Automatic Electric Airsoft

Buyers Guide: 5 Best Automatic Electric Airsoft Guns in 2021

Automatic Electric Airsoft Guns (AEGs) are battery-powered weapons that are very popular among beginner and experienced Airsoft players. Their popularity stems from their functional nature, unparalleled customization possibilities, and superior performance capabilities. 

The best AEGs have a full metal gearbox and can be fired in semi-auto or full-auto firing modes. What’s more, they’re very close replicas of real guns in terms of look and feel, safety, performance, and cheap operation. 

AEGs are suitable for first-time Airsoft gun owners and enthusiasts looking to have fun while playing Airsoft in outdoor fields or indoor arenas.

Choosing the best AEG is not the easiest task because there’s a large selection to choose from, and most are very promising options. 

As an Airsoft enthusiast myself, I understand the struggle better than most. That’s why I’m here to make the selection process easier for you by highlighting five of the best automatic electric Airsoft guns in 2021.

Aegs suitable

Table of Contents

  1. Option 1: Krytac Trident MK2 CRB
  2. Option 2: VFC Avalon Saber
  3. Option 3: VFC H&K 416A5 AEG
  4. Option 4: G&G CM16 Raider Carbine
  5. Option 5: Tokyo Marui Colt/Daniel Defense MK18 MOD.1 GBBR
  6. Frequently Asked Questions

Option 1: Krytac Trident MK2 CRB

Man in camouflage holding an electric airsoft gun
Source Pexels

The Krytac Trident MK2 range is an impressive AEG that you can put to use straight out of the box without any modifications. Like its predecessors by the manufacturer, this range is made using high-quality metal, features high-speed externals, and promises high-end performance.

The new trident range comes with a metal flash hider, a large premium stock that’s compatible with almost every battery on the market, and a flat trigger with a hook at the end. 

The Krytac trident MK2 comes in two lengths, CRB and SPR. The CRB is our favourite because, with an overall length of 26.5–31 in. (675–787 mm), it’s more comfortable and agile than the longer 34–37.2 in. (863–945 mm) SPR. 

You’ll love the Krytac Trident MK2 CRB even more because it’s solid with zero wobbles or play and its mid-length rail ensures everything is held in the right place. The aluminium receivers are modern with a stamped KRYTAC logo and include an integrated trigger guard.

Although Krytac rifles are significantly expensive, they are a worthwhile investment for new Airsoft players and enthusiasts looking for a sturdy upgrade.

PROS CONS
  • Has an anti-corrosion gearbox coating; Integrated MOSFET; 8 mm ball bearing bushing
  • Has easy access and quick change spring system
  • Comes with an adjustable hop-up 
  • Compatible with multiple batteries straight out of the box
  • As a high-end gun, it needs high-quality mags to go with it
  • Can be quite costly

Option 2: VFC Avalon Saber 

Testimonial from Mad dog

The VFC Avalon Saber is a fantastic Airsoft rifle with a unique design and high-quality internals and externals. The AEG’s design is a big winner thanks to the adjustable stock, ambidextrous fire selector switch, dual MOSFET, and M-LOK style front rail.

It also features a long Picatinny rail that extends to the metal receiver, allowing multiple mounting options by increasing the space available for accessories. The trigger appeals to many players, as it has a small hook at the end to help you shoot faster and a tiny serration at the front to give you more control.

The Avalon Saber model is available in two barrel lengths: the CQB (250 mm, 10 in.) and the Saber carbine with an M4 body style and a barrel length of 363 mm, 14–15 in.. Again, the CQB takes the day as it is slightly inset, more compact, and has flash hiders.

Additionally, this rifle is fully-electric, so you can use it in semi-auto and full-auto settings. It has a 120 round mid-cap magazine and an adjustable hop-up.

PROS CONS
  • Has a fast and crisp gearbox
  • Most parts are full metal with the exceptions of the magazine, the buttstock, and the grip
  • Equipped with a rubber shoulder piece for added comfort
  • It’s easy to upgrade and has plenty of room for accessories
The package doesn’t come with a battery

Option 3: VFC H&K 416A5 AEG

The VFC H&K 416A5 is an incredibly versatile AEG that’s ready to use right from the box without any modifications. It has impressive features, including a metal quad-rail Picatinny handguard, a full-metal body, and a retractable crane stock. 

The overall build of the gun is sturdy because it is constructed using heavy-duty metal, which makes it realistically heavy. The buttstock is enhanced with anti-slip rubber to ensure it is stable as you take your shots.

The H&K 416A5 AEG from Umarex also includes rear and front flip-up sights, ensuring you don’t need to purchase extra optical devices. The Airsoft rifle has an extraordinary power or rate of fire due to its highly-customizable and quick spring change system. 

All these features and its 320-round high-capacity magazine ensure that beginners and veteran Airsoft players enjoy the best experiences.

PROS CONS
  • The full metal body makes it nice and heavy, ensuring you get a good grip
  • It’s very versatile thanks to the retractable stock
  • The lower and upper receivers are made of aluminium
  • Easy to operate and accurate
  • The rifle’s length ensures it can be used for both indoor and outdoor adventures
  • The sound is rather weak
  • The trigger guard is a bit rigid and hard to flip
  • You have to buy a battery separate because it doesn’t come with one

Option 4: G&G CM16 Raider Carbine

The G&G Combat Machine 16 Raider Carbine

G&G’s Combat Machine 16 Raider Carbine has stood the test of time as the best AEG for Airsoft beginners. We can attribute this success to the convenience it provides beginners, ensuring they do not need to tune or upgrade their Airsoft guns after purchase.

Coming in for less than $200, it provides sufficient detail on all the internal and external parts. The body is made from lightweight, durable, and impact-resistant heavy-duty polymer, appropriate for mid-range engagement and open fields. 

It comes with a G&G M4 450 round hi-cap magazine that shoots up to 350+ feet per second. Unfortunately, the magazines have a downside, being that you need to rewind them whenever you shoot about 20 rounds. 

This rifle also features six position retractable crane stock, 14 mm negative threaded barrel, and adjustable rear and front sights that help you achieve the perfect aim. Its short quad rail grip makes it ideal for close quarter battles and an appropriate rifle for young or inexperienced Airsoft players.

The affordable price point gives you a chance to use the savings to upgrade the rest of your Airsoft gear, such as your ammunition, scope protectors, and extra magazines.

PROS CONS
  • It’s very powerful when on the full automatic setting
  • Lightweight and easy to grip
  • Features an interesting compact design
  • Can be too compact for use around corners
  • The spring is too light and doesn’t work properly when uncompressed
  • The hop-up wheel is too difficult to operate

A verified Amazon buyer attests to all these good specs of the rifle. And here’s what he says:

“Gun is a solid gun to beat on, and the polymer body is very durable. These guns are rental guns at three local fields both indoor and outdoor fields. Rental guns get absolutely beat on, and they only reorder these, as they last.”

Option 5: Tokyo Marui Colt/Daniel Defense MK18 MOD.1 GBBR

Tokyo Marui is among the world’s best replica gun producers. They are greatly revered for producing reliable, detailed, and high-performing Airsoft rifles. 

They also hit the mark with this MK18 Mod1, which incorporates their Next Generation Recoil System that delivers substantial kinetic feedback with every shock without causing any internal stress. 

This rifle is a complete replica of the Navy CQBR rifle, as it pairs an exciting M4 lower receiver with a 10.3 in. close quarters battle receiver. The receivers are made of full metal instead of polymers and feature fully-licensed Colt trademarks to add to the realistic look and feel of the replicas. 

The MK-18 utilizes a ZET System, making the guns reliable and well-performing, and eliminating gas blowback. It also features an electronic bolt lock function that closes the bolt lock once you fire the last BB from the Tokyo Marui NGRS magazine. The rifle can’t fire until you insert another loaded magazine. 

Lastly, the rifle features a next-gen gearbox, six-position stock with storage compartment, and has an FPS range of 280–300.

PROS CONS
  • Top notch build quality
  • Fully licensed and trademarked by Colt
  • Made using premium materials
  • Uses a version 9/ext gen gearbox
  • Has a realistic recoil and weapon function
  • Availability is limited or restricted due to licensing and importation issues
  • Like most Marui Airsoft guns, FPS is quite low

Frequently Asked Questions

Which AEG should I buy?

M4 AEGs are an excellent option for anyone in the Airsoft field. They’re exceptionally versatile, suit any budget, and it’s easy to find repair and upgrade parts for them. 

So are all the guns on this list. The compilation of the list involves a lot of research and refers to customer reviews, and we can guarantee that these guns won’t disappoint you even in a skirmish. These guns are suitable for beginners and experienced players looking for upgrades.

Black Airsoft M4 rifle placed among other Airsoft accessories

Does the price of an Airsoft gun determine its quality? 

Not exactly. That’s because this is a subjective question and many players and replica gun experts have their deep-rooted personal opinions. 

However, it is safe to say that sometimes price does impose on quality. As such, you may find high-quality products priced higher due to factors like the materials used and better accuracy control. 

Fortunately, it’s easy to find a balance between affordability and quality or performance. 

Where do I buy the best automatic electric gun?

When looking for the best Airsoft gun retailers, you have two main options: walk-in stores or online stores. Walk-in stores are a great option because you get an opportunity to hold, feel, and test a gun’s operations before walking out of the store with it. 

Online stores are convenient and allow you to shop for your favourite AEG in just a few clicks. However, you must be very careful and carry out some background search on the store before purchasing an Airsoft gun. We can recommend a few stores: Amazon, AirsoftGI, Evik.com, AirsoftStation, Airsoftmegastore, and AirsoftAtlanta. Amazon tops the list because the site is very safe and offers the most competitive prices.

Remember: Even with the best Airsoft AEG, you will need to protect your investment by treating it with caution and maintaining it properly.