Taking the classic route to make skin art? Then you need the best coil tattoo machine to get you started.
As the traditional coil tattoo machine used in modern tattooing, it’s not surprising that even with the many alternatives available, artists are still trying their hand with such equipment. They may have their own drawbacks but they’re still the more established tool for the job, so they have this compelling appeal to those who are interested in the art.
If you want to know more about the best coil tattoo machines, this guide is for you. We’ll touch various areas related to these coil tattoo machines, so you can expect to learn everything you need about them.
Rotary Tattoo Machines Vs Coil Tattoo Machines
At face value, when you compare rotary tattoo machines and coil tattoo machines, the former may seem a bit outdated and old-fashioned. While it’s partly true since it’s heavier and trickier to handle, the rotary tattoo machine still more highly preferred by many professional tattoo artists today. Why? Because of rotary machines are easy to control, precision, and the intricate line work.
Rotary machines are more lightweight and friendlier for beginners to use but those who want to up their tattoo game usually shift to coil machines sooner or later for the said reasons. The fact alone that you’ll find the best coil tattoo machines that are different from a good shading tool guarantees that this type of equipment will let you get the exact results you need.
5 Best Coil Tattoo Machines on the Market
To further establish what these tools really are, here’s our roundup of the best coil tattoo machines available today. By looking closer at these high quality products, you’ll get a better idea of what a coil tattoo machine is and what to expect from the best tattoo machines available.
1. Pirate Face Complete Tattoo Coil Machine – Best Coil Tattoo Machines for Beginners
Let’s start off with what many consider as the best coil machine tattoo kit, the Pirate Face Coil Machine Tattoo Kit Grinder. While it’s marketed to professional tattoo artist of all skill levels, it gained a lot of attention from newbies.
Quick Summary
- 4 10 wrap tattoo coil machines
- 1 power supply
- 1 Foot Pedal
- 1 carrying case
- 50 liner and shader needles
- 4 machine barrels/grips
- 8 stainless steel tips
- 27 disposable tips
- 7 Radiant Colors inks
- 1 stencil transfer paper
- 1 practice skin
- 1 tattoo ink holder
- 1 pair disposable gloves
- 100 ink cups
What makes it one of the best coil tattoo machine for beginners is the fact that machine comes to with all of the auxiliary tools and accessories to get the job done. It even comes with an instructional book that will tell you all about the basics of tattooing so it can really be a handy resource for those who are just starting out in the industry. These take out the fussiness from getting started in learning tattooing with coil tattoo machine.
It has also surprised many with its performance. For its low price, some folks expected that they might need to adjust and compromise a little but there’s not a lot of need for that with the Pirate Face Grinder Kit. Its 10- wrap coils are powerful enough to provide great output, especially when handled by someone who knows how to work such coil machines in terms of liner shader.
1. Complete Kit
With its long list of inclusions, it shouldn’t be too surprising that the Grinder is a complete tattoo gun kit. It has everything like power supply, foot pedal, and clip cord, so you don’t have to look around for additional accessories or tools.
2. Affordable Price
The Pirate Face Grinder Kit is very affordable as well. For 4 coil tattoo machines and a good load of accessories, its price is already quite the steal.
3. Versatility
The coil tattoo machine isn’t known for being versatile but the Grinder can be put in this category. How? The coil tattoo machines included in this kit are not necessarily designated as liner and shader but you can tune them as such, therefore giving you more control over your equipment.
4. Good for Starters
While coil tattoo machines aren’t the friendliest coil tattoo machines for newbies in general, the Grinder Kit might be a solid choice since it comes with beginners’ resources like the book Basic Fundamentals Of Modern Tattoo by Charles Jordan and the Welcome to Tattoo DVD.
- Has everything that you need to get started right away
- Comes with Radiant Colors tattoo inks that are made in the USA
- Comes with a nice instructional book for beginners
- Affordable
- Solid performance
- Versatile coil tattoo machines
- Some experienced power supply issues
- Coil Machines can hit too hard without proper control
2. Dragonhawk Complete Coil Machine Kit-Best Cheap Coil Tattoo Machine
From one of the more popular affordable tattoo supply manufacturers comes our second pick, the Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit. Like the item above, this set offers 4 coil tattoo machines, each made for specific functionality. You’ll get a conventional liner, power liner, soft shader, and color packer coil machines of liner shader and more for a very friendly price tag.
Quick Summary
- 4 coil tattoo machines for conventional lining, power lining, soft shading, and color packing
- Brass frame tattoo gun
- Digital Dragonhawk power supply
- Immortal tattoo Ink
- 50 sterile needles
- Foot pedal
- Carry case with key
- Practice skin
- Tattoo gun grips
- Other accessories
The best thing of dragonhawk complete tattoo kit is its solid performance. This makes it one of the best cheap one available since its rather robust and very reliable despite its very low price.
In addition to the coil tattoo machines, you’ll also get everything like power supply, foot pedal, and clip cord to get started in tattooing – from the machine’s accessories to inks and practice skins. So if you don’t want to make separate purchases or you wish to start tattooing right away, this can be a solid choice.
1. Coil Machines are Designed with Gabe Shum
Guaranteeing that these tattoo guns are perfectly useful for tattoo artists of all skill levels is the fact that it’s designed with the help of a globally-renowned tattoo artist, Gabe Shum. Based in Hong Kong, he’s inked global celebs and is also deemed as one of the region’s most inspired professional tattoo artists. With his expertise combined with Dragonhawk’s manufacturing experience, you can be sure that these machines will deliver great results.
2. Quality Guaranteed
All of Dragonhawk’s products are checked manually by workers to ensure that everything works well and accordingly. This means that you can rest assured that you’ll get a reliable product with your purchase.
3. Budget-Friendly
As mentioned above, Dragonhawk is a well-known budget-friendly brand so you can expect the same thing from this kit.
- From a trusted and reliable manufacturer
- Made in the USA inks are also vegan-friendly
- Designed with the help of a famous tattoo artist
- A great budget pick
- Suitable for beginners
- Simple to operate
- Vague list of inclusions
- Power supply might not be as durable as many want it to be
3. Dragonhawk 2pcs Coil Machine -Best Professional Coil Tattoo Machines
Not in need of a beginner’s kit? Then check out the Dragonhawk 2pcs Brass Coils Tattoo Machine. As its name suggests, it’s a 2-piece tattoo gun kit that will help you get started with coil tattoo machines as it comes with liner and shader unit. So if you don’t really need a lot of accessories to go with your “starter kit” in using machines, this can be worth looking into.
Quick Summary
- CNC-machine billet brass frame with standard tube vise fittings
- 8- wrap coils liner
- 10- wrap coils shader
- Lifetime guarantee
Compared to the other Dragonhawk item listed above, this seems like a pricier option since it only comes with two coils items. But since the coil tattoo machines themselves are a step up from the beginner models, it makes a lot of sense that it’s priced a bit higher. It’s very much worth the investment, however, as its performance can be compared to more expensive models’.
1. Solid Build
Since this product is made with CNC-cut billet brass, you can expect its accuracy and durability. Since billet brass is also resistant to corrosion, you can expect these machines to last you a while.
2. Suitably Set Up
As you will notice, the two coil tattoo machines are distinctly different from each other. The liner coil tattoo machine is an 8 wrap coils and the shader is a 10 wrap coils. These are the most common and standard varieties for the said purposes so they can give you exactly what you need from them.
3. Great Upgrade Options
If you’re looking for a high quality affordable upgrade for your starter tattoo gun, this product can be the best wireless tattoo machine pick since it’s performance is at the intermediate level already. It can further hone your tattooing skills without breaking the bank.
- Solid build guarantees great design and durability
- Performance is comparable to more expensive models
- Powerful setup
- An upgrade from beginner models
- Very affordable
- Can be a bit heavy
4. Yuelong -Best Coil Tattoo Machine Brands
If you’re after the professional shader coil tattoo machine, give the Yuelong Tattoo Machines 2 Brass Professional Coil Machine liner a try. This item may not necessarily be from one of the most or the best handmade tattoo machines right now but it’s proving to be a worthy option for its solid performance.
Quick Summary
- Brass frame with standard tube vise fittings
- 10-wrap liner, 7-8V rating that runs at 115-120 Hz
- 8-wrap liner, 7-8V rating that runs at 140-150 Hz
Featuring a lovely brass frame that gives it a nice vintage vibe, this coil tattoo machine for liner, shader work is also a set of 2 like the Dragonhawk item listed above. One is an 8- wrap coils liner and the other is a 10-wrap coils shader. Both promise accuracy, stable working speed, and high quality that will keep it from overheating even after 8 hours of continuous use.
1. Affordable
As one would expect from an emerging tattoo gun manufacturer from China, Yuelong comes with a very friendly price tag. It’s not necessarily as cheap as the ones in the kits mentioned above but it’s still very affordably priced for the kind of materials and construction it offers. This makes it a solid pick for many.
2. Solid Build
Made from brass, you can also count on this Yuelong product to last you a while. Its corrosion-resistant trait will help you rest assured that it can take on the tasks required from such equipment.
3. Easy Handling
As coil tattoo machines aren’t exactly known for quick results, this coil tattoo machine is designed to be handled nicely for long hours. It has a stable working speed and high strength. It’s also made in a way that will keep it from overheating even when used for hours on end.
- Attractive vintage design
- Steady handling
- Will not overheat even when used for long hours
- Great price
- Not a lot of info about the product is available online
5. Redscorpion Cast Iron Liner- best coil liner tattoo machine
Another hidden gem that pleasantly surprised many tattooists is the Redscorpion Cast Iron liner coil tattoo gun 8 Wrap Coils for Tattoo. This affordable cast iron pick is so good that many agree that it’s possibly one of the coil tattoo machines for lining and shading.
Quick Summary
- Cast iron frame
- Precision line cut frame
- 8-wrap
- 28mm height solenoid valve technology
- 33 µF capacitor
- Speed Armature Bar
What makes it so great is its accuracy. With a iron frame that is made with a precision line cut, this coil tattoo machine was crafted with exactitude in mind. As a result, tattoo artists get the exact results they want, proving it to be very easy to work with as well.
Aside from being spot on, this coil tattoo machine is also very consistent. Thanks to its high magnetic and electric conductivity, you don’t have to worry about it cutting in and out.
1. Easy Setup
The most common praise this product got from various users is how easy it is to set up. Just some tuning and tightening of screws and this coil tattoo machine is already good to go. Some even go as far to say as it’s nicely tuned straight out of the box. This is a good sign for its reliability and performance.
2. Accuracy
Aside from its quick setup, the Red Scorpion Cast Iron Liner coil tattoo machine is also well known for its accuracy. Its Precision Line processed and cut frame makes it possible for the device to create very accurate dimensions which also makes it easier to handle and control.
3. Great Choice of Materials
Made from cast iron, this coil tattoo machine has excellent magnetic and electric conductivity. As a result, it doesn’t cut in and out so you can always expect to get clean, smooth, and exact lines.
4. budget Friendly
On top of its great performance, this best starter tattoo machine is very affordable. It might not come with other coil tattoo machine but it’s still worth the investment because it offers the best cheap tattoo machine value for the money.
- Superb magnetic and electrical conductivity
- Runs very smoothly
- Comparable performance to higher-end products
- Easy to set up
- Doesn’t overheat
- Can be a bit heavy
Buyers’ Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Choose the best coil machine tattoo
for You
After getting to know the ideal picks for coil tattoo machines, there are still quite a number of details that you have to know in order to make the best coil tattoo machine liner work pick. To help you cover all of your bases, here are some of the most crucial points that should help you with your search.
How to Use a Coil Tattoo Machine
Using a coil tattoo machine can be rather tricky, especially if you’re a first-timer. It’s different from using other kinds of illustration tools as it’s not necessarily shaped and works like a pen. Sure, there is a grip where you can hold itlike you would a pen but the heft and vibration of the main unit require some getting used to.
If you’re curious as to how you should use a coil tattoo machine to help you decide whether such equipment is a good match for you, here are the basic steps that you should need to know:
- Prepare yourself for the tune assembly around the armature bar. Wash your hands thoroughly and wear latex gloves to prevent harmful bacteria from getting into the coil tattoo machine and especially the needles.
- Prepare the parts. Check the needles and make sure they’re sterilized, from an unopened package, and without any flaws. If they’re bent or damaged, don’t use them as they can cause unnecessary skin damage.
- Assemble the unit properly. Follow its manual’s instructions to make sure that you’ll put it together properly.
- Make sure to set the proper needle length. This will help you get the results you want. Most experts recommend setting it to 0.04 to 0.07 inches.
- Add an elastic or rubber band to the shader or liner coil tattoo machine if you want it to vibrate less.
- Hook it up to a power supply and you’re ready to go.
How to Choose the best tattoo coils machine?
The trickiest thing when shopping for a coil tattoo machine is in choosing just one out of the many great options available. There are lots of amazing choices out there, especially on paper. So how do you make a choice? Here are a few crucial pointers that can help you.
Always read reviews
Reviews offer insight and accounts of people who actually used the product so they’re great sources of information that you won’t find in marketing materials and online listings. They’re not foolproof as some can be fake but it’s not impossible to find reliable feedback. You just need to compare coil or rotary tattoo machine and be discerning about the tone of the review and its content and you can be sure to get something out of product feedback.
Consider your needs and preferences
As mentioned before, coil tattoo machine comes in different shapes and sizes so you should also look into those details when choosing one. If you’re on the big side, opt for something with bigger grips and accessories. If you’re small, go for smaller ones. This way, you can be sure that your shader and liner tattoo machine will be manageable easy to handle.
Keep in mind the functionality of the item as well. The liner coil tattoo machine is often different from the coil shader coil tattoo machine, so you should also know what you need before you start looking.
Only go for something made with high quality materials
The material of your equipment is also essential if you want it to perform well and last a while. For tattoo machines, brass, copper, and cast iron are highly recommended because of various reasons.
Brass is corrosion resistant so it tends to last long. Cast iron is highly conductive so it boosts the performance of the liner tattoo machine. Keep such details in mind and you’ll surely find a great match.
How to Care for Your coil tattoo machine for Long Life Use?
Maintaining a coil tattoo machine requires a bit more work than with rotary machines but they’re definitely worth it. Follow these tips and your tattoo machine might just last you years and years.
- Follow the maintenance tips recommended by the manufacturer. They know what their products need, so take note and follow their recommendations.
- Clean your coil tattoo machine after use, even if you bag your coil tattoo machine, it’s still crucial to clean it right after for hygiene and safety purposes as well as to avoid corrosion.
- Follow the setup instructions for your coil tattoo machine to the dot. You don’t want to make a mistake in its assembly and damage it carelessly.
- Understand how your coil tattoo machine works. This way, you’ll be able to easily spot issues so you can remedy it right away and not overwork your device unknowingly.
FAQS
Picking the Best Tattoo Coil Machine for You
To be quite honest, if you know what you’re looking for in a product, you’ll be able to easily find the coil tattoo machine for you. Tattoo machines for beginners models are very different from intermediate and professional ones as our list above can show you, so you just need to pay attention to know which ones will suit you best coil tattoo machines.
But if we’re to choose just one, we’ll have to pick the Dragonhawk 2pcs Brass Coil Tattoo Machine. This set is best quality tattoo gun for beginners and intermediate users alike so it will suit a lot of people’s needs. It’s also designed for accuracy, so you can count on it to be highly manageable and easy to work with.
How about you? Using our guide and everything you’ve learned from our tips, we hope you get to find the perfect match for your needs and requirements.