The best tattoo power supply is one of the most important equipment for any tattoo artist!
While the needle and the tattoo machine are equally crucial, they will be useless without the right power supply.
With a dependable power supply, you can enjoy better precision in your work. It provides the right current flow to maintain peak performance of your equipment.
What makes a top-rated tattoo power supply? What are the best options? If you need help, keep on reading! Learn from the insights we’ll share.
Types of Tattoo Power Supply
Before we proceed to our recommendations, let’s have a quick look at the two main types of tattoo power supplies.
- Digital Tattoo Power Supply: This is the more modern alternative. It comes with a digital readout. It is user-friendly but can be expensive for most people.
- Analog Tattoo Power Supply: If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, this is what you should pick.
Aside from the display, you can also choose a product based on the voltage it can supply.
- Regulated Tattoo Power Supply: While it is expensive, this is good in terms of dependability. It provides consistent voltage even if the tattoo machine does not run.
- Unregulated Tattoo Power Supply: This is the cheaper option. However, most pros do not like it because of its unreliability.
Our Top Picks for the Best Tattoo Power Supply
No idea what to buy? Below are the top products that should be on your radar. We’ll also look at their most notable features.
#1 Pirate Face Tattoo Dual Digital Power Supply
This product proves that the best tattoo power supply does not need to be expensive!
While it is affordable, it is packed with incredible features tattoo artists are sure to love.
It is a versatile option since you can connect both your liner and shader. There is a strategically positioned switch. Just flip it to use either the liner or shader.
The indigo LCD display is basic but helpful. It shows accurate voltage for better precision when inking.
To deliver value for money, it is packed with the accessories you will need. It already has two clip cords and a foot pedal.
The foot pedal included in the package is made of stainless steel. It has an improved shape compared to what you will find from most of its competitors.
It is also worth mentioning that it comes with a digitally controlled current output. This allows the unit to deliver reliable performance. The voltage runs anywhere from 1.5 to 18v.
Ease of use is one more thing that we love in this product. From setting the voltage to its maintenance, it does not require a lot of effort on your end.
#2 Dragonhawk LCD Dual Tattoo Machine Gun Power Supply
With a single power supply, you can conveniently connect two tattoo guns. However, it does not power two guns simultaneously. You have to flip the switch and choose the gun to power.
It also works whether you are using a rotary or coil tattoo machine!
The automatic heat regulation of the unit is another impressive feature. This comes handy for extended tattooing sessions. This helps prevent overheating.
Need quick and accurate power readings? This tattoo power supply will not disappoint. It comes with a convenient display that stays bright.
At the back of the unit, there is a voltage conversion switch. This is another thing that makes it versatile. You can easily switch from 120 to 220 volts depending on your power requirements.
From the first look, it is also easy to see that it has a solid construction. This is one of those products that you can expect to withstand many years of use.
However, there are some complaints about its size. Some people did not like how small it is. This can also compromise the power that it provides to a tattoo machine.
#3 TMXX 4th Generation P028-II Dual Tattoo Power Supply
The design of this product is unique compared to most of its competitors. It looks like a tablet in a standing mode.
This is already the fourth iteration of the product. This reflects improvements made to address customer concerns in the previous models.
Like most of our recommendations in this guide, this also offers versatility to its users. It can supply power to up to two tattoo machines.
You will also like how it comes with six memory presets. This allows the unit to store up to six configurations.
To make the unit withstand many years of use, it has overload protection. Plus, it is made using high-quality materials, so you can be confident about its durability.
It also provides options for switch foot mode. You can use the momentary mode for most tasks. Otherwise, there is also a maintained mode.
However, there are some people who noted that this might not be the easiest when it comes to setup. A little patience can go a long way.
#4 One Tattoo World OTW-P008-3R Dual Digital LCD Tattoo Machine Power Supply
The durable construction of this tattoo power supply is one of its best assets. With its solid body, you can expect it to be functional through the years.
Just like the other options for the best tattoo power supply included in our recommendations, it powers two tools in one. You can flip the switch to power either the liner or the shader.
It comes with an ultra-bright screen. This makes it easy to monitor its performance. The readout is easy to see.
As you would usually see in most of its competitors, there is also a convenient switch at the back. This makes it easy to convert from 120 to 220 volts or vice versa.
When purchased, the kit comes with a flat foot pedal. It is made of stainless steel, which is indicative of its durability.
Looking at the reviews, some people complained about the foot pedal. The contact can become weaker over time.
#5 One Tattoo World OTW-P034-3 Professional Tattoo Mini Power Supply
This is from the same manufacturer as the product mentioned above. The main difference is that it is smaller. This makes it better if you are after portability.
Despite its size, it does not lack power. The voltage input runs from 90 to 265 volts. On the other hand, the voltage output is from 3 to 18 volts.
It is a great pick if you are looking for affordable options for the best tattoo power supply. At its price, this is probably the cheapest from all the products mentioned in this buying guide.
However, it may not be as high-performing as its higher-end alternatives. For some, they use it as a backup instead of their main power supply.
Looks can be deceiving. It can be small, but it is powerful!
#6 Yuelong Tattoo Power Supply
This is from a brand that most of you may not recognize. Because of this, many people are quite skeptic about the quality and performance of the product.
The steep price of this tattoo power supply is also making buyers hesitant.
If you are willing to give this product a chance, you won’t end up being disappointed.
It comes with a fully digital microprocessor control. This makes the power supply smart. This is also why it is user-friendly.
For versatility, there are two main modes of operation. You can choose from momentary or maintained foot switch modes. You can easily use the button toggle to switch from one mode to another.
It is also notable because it features a non-volatile memory. Even if you disconnect power from the unit, it remembers the previous settings.
For its construction, the main material is a plastic shell. Some people might have doubts about its durability.
As it is common with the top picks for the best tattoo power supply, it also has a digital LCD.
Looking at its technical details, the output voltage runs from 3 to 18 volts. On the other hand, the output power is from .3 to 45 watts.
#7 Biomaser Hurricane HP-2 Dual Intelligent Digital LCD Power Supply Kit
This full-featured power supply has everything you need for your tattoo machine.
It is lightweight and portable. Wherever you wish to complete the tattoo work, you can easily bring it with you.
To deliver smart functionality, there are six settings available. It can save your favorite configurations. All that you have to do is to plug it in and choose your desired function.
It has large buttons with up and down arrows. This is what you will press to turn the voltage higher or lower.
The durability of the tattoo power supply is also impressive. The housing is made of CNC-anodized aluminum. The surface has silicone grips.
The unit is also good in terms of heat dissipation. It prevents temperature from rising. This gives the unit protection from overheating.
For your peace of mind, the manufacturer is offering an 18-month warranty.
Not happy with your purchase? Get in touch with the manufacturer within the first 90 days of its use. They will provide an unconditional refund.
#8 DGT New Aurora Tattoo Power Supply
If you are looking for the best tattoo power supply for rotary and coil, you have another good reason to add this to your list.
It comes with a control push knob. This makes it easy to turn the unit on or off. This also allows you to easily change the voltage.
One of the biggest differences with the other products mentioned is that it lacks a digital display. There is no screen that will let you monitor the voltage of the power supply.
As for its construction, it also uses CNC-machined anodized aluminum housing as the main material. This makes it hard to match if you are after durability.
Regardless of the surface where you will position the unit, it will stay in its place. This is possible because of the built-in silicone grips and magnet.
For the foot pedal modes, you can choose from maintained or momentary power. There is no need to use a foot pedal. You will appreciate this when using a rotary tattoo machine.
#9 Bronc Professional Tattoo Power Supply
If you don’t mind going on a splurge for the best tattoo power supply, this is an excellent product. The price will be worth every dollar.
Among others, one thing that differentiates this model is the touchscreen display.
The unit comes with a bright blue screen for easy monitoring.
It is also integrated with several memory modes. You can save your favorite lining and shading settings.
You can also choose from conventional or maintained foot switch modes. Regardless of the work you will complete, there is a suitable setting.
This is also excellent for portability. This is a good investment for tattoo artists on the go. It is sleek and lightweight, making it easy to bring anywhere you go.
Going into the technical specs, the output voltage of this power supply ranges from 3 to 18 volts.
To regulate incoming power, it has overload protection. This is also one of the features that make it long-lasting.
Lastly, you can use it whether you are indoors or outdoors, regardless if it is hot or cold. This is because of the 41 to 113-degree temperature range.
#10 TEK-POWER HY-1502 DC Power Supply
There is a small digital display that shows numbers in red. This allows you to monitor the voltage depending on what the work requires.
It also comes with a convenient switch to turn the unit on or off. The switch comes with a red light that also acts as an indicator when it is powered.
The fixed output of this power supply is 2 amps. Meanwhile, you can adjust the voltage from 1.5 to 15 volts. There is a convenient dial knob that will allow you to customize the voltage easily.
For your peace of mind, the manufacturer is offering a 30-day moneyback-guarantee. It also comes with a standard one-year warranty.
How to Choose the Best Tattoo Power Supply
Looking for tattoo power supply near me? To help you narrow down the options, below are the most important factors to consider:
- Voltage: Most products will have 3 to 15 volts. Match it with the power requirements of the tattoo machine that you are using. The higher the voltage is, the more power the unit can deliver.
- Capacity: This refers to the number of machines that you can hook up in the power supply. Some models can accommodate more than one machine and you can just flip a switch to move from one machine to another.
- Compatibility: Are you using a coil or rotary tattoo machine? Make sure that it is compatible with the tattoo power supply you will buy.
- Display: Advanced models come with a digital display. This makes it easier to monitor the power output.
- Fluctuations: The power requirements of when tattooing can change at any given time. This will depend on the pressure of the needle on the skin. Find a machine that can compensate for the fluctuations.
- Size: Small can be powerful. This depends on the technical specs of the power supply. Consider space available in the tattoo shop to find the right size.
FAQs
Got questions about tattoo power supplies? We’ll answer some of them before we end this brief buying guide.
What is a Tattoo Power Supply?
It is a small box that delivers the power requirements of the tattoo machine. Most models have two outlets. One goes to the machine and one goes to the foot pedal.
What Should the Tattoo Power Supply be Set at?
This will depend on the machine you are using and what you are doing. If you are lining a tattoo, the voltage can be 7.5 to 8.5. On the other hand, for shading, it can be 8 to 10 volts.
How Do You Use a Tattoo Power Supply?
Plug the foot pedal and the machine into the power supply. Turn the unit on. Once it is on, adjust the voltage settings depending on the requirements.
Conclusion
Choosing the best tattoo power supply can be an overwhelming task. However, this is one thing you should not do in haste.
From the technical specifications to ease of use, consider a variety of factors to help you narrow down the options.
Consider your needs and your personal preferences. Your budget is also a deciding factor.
Got anything else to add to our list? Feel free to write a comment below.
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