Getting a tattoo entails adding a permanent mark on your body that you can’t afford to dislike being there. As a customer, you need to ensure you’re getting the tattoo from a talented artist who’s an expert using the best instruments available. As a tattoo artist, you can’t have a flawed masterpiece on your customer’s body and blame the wrong equipment for it. In this article, we’ve listed and reviewed 10 of the best tattoo pen machines available, so that you can safely, comfortably, and joyfully do the tattooing on our customers with precise results.
Best Tattoo Pen Machines – Reviews
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | HAWINK Rotary Tattoo Machine | • Aluminum Alloy • Extremely Quiet & Low Vibration | CHECK PRICE |
 | Solong Tattoo Pen Kit Rotary Tattoo Gun Machine | • Wireless, 1500mAh Battery (5 Level Control) • 10W Motor | CHECK PRICE |
 | Dragonhawk Cartridge Atom Rotary Tattoo Machine Kit | • Vegan Ink • Made in the U.S.A. • Easy to work with | CHECK PRICE |
 | Mast Tour Wireless Rotary Tattoo Pen Machine Kit | • Unibody, Anodized Aluminum Design • Precision DC Motor | CHECK PRICE |
 | Dragonhawk Rotary Tattoo Pen Machine Kit | • 1200mAh Battery • LED Display | CHECK PRICE |
 | Mast Archer Wireless Tattoo Machine | • MAST Custom Coreless Motor • Polymer Construction | CHECK PRICE |
 | Dragonhawk Tattoo Machine Kit Rotary Atom M1 | • RCA Cord Connection • Unibody Design | CHECK PRICE |
 | Mast Tour Pro Tattoo Rotary Pen Machine | • German Custom Power Motor • Ergonomic Design | CHECK PRICE |
 | Jconly Pro Rotary Tattoo Machine | • Japan Motor (5-12V) • LCD Screen | CHECK PRICE |
 | BRONC V9 Rotary Short Tattoo Pen | • Powerful Coreless Swiss Motor • 12000 RPM Speed | CHECK PRICE |
 | Dragonhawk Mast Pen Rotary Tattoo Machine | • Inspired by unique technology • Comfortable tattooing procedure | CHECK PRICE |
1. HAWINK Rotary Tattoo Machine CNC-Q1
First, on our best tattoo pen machines list is Hawink’s high-end ‘CNC’ brand machine. This incredible rotary tattoo pen gives you a flawless user experience and remarkable results. It has an enclosure made of aircraft aluminum alloy, and it powers up with a powerful, German engineered FAULHABER Motor.
Tattooing is an art that requires artistic talent, stability, and precision. Hence, the tattoo artist needs to be supported with the best tools to achieve their fullest potential. The Hawink machine not only has a magnificent appearance but is also lightweight (0.28 lbs), extremely stable, super quiet, and easy to use, giving the user a trouble-free, pleasurable operating experience. Tattoo artists love this machine and often prefer it over other models. They claim, using it, is almost like operating with an actual pen.
The relatively silent and vibration-free operation shouldn’t confuse you. You’re still getting high puncturing ability and a stitch frequency of 25-160 Hz, from this hybrid tattoo pen, that arrives in a package of dimensions 6 x 3.8 x 1.8 inches. The actual machine and an RCA cord are the package contents.
Further, you get a needle protrusion range of 0-3.33 mm and a stroke of 4.0 mm. The operating voltage range is 5V-10V, which means it’s not recommended to run the motor beyond 10V, to avoid overheating leading to mechanical wear. All in all, considering the price and features, this is a great machine compatible with cartridges of all sizes and brands.
Pros
- Ergonomic design (pen-feel).
- Lightweight & Stable.
- Compatible with most cartridges.
- Silent operation.
- Easy to use & maintain.
- Doesn’t feel warm until several hours of use.
- Negligible skin irritation and pain felt.
Cons
- Overheats beyond 10V.
2. Solong Tattoo Pen Kit Rotary Tattoo Gun Machine
This amazing rotary Tattoo pen kit by the brand ‘Solong Tattoo’ lets you hone your artistic talents to the fullest. Tattoo artists admire this astounding tattoo gun machine for its versatility. Operating it feels like using an actual pen, as you effortlessly draw fine lines, shade, or apply permanent makeup (eyebrows, lip line, eye line, etc.). Besides our expert verdict, the impressive online customer reviews are a further testament to how flawless this tattoo pen is.
It’s crafted with aircraft aluminum alloy with an anodized finish so you get a natural grip, much like when holding a real pen. Besides its superb ergonomics, the device runs smoothly with its 10W Taiwanese motor that is low on noise and powers up with the included 1500mAh rechargeable battery. Working with a cordless tattoo machine is a great boon in this line of work, especially as you’re getting 2 to 3 hours of operation time per full charge.
The kit includes the tattoo pen, 50 tattoo needles, the battery, and a DC 5.5 plug adapter. The adapter allows the Solong Tattoo Pen to be compatible with tattoo power supplies of all major brands.
Other incredible specs include an operating voltage of 7-12V DC, needle protrusion of 0-3.5 mm, stroke 3.5 mm, and the package dimensions are 6.3 x 3.94 x 2.36 inches; 0.66 lbs. Overall, this tool is hard to pass up on.
Pros
- Cordless operation.
- Easy to charge the battery (use applicable mobile phone adapter).
- Remaining battery display & 5 level control.
- Low noise, strong, and stable motor.
- Bang for your buck.
Cons
- Some users prefer it came with an extra battery.
3. Dragonhawk Cartridge Atom Rotary Tattoo Machine Kit
The tattoo pen in this awesome kit is extremely lightweight (0.3 lbs) and comes closest to feeling like an actual pen. The spiffy, anodized aluminum design of the Dragonhawk Atom tattoo machine helps you do the tattooing worry-free, for a longer and more constant duration.
This rotary tattoo machine is a lot quieter and low in vibration compared to competitor machines. At the same time, the puncturing power and frequency of 55-165 Hz make it amazing. It has several other features making it a robust choice. For instance, the needle protrusion can be adjusted from 0 – 4.5 mm, and the stroke length is a practical 3.5 mm.
The complete kit weighs 2.82 lbs, which means you get a whole lot of goodies for a wholesome experience. The package includes the DC clip corded Atom Pen Rotary Tattoo Machine, a power supply along with cable, a selection of 20 different cartridge needles, a foot pedal, and an attractive carrying case.
The machine is easy to operate, requiring the user to simply rotate the tattoo machine’s grip to adjust the needle’s depth of protrusion. With this machine, you can achieve your tattooing goals at up to 9000 R/Minute, whilst a Stable operation between 6-9V.
Pros
- Value for money.
- Unibody with silent operation, stability, and durability.
- Compatible with needle cartridges of other brands.
- Works like an actual pen.
- Incredible lining and shading results.
- You get a complete kit, including 20 needle cartridges.
Cons
- Ink is not included.
4. Mast Tour Wireless Rotary Tattoo Pen Machine Kit
The Mast Tour wireless rotary tattoo machine feels as natural as a pen in your hand. You can rest assured you and your customers will be satisfied with the tattooing experience. This MAST TATTOO product is super silent, so even a baby sleeping nearby won’t wake up while you’re tattooing a customer.
What makes this a preferred choice for tattoo artists is its convenience. Its compact, lightweight built (durable plastic construction) makes it a travel-friendly tattoo machine for use both indoors and outdoors for tattoo artists on the go. Bring on any standard power supply and chances are this machine is compatible.
The 1200mAh battery requires about 3 hours to fully charge to give you up to 6 hours of operating time, depending on the scope of your tattoo project. Furthermore, it comes with two batteries so you can go on for a full day. There’s an LED display to indicate the battery level and an LED button that lets you easily switch between voltage (5-11V) preferences. Its custom Mast motor is a cordless wonder that gives you at least 3,000 hours in its lifecycle.
Its superior technology lets you safely do line work, shading (black & grey), and solid color packing, with incredible precision. Moreover, there’s a rotating battery that allows you to adjust needle depth as per requirement. For ultra-convenient and efficient tattooing this is the pen-design machine to consider. The kit in the package includes 2 batteries, a MAST pen, battery charger, needles, and tattoo cartridges.
Pros
- Wireless operation.
- Ergonomic & travel-friendly design.
- Small & lightweight.
- At least 3,000 hours of operation life.
- Extremely silent and stable.
- Value for money.
Cons
- The battery takes about 3 hours to fully charge.
5. Dragonhawk Rotary Tattoo Pen Machine Kit
This Dragonhawk Tour machine kit comes equipped with all the supplies needed to get tattooing from the moment you unpack the package. The main component is the sleek pen-style rotary tattoo machine, powered with a Mast wireless motor that gives you a minimum of 3,000 hours of total work time.
It lets tattoo artists effortlessly do line work, shading (black & grey), fine dot work, and solid color packing with great precision. The lightweight tattoo pen machine weighs barely 0.181 lbs, which makes it comfortable to grip and work with for extended periods. Like all the other top machines in this category, this one is compatible with any standard tattoo power supply.
The quality of this pen-like product is unmatched. Its durable, seamless frame made of polymer construction ensures the inside of the machine is safeguarded. While operating the machine, the user has optimal stability and control, leaving the customer extremely satisfied. Furthermore, the needles (featuring a special membrane mechanism) and cartridges supplied in the package, are sufficient and reliable for a more efficient, fluid tattooing approach.
Pros
- Portable
- Comprehensive kit
- Wear-resistant RCA jack
- Features a MAST custom coreless motor
- Stable & durable
- Suitable for all types of skin.
- Super easy to use and super quiet.
Cons
- Some users reported the grip is a bit slick.
6. Mast Archer Wireless Tattoo Machine
The MAST ARCHER brand’s stunning rotary tattoo machine is wireless with adjustable voltage, and we love it for the striking LCD voltage screen. The machine weighs 0.41 lbs and has a smooth, quiet operation aided by an advanced gear system. Whether lining or shading, the standard 3.5 mm stroke length gets the job done efficiently.
It’s considered as one of the best tattoo pen machines owing to its ergonomic design, features (including 5-12V working voltage and a 12V speed of 10500Rpm), and the fact it takes only 2 hours for its incredible 2000 MAH high-capacity lithium battery to recharge fully.
On a full charge, you get a staggering 8 hours or more of continuous operating time, depending on the tattoo job at hand. This product is a bit expensive, yet if you’re a serious tattoo artist, you don’t want to leave home without this incredible tool!
Changing and replacing cartridges is a breeze with this system. The MAST ARCHER tattoo machine comes in a package consisting of the wireless machine, a USB type-C fast-charging cord, two replaceable grips, and a neat gift box. The design of the grips helps meet the needs of all artists. Moreover, the tattoo pen is available in a choice of 4 beautiful colors.
Pros
- Wireless.
- Stunning, practical LCD screen.
- Easy to adjust the voltage.
- A great option for long tattooing sessions.
- Quick 2 hours battery charging time.
- Quiet & easy operation.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- A bit expensive for newbie users.
7. Dragonhawk Tattoo Machine Kit Rotary Atom M1
The Dragonhawk Atom M1 is a unibody tattoo machine that weighs only 0.37 lbs (though it’s not the lightest on or list) and measures just 4.72 x 1.18 inches, giving the user a pen-like feel while tattooing. It offers all the perks of a top-class tattoo machine that discerning artists wish for.
In the package, you get the M1 rotary pen gun tattoo machine, an RCA clip cord, a corded power supply, an assortment of 10 differently sized cartridge needles, a selection of immortal colors, and a foot pedal.
This top-class piece of equipment is featured in this elite list due to its low noise operation, durability, compactness, unibody design, and compatibility with all the standard cartridge needle types available on the market. The 6-9V operation is stable, and you have nothing to worry about as it’s connected with a reliable RCA cord connection.
Overall, you and your customers get an incredible user experience. You can easily tattoo at 9000 R/Minute by the robust motor that allows for effortless lining and shading. Given its high puncturing ability and speed, whilst being quiet and low in vibration, this is a deal worth investing in.
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- Super quiet and low in vibration.
- Unibody design.
- Works nicely, easy to put together.
- Enclosed needles have superior toughness silicone rebound
Cons
- Few users found it a bit bulky to hold.
- A bit more variety in needles could have been included.
8. Mast Tour Pro Tattoo Rotary Pen Machine
Tattoo artists want a tattoo machine that transfers ink into the skin, for all skin types, in an extremely gentle and smooth manner. This Mast Tour Pro tattoo pen machine by MAST TATTOO does just that, through its ergonomic design and German custom power motor.
The machine is capable of a stroke length of 3.6 mm and a needle protrusion of up to 4 mm. Its sleeve grip is 32 mm and very reliable during continuous operation. With this device, changing and replacing cartridges couldn’t be easier. Its other strengths include being compatible with all standard power supplies and surprisingly, a wireless power battery as well.
In terms of the design, this is a lightweight, durable tattoo pen machine with an inherent ability to undertake bold line, black and grey work tasks quite efficiently, showing splendid results.
Pros
- Durable & compatible RCA jack.
- Compatible with wireless power battery.
- Relatively silent operation.
- Comfort grip for easy control.
- Compact & lightweight.
- Powerful, custom coreless German motor (7.5V, 10000 RPM).
Cons
- A bit heavy.
- Some users felt the stroke length was a bit long.
9. Jconly Pro Rotary Tattoo Machine
First off, this is a product you can go for without having to worry about the outcome because this company is making explicitly offering 100% satisfaction. Next, you’re getting an extensive kit that’ll get you kickstarted with everything a tattoo artist requires. Finally, this pen-style tattoo machine is going to leave you spellbound with its incredible performance.
Besides the conventional contents, this kit further includes an LCD wireless power supply, numerous tattoo pen sleeves, a cohesive bandage, lots of tattoo ink caps, and Practice Skin so that you’re off to a proper start.
The Jconly Pro rotary tattoo machine is a professional tattoo pen that promises a higher service life than the standard 1 to 2 years or 3000+ hours by competing products. The superior Japan Motor (5-12V) does the trick by making possible higher power, increased stability, quiet operation, and ease of use.
The wireless battery supply powers the pen for a work time of 5 to 8 hours when the high-capacity 2000mAh battery is fully charged.
Pros
- CE certified Jconly cartridges.
- Smooth & joyful tattooing experience.
- LCD screen with various display information.
- Strong, quiet, low-vibration, and doesn’t heat up easily.
Cons
- Some users wished it came with a detailed instruction manual.
10. BRONC V9 Rotary Short Tattoo Pen
The Swiss have left no stone unturned when it comes to innovation. Not even when it came to inventing this awesome tattoo pen machine. The BRONC V9 is a short tattoo pen that feels pretty much like a pen comfortably held in your hand. The significant Swiss coreless motor drives a staggering speed of 12000 RPM and comes with an RCA jack connection.
The stroke of 3.5 mm, which is featured in this product, is pretty standard. We feel anything above that is not for every tattoo artist. BRONC strictly recommends a working voltage of 4-4.5V for this product, as the motor is extremely powerful. This brand offers a satisfaction guarantee so you know you’re in safe hands.
Pros
- Satisfaction guaranteed.
- Very powerful Coreless Swiss Motor.
- Feels like holding a pen.
- 12000 RPM speed.
- Maintenance-free direct drive system.
Cons
- Users need to be conscious of the recommended working voltage limit.
11. Dragonhawk Mast Pen Rotary Tattoo Machine
Dragonhawk offers one of the finest rotary tattoo machine solutions that are the first choice of tattoo professionals around the world. The main component that is the rotary tattoo machine allows tattoo artists to the line, shade, and fine dot work without any hassle and with great precision, and with it being on the lighter side, weighing only 120 g, allowing the tattoo artist to do their work without any fatigue and, more importantly, without any extra added weight for a long time.
The Dragonhawk pen rotary tattoo has an ergonomic design, especially of a pen, making it the perfect portable solution. Its size of around 11.7 cm contributes to that aspect as well. But that is not all, as the Dragonhawk rotary tattoo machine has an advanced gear system in the mix, which not only guarantees a smooth operation but a silent one as well without any vibration. The rotation speed is 9000 rpm to 10000 rpm.
Dragonhawk rotary tattoo machine is a solution that is compatible with all needle types and can be used hassle-free in any environment. The package includes a Dragonhawk rotary pen machine and a dc cord for charging purposes.
Dragonhawk rotary tattoo machine ensures vibration-free operation and is compatible with all types of cartridge needles. This machine is indeed an ideal choice if you are looking for the best alternative to the traditional machines. Furthermore, the machine allows a smooth and comfortable tattooing process.
Pros
- An authentic solution, the first choice of professionals
- A solution for effortless working
- A lightweight solution
- Ergonomic design
- Silent working
- The machine’s working voltage is between 6V to 9V
Cons
- A bit on the expensive side
Buyer’s Guide
A tattoo pen machine is an essential tool for a tattoo artist. These machines come in various styles and designs, and it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. This buyer’s guide will provide you with all the information you need to select the perfect tattoo pen machine for your work.
Type of Machine
You first need to decide whether you want a rotary or coil machine. Rotary machines tend to be quieter and have less vibration, but they can be more expensive. Coil machines are more traditional and have a stronger hit but tend to be louder.
Needle Configuration
Consider the needle configuration you need for the tattoos you plan on doing. Popular configurations include round liner, shader, magnum, and flat needles.
Power Supply:
Make sure the machine you choose has a good power supply with adjustable voltage. This allows you to make fine adjustments to the needle’s penetration.
Weight and Size
Look for a machine that is lightweight and has a comfortable grip. This can help prevent hand fatigue during long tattooing sessions.
Brand and Reputation
Do your research and choose a machine from a reputable brand with a good reputation. Read reviews and ask other tattoo artists for their opinion on different brands and models.
Factors To Consider For Selecting Tattoo Pen Machine
When selecting the best tattoo machine, a lot of factors are considered. Price is one of the factors, but it has to be weighed in carefully with other factors so that the safety and precision aspects are not compromised.
A tattoo artist would vouch for the fact that they belong to a rare field that has no room for customer dissatisfaction. A mistake by the artist can not only be painful but also stressful for the customer. Luckily, tattoo pen machines are a great source for overcoming many of the obstacles tattoo artists and customers face. A tattoo artist can work with more stability, accuracy, and for a longer period to finish the work in fewer visits due to the benefits of the pen-style rotary machine.
Here are the factors we considered in selecting the best tattoo pen machines:
- Ergonomics/Design
- Noise level
- Durability
- Need for adapters/power supply compatibility
- Suitable cartridges
- Precision
- Affordability
- Cord and power jack material
- If wireless, then battery quality, charge time, and life.
- Voltage adjustability
- Ease of use, assembling, and maintenance
- Safety and protection
- Customer reviews
Rotary Pen Machine Or Coil Machine, Which is Better?
The rotary pen machines recommended above are anytime better than standard coil machines. The advantages of rotary pen machines are as below:
- Pen machines are lightweight and enhance functionality. This is a crucial factor since tattooing with a heavy coil machine could prematurely tire you out and cause a blunder on your customer’s skin.
- Rotary Pen machines are relatively silent. A coil machine, on the other hand, makes a disturbing, scary buzzing sound. The tattooing experience should be a fun, comfortable, and personalized experience for both the artist and the customer.
- A pen machine gives the artist the ability to multitask. For instance, the artist could achieve shading, outlines, and coloring all in one session using the same machine, rather than needing to take breaks in between to switch machines.
- A rotary pen machine is cheaper than a coil machine. This is because manufacturing a pen machine requires fewer components. This is why beginners especially opt for rotary pen machines.
- Pen machines are useful while traveling. The compact size makes them easy to bag up and transport. Plus, they’re compatible with all types of tattoo power supplies, including those from other brands.
- Rotary pen machines vibrate much less. This is one of the biggest advantages as it meets the criterion listed in the set of important factors recommended in the preceding heading.
FAQ’s
The longevity of a pen tattoo can vary depending on multiple factors, including the type of ink used, the skill level of the tattoo artist, and the aftercare regimen the client follows. On average, a pen tattoo can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years before it begins to fade. However, with proper aftercare, a pen tattoo can last significantly longer.
Proper maintenance and storage of your tattoo pen are crucial to ensure its longevity. Here are some tips you can follow to extend its lifespan.
• Clean and disinfect the pen, including the needles and tubes, after each use.
• Properly lubricate the pen and keep it in a clean and dry place.
• Avoid dropping or exposing your pen to extreme temperatures.
• Invest in a good quality carrying case to ensure your pen is protected when it’s not in use.
The recommended voltage for your tattoo pen may vary depending on the machine, but typically, most devices operate between 6-12 volts. It’s crucial to check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine the optimal voltage for your specific machine. Keep in mind that the voltage plays a role in determining the speed and depth of the needle. It’s essential to understand how your device works and to use the appropriate voltage for the type of work you’re doing.
The depth of the needle for a tattoo should be set according to the type of work being done, with linework typically requiring a shallower depth and shading requiring a deeper depth. A general rule of thumb is to start at a shallow depth and gradually increase it as needed. It’s also wise to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance.
The frequency at which a tattoo needle moves, also known as the needle’s “stroke,” is measured in cycles per second (CPS). The standard frequency for most tattoo machines is around 8-12 CPS, but this can vary depending on the device and the type of work being done. An excessive CPS can result in uneven lines or excessive trauma to the skin – and that’s certainly not something you want.
The number of tattoo pen machines a tattooist should have can vary depending on their personal preferences and the type of work they do. Having multiple machines can be beneficial, but it is better to master one machine and the skills required to use it properly.
While a cheap tattoo machine may seem like a good deal, it’s crucial to consider the long-term cost of using a low-quality device. Cheap machines are often poorly constructed and can lead to uneven lines, inconsistent needle depth, and other issues. It can harm the final result of a tattoo. Investing in a high-quality machine from a reputable manufacturer can ensure that the device will last longer and perform better, ultimately saving money in the long run.
Pen needles should be replaced after each use to ensure sharpness, prevent uneven lines, and reduce the risk of infection. The lifespan of a needle may vary; consult the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on how often a specific needle should be replaced. It is also important to note that if the needle appears to be dull or bent, it should be replaced immediately to ensure the best results and safety of the client.
Conclusion
There are enough products (brands, designs, and models) out there to confuse you in a major way. A tattoo pen machine suitable to you may not be suitable to others and vice versa. Without knowing what to look for, the task of buying the device can be a daunting task.
We’ve listed the top 10 tattoo pen machines, one of which would surely suffice for your requirements. To further help you, we’ve explained the selection criterion in the above buyer’s guide, to help you make a wiser final decision.
Finally, it’s important to get the tattoo design implemented accurately through the right instruments, yet it’s also necessary to remember to follow the steps for the tattoo’s aftercare.
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