Best tattoo machine for beginners: FK Irons, Critical Torque and more

Tattooing is a mystifying art form. The ancient practice dates back to the Neolithic times and yet remains as relevant as ever.

Think about it. How many celebrities are instantly recognisable by their tattoos? Whether it’s Harry Styles’ butterfly-bearing chest, David Beckham’s angel-adorned sleeves or Justin Bieber’s pious pieces that coat his body. Tattoos, like art, are vehicles for expressing personality.

Hence why getting high-quality inkings is crucial. A quick glimpse at online compilations such as Ink Master’s ‘Worst Tattoos Ever’ clips will reinforce this. For clients, there are plenty of skilled tattoo artists in London to choose from, it’s just a case of finding one to suit your personal style and aesthetic preferences.

Yet, how do budding tattoo artists ensure their work is top-notch? One straightforward way to kickstart your career cleanly is with a first-class tattoo machine.

Celebrity tattoo artist Pablo, who goes by the name Certified Letter Boy, has curated a glittering clientele including Sabine Getty and all three Beckham brothers Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz. He started his tattooing journey in Peru, tattooing friends for ten pesos a piece after buying his own machine. We asked The London Social artist about the process of sourcing the right tattoo kit for beginners.

What tattoo kits would you recommend for beginners?

“For beginners, it’s crucial to prioritise quality and safety over price. I would recommend investing in kits from reputable manufacturers known for their commitment to both safety and craftsmanship. Brands like FK Irons or Cheyenne are excellent starting points, as they offer equipment that is reliable, user-friendly, and designed with the professional artist in mind. These kits might come at a higher initial cost, but the investment is worth it for the quality and safety they ensure.”

What would you tell people to avoid when looking for a tattoo starter/beginner kit?

“One of the key things to avoid is the temptation to purchase inexpensive, low-quality equipment. They are generally made with inferior materials and lack the reliability and safety standards required for professional tattooing. Such equipment can compromise not only the quality of your work but also the safety and health of your clients.”

How does someone go about starting a career as a tattoo artist?

“The most traditional and effective way to start a career in tattooing is through an apprenticeship with an experienced and respected artist or studio. This path allows you to learn the craft hands-on, under the guidance of professionals who can impart not just technical skills but also ethical practices, hygiene standards, and client care principles.”

Discover the best tattoo kits for beginners that promise a safe, state-of-the-art tattoo. All options included are recommended by professional artists to help you get tattooing.

How we tested

With extensive experience using various models, Pablo provided valuable insights into what makes a machine beginner-friendly. Together, we evaluated key aspects like power, precision, and compatibility with different cartridges. His expertise was instrumental in comparing the performance of this machine against others on the market.

As a complete novice, I also gave the machines a test run to see how it felt from a beginner’s perspective. This included checking how comfortable the grip was during use, how easily I could control the needle’s movement, and whether the overall handling felt intuitive. Testing it myself allowed me to gauge their user-friendliness and mobility, ensuring they are suitable for those just starting their tattooing journey. The combination of professional and personal testing gave us a well-rounded perspective.

Best tattoo machines for beginners at a glance:

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Microbeau Apollo SMP Tattoo Machine

It’s the machine that has it all; combining power, precision, and comfort to make learning easier and more enjoyable. With a voltage range of 4.0 to 9.5 V, Microbeau’s machine offers ample strength to handle all types of engraving needs, providing consistent performance for shading and lining.

The 2.3 mm stroke ensures accurate pigment implantation, giving beginners the control they need to achieve clean, professional results. Thanks to its stabilising rings, adjusting the needle depth is simple, allowing for adaptability during practice.

If you are working on a more detailed project, the evenly-weighted aircraft aluminium handle mimics the feel of a pen, making long tattoo sessions less tiring while enhancing needle control. Its compatibility with most cartridges, including Vertix needles, adds versatility, enabling users to experiment with different setups.

Buy now £1874.99, Amazon

Cheyenne Sol Nova Unlimited

The Cheyenne Sol Nova Unlimited stands out as the ultimate tattoo machine for beginners and professionals alike, thanks to its unmatched combination of versatility, convenience, and user-friendly features. Its ability to function as both a liner and shader makes it perfect for exploring different tattooing styles, empowering artists to unleash their creativity without switching tools.

The pen-style design provides freedom and comfort, with an ergonomic grip that feels natural in the hand, even during extended sessions. Beginners will appreciate its whisper-quiet operation and lightweight construction, which reduces fatigue and distractions, allowing for greater focus on technique.

What sets this machine apart is its advanced precision, with an adjustable needle depth of 2.5mm to 4.0mm and five operating modes. Whether you need consistent strokes or adaptive performance, this machine caters to all styles. The addition of two rechargeable batteries ensures uninterrupted use, making it as reliable as it is innovative.

Buy now £1468.75, Amazon

FK Irons Spectra Flux

Best for: beginners with a high budget

FK Irons machines typically range from £600-£1100, but for good reason. The machines are considered some of the best available, no doubt due to their versatile array of features. The Spectra Flux is the brand’s first wireless machine and battery pack combo. Pick from two covetable colourways, Stealth or Chromium and enjoy up to 10 hours of power with a rapid 90-minute recharge time.

Weighing just 178 grams and boasting a 4mm stroke and an LED Voltage Indicator for checking battery life, changing voltage and pairing with Bluetooth, the tool guarantees top-tier tattooing.

Buy now £989.94, Amazon

Dragonhawk Mast Wraith

Best for: personalisation

Dragonhawk machines sit on the lower end of the price spectrum, but they are a worthy pick for beginners on a modest budget. Most of the brand’s machines sit within the £130-£200 range and have plenty of noteworthy features. These include built-in batteries, a stroke of 3.5 mm which is suitable for both shading and line work and a lightweight design of only 55 grams, making it easy to transport when travelling.

Note the shorter battery time of 5-6 hours which may not be suitable for completing larger pieces.

Buy now £134.59, AliExpress

Dragonhawk Mast Tour Pen

Best for: beginners with a low budget

Considered an all-rounder pick for beginners, Mast Tour Pen is the smallest member of the Dragonhawk family. Petite but far from obsolete, the tool is easy to clasp with a diameter of 25mm and a stroke set of 3.5mm. Ensure your linework and shading are second to none with the micro-pen, which further features a wireless battery and a Mass Your rotary tattoo machine. 

Buy now £103.20, Dragonhawk

Critical Torque Pen Machine

Best for: user-friendly excellence

Critical Torque’s Pen machine is recommended by Barber DTS. The machine is one of the best on the market, thanks to its user-friendly features that suit beginners. The 1.5” digital colour display is loaded with handy features from timers to assist in tracking tattoo lines. 

Take advantage of the Vibration Dampening Solution that promotes a quicker, smoother tattoo and a powerful custom German Brushless Motor that enables a sleek finish. Pricions Strike Technology promises the best outcome possible, which is guaranteed wherever you take the machine due to its wireless design. Need to tackle a large back piece? The machine has a battery life of 15 hours.

Buy now £879.99, Barber DTS

Bishop Packer Power Wand 

Best for: full machine set

Splash out on a full tattoo machine set. Bishop Rotary and Critical Tattoo joined forces to create this decked-out kit, which includes a patent-pending magnetic backplate which allows for a 360-positioning of the battery. Select from the choice of a 5.0 Liner, 4.2 Packer or 3.5 Shader and make use of ample power time with the Power Wand Battery Pack and Power Wand Shorty Battery Pack.

Want everything ready and waiting to go in one kit? This is where to start.

Buy now £1079.99, Barber DTS

Verdict

The Microbeau Apollo SMP Tattoo Machine earns its place as the best choice for beginners thanks to its ideal combination of power, precision, and ease of use. The adjustable voltage and stabilising features make it forgiving for those learning to tattoo, while the 2.3 mm stroke ensures clean, accurate results every time. Its ergonomic, pen-like handle provides exceptional comfort and control, even for those new to handling tattoo machines.

First impressions matter and I was initially drawn to the striking design, while its compatibility with a wide range of cartridges allows beginners to explore different techniques and styles without limitations. The unique tiger-inspired design not only adds visual appeal but also makes the machine feel like a premium tool for budding artists. Whether you’re honing your craft or just getting started, this machine strikes the perfect balance between functionality and style, making it an investment that supports skill development while delivering excellent results.