Best Tattoo Machine

Annabelle Evans

By Annabelle Evans

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Tattoo machines are crucial for creating body art, using needles to inject ink into the skin and bring designs to life. Artists depend on these tools for precision and quality in their work. There are two main types: coil machines, which use electromagnetic coils to move the needle, and rotary machines, which rely on a motor. Each has its own strengths and is suited to different tattooing styles. When selecting a tattoo machine, consider factors like weight, power, and ease of use. A comfortable, reliable machine that offers smooth needle movement is key. After extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the best tattoo machines for both beginners and professionals.

  • Mast Fold Pro Tattoo Pen

    10

    We think the Mast Fold Pro is a solid choice for tattoo artists seeking a versatile cordless machine at a reasonable price point.

    10

    We think the Mast Fold Pro is a solid choice for tattoo artists seeking a versatile cordless machine at a reasonable price point.

    Pros

    • Adjustable stroke length
    • Long battery life with spare included
    • Powerful motor for various styles

    Cons

    • May struggle with thicker needle groupings
    • Learning curve for new users
    • Limited customer support

    We tested the Mast Fold Pro extensively in our studio, and it left us impressed. The machine feels well-balanced in hand, making long sessions more comfortable. Its cordless design gave us freedom to move around clients without tangling wires.

    The adjustable stroke length is a standout feature. We easily switched between fine lines and shading by turning a knob. This versatility meant we didn’t need to swap machines mid-session. The Mcore-C3 motor packed enough punch for bold lines and smooth color packing.

    Battery life exceeded our expectations. With two batteries included, we tattooed all day without interruptions. The machine ran quietly, which our clients appreciated. While it handled most needle configurations well, we found it struggled a bit with larger groupings above 15 round liners.

    For beginners, there’s a learning curve to find the right settings. We suggest practicing on fake skin first. Some users reported issues reaching customer service, so keep that in mind. Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the Mast Fold Pro offers great value for both new and experienced artists looking for a reliable cordless option.

  • Phomemo M08F Tattoo Stencil Printer

    9.7

    We think the Phomemo M08F is a game-changer for tattoo artists seeking a portable, easy-to-use stencil printer.

    9.7

    We think the Phomemo M08F is a game-changer for tattoo artists seeking a portable, easy-to-use stencil printer.

    Pros

    • Compact and lightweight
    • Wireless printing from multiple devices
    • No ink required

    Cons

    • Limited to monochrome printing
    • Requires special thermal paper
    • Battery life may not last for long sessions

    The Phomemo M08F impressed us with its portability. At just 2 pounds, it’s much lighter than other tattoo stencil printers we’ve tested. We found it easy to carry from client to client or to different workstations in our shop.

    Connecting the printer to our phones and tablets was a breeze. The Phomemo app made designing and printing stencils quick and simple. We liked being able to scan hand-drawn designs and print them right away. This saved us time compared to our old method of photocopying designs.

    The thermal printing technology means we don’t have to buy ink anymore. This is a big plus for our budget. The prints came out clear and sharp, perfect for transferring designs to skin. We did notice the battery lasted for about 140 prints before needing a charge. For busy days, we kept the charger handy.

  • Mast Fold Pro Tattoo Pen

    9.5

    We think the Mast Fold Pro is a solid choice for tattoo artists seeking a versatile, wireless machine with adjustable stroke length.

    9.5

    We think the Mast Fold Pro is a solid choice for tattoo artists seeking a versatile, wireless machine with adjustable stroke length.

    Pros

    • Adjustable stroke length
    • Wireless operation
    • Quiet and low vibration

    Cons

    • Battery life issues reported
    • May be complex for beginners
    • Limited customer support

    We recently tried out the Mast Fold Pro tattoo pen, and we were impressed by its versatility. The adjustable stroke length from 2.4mm to 4.2mm allows for easy switching between lining and shading tasks. We found this feature really helpful when working on intricate designs.

    The wireless operation gave us freedom of movement while tattooing. We didn’t have to worry about cord drag or tangling. The machine felt well-balanced in our hands, making long sessions more comfortable.

    One thing that stood out was how quiet the Mast Fold Pro runs. The low noise and vibration levels were a pleasant surprise. It made for a better experience for both us and our clients. However, we did encounter some issues with battery life. One of the included batteries didn’t hold a charge well, which was frustrating during longer sessions.

    FeatureDetails
    Stroke Length2.4mm – 4.2mm
    Power SourceWireless (Battery)
    MotorMcore-C2

    While the Mast Fold Pro offers professional-grade features, new tattoo artists might find it a bit complex at first. The learning curve isn’t steep, but it takes some time to master all its capabilities. We also noticed that customer support could be improved, as some users reported difficulty contacting the seller with questions or concerns.

  • Dragonhawk Fold3 Wireless Tattoo Kit

    9.4

    We recommend the Dragonhawk Fold3 for beginners and pros alike seeking a versatile, wireless tattoo machine.

    9.4

    We recommend the Dragonhawk Fold3 for beginners and pros alike seeking a versatile, wireless tattoo machine.

    Pros

    • Long-lasting battery life
    • Adjustable stroke length
    • Includes practice materials

    Cons

    • Slightly bulky design
    • May require fine-tuning
    • Limited ink color options

    We found the Dragonhawk Fold3 to be a solid choice for tattoo artists of all skill levels. The wireless design gave us freedom to move around without getting tangled in cords. We liked how the two included batteries lasted for 6-8 hours of tattooing, letting us work on larger pieces without interruption.

    The 7 adjustable stroke lengths from 2.4mm to 4.2mm allowed us to switch between lining and shading effortlessly. We appreciated the one-button mode change, making it easy to adapt our technique on the fly. The machine felt smooth and quiet during use, which kept both us and our clients comfortable.

    While the Fold3 comes with everything needed to start tattooing right away, we noticed the machine is a bit larger than some other pen-style options. It took us a little time to get used to the weight and balance. The included inks are basic, so artists looking for a wider color range will need to purchase those separately. Despite these minor drawbacks, we found the Dragonhawk Fold3 to be a reliable and user-friendly tattoo machine suitable for various styles and techniques.

  • Mast Fold2 Pro Tattoo Kit

    9.3

    We recommend this versatile tattoo machine for its professional-grade features and comprehensive kit.

    9.3

    We recommend this versatile tattoo machine for its professional-grade features and comprehensive kit.

    Pros

    • Adjustable stroke lengths for various styles
    • Powerful, low-vibration motor
    • Long-lasting, replaceable battery

    Cons

    • May be complex for beginners
    • Limited color options
    • Higher price point

    The Mast Fold2 Pro impressed us with its range of stroke options. We found the seven adjustable lengths from 2.4mm to 4.2mm allowed us to switch between fine lines and bold shading effortlessly. This flexibility made it a breeze to tackle different tattoo styles.

    During our testing, the Mcore-C1 motor stood out. It ran smoothly and quietly, with minimal vibration. We appreciated how this reduced hand fatigue during longer sessions. The motor’s consistent performance gave us confidence in its reliability for professional use.

    We really liked the smart battery system. It lasted through a full day of tattooing on a single charge. The OLED display made it easy to adjust voltage on the fly. We found this feature particularly useful when switching between lining and shading work.

    FeatureSpecification
    Stroke Options2.4/2.7/3.0/3.3/3.6/3.9/4.2 mm
    MotorMcore-C1 coreless (12V-10500rpm)
    Battery Life9 hours
    Charging Time1.5 hours

    The kit comes with everything needed to start tattooing right away. We were pleased to see 20 needle cartridges, ink, and practice skin included. This makes it a great value for artists looking to upgrade their setup or beginners ready to invest in quality gear.

  • Mast Fold2 Pro Wireless Tattoo Pen

    9.1

    We think the Mast Fold2 Pro is a solid choice for professional tattoo artists seeking a versatile wireless machine.

    9.1

    We think the Mast Fold2 Pro is a solid choice for professional tattoo artists seeking a versatile wireless machine.

    Pros

    • Adjustable stroke length
    • Long battery life
    • Powerful motor

    Cons

    • Pricey for beginners
    • Some issues with mag cartridges
    • No RCA adapter included

    We’ve been testing the Mast Fold2 Pro for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The wireless design gives us freedom to move around without getting tangled in cords. We love how easy it is to adjust the stroke length on the fly. Just a quick turn of the knob lets us switch between lining and shading tasks.

    The battery life is a standout feature. We’ve done full-day sessions without needing to recharge. The OLED display on the side is handy for checking voltage and battery status at a glance. We found the machine comfortable to hold for long periods, thanks to its ergonomic design and standard 32mm grip.

    While the Fold2 Pro shines in many areas, it’s not without flaws. We noticed some artists had trouble with mag cartridges, reporting noise and performance issues. The lack of an included RCA adapter is also a bit disappointing, especially given the price point. For beginners, this machine might be overkill, but for pros looking to upgrade, it’s worth considering.

  • Mast Fold2 Pro Wireless Tattoo Pen

    9

    We think the Mast Fold2 Pro is a great choice for tattoo artists seeking a versatile and powerful wireless machine.

    9

    We think the Mast Fold2 Pro is a great choice for tattoo artists seeking a versatile and powerful wireless machine.

    Pros

    • Long battery life up to 7 hours
    • Adjustable stroke length
    • Powerful, snag-free motor

    Cons

    • Pricier than some wired options
    • Requires specific batteries
    • Intended for professional use only

    We tested the Mast Fold2 Pro and were impressed by its performance. The wireless design gave us freedom to move, while the 233g weight felt balanced in our hands. We liked the standard 32mm grip, which let us work comfortably for long sessions.

    The adjustable stroke length is a standout feature. We could switch between 7 options from 2.4mm to 4.2mm just by turning a knob. This came in handy when we wanted to switch from lining to shading without changing machines.

    The Mcore-C1 motor packed a punch. We found it glided through skin easily, with no snagging or pulling. It handled both fine lines and color packing well. The machine comes with two batteries, each lasting about 7 hours. We appreciated the OLED display showing voltage, which we could adjust in 0.1V steps.

  • Dragonhawk Atom Wireless Kit

    8.7

    We recommend the Dragonhawk Atom Wireless Kit for beginners looking to start their tattooing journey with a reliable and user-friendly machine.

    8.7

    We recommend the Dragonhawk Atom Wireless Kit for beginners looking to start their tattooing journey with a reliable and user-friendly machine.

    Pros

    • Lightweight and comfortable to use
    • Includes complete starter supplies
    • Quiet operation

    Cons

    • Battery life could be longer
    • Limited voltage range
    • May not suit advanced techniques

    The Atom Wireless Kit caught our eye with its sleek design and promise of easy setup. We found the pen-style machine comfortable to hold during long sessions. Its 3.5mm stroke length worked well for basic lining and shading tasks.

    We appreciated the included B1 battery power supply. At just 40 grams, it didn’t add much weight. The LCD screen was handy for checking settings at a glance. Starting up took less than a second, which kept our workflow smooth.

    The kit came with 20 cartridge needles in two sizes, which gave us room to experiment. We liked that they were sterilized and individually packed. The black ink performed okay, but serious artists might want to upgrade. While great for beginners, we think experienced tattooists may want more power and versatility for complex designs.

  • Hawink Tattoo Starter Kit

    8.7

    We recommend this kit for beginners looking to start tattooing at home without breaking the bank.

    8.7

    We recommend this kit for beginners looking to start tattooing at home without breaking the bank.

    Pros

    • Includes everything needed to get started
    • Quiet operation
    • Long-lasting battery

    Cons

    • Some quality control issues
    • Included ink may dry quickly
    • Grip can be unstable

    We tested the Hawink Tattoo Starter Kit and found it to be a solid choice for those new to tattooing. The kit comes with all the basics, including the machine, needles, ink, and practice skin. We liked how quiet the machine was during use, making for a more pleasant tattooing experience.

    The battery life impressed us, lasting several hours on a single charge. This is great for longer sessions or when you don’t have easy access to a power outlet. The digital display makes it easy to adjust settings and monitor battery life.

    We did notice some issues with the grip stability. The top piece sometimes came loose during use, which can be frustrating. We fixed this by wrapping it, but it’s not ideal. The included ink also dried out faster than we expected, so you might want to invest in better quality ink soon after purchase.

    For the price, this kit offers good value. It’s not perfect, but it gives new artists a chance to practice and learn without spending too much money upfront. Just be prepared to upgrade some components as you improve your skills.

  • Solong Complete Tattoo Kit

    8.6

    We think this kit is a solid choice for beginners looking to start their tattooing journey without breaking the bank.

    8.6

    We think this kit is a solid choice for beginners looking to start their tattooing journey without breaking the bank.

    Pros

    • Pen-like design for comfort
    • Quiet operation
    • Includes comprehensive supplies

    Cons

    • Ink quality may be inconsistent
    • Instructions not in English
    • May require additional items

    We got our hands on the Solong Complete Tattoo Kit and put it through its paces. The first thing that caught our eye was the pen-style machine. It felt natural in our grip, making long sessions less tiring. We were impressed by how quietly it ran – a big plus for those who value a peaceful work environment.

    The kit comes packed with essentials. We found cartridge needles, inks, and a power supply right in the box. It’s nice not having to shop for extras right away. That said, we noticed the black ink wasn’t up to par with the colored ones. You might want to grab a better black ink separately.

    We appreciated the beginner-friendly approach. The included guide helped us set up quickly. But heads up – some users mentioned it’s not in English. We didn’t mind much, as the pictures were clear enough. For newbies, this kit offers a good starting point. Just remember, you’ll need to buy practice skin and transfer gel to get going.

Buying Guide

When shopping for a tattoo machine, we recommend considering these key factors:

Power and Speed

Look for adjustable power settings and speeds to suit different tattooing styles. Machines with a range of 4,000 to 18,000 strokes per minute offer good versatility.

Weight and Ergonomics

Lighter machines (under 8 ounces) reduce hand fatigue. Ergonomic grips improve comfort during long sessions.

Noise Level

Quieter machines (under 55 decibels) create a more relaxed environment for both artist and client.

Versatility

Some machines handle both lining and shading. This can be cost-effective for artists just starting out.

Ease of Maintenance

Look for machines that are easy to clean and maintain. Quick-change grips and tool-free maintenance are helpful features.

Compatibility

Ensure the machine works with your preferred needles and power supply.

Build Quality

Durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum or titanium offer longevity.

FeatureWhat to Look For
PowerAdjustable settings
WeightUnder 8 ounces
NoiseBelow 55 decibels
VersatilityLining and shading capable
MaintenanceTool-free, easy cleaning

We suggest trying out different machines if possible. This helps find the best fit for your tattooing style and comfort needs.