Discover the best tattoo machines for beginners with expert reviews, ratings, and tips. Choose the ideal tool for a confident start to your tattooing journey.
To kick things off, it’s important to note that within the professional tattoo artist community, the term “tattoo gun” is considered incorrect and somewhat frowned upon. The more accurate terminology is “tattoo machine.” However, recognizing that many individuals still use the former term in their search queries, we’ve included both in this article.
Selecting a tattoo machine, being a tattoo artist’s most crucial tool, demands thoughtful consideration rather than a hasty decision. The choice of equipment significantly influences the quality of the artist’s work. Whether you’re on the lookout for your initial tattoo machine or aiming to upgrade to a higher-quality one, this comprehensive list has got you covered. We’ve scrutinized and reviewed ten of the finest tattoo machines available in the market, providing you with a list of individual pros and cons to facilitate your decision-making process.
For professionals, it’s advisable to bypass the kits featured in this list. Nevertheless, we’ve included them to serve as entry points for beginners to gain practice.
1. Linetion Sworder Wireless Tattoo Machine – Best Overall
Product Description: The Linetion Sworder Wireless Tattoo Machine stands out as the best tattoo machine for beginners in the tattooing realm. This wireless rotary tattoo machine boasts adjustable voltage, a 4.0mm stroke, and an advanced driving system for seamless operation. Powered by a robust 2250 mAh lithium-ion battery, it delivers an impressive five to eight hours of continuous work on a single charge. Recharging is a breeze, taking only two to three hours to get back to full capacity. Notably, its versatility shines through, as it can effortlessly convert to a traditional coil-style gun if the need arises. The Linetion Sworder, weighing just under 200g, ensures excellent steadiness, minimal vibration, and quiet operation. It excels in lining, shading, and color packing, making it the best tattoo machine for beginners in professional settings.
Pros:
- Excellent workmanship
- Low vibration
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Requires lubrication before use
- Slightly heavier than most wireless tattoo machines
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2. Kwadron Equalizer Proton Rotary Pen Tattoo Machine – Runner Up
Product Description: The Kwadron Equalizer Proton Rotary Pen Tattoo Machine emerges as one of the best tattoo machines for beginners in the realm of rotary tattoo machines. Featuring a robust motor, lightweight body, and ergonomic design, this machine is suitable for a wide range of tattooing applications, from filling and shading to dotting and lining. Crafted with precision from aviation aluminum, it minimizes vibration and noise during operation. The Kwadron Equalizer accommodates all cartridge and needle types, offering versatility from 0 to 4.5mm and 3.5mm. Though lacking a click-adjust function, its reliability and compatibility make it a top-tier choice for beginners.
Pros:
- High-quality anodized aluminum housing
- Powerful motor
- Compatible with all cartridge needles
Cons:
- Absence of click-adjust function
- Requires cleaning before use due to a light greasy film
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3. Mast Archer Wireless Tattoo Machine Rotary – Best Wireless Operation
Product Description: The Mast Archer Tattoo Machine stands out as a cordless, pen-type tattoo gun, excelling in wireless operation. Available in various shades, this machine is considered one of the best tattoo machines for beginners, as it is compatible with all cartridge sizes, powered by a 2,000mAh built-in battery. The Mast Archer delivers substantial power, handling a 14-round liner (10v) and an 11-curved mag (8.1v) with ease. With a remarkable battery life of up to eight hours on a 6-volt operation and six hours on 8 to 10 volts, it can even function while charging. Beginner-friendly, it features a 3.5mm stroke length, making it suitable for packing, lining, and shading. Its simplicity, combined with reliable performance, makes it an all-around top choice for best tattoo machines for beginners.
Pros:
- Works while charging
- Long battery life
- Plenty of power for large needle groupings
Cons:
- Direct drive motor has no give, requiring caution to avoid skin damage
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4. Hawink Rotary Short Pen Tattoo Machine – Best Value
Product Description: The Hawink Rotary CNC-Q1 Tattoo Machine is a testament to value without compromise. Equipped with a potent Faulhaber German motor, this machine glides smoothly and seamlessly on the skin. Its lightweight and stable design contribute to ease of use and mastery. Operating with a quiet motor, it suits tattoo artists who prefer a serene working environment. Boasting a 3.5mm stroke length, the Hawink Rotary CNC-Q1 excels in color packing, linings, and shading. Its quality rivals more expensive pens, making it an excellent all-around choice and one of the best tattoo machines for beginners and professionals alike.
Pros:
- Aircraft aluminum alloy frame
- Adjustable, ergonomic grip
- Smooth and quiet operation
Cons:
- Sizable grip
- Motor may heat up after extended use
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5. Saikoya Wireless Tattoo Machine
Product Description:
The Saikoya Wireless Tattoo Machine, one of the best tattoo machines for beginners, presents a pen-style tattoo gun equipped with a built-in coreless motor, making it an excellent choice for those entering the tattooing landscape. With a maximum power supply of 12v, it achieves impressive speeds of up to 12,000 rpm. Constructed from CNC-machined aluminum alloy, this machine strikes a perfect balance between lightweight design and formidable power.
One of its standout features is the substantial 1950mAh battery capacity, ensuring a prolonged tattooing session with up to 10 hours of usage on a full charge. In the event of a battery depletion, the machine seamlessly switches to RCA mode, providing added convenience. The adjustable stroke length of 3.5mm allows for customization, catering to various tattooing styles and preferences.
Not only does the Saikoya Wireless Tattoo Machine offer impressive technical specifications, but it also provides an out-of-the-box, hassle-free experience. The minimal vibration and noise enhance the overall comfort for both the artist and the client, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable tattooing process. With its user-friendly features and reliability, this machine stands out as an ideal choice, especially for those who are new to the art of tattooing.
Pros:
- Long battery life of up to 10 hours
- Compatible with most needle cartridges
- Adjustable stroke length
- Large LCD screen
Cons:
- The tattoo gun is fairly heavy
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6. Cheyenne Hawk Pen – Best for Professionals
Product Description:
The Cheyenne Hawk Pen, recognized as one of the best tattoo machines for beginners, stands as the epitome of professional-grade tattooing equipment. This exceptional pen-style machine delivers an unparalleled experience, boasting superb balance, an ergonomic body, and a gentle yet powerful operation. Designed to cater to a wide range of tattooing projects, the Cheyenne Hawk Pen excels in contouring, sketching, and shading, making it an ideal choice for artists seeking versatility in their work.
The responsive mode of the Cheyenne Hawk Pen enhances the frequency of the reactive stitch and hit, ensuring precision and control during the tattooing process. Its availability in glossy black, purple, pink, and red not only adds a touch of style but also allows for seamless compatibility with other Hawk pen grips, enabling users to personalize their experience. The lightweight and compact size of the pen, akin to holding an actual pen, contribute to highly precise tattoo designs, making it particularly suitable for beginners looking to refine their skills.
Adding to its appeal, the Cheyenne Hawk Pen features a rotating 3.5mm jack connection, providing flexibility and ease of use. With its combination of cutting-edge technology, ergonomic design, and user-friendly features, this machine solidifies its position as one of the best tattoo machines for beginners, offering an exceptional tool for artists embarking on their tattooing journey.
Pros:
- Continuous operation without heating up
- Roll inhibition design prevents rolling when put down
- Low vibration and noise
- Stable build with decent weight
Cons:
- Higher than average price point
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7. Stigma Tattoo Kit Rotary Tattoo Machine Kit – Best Budget Option
Product Description: The Stigma Tattoo Kit stands as an economical and comprehensive choice for budding artists. This kit includes a pen-style tattoo gun, along with 20 needle cartridges, 7 ink bottles, and an LED power supply. With a versatile needle stroke of 0 to 4.5mm, this pen-style tattoo machine packs power at an affordable price. Its 5.5v motor reaches a rotating speed of up to 9,500r/m, catering to shading, sketching, lining, and more. Ideal for those starting their tattooing journey, the Stigma Tattoo Kit ensures reliable construction and smooth operation. As one of the best tattoo machines for beginners, it offers a practical and affordable solution for practice and personal use.
Pros:
- Full beginners kit with high-quality cartridges and ink
- Reliable construction
- Smooth operation
Cons:
- Doesn’t work at certain voltages
- Doesn’t have the quietest operation
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8. Wormhole Tattoo Kit – Best for Practice
Product Description:
The Wormhole Tattoo Kit stands out as one of the best tattoo machines for beginners, offering an exceptional starting point for apprentices and novices venturing into the art of tattooing. This comprehensive kit includes two tattoo machines—one dedicated to lining and the other for shading—providing a well-rounded foundation for aspiring tattoo artists. With 20 needles, ink, clip cord, foot pedals, O-rings, and more included, this kit ensures that beginners have all the essential tools to kickstart their tattooing journey.
Both machines in the Wormhole Tattoo Kit operate within the optimal RPM range of 6000 to 7200, delivering a balanced performance tailored for beginners. Powered by 10 copper wire coils, these machines offer a penetrating force that allows for effective tattooing, making it easier for beginners to achieve desired results. The kit is specifically designed to teach beginners the basics of tattooing, providing a valuable learning experience.
While the Wormhole Tattoo Kit is an excellent tool for training purposes, it is recommended for use on artificial skin and fruit, acknowledging its limitations in power and quality compared to professional-grade machines. This emphasis on training makes it an ideal choice for beginners looking to hone their skills in a controlled environment. With its inclusive features and focus on education, the Wormhole Tattoo Kit stands as a reliable and user-friendly option for those taking their first steps into the world of tattoo artistry.
Pros:
- Comes with everything needed for practice
- Consistent performance
- Six months replacement warranty
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer a lot of power
- May cause discomfort when used on real skin
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9. Solong Tattoo Pen Kit
Product Description:
The Solong Tattoo Pen Kit, recognized as one of the best tattoo machines for beginners, positions itself as an ideal entry-level package for aspiring tattoo artists, offering a comprehensive set of tools to kickstart their journey into the world of tattooing. The kit includes an impressive 50 cartridge tattoo needles, a rechargeable tattoo battery, and a 1500mAh DC connection, providing all the essentials for beginners to explore and practice their craft.
Operating at a voltage range of 7 to 11v, the Solong Tattoo Pen strikes an optimal balance between affordability and performance, making it a suitable choice for those just starting in the tattooing realm. Crafted with precision using CNC-machined aluminum alloy and sealed with an anodized finish, this machine ensures both durability and functionality, promising longevity for beginners as they develop their skills.
Functioning as a versatile all-rounder, the Solong Tattoo Pen accommodates various tattooing styles, from precise lining to smooth shading. While it may not possess the highest battery life, it offers a reliable performance, and its ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip with minimal vibration. This feature makes it particularly appealing to beginners who are still refining their technique and seeking a machine that is easy to handle.
With its affordability, durability, and versatility, the Solong Tattoo Pen Kit stands out as an excellent choice for those embarking on their tattooing journey, establishing itself as one of the best tattoo machines for beginners in the market.
Pros:
- CNC-machined aluminum alloy construction for durability
- Fits nicely in the hand
- Minimal vibration
Cons:
- Doesn’t have the highest battery life
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10. Dragonhawk Tattoo Machine Kit Rotary Tattoo
Product Description:
The Dragonhawk Tattoo Machine Kit stands out as one of the best tattoo machines for beginners, presenting a comprehensive rotary tattoo kit tailored to provide a holistic and user-friendly tattooing experience. This all-inclusive kit comprises essential components, including 20 disposable needle cartridges, a powerbox supply, black tattoo ink, and a variety of accessories, ensuring that beginners have everything they need to embark on their tattooing journey.
At the heart of this kit is the ergonomic and lightweight pen-style machine, designed for comfort and ease of use. The machine features a powerful motor with an advanced gear system, ensuring a smooth and efficient operation characterized by minimal noise and vibration. This design consideration is particularly beneficial for beginners who may prioritize a comfortable and controlled tattooing experience.
The Dragonhawk Tattoo Machine is equipped with built-in short circuit and leakage protection, adding an extra layer of safety to the tattooing process. With a power-saving mode, the machine can run for up to 10 hours on a single charge, providing ample time for practice and tattooing sessions. While it offers solid and consistent operation, the kit acknowledges the potential for improved power output, providing beginners with room to grow and explore their skills.
In summary, the Dragonhawk Tattoo Machine Kit combines functionality, safety features, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for beginners seeking a reliable and beginner-friendly tattoo machine. With its thoughtful design and inclusive features, this kit establishes itself as one of the best tattoo machines for beginners in the market.
Pros:
- Made of premium cast iron and composite material
- Easy to use and set up
- Packed with beginner-friendly accessories
- Solid and consistent operation
Cons:
- Power output could be better
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How many tattoo machines should a tattoo artist have?
Answer: Tattoo artists ideally should have at least two tattoo machines at their disposal. This ensures a backup machine is readily available in case of technical issues or the need for charging during extended sessions.
- How long does a tattoo machine last?
Answer: The lifespan of a tattoo machine depends on its quality. Cheaper models may last a year or two with continuous use, while higher-quality machines, typically priced over $200, can endure for more than five years.
- Is the ink in tattoo kits safe on human skin?
Answer: Generally, the ink included in tattoo kits is safe for human skin. However, it’s advisable to scrutinize the ingredients to ensure they won’t harm the skin. It’s crucial to avoid inks containing metals like chromium, cadmium, lead, titanium, and nickel, as these can trigger allergic reactions and pose potential health risks.
- Is it called a tattoo gun or a tattoo machine?
Answer: In the professional tattoo industry, the term “tattoo machine” is commonly used. However, among beginners and the general public, the more colloquial term “tattoo gun” is widespread. The choice of terminology often depends on one’s level of familiarity within the tattooing community.
Conclusion
The article provides a comprehensive guide to the best tattoo machines for beginners, offering expert reviews, ratings, and valuable tips for a confident start to the tattooing journey. It emphasizes the significance of the term “tattoo machine” within the professional community while recognizing the continued use of “tattoo gun” in search queries.
The list reviews ten outstanding tattoo machines, covering a range of types, including wireless rotary machines, pen-style devices, and comprehensive kits. Each machine is thoroughly evaluated, highlighting its pros and cons to aid beginners in making informed decisions. The article advises professionals to bypass the kits featured but acknowledges their inclusion as entry points for beginners to gain practice.
Highlighted machines include the Linetion Sworder Wireless Tattoo Machine, Kwadron Equalizer Proton Rotary Pen Tattoo Machine, Mast Archer Wireless Tattoo Machine Rotary, Hawink Rotary Short Pen Tattoo Machine, Saikoya Wireless Tattoo Machine, Cheyenne Hawk Pen, Stigma Tattoo Kit Rotary Tattoo Machine Kit, Wormhole Tattoo Kit, Solong Tattoo Pen Kit, and Dragonhawk Tattoo Machine Kit Rotary Tattoo.
The article concludes with frequently asked questions, addressing concerns such as the number of tattoo machines a professional should have, the lifespan of tattoo machines, the safety of inks in tattoo kits, and the preferred terminology within the tattooing community.
In summary, the article serves as an invaluable resource for beginners by providing insights into the best tattoo machines tailored for their needs. It combines expert reviews, detailed product descriptions, and frequently asked questions to offer a comprehensive guide to the best tattoo machines for beginners in the market.
