The best cheap nerf guns under $30 reach firing distances of 90 feet. They can load multiple nerf darts and they can be easily used with blast fire functions. Some of these nerf guns also come with flip-to-open designs that allow quick nerf dart loading.

Types of Cheap Nerf Guns

There are a few types of cheap nerf guns categorized by firing capacity. The more nerf darts such a toy gun can load, the better the chances kids have to shoot their targets in case of missed shots. Here are the main options.

5-6 nerf dart guns

With a loading capacity of 5-6 nerf darts, these nerf guns are mainly recommended for shooting from a close distance. It’s difficult to miss the shot from a close distance. Used indoors and on shooting ranges, these guns are normally small as they don’t need to store and carry too many nerf darts.

12 nerf dart guns

The 12 nerf dart guns are the balanced options kids can rely on. They are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. These guns may already reach firing distances of 85-90 feet as they are also larger than the 5-6 nerf dart alternatives.

20 nerf dart guns

The 20+ nerf dart guns are used for rapid fir and when dealing with multiple opponents. In this case, kids don’t have the time to reload the gun all the time. However, these nerf guns are also more difficult to defend, especially as they take longer to reload.

Best Cheap Nerf Guns 2024 (Under $30)

1. Nerf N Strike Elite Strongarm Toy Blaster with Rotating Barrel

Design features
The design of the cheap nerf gun is one of its biggest advantages. Made with a rotating barrel that opens up for easy dart access, it represents one of the most practical guns in its class. Kids looking to quickly change darts find it particularly appealing.

But the barrel is also fast. It comes with a rapid-fire function that shoots all darts quickly and silently. Operated with one hand only, the nerf gun is easy to run around with. Furthermore, it is among the top options in its class for popularity in nerf gun games due to its practical size, comfortable for both boys and girls.

Convenient features
The slam fire function which fires all 6 darts at the same time is the most convenient feature of the nerf gun. Fighting off predators, zombies and invaders are easy with such features. But the gun also comes with 6 nerf darts in the pack.

Of course, relying on just 6 nerf darts is a bad strategy in any shoot-out is a bad idea. But 30-pack refills are available to purchase. Since most nerf shooting guns can last a few hours, it might be a good idea to get a few refills together with the gun as well.

Shooting accurately, the nerf gun’s darts reach distances of 90 feet. This allows kids to play outdoors or in specialized locations such as paintball fields. But most importantly, the nerf darts reach these distances without wandering to the sides.

Verdict
This small gun shoots the darts the furthest and it comes with a 6 nerf dart barrel capacity.

2. Nerf Zombie Strike Hammershot Blaster

Design features
If most nerf guns hold 6 or more nerf darts, the Zombie Strike Hammershot Blaster holds 5 such darts. Even with one dart less, it allows the gun to be smaller and lighter. Kids chasing enemies and zombies appreciate its practical nature.

Since it doesn’t need to hold too many nerf darts, the gun also handles with one hand only. This design characteristic is specifically useful for those playing for hours. Shooting around for a few minutes might not benefit from its smaller size as much as when playing for hours and hours.

Convenient features
Inspired by classic pistols, the nerf gun also comes with other convenient features in its shooting capabilities. For example, it fires all 5 darts at the same time if and when needed. In situations where kids want to make an impact, this shot-gun style approach never fails to impress.

Using universal nerf gun darts, the blaster can also work with extra ammo as needed. A set of 30 can be purchased together with the gun. Those buying it as a gift can certainly add a few such extra seats to the gun to keep kids shooting for longer.

Verdict
This compact one-handed design is tested for durability and it can be used by kids as soon as they reach the age of 8.

3. Nerf Zombie Strike FlipFury Blaster

Design features
Made to offer a fighting chance while in battle, this gun fires up to 12 nerf darts at once. It represents a top choice for those who are engaged in long battles. But it’s based on a single dart drum as seen with the examples above. It features 2 such dart drums which means it also looks great apart from shooting more.

Even with this double dart drum design, the nerf gun is still held with a single hand. While both hands can be used to hold it, those with sufficient strength hold it with one hand while having the other hand free for defense.

Convenient features
Made with a top handlebar, the gun can also be easily carried to and from the battle scene. Kids traveling on foot find it particularly easy to hold and carry. But the gun also doesn’t need as many extra nerf dart sets. As it holds double the amount of darts as its direct competitors, it also favors those who need extra practicality.

But these nerf darts are still safe to use. Made from foam, they are available in multiple colors. Kids have the freedom of choosing between orange, green and blue nerf darts. Yellow darts are also a good option that suits this gun’s style. The best part is the nerf gun is well below the budget.

Verdict
Suitable for those who want to fire more before reloading, the nerf gun includes 2 dart drum holds.

4. Nerf N-Strike Elite Triad EX-3 Toy

Design features
Probably one of the smallest nerf guns available today, the N-Strike is a true beast. It shoots 3 nerf darts and its ability to tell when the barrel is fully loaded and prepare the darts for shooting.

Most importantly, the design of the nerf gun means it easily fits inside the palm. Those who want to take enemies and zombies by surprise can easily conceal the weapon as a result. Since it comes with such a compact size, the nerf gun can also serve as a second option for larger nerf guns. Whenever nerf darts run out on the larger gun in a quick combat situation, kids can pull out this back-up secondary gun and keep shooting.

Convenient features
Many kids don’t consider these guns due to their smaller size which is often wrongly associated with a lack of shooting power. This is far from the truth. In the real world, the small nerf gun shoots up to 90 feet away, comparable to what the most powerful alternatives deliver.

At the same time, this smaller nerf gun is suitable for travel more than all of its competitors. It comes to show that fun can be had when its back in the family’s luggage when going on holiday or when leaving home for the weekend. Oftentimes, parents don’t afford the luxury extra space in the travel bags for larger guns. In such cases, this friendly and safe gun can travel anywhere with kids, even on the plane.

Verdict
Small and powerful, this hard-to-detect nerf gun shoots up to 90 feet away.

5. Nerf N-Strike Elite Disruptor

Design features
The design of the nerf gun allows it to be easy to use. Unlike a few of its rivals, it favors 2-hand use and better stability as a result. Without aiming around foolishly, the two-hand operation of the nerf gun means kids can hold it better and aim for their still or moving subjects.

There are about 6 chances of eliminating an opponent given by the nerf gun. With a maximum 6 nerf dart capacity, it is one of the most suitable options to start shooting around as much as needed with maximum accuracy. Its style sits somewhere between a pistol and a shotgun and as a result, it is the balanced choice kids can make when it comes to the ultimate shooting capabilities in all types of situations.

Convenient features
With a quick draw blaster and a 6-dart nerf rotating drum, it’s ready to take on all types of opponents. But the gun should also benefit from other accessories such as extra nerf darts. This is especially true for close combat situations where more shots are fired.

Those waiting for their opponents while camouflaged only need one good shot to eliminate them. Since it reaches distances of up to 90 feet, it allows kids to hide deeper and better into their backyards while waiting for their friends to come and find them. 6 elite darts are often backed by additional sets which even allow kids to get into closer rapid-fire exchanges, suitable when dealing with multiple opponents.

Verdict
When the orange shooting indicator is visible, kids can fire and reach their enemies from 90 feet away with this nerf gun.

6. Nerf N-Strike Elite SurgeFire

Design features
Holding up to 15 darts, the powerful pump blaster is one of the most impressive solutions for kids looking for extra shooting power. Unlike many other names in its class, it holds an impressive amount of nerf darts. With 15 darts in the barrel, it gives kids a considerable advantage over their opponents. It also stands out when shooting them in rapid-fire.

Made with two handles, the gun is also easy to hold with both hands. This immediately increases aim and accuracy. But the SurgeFire also stands out when it comes to the range it can reach. As the best cheap nerf guns in its class, it reaches distances of up to 90 feet.

Convenient features
Fast and with plenty of nerf darts, the gun offers one of the best experiences when it comes to proper combat with multiple opponents. Those having to deal with multiple zombies, enemies or friends, it represents a top solution for continuous fire with rare reload times.

This is the main reason to buy the nerf gun. However, the gun also takes longer to load. Kids need to be aware of this issue. They should also know they need to be hiding longer until 15 darts are loaded into the barrel.

Verdict
The 27-meter shooting nerf gun is a powerful option when having to deal with multiple opponents at once.

7. Nerf N-Strike Elite Delta Trooper

Design features
Firing up to 12 dart clips, the nerf gun comes with a 12-dart extension clip. It must be said the nerf gun operates with or without the clip. Kids who want to stay as lightweight and possible and run fast might not need it. Those who want the extra nerf dart firing capacity can also use the clip to keep in firing for longer.

Since the nerf gun is also larger, it suits kids who are fans of stealth shooting and the navy seals. It can be the first firing weapon next to smaller nerf guns and provide the shooting power needed in all types of battles.

Convenient features
The convenience of the nerf gun is what makes it unique. It’s practically a 2-in-1 design that can work in various battling scenarios. Its shooting range is impressive, as with the best guns in its class. Reaching shooting speeds of up to 90 feet, it is capable to eliminate enemies from a distance.

In terms of looks, the gun comes in a combination of blue and orange. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come in any other color variations. Kids don’t have the freedom to rely on an all-black design at the moment. At the moment, this is not possible and those wishing to rely on an all-stealth option need to look elsewhere.

Verdict
This versatile 2-in-1 design is ready to offer 12 more nerf darts next to the standard 12 darts.

8. Megalodon Nerf N-Strike Mega Toy Blaster

Design features
Not many nerf guns can offer 20 nerf darts in a rotating drum. But the Mega Toy Blaster impresses with its firing capacity. Rapid fire and continuous fire are among its strengths as a result. While it is a toy, it certainly resembles various famous automatics such as the Thompson.

Its design is based on the crank to fire principles. Users need to crank the handle back and forth to fire the darts. A slam fire option is also available it works with simple trigger holds. But kids should be aware its larger design might require both hands as it’s not the type of weapon which is handled with one hand only.

Convenient features
20 nerf darts are included in the pack. Since they can be fired in a matter of seconds, kids need a few extra packs of darts as a backup. 30-packs are not an option, given 40 darts are needed for 2 refills. This is why the recommended larger 120-darts pack is the way to go.

The big red blaster is also impressive for kids who want to make an entrance. It is not an option to carry around while traveling given its large size. Furthermore, kids should also be ready to deal with the most pressing issues of storage space as the gun won’t fit under the bed.

Verdict
With impressive shooting capacity, the nerf gun is certainly a hit when going after multiple opponents.

9. Nerf Fortnite Sp-L Elite Dart Blaster

Design features
This nerf gun is one of the fast-acting designs kids can rely on. Inspired by the true Fortnite guns, it is one of the few which come with a detachable barrel. Kids rely on the gun to have a real shoot out but they can also consider is as a great back-up for any of the rifle-inspired nerf guns.

With a compact design, the gun also suits traveling kids. Those taking their nerf guns to the park might not be able to carry any other larger nerf guns and the Fornite Sp-L Elite Dar Blaster is a top second choice.

Convenient features
There are 3 nerf darts inside the gun. This is why it’s mainly suitable when firing and close-by opponents. It’s not the option to consider for those who want to shoot from a distance as the darts don’t have sufficient propelling power to reach the enemies.

Loading the gun is easy as well. The top opens quickly and kids can add 3 more nerf darts to the gun. Those who might also prefer to carry the gun in a pocket can also remove the barrel and take advantage of the compact size the guns can offer.

Verdict
This nerf gun is mainly suitable for close-distance shooting in enclosed spaces.

10. Strongarm Nerf N-Strike Elite Toy Blaster

Design features
This capable shooter is available in 3 colors. Clear, purple and orange combinations make it a rare gun that is made in different colors. As a result, kids can match it with other toys or clothing to get a more personalized or immersive firing experience.

Its design favors up to 6 nerf darts to be fired at the same time. The slam fire function is seen on other guns from the manufacturer. But the size and the color options are what make the difference.

Convenient features
Firing nerf darts up to 90 feet places the gun in a select range among the best designs in its class. Its impressive performance is what counts when it comes to the success rate of eliminating opponents from a distance. It also means the gun is too powerful for indoor use at home, where a smaller weapon might to the job a bit better.

Verdict
This unique-looking nerf gun impresses with its modern design which represents a future-proof purchase more than any other alternative.