# Best Clear Coats for Models: Gloss, Satin, and Matte Finishes Compared Source: https://modelbuildlab.com/best/best-clear-coats-models Updated: 2026-10-20 Publisher: Model Build Lab. Our score is an editorial rating out of 10 (fit 35%, features 25%, build 20%, value 20%), not a customer rating. Method: https://modelbuildlab.com/how-we-research#our-score Clear coat is what turns a painted kit into a finished model. A gloss layer gives decals a smooth surface to grip so they do not silver, and it seals paint against the solvents used in washes and weathering. A final matte or satin coat then unifies every decal edge, touch-up, and weathering layer into one consistent finish that reads as a real vehicle rather than a painted toy. But clears are also where projects die: the wrong formula can frost, yellow, craze decals, or dissolve the paint beneath. This guide compares lacquer, acrylic, and water-based clears in gloss, satin, and flat sheens, covering spray cans and airbrush bottles, and explains a safe layering order for any paint system. ## Picks ### 1. Vallejo Polyurethane Varnish Gloss Finish 200 ml Our score: 8.6/10 (Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 9/10) Vallejo Polyurethane Varnish Gloss Finish 200 ml, a tough, airbrush-ready gloss coat for protecting models. Pros: - Polyurethane formula resists handling wear well - 200 ml bottle offers excellent value for frequent use - Gloss finish prepares surfaces for decals and washes Cons: - Needs an airbrush for the smoothest application - Can tip dry in the airbrush if not kept moving Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B00BATAAWI ### 2. Mission Models Gloss Clear Coat MIOMMA006 Our score: 8.1/10 (Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10) Mission Models Gloss Clear Coat MIOMMA006, a water-based gloss varnish for sealing paint and preparing for decals. Pros: - Gloss finish gives a smooth surface for decal application - Water-based formula is low odor and easy to clean - Pairs with Mission Models paints for a consistent system Cons: - Needs Mission Models thinner for best airbrush results - Check the bottle size in the listing before stocking up Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B0755NKH39 ### 3. Mission Models Semi Gloss Clear Coat MIOMMA005 Our score: 8.1/10 (Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10) Mission Models Semi Gloss Clear Coat MIOMMA005, a water-based satin sheen varnish for realistic final finishes. Pros: - Semi gloss sheen suits most military vehicles and aircraft - Low odor water-based clear for indoor airbrushing - Evens out sheen differences between paint and decals Cons: - Airbrush thinning with the right medium is essential - Semi gloss may be too shiny for dusty armor looks Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B0755NKD34 ### 4. Vallejo Model Color Polyurethane Varnish Gloss Finish 60 ml Our score: 7.8/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10) Vallejo Model Color Polyurethane Varnish Gloss Finish 60 ml, a smaller bottle of tough gloss for brush or airbrush. Pros: - 60 ml size is ideal for occasional varnishing jobs - Polyurethane gloss adds durable protection to paint - Dropper bottle lets you thin small amounts precisely Cons: - Less value per ml than Vallejo's larger bottle of the same varnish - Brushed gloss can show strokes on large flat areas Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B00L45KP7S ### 5. SprayMax USC 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol (2 PACK) Our score: 7.4/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 6/10) SprayMax 2K high gloss clearcoat aerosol, sold as a 2 pack. A two-component polyurethane gloss in a spray can with a fan nozzle, no compressor or airbrush needed. Pros: - Two-component formula in a can, listed as UV, gasoline and chemical resistant. - Fan nozzle spray can, so no airbrush or compressor is required to apply it. - Listing says dust dry in 20 minutes and polishable, fitting a deep gloss body finish. Cons: - Sold as an automotive refinishing product, not a model paint, so test on spare plastic first. - Two component cans are aimed at big projects; the pack of two costs more than a single hobby spray. Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B00W2D806Y ### 6. US Art Supply Clear Gloss Acrylic Airbrush Paint 8 oz Protective Top Coat Our score: 7.4/10 (Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10) US Art Supply Clear Gloss Acrylic Airbrush Paint 8 oz, a protective top coat that is ready to spray. Pros: - Ready-to-spray formula keeps airbrush prep simple - 8 oz bottle covers many models for the price - Water-based cleanup suits home workspaces Cons: - Acrylic gloss is softer than lacquer or 2K clears - Brand is more general art supply than hobby specialist Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B012OTQ77Y ### 7. Tamiya TS-80 Clear Flat Spray 100ml Our score: 7.3/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10) Tamiya TS-80 Clear Flat Spray, a 100ml can of matte clear lacquer for ABS and styrene plastic, replacing the Humbrol varnish spray as a flat finishing option. Pros: - Flat clear finish for a matte look on armor, aircraft and figures. - Listing says it is suited to ABS and styrene plastic and can also be used on metal parts. - Tamiya is a well known model paint brand and the 100ml can is a convenient size. Cons: - The listing bullets are short and give no drying time or coverage detail. - Matte only; the guide's gloss and semi gloss picks are needed for shine. Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B000ZVO3YS As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.