10 Best Tattoo Machines For Beginners in 2024

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Inscribing ink to the skin of a person is a precise art. This beautiful talent requires the precision of a surgeon and the imagination of an artist. Hence, we call the professional of this field as Tattoo Artists.

If you have discovered a newfound interest in this field and feel like you’re ready to explore your creative streak, you need the right partner. A tattoo machine is an indispensable requirement for a tattoo artist. Like a brush for a painter, and gun for a soldier, these equipment are your medium through which you bring your creativity to life on the bodies of others.

There was a time when people used needles and cups of colors manually; the process was excruciatingly painful. But today, modern innovations have introduced us to so many options for tattoo machines. It can also get confusing, especially if you’re a beginner, as there are too many choices.

As a beginner, you don’t know what’s important and how you should select your perfect pic. Therefore, we are bringing you this complete guide that will inform you, answer essential questions, and present you with the list of the best tattoo machines for beginners.

Types Of Tattoo Machine

There are different types of tattoo machines available in the market today. Each one is used for various procedures with different methods. Some artists use a single machine, while others use a set or collection of these machines to carry out their designs and imprint it on the person.

• Rotary

A rotary machine uses an electric motor to operate the needles, recent innovation has seen the integration of the armature bar to increase the overall efficiency of the machine. Many artists prefer rotary to coil because it is lighter to operate and holds a traditional value.

• Coil

It has become the most commonly used machine that utilizes an electromagnetic circuit to drive the needles. With increased efficiency, performance, and power, the coil tattoo machine reduces the damage dealt on the skin.

There are different coil options available from single coil to three and wraps, reaching eight to ten. All of these contribute to the overall performance of the tattoo machine, with minimal chances of errors for the artists. It is an excellent selection for beginners.

• Linear

With shorter contact circuits, linear tattoo machines are a great option to lay down the linework. They are designed to offer deep, dominant, and precise lines in a single stroke. It is a great option to create small and linear tattoos.

• Shader

This type of machine is essential for any tattoo artist who seeks to add definition and details in their work. From textures and tones to shades and dimensions, shaders play a pivotal role. Smoother on the skin with variation in color shades and line work, it is a good selection for colorful tattoos.

• Pneumatic

Expensive yet precise and highly efficient, Pneumatic tattoo machines are an evolved version of the rotary tattoo machine. These machines are a luxury statement and widely used by most professional artists. It uses air pressure and proves to be very light, surpassing rotary and coil tattoo machines.

While Rotary and Coil are the primary choices for any beginner, you can expand your expertise and improve your skillset by learning to operate other machines on the list. It will enable you to offer a diverse range of services.

Comparison Chart Of Top 10 Tattoo Machines For Beginners

10 Best Tattoo Machines For Beginners Reviews

1. Redscorpion Cast Iron Liner Coil Tattoo Machine

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The name Redscorpion is synonymous with making high-quality tattoo machines and gears. Their cast-iron liner coil tattoo machine is one of the most acclaimed portable tattoo machines out there. It is durable, easy to use, and well made.

• Can Work for Long Hours

The user will appreciate how they can work on this coil machine for 7 to 8 hours without a break, and the machine still works smoothly. It is perfect for those who work intensively.

• Excellent Precision

Since the frame of this tattoo machine has a precision line, one will discover that it gives a clean and accurate design. You will also experience a stable and steady speed while using this device, which reduces errors caused by erratic speeding.

• Comes With a 6 Month Warranty

Redscropion covers all manufacturing or quality-related defects in a 6-month warranty. You don’t have to worry about repairs or exchanges for six months.

• Lightweight

Any tattoo machine that weighs less than 8 ounces is considered lightweight, and this Cast Iron Liner machine is just 7 ounces. Its dimensions are 5 x 2 x 4 inches, which makes this product highly portable too. 

• It is affordably priced, in comparison with its alternatives
• The settings are not complicated, which makes it beginner-friendly
• It has high magnetic absorption and is made of 2 wrap coils
• It has accurate magnetic conductivity
• Made of cast iron that gives it durability

• It is prone to corrosion and requires regular oiling
• Its shipping price is very high

2. Bishop Authentic Rotary Tattoo Machine

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If you are looking for artisanal tattoo machines that are crafted with care and give exact designs, then Bishop Authentic Rotary Tattoo Machine should be your pick.

This lightweight, steady, and easy to use machine perfectly combines the ability to execute intricate designs without any complicated methods.

• Hand-assembled

The biggest highlight of this product is that it is constructed with billet aircraft aluminum. The state of art AXIS CNC machines is used in the device. Additionally, Bishop Authentic Rotary machine has been polished by hand, giving it a stunning finish. Since this product hand-assembled, therefore it provides an exact design.

• Lightweight

One of the most important features in the tattoo machine is how lightweight it is. A light machine does not give the artist wrist pain, and it also allows people to get a clear and sharp line. This product just weighs 3.8 ounces and is very easy to handle.

• Ergonomically designed

This product is designed in such a way that the tattoo artist does not feel any problem or restriction while using it. By using it, the artist remains immune from carpal tunnel syndrome. It is designed to give good grip and ease of use.

• Made of Swiss MAXON motors
• Comes with a small lubricator tube
• Made of aircraft-grade aluminum that makes it very strong
• Has fast shipping
• It does not give wrist pain

• Does not come with a cord; it needs to be purchased separately
• Very expensive

3. BRONC Rotary Cartridge Tattoo Machine Gun Kit Pen

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One of the most significant innovations in the world of tattoo artistry is the invention of the pen-style tattoo machine. An excellent example of this technology can be considered to be BRONC Rotary Cartridge Tattoo Machine Gun Kit Pen.

• Lightweight and Simple Construction

This tattoo gun weighs just 154g (5.43oz), and this makes it very portable. You don’t need an extensive set up to work with this tattoo gun. It has a very simple construction that helps the user work without being overwhelmed with too many options.

• Comes With Accessories

The best thing about this product is that it comes with all the accessories that are required for its functioning. You don’t have to spend money on cords and lubricants separately. In the package, you will find 4 cartridge needles, a bag of rubber rings, a tattoo pen, an RCA cord, and a pen tray. Separately these products cost a ton, but you get a great deal by buying them together as a set.

• Reliable Swiss Motor

Unlike most tattoo machines, this one has a strong and stable motor, and yet it makes minimal noise. This is because it has swiss motor powering.

• Has no-load starting voltage
• Comes with accessories, so you don’t have to make any purchases
• Makes less noise
• It comes in different colors
• Has an adjustable stroke range

• It’s shipping weight is 14.9 ounces, even though its real weight is 5.4 ounces
• This device might not work for those who are used to traditional tattoo machines

4. Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit

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Are you looking for a snazzy yet secure tattoo kit? Have you been searching for a full-fledged tattoo kit that is affordable and yet comes with high-quality products?

If yes, then your search ends at Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit. In addition to these things, the makers at Dragonhawk have also taken care of packaging, and you get a big case where you can store these tools properly.

• Full Of Accessories

Once you purchase this kit, you won’t have to spend on buying any accessories or additional tools for the next few months. In this kit, you get 50 sterile tattoo needles, a conventional liner machine, a soft shader machine, a color packed machine, a power line machine, and copper coils. The colors provided are 100 percent vegan and toxin-free.

• Value For Money

For so many accessories and machines, the total price of this tattoo kit is pretty reasonable. Additionally, this is a really good option for those who don’t want to waste their time trying to collect different tools and equipment of tattooing.

• High-Grade Material

All the tools that are part of this kit are made of high-quality stainless steel. This way, you don’t have to worry about rust prevention safeguards such as oiling and to use transparent paint of any sort.

• Vegan-friendly
• Gives smooth lines
• The kit looks stylish
• Comes with a warranty
• Has 10 colors

• The toolkit feels too congested
• Some tools of the kit are very complicated

5. Stigma Rotary Tattoo Machine Pen

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The Stigma Rotary Tattoo Machine Pen is one of the most popular and well-received products that have been launched in recent years. Its main strength lies in how it works perfectly for both lining and shading, which is rare in most tattoo machines. It comes with 20 cartilages in different sizes.

• Ergonomically Made

Any tattoo machine should be easy for the tattoo artist to operate. Keeping this in mind, the makers at Stigma have made it very lightweight and easy to use. Its dimensions are 3.2 x 9.1 x 10.8 inches, and its weight is just 2 pounds.

• Japanese Motor Technology

This tattoo machine is powered with Japan Motors, which give a vibration-free running of the device. By being vibration-free, one can make intricate designs without any error or disturbance. This motor also gets charged quickly and does not overheat

• CE Certified

You don’t have to worry if this product complies with environmental or safety standards since it has CE certification, which indicates that it is safe to use. Before buying a tattoo machine, one must check if it complies with CE stands for their own safety.

• Lightweight and Portable
• Comes with one year warranty
• Comes with 20 piece cartilages
• The cartilages are gas sterilized
• Comes with battery indicator

• More expensive than its alternatives
• Does not come with a storage box

6. Dragonhawk Mast Pen Rotary Tattoo Machine

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The Dragonhawk Mast Pen Rotary Tattoo Machine is made of a powerful motor and has a patent design hard shell. This reasonably priced tattoo machine is excellent for beginners and season tattoo artists who are looking for affordable options. It is made with medical-grade engineering plastic that makes it highly durable by giving it added strength along with medical safety.

• Patent Shell Design

This model has been made with continuous and meticulous research of 365 days. It’s each function was carefully polished and improved until every feature was perfected. As a result of this careful research, the cartilages of this product are made with patented shell design.

This shell design makes sure that the ink is used judiciously, and not a single drop of ink is wasted. The cartilages that come with this product have a high-quality silicone membrane. You will be saving a significant amount of tattoo ink by using these cartilages instead of regular ones.

• Versalite

A sign of a good tattoo machine lies in its ability to provide versatile design. This product is compatible with different tasks like lining, shading, and coloring alike.

• Useful Accessories  

This product comes with 20 cartilages, a storage case, a tattoo pen machine, a foot pedal, a DC cord, and a tattoo machine box.

• Easy to install
• Weights just 120 grams
• It is very efficient with ink usage
• Has flexible voltage compatibility
• Easy to use

• The storage needs to be improved
• Does not come with a warranty

7. FK Irons Tattoo Machine

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Usually, tattoo machines are very simple looking. No one will guess how these machines are used to make lively and colorful designs by looking at their drab exteriors. A rare exception to this occurrence is FK Irons Tattoo Machine. It looks not only trendy but also delivers great results.

• Durable

This product is engineered and manufactured with high-quality construction material in the United States of America. Therefore, FK Irons is set to last for several years and does not require frequent repairs.

It is made of solid T6 aluminum, which is later strengthened by mirror polishing. Additionally, it is anodized to create the ultimate durability.

• Low Maintenance

A steady and frequently occurring problem with most tattoo machines is how they require constant maintenance. But this is not the case with this product. You don’t even have to lubricate it consistently for smooth running. There is no requirement of tightening the joints or regular oiling. You just have to focus on making excellent designs without worrying about repairing the machine.

• Changeable Stroke Caps

One does not require an adapter with this device. You can just use any standard size needle and cartilage with this tattooing machine. The makers of this product have designed a patented and unique clip-on feature that makes it compatible with most needles and cartilages.

• Comes in 5 different trendy colors
• Looks modern and stylish
• Has very low vibrations
• Easy to use
• Does not make any noise

• Is very expensive
• Does not come with accessories

8. Dragonhawk Extreme Rotary Tattoo Machine

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The Solong Tattoo Pen Kit is a simple yet powerful tattoo kit. It is made of a carbon steel frame and is enclosed with a Japanese motor. This affordably priced tattoo machine has, over the years, established impressive critical acclaim for its performance.

• Smooth and Stable Performance

The real test of a tattoo machine lies in how smooth it works. This device and its ergonomic design ensure that you don’t feel any disturbances that are caused by noisy motors and the vibrations that are emitted out of it.

This device has an oily slider that reduces fiction. It also mitigates sounds that are emitted by the machine. Additionally, there is also a spring embedded inside the machine that adds stability to the device.

• Highly Compatible

Another great feature that makes Dragonhawk tattoo pen better than its alternative is its compatibility with needles and cartilages. You don’t have to buy very specific cartilages for this tattoo pen. You can use any standard needle or cartilage with it.

• Versatile Functions

Most people have to purchase different tattoo machines for various purposes. But this one product is capable of doing a variety of tattoo-related tasks with utmost clarity, whether it is gray shading or color packing.

• Comes in multiple colors.
• Affordable
• Has low vibrations and makes less noise
• Weighs just 6.1 oz
• Available with clip cord connection

• Does not come with any additional accessories
• Not easy to use for beginners

9. Solong Tattoo Pen Kit

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If you are looking for a flexible and versatile hybrid tattoo pen, then you must pick Solong Tattoo Pen Kit. It also comes with 50 needles and a wireless tattoo battery. This way, you don’t have to make any urgent additional purchases other than this product.

• Works Like An Actual Pen

The main USP of this device is how similar it is to a real pen. You can use this tattoo pen for permanent eyebrows and even liplines thanks to its extreme precision. This is a very unique feature that is not included in most tattoo machines.

Many tattoos require details, and a shaky tattoo pen can completely ruin a design by shaking. But you won’t experience that problem here as you can get steady and clear lines with this product.

• CE Certified

The reason why you will feel confident while using this product on your eyebrows and lips is because it is CE certified. This certification makes it suitable with regard to health and safety measures.

• One Year Warranty

The fact that Solong backs this product with a one year warranty means that the brand has faith in their devices. This warranty assures that if your product encounters any manufacturing defects, then it will be taken care of by the company.

• Made of aircraft aluminum alloy
• Low Noise
• Fast Charging
• Gives Precise Strokes
• Affordable

• The remaining battery display is not accurate
• The battery control levels are not easy to manage

10. Getbetterlife Danny Robinson’s Tattoo Machine

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Are you tired of cheaply made tattoo machines that get broken at a slight inconvenience? Are you looking for an analog and old school tattoo machine that does not cost a ton? If yes, then you should definitely get Getbetterlife Danny Robinson’s Tattoo Machine before it is sold out.

This product comes in beautiful packaging. Even though it weighs 366 grams and might feel heavy during prolonged use but at the same time, with this heaviness comes to an old school charm that is hard to resist.

• Precise And Clean Lines

One of the main reasons that have resulted in its popularity is how it gives clean and one linear point lines. With the help of 10 wrap coils, the machine delivers smooth linear lines. You will not experience any limitations or disturbances while working. 

• Highly Durable

This tattoo machine is made up of cast iron technology. Its frame is constructed entirely of copper. Together these two features add up and increase the durability of the product. While copper is prone to corrosion, but since high-quality copper is used here, we don’t experience intense corrosion. Besides, light oiling also protects the product.

• Simplistic Operations

Many tattoo machines made these days have too many features that are not even useful. But this tool is very simple and uncomplicated. It does its job in a proper manner without unnecessary additions.

• Highly durable and strong
• Beautiful packing
• Has a charming rusty and old school appearance
• Reasonably priced
• Made of copper

• Little heavy
• Needs regular oiling

Important Considerations Before Purchasing The Best Tattoo Machine For Beginners

As a beginner, you need to understand the importance of these factors before choosing the right machine. Otherwise, the quality of your work will be affected, and so will your passion. All of these features of a machine plays a vital role:

Overall Design & Materials

It should be a premium-grade material with compatible or convenient design. There are many companies that offer comfortable grip options and reduced weight. The weight of a machine will affect your work heavily.

Compatibility

When we talk about compatibility in a tattoo machine, it is about the type of needles it can use. The wider range of needles in a single machine will enable you to craft your masterpiece with minimum inconvenience. More importantly, you will have to invest less in buying separate machines.

Types

As you already know, a ‘type’ of the tattoo machine plays an important role. For beginners, rotary or coil is a good choice. However, if you have decent funds, you should definitely get the pneumatic machine.

Speed

The speed of a tattoo machine enables you to carry out different tasks, such as creating strong lines, fine lines, shades, tones, textures, and other definitions and details.

Usually, a machine’s speed can be anywhere from 50 to 3000. Find yourself one that can be adjusted in speed with voltage and other settings for diverse work as a beginner. You can buy specialized machines later.

Security & Safety

The precision of the needle, the speed of the machine, quality of the parts, and circuit, all play an important role in determining the security and safety of the machine. Make sure that the grip is comfortable, and overall, it is a safe machine to use.

Features

Many machines come with different features. Some are easy to assemble; others are more stable, lightweight, or flexible compatibility. By understanding your requirements, you can choose one that will suit your needs. A feature-rich machine is an excellent addition.

Durability

Tattoo machines are portable, and they vibrate consistently. You need a machine that can survive everyday’s wear and tear, especially if you travel. More importantly, its parts should be able to withstand the vibrations for it to work for a longer span of time.

User-Friendly

As a beginner, opt for a user-friendly tattoo machine that will allow you to adapt to the tattoo style easily. Once you are comfortable using a user-friendly machine, you can polish your skills with other robust machines.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How Do You Set Up A Tattoo Machine For Beginners?

As a beginner, it is a good idea to buy a starter kit as it contains all the essential parts and equipment you will ever need for the tattoo machine.

However, if you’re looking for high-grade components, then purchasing them separately might be a better option. While starter kit may have it, you will definitely require small-sized screwdrivers and alley keys to set up the machine. The parts will come separately, and you will have to assemble them, the same goes for the power station.

Sanitization is a vital part of setting up a machine. Always sanitize your hands and different parts of the machines. After that, you will most likely have a manual or guide to follow and assemble the set together.

Make sure that the needle is sharp, not dull. It should fall around 2mm to 1mm long for piercing and not more or less than that.

Set up the power station and try to get the one with voltage regulation for more control over the tattoo procedure. Assemble the footswitch and make sure that it operates comfortably.

2. What Equipment Do I Need To Start Tattooing?

You definitely need a tattoo machine with a working power supply station along with a cover or bag to store them, especially after the cleaning procedure. Medical supplies are the most crucial part of the equipment.

In medical, you need an antiseptic ointment and cleaner for machine and skin, both. Disinfectant wipes and rubbing alcohol is a must. Cotton pads and medical waste disposal is also important.

You will also need latex gloves (Surgical gloves), disposable needles, and razors with a tray to contain them and vaseline. There are additional investments like germicides, medical scissors, and such that can prove to be very handy.

Rubber nipples, grips, tweezers, and bands are also an important part of the equipment for the needle. Soldering gun and bars are also a handy piece of equipment to have.

Additionally, there is a series of art supplies you will need like a cup holder, and ink bottles (black and colored). You might also need art sheets, pencil colors, and such to sketch your designs and show them. It is not important to start with all of this, and you can build your collection. Stencils remain an important addition.

3. How Deep Do You Set A Tattoo Needle?

You need to reach the dermis layer of the skin of a client. There are three layers, epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissues. Dermis falls in the middle and would sustain the ink, if the needle is deeper than that, it will cause additional pain with a risk of infection and bleeding.

Shallower? The tattoo will fade away eventually. Hence, the adequate length of the needle piercing should be around 1 to 2 mm at best.

4. What Can I Use To Transfer A Tattoo Drawing?

A transfer paper to copy the final design and a deodorant stick for the skin. You can also use other deodorant sprays for the transfer. Make sure that the skin is clean and does not have anything like hair, dirt, and other agents for the transfer paper to work adequately. A carbon paper or tracing paper to copy the design on transfer paper is also a good option.

5. Can You Use Wax Paper For Tattoos?

Wax paper is a good choice for tattoos, as it can fulfill different roles.

• You can use it to draw and design temporary tattoos on the skin and play with different creative ideas. It is also a good way to offer a ‘sample’ look to your clients before commencing the real procedure.
• Wax Paper is also a great choice for tattoo stencils and to transfer them easily. Similar to tracing and transfer paper, they are smooth and transparent. Therefore, it can be a good addition.

The only problem may be the durability of the paper, as these are not the strongest of paper. But there are multiple applications to it.

The Bottom Line

Several cultures promote tattoos in a unique manner. For some, it is a tradition; for others, it may be a depiction of the story. Often, it is also a statement of a rebel for many. Regardless of the origins and the reason, you need an equally important tattoo machine to lay down your work.

This list and the guide is the ultimate source you will ever need to make an informed decision. So take your pick and start leaving your mark of work on the world. Be wild, be free, and be extraordinarily innovative!

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