Foam Cannon vs Foam Gun – Which Should You Use?
Foam cannons and foam guns both make washing your car safer and easier. But which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll break down foam cannon vs foam gun so you know which fits your setup, budget, and detailing goals.
Quick Answer
If you own a pressure washer, a foam cannon is the better choice — it produces thick, shaving cream–style foam that clings and cleans safely. If you only have a garden hose, a foam gun is a more affordable and convenient option. For the thickest foam and best scratch-free wash, I recommend using a cannon with The Super Soaper.
What is a Foam Cannon?
A foam cannon attaches to a pressure washer and sprays highly pressurized foam across the surface of your car. This foam clings longer, lifts dirt, and creates a slick layer for washing. It’s the pro-level choice for detailers and enthusiasts who want maximum cleaning power.
What is a Foam Gun?
A foam gun attaches to a standard garden hose and uses water pressure to create soap foam. While it doesn’t produce foam as thick as a cannon, it’s easier to set up and more affordable since it doesn’t require a pressure washer.
Foam Cannon vs Foam Gun: Key Differences
| Feature | Foam Cannon | Foam Gun |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment Needed | Pressure Washer | Garden Hose |
| Foam Thickness | Thick, shaving cream–style foam | Lighter, watery foam |
| Cleaning Power | High — loosens heavy dirt | Medium — good for maintenance washes |
| Cost | Higher (cannon + pressure washer) | Lower (just the gun) |
| Best For | Detailers, enthusiasts, coated cars | Casual washes, hose-only setups |
Which Should You Choose?
If you want the thickest foam possible, go with a foam cannon. If you’re looking for convenience without buying a pressure washer, go with a foam gun. Either way, the key to results isn’t just the tool — it’s the soap you put in it.
The Best Soap for Both
Whether you use a cannon or gun, the soap makes all the difference. I recommend The Super Soaper because it’s highly concentrated, pH-neutral, and produces foam thick enough for cannons but also effective in foam guns.
Grab it here:
Pro Tips
- For cannons, use 2–4 ounces of concentrated soap in the reservoir.
- For guns, use slightly more soap since hose pressure is lower.
- Always rinse your car before foaming to avoid grinding loose dirt.
Upgrade Your Foam Game
Whether you use a cannon or gun, the right soap is what delivers results. Choose The Super Soaper for thick, safe foam every time.
FAQs
Which is better, foam cannon or foam gun?
A foam cannon creates thicker foam and better cleaning power, but requires a pressure washer. Foam guns are more convenient for casual washes with a garden hose.
Do I need a pressure washer for a foam cannon?
Yes. A foam cannon attaches to a pressure washer, while a foam gun attaches to a hose.
Can I use the same soap in a foam gun and foam cannon?
Yes. High-quality soaps like The Super Soaper work in both setups.
Which is safer for paint?
Both reduce scratches compared to bucket-only washes, but cannons provide more lubricity thanks to thicker foam.
Related Posts
- What is the Best Soap for a Foam Cannon?
- Best Soap to Use in a Foam Cannon
- How Much Soap Should You Put in a Foam Cannon?
