Empire Mini GS vs Axe 2.0: Which Paintball Marker Is Best for You?

Empire Mini GS vs Axe 2.0: Which Paintball Marker Is Right for You?

If you're ready to upgrade from beginner paintball gear or want a serious marker for competition, Empire’s Mini GS and Axe 2.0 are two of the best options available. Both offer tournament-level performance, but they’re built for slightly different players. At Badlands Paintball, we carry both models and are here to help you decide which one suits your needs.

Empire Mini GS – Compact and Fast

The Empire Mini GS is a lightweight, compact paintball marker ideal for speedball and close-quarters play. Weighing in under 2 lbs, the Mini GS is fast, maneuverable, and highly responsive. Its smaller design makes it a great choice for smaller players, or for players with smaller hands, or for anyone who prefers a more streamlined marker that can easily be controlled in tight situations.

• Pressure-controlled poppet engine
• Integrated break-beam eyes
• Wrap-around foregrip for enhanced grip and weather protection
• Adjustable trigger and electronic board
• Inline regulator with On/Off ASA

Best for: Aggressive players with smaller hands who want a compact, affordable electro marker for tight play and fast action.

Empire Axe 2.0 – Advanced Performance with More Features

The Empire Axe 2.0 is a step up in size and technology. It features the same core design as the Mini GS but offers an improved feel, better ergonomics, and more user-friendly features. The Axe 2.0 can be upgraded to include a rear OLED screen for easy settings and mode changes, or can be purchased with this feature installed (Redline version). It also features a tool-less bolt removal system and larger, more ergonomic grip frame for better handling, particularly for players with larger hands.

• Improved ergonomics and balance
• Tool-less bolt removal system
• Compatible with the Redline OLED foregrip upgrade
• High-efficiency engine with smooth shot performance

Best for: Intermediate to advanced players with larger hands who want a more customizable, full-sized marker with intuitive controls and high-end features.

Empire Axe 2.0 Redline – Upgrade Performance

The Empire Axe 2.0 Redline takes the Axe 2.0 to the next level with the Redline OLED board pre-installed. This upgraded version of the Axe 2.0 allows for advanced programming and real-time diagnostics, along with joystick activation and OLED screen for ease of use and customization.

• Redline OLED board for advanced programming and diagnostics
• High-end performance with smooth and consistent shots
• Fully customizable settings for personal play styles

Which Empire Marker Should You Choose?

Final Thoughts

Both the Empire Mini GS and Axe 2.0 are excellent choices for serious paintball players in Canada. If you’re just moving up from rental gear or want a compact tournament-ready marker, the Mini GS delivers unbeatable value, especially for players with smaller hands. If you’re looking for more comfort, features, and ease of use, the Axe 2.0 is a fantastic investment, particularly for players with larger hands. The Axe 2.0 Redline offers even more advanced customization for players who demand the absolute best in performance.

Visit BadlandsPaintball.com or drop by our Toronto or Calgary stores to check out our full lineup of Empire Paintball Guns.