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It may not seem like it for beginners but to start tattooing, you’ll need a long list of items. You can’t have a go at it with just your tattoo machine because even this very product requires a number of attachments and accessories to work.
If you’re a beginner who doesn’t want to go through the hassle of looking up each and every tattoo kit you need to start tattooing, you should look into the best tattoo machine kits. These items will have just about everything you need to kickstart your foray into tattooing.
Where do you start looking? Here’s a quick best at home tattoo kit review guide that can point you in the right direction.
8 Best Tattoo Kits
1. Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit 2- Best Beginner Tattoo Kit
Kicking off our list is the Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit 2 Machine Gun 10 Color Inks Power Supply. Featuring two tattoo coil machines, this kit will already let you do all kinds of tasks as the devices are for shading and lining. So even with just this starter kits, you can already complete a design without needing any other piece of tattoo equipment.
What makes this tattoo kits a great pick to start off this list is its practicality. Dragonhawk is a budget-friendly brand that provides high-quality tattoo kits, so this tattoo kits can definitely be an attractive option for many.
1. From a reputable brand
Dragonhawk is one of the top budget brands in the market right now as they offer affordable tattoo equipment and supplies that are of high quality. Because of this, it also shouldn’t come as a surprise that many consider them as one of the best beginner tattoo machine kits brands today. They certainly have the capacity to offer dependable products at attractive prices.
With this kit, however, buyers can enjoy a convenient option that will give them a run for their money. With the good reputation of this brand’s products, you can rest assured that you’ll be putting your money in the right place even if it’s not much.
2. Great value for the money
With Dragonhawk being known for its affordable offerings and high quality, you can also expect great bang for your buck from their products. It’s an affordable kit with a good brand reputation, so quality can be expected.
More than just giving you a steal, this kit is also a very convenient pick. It contains all of the essentials – from the tattoo machine to the accessories needed to use it. While you will still need to purchase some medical, sterilization, and art supplies, you won’t feel too bad about it since the kit doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Its price tag won’t hurt lots of people’s budgets so you can still afford to get other tattoo kits without sacrificing quality and performance.
3. Great for beginner tattoo artists
Since it comes with nearly all of the basic items you need for tattooing, this product can also be a great pick for beginners. It can quickly build your arsenal, helping you tick off many tattoo kits on your list in one go.
- Very affordable
- Comes with the basics
- Quality made items
- Smooth and reliable performance
- Suitable for beginners
- Some reports of quality concerns but were resolved right away by the manufacturer
2. Wormhole Complete Tattoo Gun Kit 4pcs CD013- Best Tattoo Starter Kit
Next is another Wormhole product, the Tattoo Kit with Case Complete Tattoo Gun Kit 4 pcs Starter Tattoo Machine Kit. Unlike the previous tattoo kits, this one suits professional tattoo artist of all skill levels – from beginners to more experienced users and maybe even professionals. Since it comes with four tattoo machines, it can help you cover all your bases when completing certain designs.
Quick Summary
- 2 coil tattoo guns for lining
- 2 coil tattoo guns for shading
- 10 wraps
- Tattoo Power supply
- Clip cord connection and foot pedal
- Attachments, accessories, and supplies
- 20 5ml ink bottles
- Disposable gloves
- 1 x Stainless steel foot pedal
- 10 x disposable stainless tip
- 50 x Tattoo ink cups with base
- 1 x blank tattoo practice skin
- Tattoo kit instruction manual
- Carrying case
1. Friendly price
Like the other Wormhole pick above, this starter kits is also quite affordable. It’s not necessarily cheap but its price makes sense given that it comes with a long list of inclusions. The fact alone that it has 4 coil tattoo machines, a power supply, and a lot of accessories can already justify its price tag.
It also helps that this kit’s machines are nicely made. They may be from China but they’re not flimsy. They can definitely handle the requirements of newbies and professional tattoo artist alike.
2. Suitable for tattoo artist of all skill levels
As mentioned above, this is not just the best budget tattoo kit. The machines it comes with are all professional-grade so professional tattoo artist and veterans can also find this product very useful. They’re sturdy enough to handle the demands of an experienced tattoo artist but it’s also simple enough for a newbie to work with.
3. Comes with a manual
Lots of tattoo kits do not come with an instructional booklet or manual that discusses how to use the tattoo kits that come with the package. This isn’t a big issue for many, especially those who are apprentices. However, if you’re a self-starter and want to get the hang of your device before you face your mentor, this kit’s manual will prove to be a handy add-on for you.
- Friendly price tag
- Comes with 4 different machines
- Instruction manual included
- Made not just for beginners but for experienced tattoo artist and experts as well
- Sample ink is not recommended for use on skin
3. Grinder Tattoo Kit by Pirate Face Tattoo- Best Tattoo Gun Kit
Our next recommendation is made to be considered as the best complete tattoo kit even if it’s actually meant for beginners. It may sound a bit daunting but don’t fret. Grinder tattoo kit is very beginner tattoo kit, it’s just that its quality is made to satisfy experienced and veteran tattoo artist.
While its quality is comparable with professional-grade machines, the grinder pirate face tattoo kit itself is loaded with inclusions that will help newbies learn the ropes of the craft. Aside from the handy accessories and supplies that come in the package, this tattoo guns also come with instructional materials. This makes it very useful for newbies.
1. Designed for professionals
This pirate face tattoo is described as a kit made for beginners but designed for professionals. This means that it meets the needs of newbies as the products are easy to use and the kit comes with everything that is needed when getting started in tattooing.
However, it’s also made with professionals in mind so you can also expect reliable performance and high quality. This combination makes it a solid pick for those who are looking for a convenient and practical pick.
2. Comes with highly informational materials about tattooing
One of the reasons why this product is a great match for beginners is its instructional and informative inclusions. Grinder tattoo kit comes with an introductory book and DVD about tattooing, allowing you to learn more about the craft in the manner that suits you best. You get to choose how you will learn more about the said art form since there are two different materials available. You can also use both and gain lots of knowledge.
3. Quality build
Pirate Face is also known for its quality tattoo guns. So if you want to make sure that you’ll get your money’s worth, this kit might just do the trick.
- Made for beginners but are not very basic
- Well-planned out inclusions
- Quality build
- Reliable performance
- Good for those looking for apprenticeships
- You might need to replace the power supply after a while
4. Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit- Best Tattoo Machine Kits
If you’re more of the collect and select type, however, the Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit with Case might be an attractive option for you. With 9 tattoo machine guns, it’s possibly the most machine-packed pick on our list. Despite this, however, true to the Dragonhawk branding, it still comes with an affordable price tag.
Quick Summary
- 9 coil tattoo machine guns for lining and shading
- 10 wrap coil
- 7-10V working voltage
- Dragonhawk LCD power supply
- 25 bottles of Immortal Tattoo Inks
- Practice Skin
- Tattoo ink cups
- 10Pcs stainless steel tips
- Attachments, accessories, and supplies
- Carrying case
Aside from its large selection of machines, this kit is also quite a charming one. It comes with an ornate selection of machine and a minimalist set offering a nice balance between aesthetics and functionality. So if you really want to explore different tattoo guns, this can be a solid pick. These all tattoo accessories and tattooing equipment will packed on a carrying case.
1. Comes with 9 different coil tattoo guns
The most notable thing about this product is that it comes with 9 different coil tattoo machine guns. They can be set up for either lining or shading, so you can easily whip up a set that will let you complete different designs. With a wide selection of machines, you can definitely have enough options when it comes to executing different designs.
2. Great value for your money
True to Dragonhawk’s commitment to providing affordable products to the public, this kit is also quite affordable for the amount of tattoo kit
it comes with. It’s not necessarily cheap but since it comes with 9 machines and a long list of supplies, accessories, and attachments, it can be considered as a great deal. This is why it also shouldn’t be surprising that it’s deemed as one of the best professional tattoo gun kit today.
3. Appealing design
The aesthetics of this kit is also noteworthy. You’ll get 5 machines that come with different skull-themed designs, giving you the tough look that many adore. So if you’re the kind who want to be more playful with your tattoo machines, these may do the trick.
And if you want to change things up a bit, you can still be more low-key with this kit as well. The other four tattoo machines are pretty plain and minimalist in style. These work as great alternatives and provide variety.
- Wide selection of tattoo machines
- Reasonable price
- Attractive designs
- Smooth performance
- Comes with many accessories and supplies
- Good for beginners
- Their customer service is quick to resolve any problems
- Some supplies might not exactly be of top-notch quality
5. Dragonhawk Mast Rotary Kit- Best Rotary Tattoo Kit
If your definition of the best starter tattoo gun kits involves a tattoo pen, then you should check out the Dragonhawk Mast Rotary Tattoo Pen Machine Kit. This tattoo kit features the Dragonhawk Mast Tattoo Pen so you can enjoy an easier transition from traditional pens to a tattoo machine. It offers great convenience and a less intimidating learning curve to newbies.
1. Easy handling
The biggest draw of tattoo pens is their easy handling. Since they’re fashioned after actual pens, they’re generally easier to hold when drawing on the skin. This is particularly true for the Mast Tattoo Pen since it is designed to have a pen-like feel.
However, Dragonhawk took things up a notch with this tattoo kit by making it ergonomic and lightweight. They also ensured that it has a good balance so users can handle this machine with great ease. So not only will you have a simpler time transitioning to a tattoo machine from a regular pen with this tattoo kit but this item also won’t be too tiring for your wrist and hands.
2. Reliable quality and performance
Another reason to give this product a shot is its reliable quality and performance. Dragonhawk built its reputation from crafting budget-friendly pieces that perform similarly to more expensive brands so you can be guaranteed that the Mast Tattoo Pen will not let you down.
With its Japan-made motor and space aluminum frame, this product promises durability and solid performance. You can be sure to get more than your money’s worth with this pick.
3. Great value for the money
If you’re on a budget, going for this kit is also a great idea. It’s very affordable, so you don’t have to spend serious amounts of money on it. It also performs smoothly and consistently, so you won’t have a hard time working with this device.
A great plus is its versatility. Since this tattoo kit is a rotary tattoo machine, it can line and shade without too much fuss. All you need to do is adjust the needle depth and the voltage on your power supply and you’ll be able to switch from one task to another. This versatility gives this kit more functionality and use.
- Compatible with all cartridge types
- Reliable performance
- Easy to handle and use
- Little to no vibration
- lightweight
- Grip may need additional traction
6. Solong Tattoo Complete Tattoo Kit 4 Pro- Best Professional Tattoo Kits
Another option from the same manufacturer of the tattoo kit above is the Solong Tattoo Complete Tattoo Kit TK458. Like the previous pick, this set also comes with a lot of inclusions and high-powered machines that are designed to replicate the performance of more expensive models. So if you’re on a tight budget but want to get something reliable, you should also make sure to check this one out.
1. Appealing Winchester round design
Among the most striking features of this set is the Winchester round design of the tattoo machines. They’re made to look like the back of the barrel of a revolver which is quite a fun and kitschy design. It adds an interesting element to the set and can also be a great testament to the user’s personality.
2. Quite a steal
Like other Solong Tattoo products, the TK458 set is a very affordable pick. For a set with so many inclusions, it’s price is very low.
This isn’t surprising since, as said before, Solong is a budget-friendly brand. They built their name from offering reliable, cheaper alternatives to high-end models, so you can count on their products to not make a dent on your wallet. They’re also popular for their good performance, so there’s great bang for your buck from this brand.
The amount of inclusions also further boost the value of this set. There are so many items included on this list that it’s quite unbelievable that it’s sold at its price point. With more than 50 bottles of inks and 50 needles alone, you can be sure that you’ll get more than your money’s worth from this kit.
3. Reliable performance
We’ve mentioned this above but it bears repeating since this tattoo kit is so affordable. Solong crafts their products to replicate the performance of high-end brands as well, so you can certainly expect dependability from the machines in this kit. They may not be at the exact same level but they will not disappoint you.
- Offers great bang for your buck
- Interesting design
- Comes with a lot of inclusions
- Best stick and poke tattoo kit for the money
- Suitable for beginners
- Ink is best suited for practice skin or fruits
- Power supply might need replacing after a while
7. Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit 2 Pro- Best Rotary Tattoo Machine Kits
Interested in learning how to use both coil and rotary tattoo machines but your budget forces you to choose just one? The Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit 2 Pro Machines can be a solid choice for you. Hailed by many as one of the best tattoo gun kit for beginners in the market today, it includes one rotary tattoo machine and one coil tattoo machine.
This unique combination will let you cover all your bases in terms of learning the ropes. So if you’re a beginner, this kit can come in handy for you. You’ll be able to get familiar with both types of machines and, hopefully, discover which one you prefer better.
1. Great versatility
With both types of tattoo machines included in the kit, you can definitely enjoy a good deal of versatility with this Dragonhawk product. You can opt for the rotary tattoo machine for doing both lining and shading while the tattoo coil machine will allow you to create flawless lines without a hitch.
The fact that you’ll also get to learn how to handle both types of tattoo machines is an excellent reason why you should give this product a shot. This combination will help you cover your bases effectively and get better acquainted with your skills and preferences without having to spend a lot of money in the process.
2. Suitable for apprentices
We’ve mentioned before that this tattoo kit can be the best tattoo gun starter kit for an apprentice and it’s because of its inclusion of both types of machines. Many pros prefer using coil tattoo machines so they’ll require their apprentices to use them as well.
However, some tattoo artists can find them impractical and hard to use due to their weight and upkeep requirements. This makes these newbies want to learn how to use rotary machines instead.
By offering both types of machines, this kit offers a happy compromise between the two. Apprentices can still learn the use of both types of machines without breaking the bank with the help of this kit.
- Offers a good combination of tattoo machines
- Convenient and practical
- Good price
- Comes with all of the essentials
- Some experienced issues with the foot pedal
- Replacing the power supply after a while might prove to be necessary
8. Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit 1 1013GD- Best Cheap Tattoo Kit
Completing our list is the Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit. It might not look like an actual complete kit since it only comes with just one coil tattoo machine but it’s definitely the case. This tattoo kit is one of those versatile coil tattoo machines that you can easily set up for lining and shading, giving you great versatility.
1. Highly versatile
Coil tattoo machines are always set up either as a shader and liner. It can be tweaked for finer functionalities but they’re usually set for just one specific use. However, it’s also completely possible to set them up for both functionalities making them as versatile as rotary tattoo machines.
The tattoo machine included in this kit is a good example of this. You can choose to set it up as a shader and liner or you can opt to tweak it to function as both. There may just be more fiddling required when switching up their functionalities but with some patience, it will definitely work.
2. Very convenient
Some shy away from coil tattoo machines because, as mentioned above, they’re often designed for specific purposes. And let’s be honest, it’s quite fussy to use several machines for a single design. It can be quite a hassle to prepare two to three machines for every session, so some may want to use just one device for the entire tattooing process.
The versatility this kit offers also makes it very convenient to use. There’s no more need to set up several machines, use lots of bags, tips, needles, and other disposables just to complete a design with a device like this.
3. Great value for the money
The very friendly price tag of this tattoo kit also makes it an attractive choice for beginners and experienced tattoo artists alike. This kit will give you a lot of items but will not hurt your wallet, so it can certainly be a great addition or even a starter piece for any arsenal.
- Great for beginners
- Friendly price tag
- Highly versatile
- Convenient to use
- Ink included are only for practicing
- Some experienced issues with the power supply
Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Tattoo Starter Kit for Beginners Today
After getting to know ten top rated tattoo kits, you might already be considering making a choice. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed or confused, don’t fret. It’s understandable. All of your options are attractive and if you’re a beginner, you might not really know a lot yet to make a good choice.
So to help you out, we’ve rounded up a few important topics that can help you make up your mind based on facts and useful tidbits of knowledge. Check them out below.
How to Become a Tattoo Artist
Since you’re looking at tattoo kits, there’s a very good chance that you’re also thinking of becoming a tattoo artist. The steps are pretty straightforward on paper:
- Practice your illustration skills extensively. You need to know how to draw if you’re going to be a tattoo artists.
- Create a portfolio. You will need this to let potential mentors know what you’re capable of doing.
- Do your research about the local tattoo scene. This will help you scope the potential shops that you want to apply apprenticeships with. It’s important that your style and theirs jibe so you won’t have artistic differences while working together.
- Get tattooed if you don’t have any yet. You won’t know how the process works if you don’t experience it first hand.
- Get to know the people behind the parlors you want to work with. Getting tattoos from these very same folks is a step in the right direction. Building good relationships with them is another.
- Ask for an apprenticeship. These posts aren’t usually offered by many parlors and artists because it’s a tough job to take on. You will need to be patient in this area and may even need to be a bit creative and persuasive as well.
- Commit to the apprenticeship. Once you’ve landed an apprenticeship, do not take it for granted and learn everything you can. This will be the best on-the-job training you’ll get if you want to be a full-fledged tattoo artists.
What are the essentials I should look for in a tattoo kit?

In our opinion, a tattoo kit should always include the following:
- A tattoo machine or two of your liking
- A power supply and foot pedal
- A power cord
- Grips and stems
- Sterile tips and needles
- Grommets or nipples, elastic bands, and O-rings, if needed
- Adjustment and cleaning tools
These are the core items a tattoo kit should have. However, you will also need the following but they can already be bought separately to ensure high quality:
- Inks that are safe for the human skin
- Practice skin
- Stencil paper
- Sterile latex gloves
- Cover bags for your machine and sleeve for headrest
- Alcohol, soap, antiseptics, and disinfecting solutions and wipes
- Surgical masks
- Vaseline
- Stencil transfer solution
- Bandages, gauze, hospital tape
- Medical scissors
- Disposable razors
- Medical waste and sharps containers
- Needle trays and tattoo machine rack
Make sure that you have enough materials to create the best tattoo machine starter kits and the best cleaning and sterilization kit. These will guarantee that you’ll get to observe proper hygiene when tattooing yourself or someone else.
Common Problems With Tattoo Kits

What are the things that you should be wary about when buying tattoo kits? Here are the most commonly raised issues by those who tried their hands on such products:
- Low-quality power supply, power cord, and foot pedal
- Low-quality inks that are not suitable for use on human skin
- Needles that do not match the machine
- Missing stems
In any case, since most tattoo kits are pretty affordable anyway, it would be better if you prepare yourself to make additional purchases as well. Expect to only get your money’s worth from the tattoo machine and accessories but don’t ask for much from the other electronic inclusions.
Picking the Best Apprentice Tattoo Kit for You
Just looking at our list above, there are lots of enticing tattoo kits that can really appeal to any beginner or experienced tattoo artists. So how do you make a choice? The decision is really yours to make as only you can determine which product might suit your needs best.
In terms of versatility, value, and performance, however, we’d go for the Dragonhawk Complete Tattoo Kit 2 Pro Machines Rotary Gun Power Supply Needles Immortal Inks Grips Tips 2-1YMX. This kit comes with two very different tattoo machines, one coil and one rotary, so it can be highly beneficial for beginners to have. The manufacturer is also reputable but the price is affordable, so it can easily be a solid pick for many. It definitely ticks all of the boxes for the best tattoo kit.