Tattoo gun vs. Tattoo pen: which is better?

Tattooing is one of those things that requires a lot of equipment. Even if you don't know much about tattoos, you have a clear idea of ​​what it looks like; dozens of needles, a tattoo gun, lots of ink, gloves, a desk or chair, cleaning equipment, and so on. But, if you are well versed in tattooing or even a beginner, you probably already know that each piece of equipment plays an important role in the overall process; Thanks to the equipment, the tattooing process runs smoothly, comfortably and safely (including, of course, thanks to the tattoo artist).

So, what piece of equipment cannot a tattoo artist do without? Well, perhaps you answered that question by saying "tattoo gun" or "tattoo pen." We've all been there; some of us would even add, "Isn't it the same thing?" But essentially you are right; Both pieces of equipment are indispensable in the tattoo environment.

But what is the difference between a tattoo gun and a pen, and what exactly are they used for? In the following paragraphs, we will take a look at the tattoo gun and the pen and explain the main differences. So, without further ado, let's get started!

What is the difference between a tattoo gun and a tattoo pen?

Generally speaking, if you're not familiar with tattoos and use the terms "tattoo gun" and "tattoo pen" to refer to the same tattoo machine, you won't get lost. Usually people don't even know the difference between the two cars, and when you tell them they're different, you can see a little confusion and surprise on their faces. So what's the difference? Let's take a look at both machines individually and find out how they differ!

tattoo guns

Tattoo guns are the traditional tattoo machine that everyone knows about. These are the needles that tattoo artists use to inject ink into your skin. But, if we want to be a little more specific, a tattoo gun is a tattoo machine that uses electromagnetic coils to drive a needle into and out of the skin during the tattooing process.

With each movement, the coil oscillates, allowing the needle to penetrate and out of the skin quickly and efficiently. Thanks to this mechanism, the tattoo gun can move the needle 50 to 3000 times in 60 seconds, depending on the type of work the tattoo artist is doing.

The tattoo artist is in full control of the tattoo gun. For example, if the tattoo artist pushes the gun a little harder, this will increase the speed at which the gun will move the needles. Or, if the tattoo artist uses different needles and the angles at which they will enter the skin, they can create different effects or different levels of pigment release. Different techniques, along with different needles, can create incredible, unique effects, from coloring to shading.

It takes a long time for a tattoo artist to master a tattoo gun. This is why, from the very beginning, beginners are taught how to handle a gun and are encouraged to practice using it on artificial synthetic leather or even pork belly.

Tattoo Pens

Unlike tattoo guns, tattoo pens are motor-driven and use needles that come in replaceable cartridges. The pens are very easy to use and allow the tattoo artist to work more steadily. Of course, tattoo guns are indispensable, but in the right hands, tattoo pens work wonders. Because of their stability, tattoo pens are known to provide cleaner, sharper lines and overall cleaner tattoos compared to the performance of tattoo guns.

One of the main differences between tattoo guns and pens is that tattoo pens are almost completely silent. Tattoo guns are mostly known for the buzzing sound they make while tattooing, while tattoo pens are incredibly quiet. This is a great little feature, especially when you consider that the buzzing of tattoo guns actually increases people's anxiety and fear while getting tattooed.

It's safe to say that many tattoo artists prefer tattoo pens to tattoo guns. The benefits of using tattoo pens are endless, and they can do everything a tattoo gun can do, even more. But tattoo guns are still considered the best tattoo machines, mainly because they are harder to master, so when a tattoo artist does it, they are considered a true tattoo pro.

Which is better, a tattoo gun or a tattoo pen?

So, in the battle of tattoo guns vs. tattoo pens, we can't help but wonder which of the two machines is better. When it comes to professional tattoo artists, we think most would agree that tattoo pens are much better than guns. Of course, both machines have their advantages and disadvantages, so it's only fair to list them and let our readers decide for themselves.

tattoo guns

benefits

• Tattoo guns are personalized machines and as such they allow for truly individualized work and experimentation.
• Some say that tattoo guns make the tattoo special, especially in terms of cool artistry and tattoo aesthetics.
• You can choose between different types of tattoo guns; from rotary, automatic, to spiral tattoo machines
• Each type of tattoo gun provides different finishes and results that can be very beneficial for different tattoo styles.

Disadvantages of a no deposit bonus

• The noise of tattoo guns during tattooing is definitely one of the biggest drawbacks; many clients associate the buzzing and vibration with fear of getting a tattoo
• The problem of pain is also a big drawback; clients generally state that the tattooing process was more painful when done with a tattoo gun, mainly due to the hum and vibration.
• Tattoo guns are definitely less stable and can be a bit tricky to work with during long tattoo sessions.
• Tattoo needles are difficult to replace and adjust

Tattoo Pens

benefits

• Tattoo pens are very quiet; because there is no buzzing or vibration, working with tattoo pens is quite silent and the client usually likes it
• Since they are silent, tattoo pens do not cause fear or anxiety in clients.
• Tattoo pens are also considered less painful for the client, mainly because they don't buzz.
• Due to the quietness of the machine, clients are also more relaxed during the tattooing process.
• Tattoo pens are lightweight and very easy to work with even during many hours of sessions.
• Needles are very easy to change and adjust

Disadvantages of a no deposit bonus

• Tattoo pens can be a bit more expensive compared to tattoo guns.
• Tattoo pens also use short needles or cartridge needles, which are quite expensive.

Final thoughts

So, given the advantages and disadvantages of tattoo guns and pens, it's pretty clear that tattoos are winning the battle for the best machine. However, in real life, things are not so black and white. Each tattoo artist has their own personal preferences and the machines that suit them best. Regardless of which tattoo machines they use, tattoo artists should first listen to themselves and follow their own style, and then use the equipment that provides the best, desired effects.

So which tattoo machine is really the best? There is no exact answer; the answer varies from one tattoo artist to another, just like tattoo styles change, along with preferences, the type of work they do, etc.

Both tattoo machines do their job; they tattoo the best they can, but the final result is definitely in the hands of the tattoo artist. A tattoo artist who has mastered the technique of tattooing will have no problem working with a gun or pen to create a work of art.

The only difference that we think makes the last argument lean a bit in favor of a tattoo pen is that it's less painful for clients. Given that pain is the #1 reason for people avoiding tattoos or having trouble with the whole process, we can't just ignore the fact that tattoo pens cause significantly less pain than tattoo guns.

So, if pain during a tattoo is usually a problem for you, you should look for a tattoo artist who works with a tattoo pen. Plus, in the right hands, your tattoo will look amazing no matter what machine was used to create it.