Best Airsoft SMGs UK (2026): Our Picks

SMGs are compact, light and perfect for CQB and fast-moving woodland games. These are our favourite submachine guns, all in stock now.

What to look for

• AEG or GBB? Electric (AEG) SMGs are reliable all year. Gas blowback SMGs are more realistic but prefer warmer weather.
• Battery space: compact SMGs often need small “stick” or PEQ LiPo batteries. We’ll help you pick the right one.
• Metal body: full-metal SMGs like the MP5 feel more solid and last longer.

Our picks at a glance

• Classic Army PX9: a light, affordable CQB SMG
• Cyma MP5A4 RIS (H&K licensed): the classic MP5 with rails for optics and lights
• EMG x Strike Industries WE05 CQB: modern looks with an electronic trigger
• Stratos X MPX-K Copperhead GBB: a gas blowback SMG with real kick
• Classic Army Nemesis X9: a full-metal SMG with a great feel
• WE TA2015 GBB: a striking, futuristic gas SMG
• VFC PPSh-41 GBB: a WW2 classic with full blowback

Electric or gas: which type of SMG?

Electric (AEG) SMGs run on a rechargeable battery. They work in any weather, are cheap to run and are the best choice for most players. Compact SMGs usually need a small stick or PEQ-size LiPo battery.

Gas blowback (GBB) SMGs run on green gas and the bolt cycles every shot, so they feel far more realistic. They’re brilliant indoors and in summer, but like all gas replicas they lose power in the cold.

Our picks in more detail

Classic Army PX9: best budget SMG

A light polymer SMG that’s easy to carry all day and quick to bring up in tight spaces. A great first SMG at a sensible price.

H&K MP5A4 RIS by Umarex/Cyma: best all-rounder

The MP5 is the classic CQB gun for a reason: compact, reliable and with a huge choice of magazines and parts. This officially licensed full-metal version adds rails for a red dot or torch.

EMG x Strike Industries WE05 CQB: best modern AEG

Distinctive Strike Industries styling with an electronic trigger unit (ETU) from Well PRO, which gives a crisp, responsive trigger.

Stratos X MPX-K Copperhead: best value gas SMG

A full-metal gas blowback SMG that’s compatible with VFC parts. Plenty of kick for the money.

Classic Army Nemesis X9: best full-metal AEG

A solid, full-metal SMG that feels great in the hands, with Classic Army’s reputation for reliability.

WE TA2015 GBB: best for something different

A futuristic-looking gas blowback SMG that always gets noticed on the field.

VFC PPSh-41 GBB: best for milsim and WW2 games

A beautifully made gas blowback replica of the famous WW2 SMG. A collector’s piece that also shoots.

What else you’ll need

• A battery and charger (AEGs): usually a 7.4V LiPo in stick or PEQ size, plus a LiPo-safe charger. Browse batteries
• Gas (GBBs): Browse gas
• Spare magazines: Browse SMG magazines
• A red dot sight: fast to aim in close quarters. Browse optics
• BBs: 0.20g to 0.28g bio BBs suit most SMGs. Browse BBs
• Full-face protection: strongly recommended for CQB. See our eye and face protection guide

Questions we get asked

What’s the best SMG for CQB? An MP5 is hard to beat: compact, reliable and with loads of magazines and parts available.

What battery do I need? Usually a 7.4V LiPo in a stick or PEQ size. Check the product page or ask us.

Can I buy these? Yes, if you’re 18 or over and play airsoft. UKARA isn’t needed. Just confirm at checkout and we’ll give you a quick call before we send it. Not a player yet? We’ll spray any replica two-tone for free (adds 24 hours). Read our UKARA and two-tone guide.

Is an SMG good for woodland? Yes, especially if you like to move fast. You give up a little range compared with a full-size rifle, but you gain speed and manoeuvrability.

Is an SMG a good first airsoft gun? Very much so. An AEG SMG like the MP5 is reliable, easy to handle and works at both CQB and woodland sites.

Do gas SMGs work in winter? They work, but they shoot softer and use more gas when it’s cold. An electric SMG is the safer choice if you play all year.

Free click & collect from our shop at 20 Castle Street, Thetford, or UK delivery from £3.95 (free over £50). Want to try before you buy? Test it on our indoor range, or call us on 01842 683567.

More buying guides: pistols · sniper rifles · SMGs · shotguns · under £100 · under £200 · masks & eye protection · for beginners · starter kits