Fine line tattoos are becoming increasingly popular, with many people opting for a minimalistic design for their first tattoo over a more complex tattoo.
If you’re starting out as a fine line tattoo artist, or you’re an established artist wanting to know more, this blog breaks down everything you need to know. From the ideal stroke length and voltage to helping you choose the best fine line tattoo machine for you; we’ve got you covered.
What Stroke Length Do I Need For Fine Line Tattoos?
The ideal stroke length is between 2.5 and 3.5mm as this gives you softer and more controlled needle movement, less depth per cycle which reduces the risk of lines blowing out, and better precision with single needles or small round liners.
If you use a longer stroke length, such as 3.8 – 4.5mm, it pushes harder and leads to thicker lines, an increased risk of blowouts, or potential skin damage. Longer stroke lengths are too harsh for delicate linework and are better suited to bold traditional outlines.
What Voltage Should I Use For Fine Line Work?
A lower voltage generally pairs best with a shorter stroke for fine line tattooing, for example, 6.0 – 7.0V on a rotary machine. Coil machines vary more but the goal is a smooth, consistent flow rather than a heavy punch.
If you stick to a lower voltage and a shorter stroke length (2.5-3.5mm), you can achieve clean, crisp lines while minimising trauma to the skin.
Budget Fine Line Machines
There are a range of fine line tattoo machines ideal for artists on a budget that still offer quality, ease-of-use, and versatility, including:
The S1MP from Peak is designed to make your life as a tattoo artist easier. It’s lightweight for added control and features three simple buttons to power on/off and adjust the voltage. Plus, the versatile 3.5mm stroke length is perfect for achieving clean, crisp lines!
The lightweight and compact design of the Mast Tour makes it perfect for artists on-the-go, such as guest-spotting at different studios or travelling to conventions. Its 3.5mm stroke makes it a great choice for fine line work, while its simple operation makes it a great beginner-friendly machine as you can spend more time learning technique rather than worrying about lots of technical specifications.
The adjustable stroke feature includes 2.4, 2.7, 3.0, 3.3 and 3.6mm making the Fold Pro ideal for a range of lining techniques. For beginners, this makes it an excellent learning machine as you can experiment with different strokes and see how they affect your linework. The simple display screen gives you only the essential information, so you’re not overwhelmed by unnecessary technical details during a session.
With an ergonomic design for a comfortable grip, the P3 Pro is comfortable to hold for long tattoo sessions, reducing hand fatigue. Plus, the adjustable stroke feature ranging from 2.0, 2.4, 2.8 and 3.3mm makes it versatile for different fine line styles. This is particularly useful for beginners who want to explore the differences in line variation and develop technique.
Mid-Range Fine Line Machines
Perfect for intermediate artists who want to make a long-term investment in a more advanced machine. These offer greater control, improved ergonomics, and more technical features.
The Solice Pro is built for versatility. Its adjustable stroke length means you can tailor it to different fine line techniques, while the textured grip provides superior control and comfort during longer sessions. A standout feature is the battery pack’s auto-sleep function, which kicks in after about five minutes of inactivity, a smart safety measure that also helps conserve battery life.
The SOL Nova offers a choice between 2.5mm or 3.5mm stroke options, both of which are perfect for fine line work. Plus, the two operating modes – steady and responsive – mean you can tailor the machine to suit your needs. Steady mode means your machine will run at a controlled speed with no give and consistent hard hit. Responsive mode means the frequency and hit will adjust depending on the surface you’re tattooing, essentially emulating a natural ‘give’.
The FK Irons ONE is designed with both comfort and performance in mind. Its 3.0mm stroke length is ideal for crisp, controlled linework, while the chunky, ergonomic grip prevents slipping and rolling during sessions. With up to 8 hours of runtime, it’s reliable for longer tattoo appointments without needing frequent battery swaps.
Premium Fine Line Tattoo Machines
These machines are the top choices for professional artists who want the best balance of technology, comfort, and performance.
This upgraded model takes the popular SOL Nova to the next level. The customisable display can be set for left- or right-handed use, making it versatile for all artists. It also offers additional operating modes beyond the standard Steady, including three different Responsive settings so you can fine-tune the machine to your exact style. With stroke options of 2.5mm or 3.5mm, it’s perfect for delicate linework with precision and consistency.
The Flux Max is designed for balance and control, with a front-weighted build that gives you better handling during long sessions. Its 3.2mm stroke is ideal for fine line designs, offering both precision and consistency. As a fully wireless machine, it eliminates cords that can get in the way, giving you total freedom of movement.
This is the ultimate setup for professionals. The Bishop Power Wand is already a well-loved machine, but the advanced full set includes upgraded batteries with incredible runtime: up to 15 hours with the Standard battery and 6 hours with the Shorty battery. The TFT colour display and 5-button layout give you more control than ever, while the 3.5mm stroke is perfectly suited for clean, fine line designs. It’s a serious investment, but one that pays off in performance and reliability.
Whether you’re a beginner experimenting with fine line tattooing or a professional looking for the most advanced machine on the market, there’s a perfect fit for every budget.
Fine line tattooing requires precision, control, and the right machine to support your technique. By choosing a machine that matches your skill level and goals, you’ll be able to deliver clean, crisp results every time. Shop our range to find the best fine line tattoo machine for you!
