When starting out as a beginner tattoo artist after securing your apprenticeship, it can be difficult to choose a tattoo machine that meets all your needs. Do you choose a rotary or coil machine? Should you go for a wired or wireless machine? Or would it be better to get a tattoo kit or bundle rather than just a machine as a more cost-effective choice?
Generally, it depends on your personal preference but rotary machines are often easier to use, lower maintenance, more lightweight and ergonomic, and offer more versatility for artists just starting out.
If you’re overwhelmed by the choices of machines available, we’ve created a helpful list of the best tattoo machines for beginners divided into low, mid and high price brackets.
When To Invest In A Tattoo Machine?
If you've started a tattoo apprenticeship, it's usually the right time to invest in your first machine. Using the same machine regularly helps you develop muscle memory, refine your technique, and gain confidence as you progress under the guidance of an experienced mentor.
How To Choose The Best Tattoo Machine For Beginners
Before choosing your machine, it’s worth considering the features and benefits it can offer as you learn:
- Stroke length versatility: Many machines now feature an adjustable stroke length option. This versatility gives you the opportunity to practise a wider range of techniques and tattoo styles while developing your skills.
- Ergonomic design for comfort: A comfortable, well-balanced machine can make a big difference when you're starting out. It helps you become accustomed to the machine's weight and handling, making longer practice sessions more comfortable.
- Adjustability: Machines with customisable settings allow you to experiment with different setups and find what works best for both your tattooing style and the technique you're trying to achieve.
- Ease of use: Choosing a user-friendly machine means you can focus more on honing your tattooing skills rather than having to spend lots of time trying to understand the mechanics of the machine.
Budget Machines For Brand New Tattoo Artists
There are several brands that design machines ideal for beginners, including Dragonhawk. Dragonhawk aims to simplify the art of tattooing, making them the perfect choice when you’re just starting out. They usually have a more affordable price point as well. Some beginner-friendly options from Dragonhawk include:
- Mast Archer - This Dragonhawk machine is wireless, powerful and reliable. It also comes with a 3.5 mm stroke length making it perfect for beginners who want to try out a range of tattoo styles and techniques!
- Fold Pro - Featuring an adjustable stroke length between 2.4 and 4.2mm, you can practice lining, shading, and colour packing.
- Mast Tour - A lightweight and ergonomic option with a 3.5mm stroke that offers comfort and versatility.
Peak is known for creating machines that are perfect for artists working at all-levels, including beginners. One of their most popular beginner-friendly options is the:
- Peak S1MP - With a 3.5mm stroke, it’s designed to do everything you need it to, including colour packing, smooth shading, and crisp lining. A solid, dependable machine that you can rely on.
EZ have a range of machines ideal for newer artists, including the:
- P3 Pro - Easily switch between fine lining, soft shading, or detailed work with the adjustable stroke length feature ranging from 2.0 - 4.2mm.
- P3 Pro Touch - A user-friendly design featuring a touchscreen battery pack allowing artists to easily adjust their machine settings while working.
Mid-Range Tattoo Machines
There are a range of machines with a slightly higher price point that are still relatively cost-effective and great for beginners:
- Cheyenne Hawk Pen 2 - Features two different modes, Steady which offers a constant hit and frequency, and Responsive which offers a more reactive hit and frequency, adjusting to your rhythm as you work.
- OG Fury II - The lightweight and ergonomic design offers a more balanced and comfortable grip. Plus, with dual soft and hard modes, you can easily switch your machine to a setting that suits the style and technique you’re working on.
- FK Irons One - This high-quality and dependable wireless tattoo machine has been designed for tattoo artists at all levels, including beginners. You can choose from two versatile stroke lengths, either 3.0 mm or 4.0 mm. Designed with comfort in mind, the ergonomic shape has larger grooves to prevent rolling and enhance comfort while working.
- Equaliser Neutron 2 - A versatile machine with an adjustable stroke length between 2.6 and 4.0mm as well as a dotwork mode so you can work across different styles and techniques.
Premium Options For Artists Wanting An Investment
If you’re looking for an investment or an upgrade as an artist you has been tattooing on your apprenticeship for a while, these premium options are a good choice:
- FK Irons Flux Max - Offers up to 6 hours of runtime and intuitive on-device controls via an OLED display. With adjustable eGive settings, a wide 4-12V voltage range, and an ergonomic design, it offers versatility, comfort, and performance.
- FK One Adjust - Featuring an adjustable stroke system, artists can switch between 2.0mm and 5.0mm stroke lengths on-the-fly with a simple twist. Paired with a custom motor, wireless power, and a built-in digital display, it's designed to handle virtually any tattooing style with ease.
- Cheyenne Sol Nova Unlimited II - Features an integrated display, quick-change batteries, and up to 6 hours of runtime. Its ultra-quiet motor, responsive operating modes, and broad frequency range deliver a smooth, adaptable performance for every tattooing technique.
What Type Of Tattoo Machine Is Best For Beginners?
Understanding the key differences between machine types can help narrow down your options. Most beginner artists will need to decide between wired and wireless machines, as well as coil and rotary designs.
Wired vs Wireless
Wired tattoo machines connect to an external power supply, making them a reliable and often more affordable option for apprentices and beginners. Wireless machines offer greater freedom of movement and a cleaner setup, but typically come at a higher price point.
Coil vs Rotary
Coil machines are a traditional choice, known for their distinctive feel and powerful hit, but they require more tuning and maintenance. Rotary machines are generally recommended for beginners as they're quieter, lighter, easier to use, and versatile enough to handle both lining and shading with minimal adjustment.
The best tattoo machine for beginners is ultimately the one that suits your budget, learning goals, and preferred way of working. By considering factors such as your budget, preferred features, and the styles you want to explore, you'll be able to find a machine that supports your development and grows with you throughout your apprenticeship.
