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Tattoo Machines

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Choosing a Tattoo Machine Format

A tattoo machine is the foundation of every artist's kit. It's also one of the most expensive pieces of equipment you need, so consider your tattooing style and budget to choose the machine that's right for you. Broadly, coil, rotary, and pen-style are available options.

 

Coil tattoo machines use electromagnetic coils to "hammer" the needles into the skin, providing more tactile feedback. These machines are perfect for customizing components and a good choice for artists who prefer bold, traditional tattoo styles. However, coil machines require more maintenance than other options and suit more experienced artists.

 

Rotary tattoo machines use an electric motor to drive the needle, providing a quieter, smoother operation. Pen-style machines are a type of rotary machine, offering better comfort and easy setup, which makes them a good beginner tattoo machine. Many rotary and pen machines can accommodate both wired and wireless connections.

Shop by Machine Type

To create lasting artwork that enhances your portfolio, shop top brands and narrow the search by machine type:

 

  • Rotary machines: Easy to use and set up, rotary tattoo machines offer precision and versatility with little vibration, reducing hand fatigue. Both fixed and adjustable stroke lengths are available.

  • Coil machines: For traditional artists who prefer tactile feedback and more give, coil machines offer superior customization and responsiveness. Fine-tune each machine to match your needs.  

  • Wireless tattoo machines: Wireless rotary machines run on a battery pack, so you don't have to get tangled up in cords.

  • Pen machines: Comfortable and easy to grip, pen machines help reduce hand fatigue. Best of all, they're easy to set up, especially for beginners.

  • Adjustable stroke machines: Go from lining to shading with one machine, offering better precision and control.

  • Tattoo machine kits: Get started with everything you need, including extra battery packs and ink.  

Understanding Stroke and Voltage

Both stroke and voltage affect how the needle hits the skin. Stroke length refers to how far the needle moves in one rotation from the armature bar to the down position. Stroke length determines how hard the needle hits and how fast it moves, so it's important to pair the right length with what you're tattooing.

 

Here's a quick breakdown, but you can learn more in our guide to stroke length:

  • Short (1.8 – 2.5 mm): Allows for more passes, so best for soft black and gray work.

  • Medium (3.5 mm): A good "catch-all" artists use for blending, shading, and thin linework.

  • Long (4.0 mm+): Best for lining and color packing (but more skin trauma for the client).

 

Voltage controls the needle's speed and force, so adjust voltage based on technique. Here's a quick breakdown, but check out our guide to voltage:


  • Lining: 7.5v–9v

  • Shading: 6v–8v

  • Color packing: 7v–9v

Top Machine Brands We Carry

Whether you're a beginner tattoo artist or a seasoned professional looking for new gear, you can rely on Ultimate Tattoo Supply for all the best brands in the industry. Some of the top tattoo machines we carry include:


Bishop: Created by tattoo artist Franco Vescovi, Bishop tattoo machines deliver on innovative features artists value most. The Power Wand series offers precision and consistency, tailored to your design preferences.

FK Irons: FK Irons rotary machines are versatile and lightweight. Adjustable-stroke options handle every aspect of a tattoo design—from lining to color packing.

Cheyenne: A leader in rotary and tattoo pen machines for 20 years, Cheyenne manufactures high-quality machines in Germany. From liners to shaders, you can choose the machine that fits your style.

 

Build a reliable tattoo setup with Ultimate Tattoo Supply's rotary, coil, pen, and wireless tattoo machines from Bishop, FK Irons, and Cheyenne, engineered for consistent lines every session.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tattoo needle cartridges universal?

Not all tattoo needle cartridges are universal, but many are designed to fit the commonly adopted, universal "Cheyenne system" mount. Before purchasing cartridges or a machine, make sure that they match your desired mount type.

Which tattoo machines are best for PMU?

Pen-style rotary machines are generally best for PMU. Their slim design, smooth, consistent needle movement, and low vibration make it easier to work precisely on delicate areas like eyebrows, lips, and eyeliner. Coil machines are less common for PMU because their strong, snapping motion can be harder to control on fine, sensitive skin.

What is the benefit of wireless tattoo machines?

Some tattoo artists prefer wireless tattoo machines because they remove the need for a pedal and wires, allowing for better mobility while tattooing.

What is the difference between rotary and coil tattoo machines?

The main difference is how they move the needles. Coil machines use electromagnetic coils to drive the needle, giving strong, precise, and punchy movement, which can be better for bolder work. Rotary machines use a motor and a cam system to move the needle in a smooth, continuous motion, offering consistent speed and lower vibration, which can be easier on the hand and better for long sessions.

What type of tattoo machine is best for beginners?

Those new to tattooing usually prefer rotary tattoo machines because they're lighter, quieter, and easier to maintain.

What type of tattoo machine is best?

Every artist has their preference; most prefer wireless tattoo pen machines because they're lightweight, comfortable for long sessions and versatile. Many models have digital screens, making it easy to update settings quickly. Some models offer adjustable strokes so that you can use one machine for every part of a tattoo session. Traditional artists, though, may prefer coil tattoo machines to achieve bolder designs.

Is it called a tattoo gun or a tattoo machine?

While you may have heard the term "tattoo gun" used outside the industry, professionals call it a "tattoo machine" because that's exactly what it is—an engineered piece of equipment. Calling it a gun implies it relies solely on force, which isn't accurate. These machines offer considerable precision and control, so if you want to sound like a professional artist, always refer to it as a tattoo machine.

How much does a decent tattoo machine cost?

For a mid-range tattoo machine, expect to pay $200 to $600 for a quality product. Less expensive machines are best for beginners who may be working on fake skin and still figuring out their style. Premium tattoo machines can reach $1,300 for excellent quality and enhanced features.

What are the best tattoo machines for beginners?

The best beginner tattoo machines are pen-style rotary machines. They are much easier to set up, lightweight, and produce lower vibrations. You can also find more budget-friendly options under $200, so you don't overinvest.

What's the difference between rotary, coil, and pen tattoo machines?

Coil tattoo machines use electromagnetic coils to move the needle up and down. Though these machines are heavier and have a steeper learning curve, they offer more customization and more tactile feedback. Rotary machines use a motor to move the needle, offering less vibration and noise and a smoother operation. Pen-style machines are a type of rotary machine designed to look like a pen, making them more comfortable to use and offering better precision.