15 Best Tattoo Machine Brands Reviews in 2024 – BestTattooGuide.com

As a tattoo artist, it’s paramount to have the best tattoo machine so as to deliver the best ink drawings to your clients. But with many brands available, choosing the right one can be a major challenge, especially to the beginners. Some of them may not live up to their reputation.

Although having the right machine is a nice move, it’s advisable to tattoo anyone only if you’re well trained. So, are you looking for a new gun to add in your collection? We’ve compiled the best machines as recommended by professional artists all over the world.

When picking, we used some criteria which include the size and shape of the gun, ability to make adjustments, build quality, type of the machine, price and requirements. What followed is hand-on testing and comparing them to ensure the best deal.

Before getting down to the context, we will closely look at different types of tattoo machines. In the end, you’ll be able to make an informed buying decision.

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Types of Tattoo Machines

It’s no secret! You might be confused on which tattoo machine is the best to buy as there are two types of tattoo machine to choose from;

• Rotary tattoo machine
• Coil tattoo machine

Start out by analyzing different features that come with both the rotary tattoo machine and the coil tattoo machine and you’ll be ready to go.

Coil tattoo machine

In a coil tattoo machine, the current passes through the coils which derive the armature bar attached to needles. The needles inject and retract in clients skin. Coil machines tend to be much noisy and vibrating.

I know you’ve heard vibrating noise when you’re passing through a tattoo shop. If yes, that’s a coil tattoo machine? Coil machines come with one, two and three coils.  The two coil machine are considered as a standard one

The two coils and metal road make the machine heavier, making it difficult to use for a long time. The coil machine allows a small margin of error while tattooing so it is good for beginners. You can tune and adjust your machine according to your requirement. Coil machines can’t be used for lining and shading both at one time.

Pros and cons of using coil tattoo machines

Rotary tattoo machine

In a rotary machine there is a small electric motor attached to the needles, allowing the needle to move up and down. Rotary machines are extremely quiet and vibrate at a lower rate than coil machines.

Also, they’re  way smoother and faster than a coil machine. Rotary machines due to motors are quite lighter and easy to use.

You can work with these machines for longer hours without fatigue. The other best thing about the rotary machine is that it hits smother two the skin and clients skin heal faster. If the operator is not experienced with it, then be rest assured that there will be a huge margin error.

Rotary can be used both for lining and shading by just changing the needles.

Pros and cons of using rotary machine

Tattoo Kit

We need several tools and accessories to become a master in the art of tattooing but for a beginner, it is very hard to find all these quality things. That’s the reason why we all need a tattoo kit.

Tattoo kit will remove your all burden of buying accessories. The best thing about buying a kit is that you will find all accessories at a cheap price but if you want a good quality product then make sure you choose the best brand in the market.

Pros and cons of using Tattoo Kit

Best Tattoo Machine Brands

There are many tattoo machine brands in the market that claim their excellent performance but we have to choose the one that best suits our requirement. So here are our best picks for tattoo machine brands.

Dragonhawk

Dragonhawk is the most trusted brand in the tattoo industry. It was established in 2001 by two great tattoo artists.

The company is well-known for its build quality and customer support. Dragon hawk believes in customer satisfaction and that’s the reason they provide a full money-back guarantee for those who aren’t satisfied after using their products.

Dragonhawk Brass Coils Tattoo Machine both Shader and Liner

This is the best coil tattoo machine made by Dragonhawk. It is a heavy, durable tattoo machine made with a brass frame with finished shining. It comes with both liner and shader with such an affordable prize that you can’t even imagine. According to some experts it is the best machine for beginners as it’s very easy to use and control.

Shader comes with 10 wrap coils, whereas linear comes with 8wrap coil. The shader runs at 115-120Hz with the power supply of 7-8 watt and while the liner runs with the speed of 140-150Hz with 7-8 volts.

The machine is smooth and a little bit heavy but soon you’ll get used to it. The machine is made with dedication and perfectly balanced. Thousands of customer are amazed by the result of this coil machine

Dragonhawk Tattoo Coil Machine Kit

Maybe you’re a beginner in tattooing and you don’t know what things are required for tattooing and you also want to purchase a whole tattoo kit under budget so this might be proofed best for you. In this kit you will get the following things. It is the best cheap tattoo machine you will ever get in this price range.

You’ll be surprised to know that demand for best coil tattoo machines increased by more than 58% in these years. There are two coil tattoo machines – one is a liner and another is a shader to power them. You’ll get a power supply and two clip cord to connect them to the power supply. A foot pedal to terminate power to the machine as required and 10 popular color immortal inks that are famous brands made in the USA. EO sterilized tattoo needles, tips and more accessories for tattoo artists.

Both hawk tattoo machine liner and shader are made from superior kind of metal and are well balanced with 10 wrap coils and spring is heavily elastic and anti-fatigue that will be helpful for long time working.

The other best part about this kit is that it will give you high economic value as a beginner. These all bunch of things you will get at an affordable price. You will be amazed by this kit.

Dragonhawk Mast Pen Rotary Tattoo Machine

Mast pen rotary tattoo machines are really awesome, lightweight tattoo making machines. The best thing about it is that it looks like a pen and it is very easy to handle. Have a nice grip. This machine is recommended for beginners. After using several months, the artist found that it is the best rotary pen tattoo machine that is available in the market.

It’s a lightweight pan style tattoo machine made from space aluminum frame and has a length of 11.7 cm with 120 gram weight. This machine features a powerful Japanese motor with an advanced gear system that makes it smooth, reliable and quite operational without any vibration.

Its Cartridges 100% E.O Gas Sterilized and individually packaged and needles made with 316 medical grade stainless steel and have better ink flow. The machine is compatible with all kinds of cartridges and needles.

You can change the stroke length with2.8mm to 3.5mm to help accomplish a wide variety of tattoos. Dragon hawk comes with close mouthed tips which can make needles strike more steady and grab more ink each time.

Dragonhawk Extreme Rotary Tattoo Machine

Extreme rotary tattoo machine is a direct drive mortar that is more powerful and will run for a long time consistently without heating.

The Weight: 6.17oz, Dimension3.7in x 2.2in of machine. It is made from a carbon steel body frame and with powerful durable Japanese motors. Its design is simple and smooth.

Don’t be surprised that this machine can be used for both lining and shading. It has long lasting stability and by adjusting voltage you can adjust the frequency of the machine. It will be softer to the skin and let the skin heal faster. Could create more styles of tattoo creation.

It has an oily slider that reduces the friction and lowers the sound. The machine is silent and stable and you’ll be amazed by its smoothness and running compatible with traditional tattoo needles and cartridges. For shading it requires 7-8 voltage and lining 8-9 voltage are required and length of stroke is 3.5mm.

Most importantly, it’s a professional durable, smooth and durable rotary machine. This is extremely useful for different kinds of tattoo work. It can do both lining and shading without any hitch.

Even better, this is awesome for professional artists as they refine their work. Clients will pop up their eyes with its extraordinary results without forgetting the smile on their faces.

Cheyenne hawk

Cheyenne hawk is not only famous for machines but also for the manufacturing of some other tattooing accessories like needles and grips.

The company is known for their build quality so the professionals pay proper attention while dealing with the safety and hygiene of the products. The company also took the first mover advantage in the manufacturing of single use cartridges

Cheyenne hawk Tattoo Pen

Cheyenne Hawk is a unique kind of tattoo machine and the biggest innovation in the tattoo industry. This revolutionary machine is specially designed to closely resemble an actual pen, which will facilitate even more precise tattoo procedures than before.

Unlike others, it will give you 100% accuracy and control while working on a very micro and sophisticated tattoo design.

You can use 21mm grip or 25 mm grip as per your desire. The ultra-slim pen does not need a start-up facility. It will come with 25m grip, connection cable, phono plug cord, pen tray and instruction manual.

This tattoo machine is an entirely new machine with a new grip in the market. It is specially imported from Germany. However it is more expensive than other ordinary machines and not recommended for tattoo beginners.

Cheyenne Hawk Tattoo Pen Machine

Cheynee Hawk tattoo pen provides you with everything that you can expect from a rotary tattoo machine.

The machine is made up of premium quality aluminium that helps to provide more durability. It is a pen-shaped machine that provides you with a proper gripping over the machine so you will get an ultimate tattooing experience.

Additionally, the company offers a 30-day return guarantee in case you are not satisfied after using this machine.

There are a number of color options available so that you can choose according to your choice and preference.

Bishop

Bishop is the reputed name in the manufacturing of premium tattoo machines. The company was established by Franco Vescovi in 2008. Within a short span of time, the company achieved good heights and growth.

The company manufactures its products in the USA and backs all the products with a one year warranty that maintains the trust of their customers.

Bishop Authentic Rotary Tattoo Machine

Another workhorse to consider should be this one. Bishop tattoo machine is a professional quality tattoo machine specially designed for highly professional and experienced tattoo artists to refine their art at the furthest level.

It is made from billet aircraft aluminium which makes it extra light and easy to handle. This particular design has helped many artists with wrist pain issues and carpal tunnel syndrome cramps, allowing them to work hours longer than they could have previously.

It has excellent finish, and each machine is hand-assembled and hand polished. This machine is authenticated by many renowned tattoo professionals. Bishop is a reputable brand in tattoo machine manufacturing. If you are a tattoo artist then this machine is specially designed for you. however, it is more expensive than other regular tattoo machines.

Moreover, the machine uses Swiss made MAXON motors which are powerful and will generate a linear motion of the needle. It uses a double-sized needle clip to create downforce to the needle, and the further clip holds the needle in its place and eliminates any lateral motion.

Similarly to high quality machines, this brand contains both shader and liner. For shading run it at 7.5 to 8.5 volts. For lining, run the machine at 9 volts. You can smoothly refine ultra-fine details of tattoo design with this tattoo machine.

Redscorpion

Redscorpion is the famous brand established in Germany mainly known for the manufacturing of coil tattoo machines.

The build quality of the machine is very much satisfactory and that’s the reason most of the people gave it 5 stars after using this machine for quite some time.

The company claims a full refund on all its product and full-time customer support for the queries related to the machine.

Redscorpion Rotary Tattoo Machine Gun

The machine is made up with a premium aluminum alloy frame that provides stability to this machine.

The machine is well known for the speed and performance and the other best thing about Redscorpion is that the Appearance of Anodized Surface is very unique that attracts your eye attention.

The engine of a machine manufactured by Japanese technology and that’s the reason behind its high power with low energy consumption.

The machine provides a power controlling option that helps to maintain the uniform speed and reduce the skin damage of your client.

The package includes one rotary machine, one Aluminum Cartridge Tattoo Grip, 2pcs Cartridge Needles with one DC clip cord.

Redscorpion Cast Iron Liner Coil Tattoo Machine

It is the finest coil tattoo machine that comes with excellent magnetic connectivity that keeps you away from short circuits.

Redscorpion performs well in creating a simple and smooth line and that’s the reason artists love this machine.

The coolest thing about this machine is that the frame is processed by a proper line that provides an error-free tattoo session.

The manufacturers of the machine pay special attention to the performance and that’s the reason it allows 8 hour nonstop tattoo sessions.

The machine is very light weighted so your hand veins will not get tired after using it for a long time.

EGO Tattoo

Ego tattoo is another most common name in the tattoo industry. The company has full command on the manufacturing of rotary tattoo machines.

The best thing about this company is that they configure their rotary tattoo machine in such a manner that you can use them for lining and shading and that makes it different from other brands.

Ego Rotary Tattoo Machine Switch Pen

It is an actual pen-shaped rotary machine that will help to refine your tattooing skill.

The machine comes with easy on/off accessibility that allows controlling the machine according to the use. So you don’t need to deal with foot pedaling during the tattoo session.

The machine provides an easy gripping that makes you hold the machine in a long tattoo session.

The Precision Japanese made motor provides power to your machine without excessive use of electricity. So if you are looking for an easily accessible tattoo machine then it is the best option to go with.

Solong

Solong is the most famous brand generally known for their kits. They offer everything that is essential for tattooing.

The company believes in customer satisfaction and that’s why they ask for review after using their products. It helps them to improve their quality and knowing the errors.

The prices of machines are very much affordable and in order to make the relationship the company offers a 6 month warranty that definitely enhances your purchasing decision.

Solong Rotary Tattoo Machine

If you are looking for an option that is suitable for liner and shader then solong rotary tattoo machine is the best option to consider.

Solong comes with classic bronze design that gives a premium feel to an artist.

The best thing about this machine is that it provides a low noise tattoo session with a high quality engine that ultimately helps to reduce your electricity expense.

Another best part of this machine is that it comes with an auto cooling feature that maintains your machine temperature even after a long session.

Finally, this light-weighted machine can be operated easily that helps an artist in crafting some difficult tats.

Solong Tattoo Pen

It is another top performing machine manufactured by solong company.

Well, this gun is made up with a space aluminum alloy frame that provides error free tattoo sessions. The machine is very premium in quality so it will not heat up after performing a long tattoo session.

It is a pen shape machine that comes with a fine grip that provides easy accessibility to a tattoo artist. Other than this the weight of the machine is very low so your hand veins will not get tired after holding for a long time.

It’s worth the hype because it can be operated with all brand tattoo power supplies so you don’t have to bear some extra expense for power supply.

In this package you will get 1 hybrid tattoo pen, 1 jack plug, 1 needle and a connection line.

FK Irons 

FK irons is another highly reputable brand in the tattoo industry. The company is mostly known for the durability of their product, which are made from strong and sturdy material.

FK Irons Spectra Direkt2 

This high-performance machine that uses standard needles and cartridges to make work easier. The machine provides great gripping that will allow tattoo artists to perform a long tattoo session without any issue.

Known for its quality, the machine is well-crafted with a solid rod of 6606 that provides the ultimate durability to the machine. Along with this, the machine operates silently operation at low or high voltage of current.

The machine comes in 5 different colors so you can choose according to your choice and preference. Also, the machine is quite good for daily operations as it doesn’t need lubricant to maintain the speed and flow.

So if you are looking for a durable and maintenance free solution then this is a great option to go with.

Spectra Xion Gorilla

Here is another brand that is up for grabs. FK Irons is a pen style tattoo machine that gives full control to show the creativity of tattoo artists.

You’ll like it’s lightweight feature that makes it comfortable when holding. Also, it gives solid gripping that doesn’t affect your hand veins even after a long session.

This quality gun comes with a secure ratcheting system that allows the artist to lock in a needle depth setting. The best part is that the grip of this machine is autoclavable that will allow tattoo artists to show the best performance.

Also, the machine has a heat adjusting system that will not allow the machine to heat excessively. Another best part is that machines can connect with all types of power supplies that help to choose the best available option in the market.

FK Irons Spectra Xion

Looking for an affordable option by FK irons? Spectra Xion is a great option to go with.

The machine grabs your attention by its solid build quality and its attractive design. Also, the machine comes with economical price ranges that don’t disturb your pocket balance.

Better still, the machine includes interchangeable strokes that are 3.2 mm and 3.7 mm that suit different styles of tattooing. Also, the machine comes with an adjustable grip that can be adjusted with all types of needle.

Lastly, it’s an economical and durable option so it may be the one you’re looking for.

Things to consider while buying a tattoo machine

In our buying guide, we will take you through all things that you should consider when selecting the best tattoo machine as per your requirements. The machine is best for someone who may not be best for your requirements. So here are the following things you look at while buying a tattoo machine.

Requirement

First off, you don’t make a purchase blindly. Before buying a tattoo machine, you should see the purpose of purchasing a machine. For what purpose you need the machine. Are you a tattoo artist or a tattoo beginner? If you want to use it to learn tattooing, then you can buy any cheap tattoo machine to develop your skills. If you’re buying a tattoo machine for your tattoo shop, then it should be high of quality.

Purpose

You’ll get two types of machine. One is a liner, and the other is a shader. If you want a machine that draws lines, then you should go for the liner. If you want a machine for shading tattoos, try out a shader.

However, both liner and shader also classified into two categories of a tattoo machine. One is a coil tattoo machine, and other is a rotary tattoo machine.

Both can handle the same work, but there is a difference in mechanism and technology. Remember to check their pros and cons and decide which one is best for you.

Quality and material

Before buying any machine, check it’s quality. Always buy a tattoo machine from a reputed brand.

Also, make sure it’s made from top-notch quality material. There are many tattoo machines which came for 5 bucks.

Please stay away from these cheap machines because they aren’t durable and also not refine your art. Always buy a machine which is made from high-quality plastic or metal.

Price

Last but not least, there are tattoo machines that even cost 1000$, but it all depends on how much you are willing to spend. So it must fit in your budget.

Nonetheless, if your budget is extremely low, like ten bucks then please wait and collect some more to meet the budget of a good one. There is no use of buying a useless piece of crap.

Weight

weight is another critical factor when it comes to tattoo machines. It will affect the performance and the frequency of your work to clients.

Your machine should be light weighted so that it can be held for a long period of time without any fatigue.

Grip

If your machine includes fine gripping then it will not disturb your finger veins and as a result you can focus more on tattoo work.

Most of the tattoo machines come in as a pen shape. This helps in providing fine grip when holding it.

FAQ Session

Is it dangerous to tattoo yourself?

Applying tattoos on your own body is not safe as there are high chances of infections. On the same, making tattoos on your body or your friend’s body is illegal.

So it is highly recommended to get a tattoo from a distinguished tattoo artist.

Why does my tattoo machine keep cutting out?

If your tattoo machine is cutting out in between the tattoo session then it can be due to oxidized point or contact.

Should you face this issue, try and clean your clip cord prongs with a piece of sandpaper .On other hand if the machine cuts down when you move the tattoo needle then it may be due to poor connection. Always check your power supply reading and start again.

Is Dragonhawk a good brand to start my tattooing journey?

Dragonhawk always makes good innovations in tattoo machines and delivers them according to every tattoo artist preference.

The machines are durable, light weighted. Better than that, the machines are extremely affordable to a novice and beginners.With it, you won’t regret why you got it over other brands.

Conclusion

Choosing the best tattoo machine isn’t rocket science – it’s easy as long as you’ve the features to look for in your fingertips. With our in-depth review, buyer guide and FAQ section, you now have everything at hand.

Get a high quality machine that will get the job done. It should be light and deliver numerous purposes in your tattooing arsenal. If you’d need to address or have any question or tips regarding our review, let’s know in our comment section below.

Also Read: Best tattoo transfer & stencil paper Reviews and Guide

Sources

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tattoo_machine

https://medium.com/@jhaiho17/tattoing-101-tattoo-machines-materials-b84b73bce3c8