The Best Pen Tattoo Machines in 2024: from Pros to Beginners

At the heart of the Q2 lies the German Faulhaber flat motor. This motor is renowned for its meticulous precision. For a tattoo artist, this means every line, shade, and detail is rendered with an accuracy that’s hard to find in other budget-friendly machines. The motor ensures that the needle moves consistently, eliminating the risk of sporadic jitters or uneven strokes.

The motor’s design is not just about performance; it’s also about efficiency. It ensures that the machine operates optimally without consuming excessive power. This translates to longer tattooing sessions without the constant need to recharge or worry about overheating. The Faulhaber motor’s design minimizes noise, ensuring that the soothing hum of the machine doesn’t escalate into a disruptive buzz.

Also, it’s crafted to withstand the test of time, ensuring that artists have a machine that remains reliable in the long run. In support of this, the CNC Q2 tattoo machine comes with a 1-year warranty. This means that if any issues arise with the machine within the first year of purchase, CNC Tattoo Supply will provide warranty service to address and resolve the problem.

The CNC Q2 feels almost like a pencil in hand, offering unparalleled comfort and maneuverability. The Q2’s compatibility with a wide range of tattoo cartridges and power supplies is a testament to its versatility. Artists can seamlessly integrate it into their existing setups, eliminating the need for constant equipment changes.

Durability is a must in the tattooing world, and the Q2’s aircraft-grade billet aluminum construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use. It’s still not a Cheyenne-level build, but it’s a very high-quality build that will stand up to a lot.

Customization is key in tattooing, and the Q2’s adjustable stroke length, ranging from 3.00 to 4.00 mm, allows artists to tailor their technique to each unique piece. Whether it’s fine lines or deep shading, Q2 has got it covered. But note that additional eccentrics you will need to purchase; the default stroke length is 3.5mm. You can also get wireless power supplies and plug into this machine, thus getting a wireless tattoo pen machine.

Verdict: Considering all of the features, like adjustable stroke, lightweight, short construction, powerful motor, 1-year warranty, and very reasonable price, I would like to say this machine is the best pen tattoo machine.

I love that this machine’s intuitive controls and built-in tilt sensors make it easy to start and control the machine with just one button, while also allowing me to adjust the voltage by tilting the machine in the desired direction.

It has two operating modes, Steady Mode and Responsive Mode, which allow me to choose the frequency and power settings that best suit my needs. The machine’s infinitely adjustable needle exit and wide motor range provide further flexibility and precision in my work. So, I love that the Sol Nova Unlimited is versatile and suitable for contouring, tinting, and shading.

The box and packaging is one of the most thoughtful and enjoyable to unpack of all the tattoo machines on the market. The tube, case, tattoo machine itself, batteries, charging wire (micro USB), charging block, and instructions – that’s the whole kit of the device. Very complete and clear instructions for use.

Also, the tattoo machine comes with two batteries, ensuring that I can use it continuously without any downtime. I appreciate that the battery only takes three hours to fully charge, making it a quick and convenient process. What sets it apart from other tattoo machines on the market is that Unlimited uses batteries that are used in other household items. That is, if you lose your battery, you can buy a new one without any hassle. Also an important detail about batteries: when the battery goes dead, that is, it shows yellow or orange, the machine does not reset the voltages and therefore continues to work as it should.

Cheyenne did a great job at designing this pen: its build quality is excellent and you can’t really be bothered with any of the parts. It is convenient for both right- and left-handed people. The machine’s quiet and silent operation is also a plus, as it helps me focus on my work without any distractions.

The device works easily on any skin and on any area. On bends and delicate areas of skin, the Adaptive Work Mode comes in handy. I like the fact that you can lower the volts quite low. Also based on the feedback from many tattoo artists who have used this device a lot in their work with clients, many have noted that clients “heal” better and faster.

Changing the voltages is done by changing the angle of the pen while the button is pressed. The maximum vertical position with the grip up is the highest voltage, and the grip down is the minimum voltage. The adjustment works at 360 degrees. The voltages are changed in steps and thanks to the manual, you will know at which tilt of the knob voltages will be set.

I also enjoy how this tattoo machine switches the stroke from 2.5 all the way up to 4.0: it takes a little effort to click it but I kind of like that. Also, the manufacturer offers a line of these products with different stroke lengths so you can choose the type of machine with a 2.5mm stroke, 3.5mm, and 4.00mm by default.

The nuances – this machine is not so good at tattooing thick and dense contours, although the thin contour made by this machine looks great, even, thin, without interruptions – that’s what you need. When covering the tattoo machine showed itself perfectly, as in principle, and all other tattoo machines from Cheyenne. It paints as a marker, there is no question about the quality of the penetration. So for the realist tattooists, this will probably be the perfect tattoo machine. And overall, SOL Nova Unlimited seems like an excellent investment for professional tattoo artists. Its high-quality construction, innovative features, and versatility make it a valuable addition to any artist’s tool kit.

The Mast tattoo gun has the standard 3.5mm stroke length ensures that the machine can function both as a liner and a shader, making it a versatile tool for beginners and professional artists.

One of the most commendable features is its digital LCD voltage screen. This, combined with its easily adjustable voltage, makes it particularly beginner-friendly. The screen not only displays the voltage but also shows the remaining power, working time, and working voltage, ensuring the artist is always in the know. The voltage range of the Mast pen rotary tattoo machine is 5V – 12V. Changing and replacing cartridges is a breeze, which is a significant advantage in a busy tattoo studio.

It’s also quite light despite being a wireless design, only 186 grams. The holder is 32mm in diameter, but keep in mind that you will need to wrap more protection around it, so the diameter will increase. So the machine may be a little heavier and louder comparing others in this review.

The advanced gear system of the Mast Archer promises a smooth, soft, and notably quiet operation. This is not only pleasant for the artist but also for the client. Additionally, its direct drive transmission increases the machine’s resilience. However, it’s worth noting that this requires artists to be more precise with needle depth.

Package Inclusions: The package is comprehensive, coming with a wireless machine, a USB-C fast charge cord, two replaceable grips, and a beautifully designed gift box (see photos). This makes it a great purchase or a gift for budding or professional artists.

Enclosed in a sleek aluminum housing, the Neutron has an ergonomic pen-like shape that fits comfortably in your hand during long tattoo sessions. It features a small digital display and intuitive buttons that allow easy control of the machine on the fly.

I was blown away by how effortlessly the Neutron pen deposited ink into the skin. The depth and saturation of the tattoos I produced with it were on par with, if not better than, a lot of coil tattoo machines. The pen is lightweight and ergonomic, allowing me to tattoo for hours without hand fatigue. It also runs cool, so no more dealing with machines overheating in the middle of a session.

At the heart of the Neutron is a powerful 4.5W motor that delivers smooth, consistent line work thanks to its 3.5mm stroke and direct drive system. There’s no bothersome rattling or shaking that you sometimes get with coil machines.

Changing tips between colors is a breeze – just pop one tip out and pop the next one in. The pen has quickly become my go-to choice for intricate fine-line tattoos and single needlework. The precision I can achieve with electromagnetic technology is unparalleled.

One of the biggest advantages of the Neutron is its cordless functionality. It operates wirelessly for up to 8 hours on a single charge, allowing for incredible flexibility and mobility. Artists can move around clients and tattoo in any position without worrying about cords getting in the way. And when it does come time to charge, a full battery takes only 2 hours.

The Neutron comes with three grip options – 32mm aluminum, 32mm silicone, and 35mm silicone. I appreciated having sizes to choose from depending on the tattoo location and my desired hand position. The grips have a non-slip coating for added control.

Overall, the Neutron allows me to create incredibly precise, clean tattoos faster than ever before. The cutting-edge electromagnetic technology provides unparalleled line quality and shading abilities. I would recommend the Neutron to any artist looking to step up their tattoo game.