Quick answer

For fast, high-contrast shading on wargaming-style Gunpla, choose AK Quick Markers. For precise metallic details on small parts and figures, go with AK Liquid Markers.

Speed vs precision: the core trade-off

Quick Markers use a contrast technique that enhances volumes, shadows, and details in a single pass. This makes them ideal when you want to paint a kit quickly without sacrificing a dramatic finish. The brush tip applies paint broadly, so you cover large areas fast.

Liquid Markers, on the other hand, have a fine tip designed for maximum precision on small pieces and gaming figures. The metallic paint is highly pigmented, allowing you to pick out tiny details like vents, sensors, and weapons with clean lines. The trade-off is that they require more careful application and are slower per part.

Paint formulation and durability

Quick Markers contain a special paint formula optimized for the contrast technique. They are intended to be used as a base coat and shading tool in one step, which means they are less suited for fine line work or metallic effects.

Liquid Markers use a permanent metallic paint that is resistant to subsequent weathering treatments. This makes them a better choice if you plan to apply washes, panel liners, or weathering powders over the painted details. The paint is also waterproof and heat-resistant, adding durability to your finished model.

Quick Markers vs Liquid Markers: trade-offs

  • Application speed: Quick Markers cover large areas fast with a brush tip; Liquid Markers require slower, deliberate strokes for fine details.
  • Finish type: Quick Markers create a shaded, high-contrast finish in one step; Liquid Markers give a clean, metallic, opaque finish.
  • Durability for weathering: Quick Markers are not specifically formulated for overpainting; Liquid Markers are resistant to weathering products and won't lift. If you plan to weather your kit, Liquid Markers are the safer choice for metallic details.

Product facts at a glance

  • AKMQ019 Quick Markers - White Shadow: AKMQ019 Quick Markers use a special paint formula and brush tip designed for the contrast technique, enhancing volumes, shadows, and details in a single coat. You can shade and highlight a Gunpla part in one pass, cutting painting time significantly.

    AKMQ019 Quick Markers - White Shadow

    AKMQ019 Quick Markers - White Shadow

  • AK1300 Metallic Liquid Markers - 4 Units Set: AK1300 Metallic Liquid Markers have fine tips with permanent metallic paint that allows subsequent weathering treatments without removing the paint. You can paint precise metallic details and then apply washes or weathering without worrying about the base coat lifting.

    AK1300 Metallic Liquid Markers - 4 Units Set

    AK1300 Metallic Liquid Markers - 4 Units Set

Which marker should you choose?

Best for

  • Modelers who want to paint a Gunpla quickly with dramatic shading in one coat
  • Wargamers or builders painting multiple kits and needing speed over ultra-fine precision

Not for

  • Detail painters who need precise metallic accents on small parts and want to weather over them