The Best Tattoo Machines 2024: Top Picks for Tattoo Artists

Reading Time: 13 minutes

As a professional tattoo artist, you want to use the best tattoo machines to take your artistry to the next level. In recent years, the development of tattoo machines has really taken off once again and the machines now offer more options than ever before. Both wireless and wired tattoo machines allow for unprecedented possibilities.

In 2024, there is an impressive range of tattoo machines on the market, each offering unique features and possibilities. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the best tattoo machines and tell you which machine is best suited to your needs so you can make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, these machines are sure to enhance your tattooing experience and deliver outstanding results.

What’s the best tattoo machine 2024?

The best tattoo machine 2024 always depends on your individual needs and requirements. Of course, the latest and most expensive models, which not only have the latest technology and are wireless, but also have a lot of innovative ideas and features, are at the top of the list. All the tattoo machines in our article are excellent tools and can be used to create wonderful tattoos. When choosing the best machine, it all depends on what you need for your art, so we’ll give you the information you need to make your individual choice. And if you still can’t decide, our team will be happy to help you!

The Best Tattoo Machines of 2024

Let’s get to the exciting part, which tattoo machines will be the best and most popular in 2024? Here is our selection:

Critical Torque

The Critical Torque is a high-performance tattoo machine that puts most other machines in the shade. Once you’ve held it in your hand, you’ll know why you won’t want to give it up.

Critical’s first wireless tattoo machine has completely overrun the market and has quickly become the most innovative and popular machine. The powerful motor delivers unprecedented performance thanks to Precision Strike Technology. With a vibration damping solution, the machine is almost completely vibration-free and therefore allows the highest precision in every detail, no matter how small.

The Torque is wireless and comes with the powerful Critical V3 battery, which can handle any session, no matter how long. The large, colour LCD display with 1.5″ screen shows all the important information and 5 buttons control both the machine and the additional battery functions such as runtime, presets and connectivity. A footswitch can be connected via Bluetooth and the magnetic plug connection makes changing the battery child’s play.

Of course, Torque can also be operated with an RCA cable, simply attach the supplied adapter and you’re ready to go.

Everything has been thought of with this machine and the reliability and innovation clearly put this machine at the top of the best tattoo machines.

You can buy and view the Critical Torque in detail here.

Bishop Power WAND

The Power Wand is Bishop’s flagship product. Hardly anything needs to be said about this incredibly good next-generation tattoo machine. It was designed in cooperation with Critical Tattoo, one of the most renowned manufacturers for tattoo power supplies. The Power Wand combines the excellent tattooing features of the Bishop Wand with Critical Battery’s advanced tattoo battery technology.

The Bishop X Critical Wireless Battery can be easily connected to the machine, which weighs only 142 grams, via the magnetic back plate. Bye Bye RCA Connection!

The Bishop Power Wand was one of the most sought-after tattoo machines on the market shortly after its release and is still a bestseller. It is available with 3 different stroke settings: as a Shader (3.8 mm), Packer (4.2 mm) and as a Liner (5.0 mm).

One of the best tattoo machines on the market and guaranteed to be an absolute favourite and bestseller among wireless tattoo machines!

Here you can find the Bishop Power WAND at Barber DTS.

Cheyenne SOL NOVA Unlimited 3.5 & 4.0 & 5.0

Of course, Cheyenne also offers a wireless alternative to the conventional tattoo machines. The SOL NOVA Unlimited has the usual and appreciated quality that we are used to from Cheyenne and comes with two batteries included. This makes it theoretically possible to tattoo continuously while there is always one battery in the machine and one battery in the charging station.

The machine is controlled with only one button and intuitive movements (e.g. hold button + tilt machine). The SOL NOVA Unlimited can be used with the Ergo Round and Ergo One Inch disposable grips, which makes hygienic packaging particularly easy.

The SOL NOVA Unlimited 3.5 is available as an all-rounder machine with a 3.5 mm stroke, which is particularly suitable for shades and Black & Grey. For those who need a more powerful machine to realise lining work and colour packing, there is the SOL NOVA Unlimited 4.0 with 4.0 mm stroke. If you need even more power, there is the absolute beast (Cheyenne’s own nickname) with a 5.0 mm stroke, which can be used to create bold lines in one single stroke.

You can shop the Cheyenne SOL NOVA Unlimited machines here.

FK Irons Flux Max

The Spektra Flux Max is the consistent evolution of FK Irons for the wireless tattoo market. The machine benefits from years of expertise and the best technology from FK Irons in recent years. The next generation tattoo machine is powered by the redesigned PowerBolt II, which includes exciting new features such as a digital frequency display in Volts and Hz and a digital timer on the OLED display.

The Spektra Flux Max has an eGive that can be set to three different settings and automatically calibrates itself based on the cartridge used. Thanks to Bluetooth 5.0, the machine can be connected to the FK Irons Killswitch and the Darklab app. Only 3 buttons are needed to operate the device intuitively via a touchpad on the PowerBolt II.

These machines are available in the colours gold and stealth and with preset stroke lengths of 3.2 mm, 4.0 mm and 4.5 mm.

You can find more details about the FK Irons Spektra Flux Max here.

acus M1 & M1 Plus

With the acus M1 and M1 Plus, you have full control. These innovative machines have been specially developed for tattoo artists who need a versatile machine and allow you to customise them to your needs like never before. What sets the wireless acus tattoo machines apart is their digital motor control, which is developed and programmed in-house. This allows the brushless Faulhaber motor to be customised via the software settings and offers both powerful and smooth performance at reduced speeds.

With the three interchangeable drive heads included (3.0 mm, 3.7 mm, 4.5 mm), the machine can be further customised in a few simple steps and offers a completely different tattooing experience. When it comes to hygiene, the acus machines outshine the competition. They can be completely dismantled, ensuring thorough cleanliness and a hygienic working environment.

With the M1 machines, you have full control over your tattooing process. The innovative spirit and customisability alone have made the acus tattoo machines truly one of the most advanced devices on the market.

Shop the acus M1 and the M1 Plus at Barber DTS.

FK Irons ONE

The FK Irons ONE is a wireless tattoo machine that combines exceptional performance with modern technology. It is powered by a rechargeable Panasonic NCR 18500A battery and offers up to 8 hours of performance. The operating voltage can be adjusted in 0.5V increments with easy-to-use buttons with a colour-coded LED voltage indicator while working.

The machine is made from high-quality aluminium and not only looks good with its matt anthracite finish and ruby red cap, but also delivers first-class performance. This makes the FK Irons ONE a tattoo machine for everyONE.

Here you can buy the FK Irons ONE with 3.0 mm or 4.0 mm stroke from Barber DTS.

Dragonhawk Fold Pro

The Dragonhawk Fold Pro is an excellent and economical wireless tattoo machine that offers tattoo artists all-round customisation options. The machine has seven different integrated stroke lengths from 2.4mm to 4.2mm, making it suitable for different tattoo styles, from PMU to linework and colour packing. In addition, the Fold Pro can be powered by a cable or a powerful 1500mAh battery and lasts 4-6 hours on a single charge in a 4-12V operating range.

The machine also has an LED display with three buttons, which the artist can use to control it directly and which shows the battery status, voltage and running time. With a weight of approx. 200 g (including battery and RCA connection) and an ergonomic design, the Fold Pro is well balanced and easy to use even during long tattoo sessions.

Manufactured from aircraft-grade aluminium, the Fold Pro is compatible with all standard tattoo cartridges and measures 128 mm in length and 32 mm in diameter.

Shop the Dragonhawk Fold Pro at Barber DTS here.

Cheyenne HAWK PEN Unio

The Cheyenne HAWK PEN Unio combines the best features of the HAWK Spirit and HAWK Thunder in the design and all-round qualities of the Cheyenne HAWK PEN. This enables the gentle shading properties of the Spirit and a powerful stroke for solid lines and rich colour packing, as we are used to from the Thunder. The continuously adjustable stroke of 2.5 to 4.0 mm enables quick switching to the desired requirement and also covers everything between the two machines. Steady mode ensures constant power and speed, and the needle depth can be adjusted from 0 to 4.0 mm.

With its slim design, it is easy to clean and hygienic to wrap. The Unio is compatible with all Cheyenne disposable handles and cartridges. Manufactured to medical standards in Germany, the black coloured HAWK Pen Unio is a robust and multifunctional tattoo machine. With the Unio you have practically 3 of the most popular Cheyenne machines combined in one device. This definitely makes the Unio one of the best machines on the market and we are eagerly awaiting the wireless version.

You can shop the Cheyenne HAWK PEN Unio here.

FK Irons EXO

The FK Irons EXO is a modular tattoo machine for professional tattoo artists looking for great design and performance. It has a powerful 9-watt brushless motor that delivers smooth and efficient operation. The Darklab Hover Power Supply or the PowerBolt in combination with the Darklab app enable E-Give. Its modular design allows tattooists to power it either with a conventional power supply via the RCA module or with the PowerBolt battery for up to ten hours of wireless tattooing.

With three adjustable stroke lengths (2.5 mm, 3.2 mm or 4 mm), the machine can be used universally. The ergonomic design of the EXO, a 40 mm wide handle, and the ergonomic design of the EXO make it easier to handle over a longer period of time and reduce hand fatigue. The machine is forward weighted and offers downward needle pressure for maximum control. Available in two stylish colours (Black Ops and Stealth), the FK Irons EXO is compatible with most cartridges, making it ideal for a variety of tattoo styles, line work, colour packing and monochrome work.

You can buy the FK Irons EXO here.

FK Irons Spektra Flux

If the Flux Max simply offers too many features for you and you would rather have it simpler and cheaper, the Speaktra Flux is the right choice for you. This pen-like device offers power and simplicity without the complications. With a battery life of up to 10 hours and fast charging via USB-C, you can easily charge it anywhere. The LED indicator lets you check your battery life and power consumption. It has a 3-button interface that emphasises your convenience and safety with a lightweight, ergonomic design.

Wave goodbye to annoying cables and enjoy the wireless sensation. The Flux has a 4mm direct drive stroke giving you all-round lining and colour packing capabilities. At a well-balanced 181 grams, the machine sits comfortably in the hand and is easy to use even during longer sessions. The Flux provides smooth power transfer with dynamic power management. It is compatible with most cartridges and has an adjustable voltage range of 5-12 volts. The Flux is handmade in the USA and does not support the killswitch.

Shop here for the FK Irons Spektra Flux.

Axys Valhalla Pen

The Axys Valhalla pen machine is a well-rounded choice for tattoo artists. It offers five different stroke options that can be adjusted with a single rotating ring. With stroke lengths of 2.5mm, 2.9mm, 3.4mm, 3.8mm and 4.2mm, this machine easily adapts to different tattoo styles and techniques.

A sealed plunger prevents ink and body fluids from flowing in both directions, simplifying the cleaning process. The ergonomic, tapered 1-inch handle reduces hand fatigue, while the vibration-dampening design improves control and precision during use.

With its versatile motor and stroke options, the Valhalla is an ideal machine for any tattoo artist. The heavy-duty seal and unidirectional thread prevent dirt build-up and increase performance. Available in five colours – olive green, black, red, teal and pink – the Axys Valhalla offers the perfect blend of power, versatility and ease of use for just about any tattooing need. With the RCA connection, all modern power supplies can be connected to the machine.

Shop the Axys Valhalla here.

Cheyenne SOL NOVA (2023)

Like its Unlimited counterpart, the Cheyenne SOL NOVA is another highly regarded tattoo machine. It combines power and precision with a lightweight and ergonomic design. With its adjustable needle depth, artists can achieve their desired results effortlessly. The SOL NOVA is a reliable machine capable of handling various tattoo styles and techniques.

The small but mighty SOL NOVA was so popular that it has been upgraded and now has a more powerful motor. The corded machine can be switched to three operating modes to suit individual requirements (Steady Mode, Responsive Mode 1 + 2). In Steady Mode, the motor delivers constant power and moves the needle at the same stitch frequency. In the 2 Responsive Modes, on the other hand, the motor reacts to different intensities and dynamically adjusts the power and stitch frequency. The result is a “softer” reaction of the needle. The needle projection can be easily adjusted by turning the handle.

Here you can purchase the SOL Nova with 3.5 mm and 4.5 mm stroke.

Dragonhawk Mast Flip Pro

The Dragonhawk Mast Flip Pro offers accuracy and flexibility, making it a worthy addition to any artist’s arsenal. The most notable feature of the Dragonhawk Mast Flip Pro is its adjustable stroke length. With seven different lengths to choose from, artists can quickly and easily customise the machine to suit their needs. Whether you’re focusing on intricate strokes or seamless colour combinations, this machine has you covered.

Adding to its all-round flexibility, the Dragonhawk Mast Flip Pro can be operated wirelessly or with a cable via RCA. It is equipped with a long-lasting rechargeable battery that enables a runtime of up to 5-7 hours. The voltage can be adjusted by simply turning the battery and all important parameters are displayed on the LED screen.

Here you can see all the features of the Dragonhawk Mast Flip Pro in detail and buy the machine.

Equaliser Neutron Pen

The Equaliser Wireless Neutron tattoo machine is a compact device with many functions. Despite the combination of tattoo machine and rechargeable battery, it is the same size as a classic pen machine and weighs just 170 grams. This improved version has a more robust circuit board and an improved ergonomic grip. The battery is removable and replaceable, including two batteries in the package.

The machine is operated via three buttons and indicates important metrics such as voltage, battery status and time elapsed since switching on. The operating voltage can be precisely adjusted in 0.1 V increments in the range of 5-12 V. The device has a stroke of 3.5 mm and is powered by a 4.5 W motor. The charging time is 2 hours and enables a working time of up to 8 hours.

Shop here for the Equaliser Neutron Pen.

Cheyenne HAWK PEN

The Cheyenne HAWK PEN has marked a turning point in the tattoo machine industry. From angled machines to the pen-style machines that still dominate the market today. The HAWK PEN was the first of its kind to make high-quality work possible. The machine continues to be a recognised and valued rotary pen machine, appreciated for its efficiency, ease of use and precision.

The well-balanced design allows for optimal control and manoeuvrability and ensures a smooth tattooing process. Although the machine is getting on in years, it is still used to create outstanding tattoos and is still one of the best tattoo machines.

You can buy the HAWK PEN here.

Ava GT EP8

The AVA GT EP8 Wireless Pen is equipped with a powerful German Metal Brush DC motor and offers a stroke of 3.5 mm and a wide operating voltage range of 4.2-12 V. The battery provides an impressive 4-8 hours of continuous operation. The battery indicator allows easy monitoring of the voltage, while the user-friendly buttons allow convenient adjustment of the voltage during tattooing.

The machine is simple in design and looks elegant. As an introduction to wireless tattooing, the universal hub is ideal for artists doing soft black & grey. The machine is a customer favourite due to its attractive price and good workmanship and should not be missing from our list.

You can buy the AVA GT EP8 Wireless Pen here.

Wireless or wired tattoo machines?

The advantages of a wireless tattoo machine are obvious: freedom of movement is practically unrestricted, because without the annoying cable, the machine can be moved in a 360° radius and is only limited by the tattoo artist’s anatomy. The cable has always been one of the most sensitive components in the set-up and can now be omitted completely.

By integrating a complete power supply unit, control can now be carried out directly on the wireless machine, significantly improving the workflow. In addition, the machine and power supply unit are optimally matched by the manufacturer, which brings several performance advantages.
As no other components are required for a wireless machine (except perhaps the charger), the machine can be packaged easily, safely and hygienically to avoid cross-contamination.
Tattooing has never been so convenient and independent of power sockets as with battery-powered tattoo machines!

However, you must always make sure that you have charged your batteries, otherwise you will be left without power and will have to dig out your old wired machine and power supply again. Hybrid machines such as the Critical Torque and the Bishop Power WAND are a good solution. Both machines come with an RCA adapter that allows you to use them with a cable if your batteries are not charged.

Conclusion

The range of tattoo machines is constantly growing. When buying, it is especially important to make sure that the machine meets your individual needs.

Some machines offer versatile adjustment possibilities and are thus perfect for fiddlers and screwdrivers who want to adjust their perfect settings. Other machines, however, can only be adjusted in a few parameters and are thus optimal for artists who only want to concentrate on their art without having to adjust much on their machine.