In this blog, we’re breaking down coil and rotary machines. We’ll go over what makes each machine tick (literally, in the case of coils) and the pros and cons of both. Plus, we’ll point you toward some of the best tattoo machines out there, so you can start your career on solid ground.
History of Tattoo Machines
Nearly 140 years ago, Thomas Edison invented an electric pen to make duplicate copies faster. Within 15 years, a man named Sam O’Reilly hijacked his invention, developing the first ink tube and needle system using Edison’s rotary-powered Stencil-Pens. Then, just 20 days after O’Reilly patented his tattoo ink reservoir, Thomas Riley filed a patent for the first single-coil tattoo machine in London. Not to be outdone, Alfred Charles South quickly followed with a double-coil design so heavy it literally hung from the ceiling for use. (Check out Tattoo Machine History for a closer look.)
Since then, tattoo machines have evolved in leaps and bounds, with rotary machines and wireless machines taking the tattoo industry by storm.
Coil vs. Rotary Tattoo Machines: Which Is Better?
Even with rotary and wireless machine options being so popular, some artists are still loyal to the coil. So, what are the key differences? Well, if you’re just starting out, a rotary tattoo machine will usually feel more forgiving and gentler. If you’re an old-school artist who thrives on precision, control, and that classic tattoo buzz, a coil tattoo machine may be your ride-or-die. For more detailed information on how coils and rotaries work, take a look at our Coil Versus Rotary Machines blog.
Tattoo Machine Brands and Models
Now the meat and potatoes: Here’s a roundup of some of the best tattoo machines available right now. And FYI, while coil machines aren’t the headliners they once were, they haven’t vanished. So, if you’re curious to learn more about them, feel free to skip ahead to the Top Coil Machine Brands Section.
If you want to dig even deeper, check out the full Tattoo Machines selection. You can also dive into our full Coil vs. Rotary Tattoo Machines article for brand-specific details, diagrams, and even more useful info to help you make your pick.
Top Rotary Machine Brands
FK Irons
When it comes to FK Irons tattoo machines, there’s a model for every artist and style. The Flux Max is luxury in your hand, loaded with intuitive features and tech. It offers the brand’s longest adjustable stroke length yet (up to 4.5mm) and the upgraded PowerBolt II battery with a crisp OLED display. Its predecessor, the FK Flux, laid the groundwork for wireless tattooing with up to 10 hours of battery life and a lightweight, ergonomic design that set the standard for today’s machines.
For artists who want power and comfort, the FK EXO delivers with its forward-weighted 40mm grip, 9-watt brushless motor, and versatile 4.0mm stroke. It’s a workhorse for lining, color packing, and solid saturation with fewer passes. Looking for a high-quality, accessible machine that grows with you? The FK Irons ONE keeps things simple but pro-level, with a rechargeable drop-in battery, low vibration, and voltage adjustments at the push of a button.
Powered by the upgraded PowerBolt II battery with a crisp OLED display, it lets you view voltage in real time and adjust eGive directly from the machine, so no slowing down to get into the app. Lightweight, wireless, and efficient, the Flux Max packs everything you need into one powerhouse design. Check out everything FK Irons has to offer here.
Peak
Peak tattoo machines offer premium quality just like the luxe FK machines, without the hefty price tag. The Peak Solice Pro 2, a next-gen upgrade to the OG Solice Pro, is a true all-rounder. With a fully adjustable stroke length from 2.4mm to 4.2mm, a new ergonomic grip that cuts down on strain, and a brighter display for session tracking, it’s built for artists who want flexibility, comfort, and precision in one compact powerhouse.
For a more budget-friendly option, the Solice Ergo shines with unique perks. It’s compatible with Darklab’s Ergo Shield disposable grips for fast, clean setups, and its display shows Hertz instead of voltage, so you see the real frequency of your needle hits. Paired with a long-lasting 1800mAh USB-C rechargeable battery, the Solice Ergo gives you the power to push through marathon sessions. Its fixed 4.0mm stroke is ideal for bold lines and solid color work, but you can soften the hit by swapping in the optional 3.5mm cam.
Then there’s the S1-MP, a top pick for artists who want an easy, reliable all-rounder. With its fixed 3.5mm stroke and smooth handling, it covers everything from lining to shading without the fuss of constant adjustments. Whether you’re just starting out or already a seasoned artist, the S1-MP is made to support every stage of your tattooing journey.
Cheyenne
Diehard fans and newbies alike love Cheyenne tattoo machines for their lightweight feel and whisper-quiet, strong-silent-type vibe. The Cheyenne Sol Nova Unlimited takes that reputation and runs with it, giving you total freedom and flow. This quiet powerhouse offers up to 5 hours of runtime on a quick 3-hour charge. With adjustable needle depth up to 4mm and two simple modes:
- Steady for consistent, forceful hits
- Responsive for adaptive frequency and impact to the surface for precision work.
Taking things a step further, the Cheyenne SOL Nova Unlimited II levels up with even more flexibility. You can swap drive units in two clicks to choose between a 2.5mm, 3.5mm, or 4.5mm stroke, so one machine covers linework, shading, and color packing. Its OLED display keeps you updated in real time, and with three Responsive Modes plus one Steady Mode, you can dial in the exact feel you want. Easy battery swaps and tool-free drive changes mean zero downtime, keeping you in full command of your craft.
Critical X Bishop
Critical and Bishop teamed up to deliver the Power Wand, loaded with accessories and a powerhouse battery that can last up to 15 hours. It features an adjustable stroke system: 3.5mm for shading, 4.2mm for color packing, and 5.0mm for linework. So, one machine handles just about any tattooing task.
The TFT display keeps all the important info front and center: machine frequency, battery life, session time, and runtime, so artists can stay in the zone. With its mix of power, control, and comfort, the Power Wand is built to keep you tattooing your best work, all day long.
Dragonhawk
Among Dragonhawk’s machines, the Mast Archer stands out as a reliable all-rounder, offering over 8 hours of wireless power per charge and a versatile 3.5mm stroke that makes it equally solid for lining, shading, and color packing. Voltage adjustments are as simple as pressing a button, with a clear LCD display to keep settings visible, and it even comes with extra grips and accessories so artists can keep working without pause.
Mast Lancer shines for bold linework, delivering up to 12 hours of tattooing time per battery with easy mid-session swaps, an adjustable needle depth up to 4mm, and a crisp LED voltage readout for smooth, precise adjustments on the fly.
InkJecta
InkJecta’s Flite Nano Elite takes things up a notch with a custom Nano motor in place of the usual Swiss Maxon, plus a chrome 3.25mm cam, a broad 4.5V–20V range, and their patented torsion drive system that lets artists swap between Soft, Medium, and Hard push bars for the perfect feel. For heavier work, the Eclipse delivers steady, reliable performance with a direct drive system and sturdy frame built for shaders and color packers who need smooth power and long-lasting durability.
Vlad Blad
The Vlad Blad Ultron 3 SE is a limited-edition release that’s steady, reliable, and built for the long haul. Artists can choose from three stroke options to match their style: a versatile 3.7mm stroke for both lining and shading, a 4.2mm stroke for smooth gradients and solid color packing, or a punchy 4.7mm stroke for bold lines, sharp hits, and fast coverage.
Ink Machines
The Dragonfly X2 by Ink Machines is lightweight, versatile, and super-quiet. Its adjustable suspension system lets artists fine-tune needle-hitting force to match their style, while the needle bar retainer keeps everything steady. Compatible with standard grips, tubes, needles, and power supplies, the Dragonfly X2 is sleek, reliable, and easily earns its place as one of today’s top tattoo machines.
EGO
The EGO Apex Nano takes everything great about its predecessor and makes it even sleeker and lighter, weighing only 82g (0.18lbs). Crafted from a solid block of lightweight aircraft aluminum, it delivers durability without bulk, powered by a Swiss-made Maxon “Nano” motor for smooth, low-voltage tattooing. Bez’s signature power triangle system lets artists fine-tune give and throw with interchangeable rubber densities, mimicking the classic coil spring effect. Versatile, ergonomic, and built for any style, the Apex Nano is a rotary machine that punches well above its weight.
Stigma-Rotary
The Stigma-Rotary Spear 2.0 is a powerful all-in-one machine. The adjustable stroke from 2.5mm to 4mm, switches easily by rotating the motor housing. Its 8W DC motor handles any style or cartridge. While the lightweight, low-vibration design and ergonomic grip keep artists comfortable through long sessions.
Top Coil Machine Brands
Hatchback Irons
Handmade with precision, Hatchback Irons machines are handmade with precision and feature 18-gauge laser-cut blue steel springs. They include a silver contact screw for quick tension adjustments, and a custom cut-out armature bar for smoother performance. Running strong at low voltage, they’re versatile, efficient, and reliable for artists who love the punch of a coil.
CTPS Saveria
With 35+ years of expertise, CTPS Saveria handcrafts each machine over an 8-hour process for premium quality and performance. Built to run smoothly at low voltage, The CTPS Saveria machine lineup is built to run smoothly at low voltage. This includes micro and standard liners, shaders, and painters—making them a go-to for artists looking for versatile, handcrafted coils. For a deeper dive, check out our CTPS Saveria Tattoo Machines blog.
Pen-Style Machines
FK Spektra Xion
A global artist favorite, the Xion delivers comfort, control, and easy customization with its ergonomic grip, one-turn give adjustment, and ratcheting stroke system. Powered by a custom 6W MotorBolt, it runs smooth, steady, and precise.
Peak Proteus
With 7 stroke options, the Proteus is a true all-rounder that adapts to any style. Lightweight and forward-weighted for comfort, it offers pen-like control and reduces wrist strain—ideal for long sessions.
Peak Solice Pro
The first pen machine with a fully adjustable stroke (2.4–4.2mm), the Solice Pro covers everything from fine lines to bold color. Wireless-ready with up to 10 hours of runtime, it’s built for flexibility and performance.
Cheyenne Hawk Pen
Weighing just 3.9 oz., the Hawk Pen is light yet powerful. It offers smooth rotary performance with the feedback of a coil. Backed by premium craftsmanship and long-life motors, it’s versatile and reliable for any setup.
How to Save on Tattoo Machines & Supplies
At PainfulPleasures, we offer one of the largest selections of tattoo supplies online. From tattoo machines, practice skins, inks, disposables, and more, we’ve got everything artists need, all in one place.
Comments are closed here.