I'm not sure what you mean when you say "manual". If you're talking about a hammer, then, yes, there's a difference
I tried an electric one once and it was extremely underpowered and I wouldn't recommend it. I now have 3 different pneumatic nailers and I'd say those are the only way to go.
Mike
Neither...
You want air operated nail guns or none at all.
Check the Campbell-Hausfield Website. They frequently have nailer kits which bundle discontinued models of their air compressors with a nailer at reasonable prices. That's how I got mine and I use a collection of a brad nailer, finish nailer and staple nailers more times than I would have ever imagined. As a bonus, I can attach a blow nozzle to the end of the air hose and make a big mess blowing all the dust around.
The small (pancake/hot dog) compressors are good enough for nailers. I don't think they provide enough air for conventional spray guns. However, I get the impression that conventional spraying is on its way out. To be replaced by HVLP.
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