An airsoft SMG can be a great alternative to assault rifles, especially in close-quarters combat. However, choosing the best airsoft SMG from the hundreds of options available can be difficult. To help you make that choice, we ranked and reviewed 7 of the best airsoft SMG replicas in 2024.
If you’re in a hurry:
An airsoft SMG is essentially a replica that closely resembles real-life SMGs in both looks and feel. Even though AEGs are the most popular type of airsoft weapon out there, an SMG is a great alternative. It’s smaller and more compact than a rifle, which makes them easier to maneuver and more suitable for a close-quarters combat. In the end, the decision to choose one type of airsoft gun over another is a personal preference and will depend on your needs and preferences.
The choice of airsoft SMGs on the market is pretty large, with hundreds of options available. On one hand, the large number of SMG replicas is great, since it gives you a lot of options to choose from. But, it also makes it very difficult for you to choose the best airsoft SMG. And to make matters worse, a large percentage of the airsoft SMGs available are low-quality and should be avoided. That’s why having a reliable guide in choosing an airsoft SMG is crucial.
And if you’re not really sure what airsoft guns even are, how they are used, what to look for in them, how to stay safe when using them, and what types of airsoft guns are there, you can check out our buyer’s guide on airsoft guns.
There are many factors to consider when choosing an SMG, just as with any weapon type in airsoft. Some of the more important ones that we took into account when we made this list are shooting performance (FPS), accuracy, reliability, build quality (both internal and external), value for money (we made sure to only include airsoft SMGs on the list if they’re definitely worth their respective price), adjustable hop up, the reputation of the manufacturer, as well as others.
And now, here are the best airsoft SMG replicas on the market in 2024.
Best Airsoft SMG Replicas for 2024
Best Airsoft SMG Overall
1. Krytac KRISS Vector AEG SMG
| FPS | 375-395 |
| Length | 445mm / 665mm (Folded / Total) |
| Inner Barrel | 155mm |
| Battery | 11.1v 1400mAh or lower LiPo battery length cannot exceed 116mm. |
| Magazine | 95 round VECTOR Mid-Cap |
| Gearbox | 8mm VECTOR proprietary gearbox |
| Motor | Short Type |
| Hop up | Yes, Adjustable |
| Firing Mode | Semi/Two-round burst/Full-Auto, Safety |
| Manufacturer | Krytac / Licensed by KRISS USA |
Among the many SMGs on the market, we chose the Krytac KRISS Vector SMG as the best one out there. It’s a sturdy and durable SMG, with great externals and an innovative internal design. And it looks awesome too, although that’s up to your taste.
The Krytac KRISS Vector SMG is accurate and powerful, shooting at an FPS of around 375-395. It features an 8mm VECTOR gearbox, an adjustable rotary hop up, a short type high torque motor, a quick change spring system, an ambidextrous fire selector, and a mid-cap magazine with a capacity of 95 rounds.
This SMG comes with picatinny rail systems both on the top and bottom, which are perfect for adding accessories. It also features an electronic trigger which enables a smooth trigger response. And unlike most of the airsoft guns on this list, which usually have semi and full auto firing modes, the Krytac KRISS Vector SMG also has a two-round burst firing mode.
Features:
- Licensed KRISS Vector GEN II housing, Licensed KRISS Vector GEN II folding stock, Licensed KRISS® flip up iron sights
- Ambidextrous fire selector, Semi, two-round burst, full auto fire modes; Ambidextrous safety
- KRISS Vector GEN II pivoting trigger
- MIL-STD 1913 picatinny top rail, MIL-STD 1913 picatinny bottom rail
- 8mm VECTOR gearbox, Integrated Krytac FET system, Electronic trigger
- Quick change spring, Padded cylinder head, Relief cut cylinder window, Adjustable rotary hop-up, Temperature and wear resistant bucking
- Krytac 30K neodymium magnets, high torque, short type motor
The only disadvantage of the Krytac KRISS Vector SMG is its price, which is definitely on the higher end. Still, this airsoft gun justifies the price tag, and you will absolutely get what you pay for.
An airsoft SMG can be a great alternative to an assault rifle, especially for close quarter scenarios. Indeed, while most assault rifles will be at least 700-800mm long and with an inner barrel of over 300mm, the Krytac KRISS Vector SMG comes with an inner barrel that is 155mm long. If the price tag isn’t an issue, you can hardly find a better SMG on the market.
Another Great Choice
2. ASG CZ Scorpion EVO 3 – A1 Airsoft AEG Rifle
| FPS | 394 |
| Length | 425mm – 623mm (Adjustable) |
| Inner Barrel | 208mm / 6.04mm Bore |
| Battery | 7.4v / 11.1v LiPo Small Tri-Cell Type Recommended |
| Magazine | 75rd Mid-Capacity |
| Gearbox | Proprietary EVO 3 A1 |
| Hop up | Yes, Adjustable |
| Firing Mode | Semi / 3rd Burst / Full-Auto, Safety |
| Manufacturer | ASG, Licensed by CZ |
Another great SMG replica is the ASG CZ Scorpion EVO 3 – A1. It’s a perfect gun for any airsoft enthusiast. This SMG features an adjustable hop-up system and an adjustable metal stock for added stability and accuracy. It also has a metal gearbox and metal internals for added durability.
The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 – A1 is lightweight and has an ergonomic design for comfortable carrying and shooting. It has a realistic blowback action that adds to the realism of the game and gives the user a sense of satisfaction with every shot taken. The gun also features a removable flash hider and a rail system for mounting accessories.
Features:
- Fiber Reinforced Polymer: The ASG CZ EVO 3 is constructed entirely out of glass fiber reinforced PA6 polymers to replicate the durability, look, and feel of the actual CZ EVO 3 A1; which also in turn makes the weapon incredibly light weight and maneuverable
- Newly Designed Gearbox: The gearbox has been completely redesigned to fully encase the cylinder, thus eliminating stress points allowing it to withstand high power/performance upgrades without sacrificing longevity. The new gearbox also serves as a heat-sink for the electronic components to help dissipate the heat generated from use
- QD Spring Change Gearbox: The EVO 3 gearbox has a QD spring change feature allowing the spring to be swapped out quickly and easily without disassembly of the gearbox. This allows the guns FPS to be easily configured for field or CQB use
- Folding / Removable Stock: The lightweight stock can be folded to the side or even removed entirely without tools to lower the profile of the gun even further
- Electronically Controlled Gearbox: The new gearbox is controlled by an ECU to help reduce the number of electrical and mechanical parts. The ECU also helps with battery and motor efficiency while at the same time offering a crisp, almost instantaneous trigger response. The ECU unit also features short circuit protection which will shut off all electronics when water makes contact with vital components. The ECU unit will switch the electronics back on when the gun is once again safe to fire
- Functional Bolt Lock: The mock bolt is able to be locked back to allow easy access to the hop-up controls as well as add to the guns realistic action
- Empty Magazine Detection: Added for realism, the CZ EVO 3 will stop firing when the magazine is empty and will not fire again until a fresh magazine is inserted and the bolt stop is pressed
- Ambidextrous Controls: The fire selector and magazine release can be actuated from either side of the weapon while the charging handle can be switched to the left or right side
- 4-Position Fire Selector w/ Genuine 3-Shot Burst: Thanks to the electronic trigger system, the fire selector positions match the original CZ EVO 3 for authenticity and realism. The fire selector features a safe position, semi-automatic, 3rd burst, and full-auto fire select fire modes
- Battery Monitor: The weapons electronics have an integrated low power indicator which will shut the gun down when it detects the battery power level has dropped to unsafe levels; this safety measure protects the gearbox from unexpected lockups and the battery from over-draining
- LiPo Ready: The entire gun was built from the ground up specifically to run on LiPo and LiFe batteries up to 11.1v right out of the box
- ULTIMATE Basic Motor: ASG has added beefed up support bearings and shaft to its short motor to optimize power transfer while greatly reducing wear and noise
- CNC Machined Parts: The outer barrel, flash hider, barrel nut, and gearbox are all precision CNC machined to ensure perfect fitment and stronger parts
This SMG shoots BBs at an FPS of around 394. It comes with a mid capacity magazine with 75 rounds and a semi/three round burst/full auto firing modes. Also, it’s one of the SMGs with the longest range and highest rate of fire.
The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 – A1 is extremely durable, reliable, and accurate. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced players alike. All in all, together with the Krytac KRISS Vector SMG, these are very likely the two best airsoft SMGs out there.
Best Airsoft SMG for Beginners
3. H&K UMP .45 Elite Gen 2 Airsoft SMG
| FPS | 340 |
| Length | 440mm / 685mm (Folded / Total) |
| Inner Barrel | 205mm |
| Battery | 9.6v Small Stick Type recommended |
| Magazine | 400rd Hi-Capacity |
| Gearbox | Ver 3 Full Metal, Fully Upgradeable |
| Motor | Short Type |
| Hop up | Yes, Adjustable |
| Firing Mode | Semi/Full-Auto, Safety |
| Manufacturer | Umarex (Licensed by H&K. OEM: ARES) |
A cheaper, and yet great option, which can be perfect for beginners, is the H&K UMP .45 Elite Gen 2 Airsoft SMG. It’s a top-of-the-line replica of the popular submachine gun used by the world’s elite special forces. This fully-automatic airsoft gun is perfect for airsoft enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill of firing a realistic submachine gun.
The H&K UMP .45 is constructed from high-quality materials to ensure it will perform reliably for years to come. The exterior is made from durable polymer that is both lightweight and strong. The metal parts are metal-alloy to provide strength and accuracy. The stock and pistol grip are ergonomically designed for maximum comfort and control. This gun also includes a metal flash hider to reduce muzzle flash and add to the realistic look and feel.
Features:
- Durable and lightweight nylon reinforced polymer construction with stamped H&K licensed trademarks
- Side folding stock allows for easy stowage and compact carry
- Front 20mm accessory rails are ideal for mounting weapon lights, vertical grips and other accessories, the integrated 20mm top rail is ideal for a wide variety of optics
- Functioning mock charging handle and bold enhances realism and makes hop-up adjustment easy
- Extrememly realistic electric blowback action
- In line MOSFET and two round burst selector mode
- Threaded outer barrel
The H&K UMP airsoft SMG has a full metal gearbox and precision-crafted internals. This allows the gun to shoot at a consistent velocity and gives the user unparalleled accuracy. The gun has an adjustable hop-up system that allows the user to fine-tune the gun’s range and accuracy.
The gun also comes with a high-capacity magazine that can hold up to 300 rounds. Its FPS of 340 is lower than many of the other SMGs on the list. However, it’s accurate and with a good range.
The bottom line is that the H&K UMP is a more affordable option for beginners, which will still perform more than well. And not just for beginners, this SMG is a great option for more experienced players too.
Best Airsoft SMG for the Price
4. G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine Airsoft AEG
| FPS | 330-350 |
| Length | 500mm – 590mm (adjustable) |
| Inner Barrel | ~150mm |
| Battery | 7.4V Small Butterfly Type recommended |
| Magazine | G&G 9mm style carbine magazine / 300 rounds |
| Gearbox | Ver 2 Full Metal, Fully Upgradeable |
| Motor | Long Type |
| Hop up | Yes, Adjustable |
| Firing Mode | Semi/Full-Auto, Safety |
| Manufacturer | G&G |
As mentioned already, the biggest disadvantage of the Krytac KRISS Vector SMG is its high price. The good thing is that there are very solid airsoft SMGs for a significantly lower price. Among those, we chose the G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine AEG as the best SMG for the price.
The G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine AEG is another good looking, compact, and lightweight airsoft gun. Its length is adjustable between 500 and 590mm, with an inner barrel around 150mm long. Its FPS is much lower than many of the other reviewed SMGs, but is still solid at around 330-350.
Features:
- Durable polymer 9mm style carbine receiver with matte anodized finish and stamped G&G rollmarks, mimics the popular billet style of receiver
- Adjustable PDW style collapsible stock with stock tube
- 5″ M-LOK handguard is compatible with all M-LOK accessories
- Ergonomic motor grip with enhanced trigger guard allows for easier use of the carbine with gloves
- Flat faced competition style trigger, textured selector switch and mock bolt catch provide the ARP9 with aggressive details
- Integrated MOSFET protects wiring and is programmable to fire either 3-round burst or fully automatic
- ETU (enhanced trigger unit) improves trigger response and cyclic rate
This SMG features a 300 round magazine, an adjustable hop up, an ergonomic motor grip, and an integrated MOSFET. It’s manufactured by the solid Taiwanese G&G. Another advantage is that it’s highly upgradeable and customizable.
In a nutshell, the G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine AEG is a great choice that you can’t go wrong with. In its price bracket, this is very likely the best SMG you can find.
A Premium Option
5. KRISS Vector SMG Rifle by Krytac (Model: Limited Edition)
| FPS | 355-385 |
| Length | 445mm / 665mm (Folded / Total) |
| Inner Barrel | 280mm |
| Battery | 11.1v 1400mAh or lower LiPo battery length cannot exceed 116mm. |
| Magazine | 95 round VECTOR Mid-Cap |
| Gearbox | 8mm VECTOR proprietary gearbox |
| Motor | Short Type |
| Hop up | Yes, Adjustable |
| Firing Mode | Semi/Two-round burst/Full-Auto, Safety |
| Manufacturer | Krytac / Licensed by KRISS USA |
If money is not an issue, there’s another option to consider. It’s a limited edition KRISS Vector SMG Rifle by Krytac. It’s definitely a more premium option, one which may be better than the previously ranked SMGs.
It’s in many aspects similar to the SMG ranked first on this list. But, it utilizes the KRISS Vector GEN II 2017 one piece upper receiver. It also comes with the new, adjustable KRISS Vector Ambidextrous Folding Stock which features two quick detach sling swivel points as well as a sling loop to accommodate a variety of sling attachmentst.
Features:
- Limited Edition MLOK hanguard, Folding stock with retractable function, One-piece upper with integrated folding stock adapter, Extended battery housing, Extended outer barrel
- Licensed KRISS® Vector GEN II housing, Licensed KRISS® Vector GEN II folding stock, Licensed KRISS® flip up iron sights
- Ambidextrous fire selector, Semi, two-round burst, full auto fire modes; Ambidextrous safety
- KRISS® Vector GEN II pivoting trigger
- MIL-STD 1913 picatinny top rail, MIL-STD 1913 picatinny bottom rail
- 8mm VECTOR gearbox, Integrated Krytac FET system, Electronic trigger
- Quick change spring, Padded cylinder head, Relief cut cylinder window, Adjustable rotary hop-up, Temperature and wear resistant bucking
- Krytac 30K neodymium magnets, high torque, short type motor
At the front, there’s an extented barrel. This enables the limited edition of the KRISS Vector SMG Rifle to have an inner barrel of 280mm, unlike the standard version which comes with a 155mm inner barrel. Around the barrel is an all new M-lok modular hand guard. There’s also a new extended battery cover beneath the pistol grip.
The limited edition of the KRISS Vector SMG Rifle may not be for everyone, given its price. However, for those of you that don’t consider the price an issue, it will definitely provide you with an advantage on the field.
Best Airsoft SMG under $200
6. Echo1 General Assault Tool (GAT) Airsoft AEG SMG
| FPS | 330 |
| Inner Barrel | ~165mm (6.06mm Diameter) |
| Battery | 8.4v Mini Type or 7.4v Mini LiPo recommended |
| Magazine | ~250rd High Capacity |
| Gearbox | 8mm Custom |
| Motor | Short Type |
| Hop up | Yes, Adjustable |
| Firing Mode | Full-Auto |
| Manufacturer | Echo1 |
While all of the previously ranked SMG replicas are awesome, the reality is that many of them are quite pricey. But, that doesn’t mean that you can’t get a solid SMG even with a lower budget. In fact, there are some very decent SMGs which are significantly cheaper than most of the other reviewed options.
Among those, we chose the Echo1 General Assault Tool (GAT) SMG as the best airsoft SMG under $200. It’s one of the smallest SMG replicas out there, but is very sturdy and durable. It comes with reinforced internals and a high impact reinforced polymer lower receiver.
Features:
- High impact reinforced polymer lower receiver
- Metal upper receiver, barrel, & sling loops
- Light weight, compact design
- Reinforced internals
- Accessory rail under barrel shroud
- Lipo-ready
The Echo1 General Assault Tool (GAT) SMG shoots BBs at a decent FPS of 330. It features an adjustable hop up and a high capacity magazine with 250 rounds. Some of its pros are the surprisingly good accuracy and range for its price.
While it may not be as perfect as other ranked SMGs, the Echo1 General Assault Tool (GAT) SMG is a solid replica that’s among the best in its price bracket. If you’re looking to get an SMG without breaking the bank, this one is a great choice.
Best Airsoft SMG under $100
7. JG Scorpion R2 VZ61 VZ-61 100% Tokyo Marui Clone Airsoft SMG
| FPS | 235-265 |
| Length | 270mm / 522mm (stock extended) |
| Inner Barrel | 127.5mm |
| Battery | 450mah 7.2V Micro Battery |
| Hop up | Yes, Adjustable |
| Firing Mode | Single / Full-Auto |
| Manufacturer | JG |
If the Echo1 General Assault Tool (GAT) SMG is still above your budget, there’s an even cheaper solid option. The JG Scorpion R2 VZ61 VZ-61 SMG is the best airsoft SMG under $100. Due to its affordable price, it’s one of the most common replicas out there.
This SMG is made to be an exact copy of the Tokyo Marui Scorpion. It has the same features as the TM it clones. However, it’s less than half its price, and is therefore a great affordable option.
Features:
- Very realistic VZ61 AEP designed by Marui and Manufactured by WELL & JG
- Blast Finish Heavy Weight Upper Receiver
- Metal Made Lower Diecasting
- Realistic Adjustable Metal Front Sight and Adjustable Metal Rear Sight
- Metal Folding Stock
- Adjustable Hop Up for Accurate Performance
- Bottom Rail Mount for attaching further optional equipment
It has a pretty low FPS of around 235-265. It also has an adjustable hop-up system, which allows you to dial in your shots and increase accuracy.
As expected, the JG Scorpion R2 VZ61 VZ-61 is inferior to the highly ranked SMGs. However, it’s absolutely worth of its price, and is in fact the best SMG replica in its price bracket.
Comparison Table of Best Airsoft SMG Replicas
| Krytac KRISS Vector SMG | ASG CZ Scorpion EVO 3 – A1 | H&K UMP .45 Elite Gen 2 Airsoft SMG | G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine | Krytac KRISS Vector SMG Limited Edition | Echo1 General Assault Tool (GAT) | JG Scorpion R2 VZ61 VZ-61 | |
| FPS | 375-395 | 394 | 340 | 330-350 | 355-385 | 330 | 235-265 |
| Length | 445mm / 665mm (Folded / Total) | 425mm – 623mm (Adjustable) | 440mm / 685mm (Folded / Total) | 500mm – 590mm (adjustable) | 445mm / 665mm (Folded / Total) | 270mm / 522mm (stock extended) | |
| Inner Barrel | 155mm | 208mm / 6.04mm Bore | 205mm | ~150mm | 280mm | ~165mm (6.06mm Diameter) | 127.5mm |
| Battery | 11.1v 1400mAh or lower LiPo battery length cannot exceed 116mm. | 7.4v / 11.1v LiPo Small Tri-Cell Type Recommended | 9.6v Small Stick Type recommended | 7.4V Small Butterfly Type recommended | 11.1v 1400mAh or lower LiPo battery length cannot exceed 116mm. | 8.4v Mini Type or 7.4v Mini LiPo recommended | 450mah 7.2V Micro Battery |
| Magazine | 95 round VECTOR Mid-Cap | 75rd Mid-Capacity | 400rd Hi-Capacity | G&G 9mm style carbine magazine / 300 rounds | 95 round VECTOR Mid-Cap | ~250rd High Capacity | |
| Gearbox | 8mm VECTOR proprietary gearbox | Proprietary EVO 3 A1 | Ver 3 Full Metal, Fully Upgradeable | Ver 2 Full Metal, Fully Upgradeable | 8mm VECTOR proprietary gearbox | 8mm Custom | |
| Motor | Short Type | Short Type | Long Type | Short Type | Short Type | ||
| Hop up | Yes, Adjustable | Yes, Adjustable | Yes, Adjustable | Yes, Adjustable | Yes, Adjustable | Yes, Adjustable | Yes, Adjustable |
| Firing Mode | Semi/Two-round burst/Full-Auto, Safety | Semi / 3rd Burst / Full-Auto, Safety | Semi/Full-Auto, Safety | Semi/Full-Auto, Safety | Semi/Two-round burst/Full-Auto, Safety | Full-Auto | Single / Full-Auto |
| Manufacturer | Krytac / Licensed by KRISS USA | ASG, Licensed by CZ | Umarex (Licensed by H&K. OEM: ARES) | G&G | Krytac / Licensed by KRISS USA | Echo1 | JG |
How We Made This List
In order to make the reviews as reliable as possible, I’m continuously testing the products we recommend.
Out of the 7 SMGs reviewed in this list, I’ve personally tried and tested 5 of them. I’ve also consulted countless experienced airsofters and analyzed many other blogs and the SMGs they recommend, so that I don’t miss a good product.
All of this is done to give you the best possible recommendations for your next (or first) airsoft SMG.
Conclusion
With hundreds of airsoft SMG replicas out there, it’s difficult to distinguish the quality from the junk. So, we took into account the shooting performance, accuracy, reliability, build quality, value for money, and the manufacturer of the numerous guns on the market to create a list of the best airsoft SMGs for 2024.
In this article, we presented the 7 best airsoft SMG replicas currently on the market. Some of the best of the best are the:
- Krytac KRISS Vector SMG – best airsoft SMG overall
- ASG CZ Scorpion EVO 3 – A1 – another great choice
- H&K UMP .45 SMG – best airsoft SMG for beginners
- G&G CM16 ARP9 CQB Carbine – Best airsoft SMG for the price
- Krytac KRISS Vector SMG Limited Edition – a premium option
Although there are many options on this list, you really can’t go wrong with any of these picks.
Also, if you like SMGs, check out out guide to the best airsoft MP7 replicas overall.
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The founder of Airsoft Freaks and a passionate airsofter for more than 15 years. Get to know me better on my about page