap.

Pros

• Having two 2-inch brushes in one pack is very practical for larger wall areas.
• Great value for money, especially for basic household touch-ups or craft projects.
• The synthetic hair keeps its shape reasonably well after being washed.
• Lightweight design makes them easy to maneuver into tight corners.

Cons

• Bristle retention is a bit hit-or-miss compared to the patented Harris No-Loss tech.
• The “professional” label is a bit of a stretch; they’re definitely more for casual DIY.

Why we recommend ZYBUX 5 Piece Pack

It’s a solid, middle-of-the-road choice. If you want a bit more comfort than the cheapest sets but aren’t ready to pay “Trade” prices, this pack does the job.

Check prices on Amazon: ZYBUX Professional Paint Brushes (5 Piece Pack)

8. Genixart Double Thick Chip Paint Brush Set (5 Pack)

While the Genixart Angled set we looked at earlier was all about precision and sharp edges, these “Double Thick” brushes are the ones you reach for when there’s a lot of surface to cover. They are built much chunkier, designed to hold a massive amount of paint or stain, so you aren’t constantly dipping back into the tin.

They have that classic, sanded wooden handle that feels sturdy for outdoor work. Whether you’re refreshing a garden fence with thick stain or slapping limewash onto a masonry wall, these are designed to take a bit of a beating and keep going.

Key Features

• 5-pack set featuring 1″, 1.5″, 2″ (x2), and a wide 2.5″ brush.
• Extra-thick synthetic bristles designed for high paint pick-up and release.
• Smooth, sanded plain wood handles for a natural and comfortable grip.
• Epoxy-set bristles to minimise shedding during heavy-duty applications.
• Versatile enough for everything from thick varnishes to glues and gesso.

Pros

• Holds significantly more paint than thinner budget brushes, saving you time.
• Excellent for rough surfaces like fences, decking, and exterior masonry.
• The 2.5″ size is perfect for making quick work of flat door panels or sheds.
• Cleans up remarkably well even after being used with oil-based stains.

Cons

• Some users found them a bit less “thick” than the marketing suggests.
• Not as precise for delicate “cutting-in” compared to the Genixart Angled set.

Why we recommend Genixart Double Thick Set

These are the perfect “utility” brushes from the Genixart range. They are rugged enough for the garden fence but soft enough for interior walls, offering a more heavy-duty feel than their angled counterparts.

Check prices on Amazon: Genixart Double Thick Chip Paint Brush Set

9. Harris Essentials Walls & Ceilings and Woodwork (10 Pack)

If you found the Harris Essentials 5-pack useful but realised you have glossing to do as well as walls, this 10-piece mega pack is the logical next step. It effectively doubles the value, giving you a dedicated set for emulsion and another for gloss. Harris has color-coded these, so you don’t accidentally dip your woodwork brush into your wall paint.

It’s a massive variety for under eight pounds, making it way more economical than buying the Harris Essentials 3-pack or 5-pack separately. You’re essentially getting a full kit to refresh an entire room from the ceiling down to the skirting boards.

Key Features

• Huge 10-piece set divided between emulsion (walls) and gloss (woodwork) brushes.
• Silver-tipped brushes specifically designed for smooth emulsion application.
• Black-headed brushes tailored for gloss and satin finishes on woodwork.
• Wide range of sizes from 0.5″ for tiny gaps to 2″ for larger flat surfaces.
• Ergonomic plastic handles designed to be lightweight for long DIY sessions.

Pros

• Incredible price per brush, making it the best value in the Harris Essentials line.
• Colour-coding helps prevent cross-contamination between different paint types.
• Includes multiple 1.5″ and 2″ brushes, allowing you to swap out without stopping to wash.
• Stainless steel ferrules help keep the heads sturdy and rust-free over time.

Cons

• Lacks the “No-Loss” bristle technology found in the Harris Seriously Good range.
• Plastic handles are basic and don’t have the rubber grip of the Harris Trade series.

Why we recommend Harris Essentials 10 Pack

This is the ultimate “whole room” kit. For the price of two single premium brushes, you get enough variety to handle every corner, edge, and door frame in your house.

Check prices on Amazon: Harris Essentials Walls & Ceilings and Woodwork 10 Pack

Emitever Paint Brush Set, 5 Piece Wood Handle

To wrap things up, we have this 5-piece kit from Emitever. If you liked the Genixart Angled brushes but prefer a more premium feel, these are a fantastic shout. They use a unique synthetic hybrid filament that claims to hold approximately 30% more paint than a standard brush.

This means you aren’t constantly reaching back for the tin. Like the Harris Trade brush we looked at, these feature solid wood handles, but Emitever adds a little hanging rope for each—handy if you’re up a ladder and don’t want to drop your tool.

Key Features

• 5-piece set with three angled sash brushes (1.5″, 2″, 2.5″) and two flat brushes (1″, 2″).
• High-quality PET and sharpened wire filament mix for high paint capacity.
• Solid wood handles are designed to increase friction and prevent slipping.
• Unique sealing technology specifically aimed at stopping bristle loss.
• Includes integrated hanging ropes for easy drying and storage.

Pros

• Excellent paint holding capacity saves a lot of time on larger walls.
• The mix of angled and flat heads makes it a complete “all-rounder” for a whole house.
• Very smooth finish with minimal streaks compared to cheaper basic sets.
• Feels sturdy and “professional” in the hand for a relatively low price.

Cons

• More expensive than the Fit For The Job or Harris Essentials budget packs.
• While improved, some users still reported occasional stray bristles during first use.

Why we recommend Emitever Paint Brushes

These are perfect if you want one single set to handle everything from cabinets to fences. The 2.5″ angled brush is a standout tool that makes cutting in large rooms much faster.

Check prices on Amazon: Emitever Paint Brush Set-5 Piece

How to Choose the Best Paint Brush in the UK

To help you choose between the eleven products we’ve discussed, here is a concise guide to picking the right tool for your home renovation.

1. Match the Bristle to the Paint

For modern emulsion (water-based) paints used on walls and ceilings, stick to synthetic filaments like those in the Harris Essentials or Seriously Good ranges. Synthetics don’t absorb water, so they maintain their “spring” and don’t become limp. If you are using oil-based gloss or stains, look for specialized synthetic blends or “Trade” versions like the Harris Trade Angled, which are designed to lay down thicker paint without leaving heavy brush marks.

2. Choose the Shape for the Task

• Flat Brushes: Use these for large, open surfaces. The Fit For The Job 2.5-inch brush is perfect for broad strokes on doors or panels.
• Angled (Sash) Brushes: These are essential for “cutting in.” The slanted tip on the Genixart Angled or Emitever sets acts as a steady guide for painting sharp lines where the wall meets the ceiling or skirting board.

3. Consider Your Project Scale

• Small Touch-ups: A 3-pack like the Harris Essentials covers the basics without the clutter.
• Full Room Renovation: The Harris Essentials 10-pack is the most cost-effective way to get separate brushes for both walls (emulsion) and woodwork (gloss).
• Rough Surfaces: For fences, decking, or masonry, the Genixart Double Thick Chip Brushes are the best choice. Their rugged build handles abrasive surfaces that would quickly ruin a finer “No-Loss” brush.

The Takeaway

Choosing the right brush transforms a tedious chore into a professional-looking renovation. For high-volume wall projects, the Harris Essentials 10-pack offers the best versatility. If you prioritise precision and a clean finish, the Harris Seriously Good range, with its “No-Loss” technology, is the gold standard for DIYers. For specialised trim and cabinetry, the Emitever or Genixart Angled sets provide the control needed for sharp edges.

Your Common Questions on the Best Paint Brush Answered