Tattooing is an art that requires a lot of dedication, proper equipment, and safety measures. As a beginner tattoo artist, it may be hard to understand which needles to use for which purpose, it may also be hard to find the required needles. However, It is not so intimidating once you understand the basics of tattoo needles and when working with them. In this article, we will guide you through some of the best tattoo needles we found and guide you through their usage and function.
Top 3 Tattoo Needles : By Best Features, Best Price and Value for Money
Buyer Guide: Critical points to remember while buying tattoo needles:
1. Size and Configuration
Perhaps the most important thing about tattoo needles is their size and configuration. Without understanding this, it is impossible to start tattooing.
Each needle consists of several smaller needles that have been soldered together. Each individual small needle has a specific diameter, that determines how much ink will be pushed into the skin.
The standard diameter for most tattoo needles is 12 gauge or 0.35mm, however smaller diameter needles such as 10 gauge (0.3mm) and 8 gauge (0.25mm) are also used. 10 gauge and 8 gauge needles are often called “Bugpins” since they are very thin.
It is important to consider the diameter of the needles as bugpins are more efficient at inserting the ink into your skin without causing much trauma to your skin, whereas, a standard needle is more efficient at making crisper lines but causes more trauma to the skin.
Along with the diameter, you also need to consider the configuration of the needles. As mentioned earlier, several smaller needles combined together form one tattoo needle. The way that these smaller needles are combined is very important to understand, as it explains what the tattoo needle will be used for. There are 5 main types of needle configurations, Round Liner (RL), Round Shader (RS), Flat Shader (F), and Magnum (M1), Rounded Magnum (M1C).
Each tattoo needle will have a number of small needles attached together, and the number of needles is also very important to understand. Some liner needles will only have 3 needles, while some will have 5 or 7. Similarly, a Magnum needle may have either 5 needles or 7 or 13.
The number of needles indicates how thick or wide the tattoo needle is. For example, a liner needle with 3 needles is going to produce a much thinner line than a liner with 7 needles. Similarly, a magnum needle with 5 needles is going to cover a smaller area than a magnum with 7 needles.
All of these numbers are combined to form a code that is present on every tattoo needle. For example 12 3 RL indicates a 12 gauge 3 needle round liner. You need to consider this number before you buy your tattoo needles.
2. Material
Most tattoo needles are made from surgical steel or stainless steel. Do not buy any tattoo needle that is made from an alloy other than Stainless steel. Cartridge needles will come with an outer casing which is made from high-quality plastic. Always choose medical-grade steel and plastic for your cartridge needles.
3. Compatibility
There are two main types of tattoo machines, a coil machine, and a rotary machine. However the type of machine is not the concern, you need to understand what type of needle your tattoo machine uses, whether it is a long needle or it is a cartridge needle.
Most traditional and old tattoo machines use long needles, whereas modern tattoo machines nowadays use cartridge needles instead.
4. Number of needles
Although it is less important, it is still a good idea to consider the number of needles you are getting in each box. One needle can never be reused after a tattoo is done. In fact, one may need multiple needles to complete one single tattoo. Therefore always get a pack of multiple needles to ensure that you don’t run out easily.
Best tattoo needles – Top 12 Picks
1. EZTAT2 50pcs Assorted Tattoo Cartridge Needles
EZTAT2 50pcs Assorted Tattoo Cartridge Needles consists of 10 gauge round liners in 3RL, 7RL,9RL, 13RL. Every beginner tattoo artist requires lots of round liners as they are the most commonly used needles in tattooing. These needles come in a cartridge and they are compatible with all machines that use a cartridge system.
EZTAT2 Assorted Tattoo Cartridge Needles are made from surgical steel and the cartridges are made from medical grade plastic. These needles are high quality and they are known for their superior ink flow and minimal skin trauma.
Key Features of EZTAT2 50pcs Assorted Tattoo Cartridge Needles:
- This box contains an assortment of different round liners, 10 of each size, making sure that you do not run out of needles.
- These needles have been sterilized by E.O Gas and packed in sterilized capsules, ensuring safety.
- EZTAT2 Tattoo Cartridge needles are compatible with most modern tattoo machines.
- The clear cartridges allow you to see the needle clearly.
2. INKin 80Pcs Mixed Soft Silicone Tattoo Cartridge Needles
INKin Soft Silicone Tattoo Cartridge Needles are perfect for beginners as well as professionals in the field. These orange grip cartridges are not only stylish, but they provide better support to your finger so that you can work longer.
This assortment of needles gives you a few different options- 3RL, 5RS, 9RM,15RM, and 7M1. You get 16 of each type of needle, which means it is a perfect assortment for all types of tattoo designs, including portraits and realism.
INKin Soft Silicone Tattoo Cartridge Needles have a low profile housing and they provide better ink flow. Its superior membrane system prevents the ink from getting back into the machine, keeping your machine safe.
Key Features of INKin 80Pcs Mixed Soft Silicone Tattoo Cartridge Needles:
- These cartridges can be used on most modern tattoo machines.
- The wide assortment of needles is perfect for a professional who specializes in complex designs.
- These needles are shaped on the inside which prevents them from causing excessive trauma to the skin.
- INKin Soft Silicone Tattoo Cartridge Needles are sterilized and packaged individually to prevent contamination.
3. BIGTEDDY – 200pcs Assorted Disposable Sterile Tattoo Needles Kit
BIGTEDDY – 200pcs Assorted Disposable Sterile Tattoo Needles Kit consists of several different needles of different sizes. This type of needle is ideal to be used with traditional tattoo machines that require long needles.
The huge assortment makes it a perfect beginner kit, as it has all different sizes and types of needles. They are made from medical grade surgical steel and they have been sterilized using E.O. gas before packing them into blister packs to ensure the complete safety of the customer.
Key Features of BIGTEDDY – 200pcs Assorted Disposable Sterile Tattoo Needles Kit:
- These needles are made with surgical grade steel, ensuring high quality.
- BIGTEDDY – 200pcs Assorted Disposable Sterile Tattoo Needles Kit contains 20 different types of needles, 10 of each kind.
- The needles come packaged in individual blister packages which means they are sterile and safe to use.
4. One Tattoo World 100 Pack of Assorted Tattoo Needles
One Tattoo World 100 Pack of Assorted Tattoo Needles contains 3RL,5RL,7RL,9RL, 3RS,5RS,7RS,9RS, 5M1, and 7M1 needles, with ten of each kind. This huge assortment makes it a good kit for beginners and for amateurs who like to make tattoos at home.
These needles are compatible with most traditional machines and are also excellent for stick and poke tattoos. One Tattoo World 100 Pack of Assorted Tattoo Needles are made from high-quality surgical steel and sterilized carefully for utmost safety.
Key Features of One Tattoo World 100 Pack of Assorted Tattoo Needles:
- These needles are sterilized and put into individual packets to ensure zero contamination.
- One Tattoo World Tattoo Needles are great for stick and poke tattoos. They can be used at home by amateurs to create amazing tattoos.
- The huge assortment of needles makes sure that you have everything you need for all types of tattoos.
5. Mast Pro Cartridge Tattoo Needles
Mast Pro Cartridge Tattoo Needles have many different types of needles in their collection that they sell separately. We have focused on the 12 3RL needles, however, they have all types of liner, shader, and magnum needles in different sizes all of which come in a package of 20.
These cartridge style needles can be used on most modern tattoo machines, which use a cartridge system. The cartridges are made with high-density plastic which allows you to see the needle through them, and they provide a comfortable finger rest so that your hand does not feel strained after a long session.
Mast Pro Cartridge Tattoo Needles has a membrane system on the cartridges that prevents ink from spit back and gives you a better tattooing experience.
Key Features of Mast Pro Cartridge Tattoo Needles:
- These needles are high quality and they give you a smooth tattooing experience.
- A clear membrane inside the cartridge helps prevent the ink from going back into the machine.
- Mast Pro Cartridge Tattoo Needles comes in a variety of different styles and sizes giving you the flexibility to choose your required needles.
- These cartridges provide a better finger rest which helps you keep your hand steady.
6. Dragonhawk 60 Counts Black Tattoo Needles
Dragonhawk Black Tattoo Needles are great for every tattoo artist since they are made from high-quality materials and have an excellent grip. This assortment of needles contains Liner needles, Round shader, and Magnum needles.
These needles are compatible with traditional machines and they come with needle tubes for better hand support. The plastic tubes are made from high-grade clear plastic which allows you to see the needle inside. Dragonhawk Black Tattoo Needles is sterilized and packed individually to ensure the highest safety.
Key Features of Dragonhawk 60 Counts Black Tattoo Needles:
- Dragonhawk Black Tattoo Needles are made with 304 Stainless steel and the needles do not have any uneven surface.
- Dragonhawk Black Tattoo Needles have different types of needles, which allow you to have more versatility.
- They have needle tubes that provide a superior grip for a smoother tattooing experience.
7. Pirate Face Tattoo PFT 100 pcs Assorted Tattoo Needles
Pirate Face Tattoo PFT 100 pcs Assorted Tattoo Needles consists of 3RL, 5RL, 7RL, 9RL, 3RS, 5RS, 7RS, 9RS, 5M1, 7M1 needles, in the standard 12-gauge size. This wide variety of needles gives you a lot of options to work with.
These needles are made from medical grade stainless steel and they are sterilized with E.O gas, before packaging them individually in blister packages.
They ensure maximum safety so that the needles do not cause injury to anybody. Pirate Face Tattoo PFT Tattoo Needles are compatible with most traditional machines that use a long needle.
Key Features of Pirate Face Tattoo PFT Tattoo Needles:
- The huge variety of needles are perfect for those artists who prefer doing complex tattoos such as portraits.
- Medical grade stainless steel needles will not rust or cause harm to those who are getting tattooed.
- Pirate Face Tattoo PFT Tattoo Needles are also good for stick and poke tattooing.
8. Youzone 44pcs Assorted Pre-sterilized Tattoo Needles
Youzone 44pcs Assorted Pre-sterilized Tattoo Needles contains 11 different sizes of different tattoo needles with 4 of each size. The sizes that come in this set are 3rl, 5rl, 7rl, 9rl, 3rs, 5rs, 7rs, 9rs, 5m1, 7m1, 9m1 in the standard size of 12 gauge.
These needles also come with silicone grips that provide a comfortable hold, so that you can keep working for long hours. The grips contain a built-in spring that maintains the needle depth and keeps the needle steady even after a long session. Youzone Tattoo Needles are sterilized using E.O. gas and packed individually for your safety.
Key Features of Youzone 44pcs Assorted Pre-sterilized Tattoo Needles:
- Each needle is packed individually in a blister packet so that they stay sanitary until use.
- The silicone grip on each needle is comfortable to hold and helps you keep your hand steady for a long time.
- Youzone 44pcs Assorted Pre-sterilized Tattoo Needles can be used with most tattoo machines that use long needles.
- These needles are ideal for all types of tattoo work.
9. BIGWASP 50pcs Assorted Disposable Tattoo Needle Cartridges
BIGWASP 50pcs Assorted Disposable Tattoo Needle Cartridges comes in a pack of 50 round liner needles in different sizes – 1203RL, 1205RL, 1207RL, 1209RL, 1211RL. BIGWASP Needles are also available in flat shaders, magnum needles, and round shaders.
These needles are made of stainless steel and they are encased in a cartridge that is made from high-quality medical-grade plastic. Each cartridge has a special plastic membrane that prevents ink from spit back and protects your machine. BIGWASP Tattoo Needle Cartridges are sterilized and packed individually to ensure high quality.
Key Features of BIGWASP 50pcs Assorted Disposable Tattoo Needle Cartridges:
- Each cartridge is sterilized using E.O gas to make sure no contamination remains.
- These cartridges are compatible with both rotary machines and coil machines.
- The plastic membrane inside each cartridge prevents the ink from flowing back into the machine.
- BIGWASP Tattoo Needle Cartridges are made from high-quality materials.
10. Romlon Tattoo Needles Set – 100Pcs Disposable Sterile Mixed Assorted Tattoo Needles
Romlon Tattoo Needles Set contains an assortment of different types of tattoo needles in different sizes. This set contains 3RL, 5RL, 7RL, 9RL, 5RS, 7RS, 9RS, 5M1, 7M1, 9M1 needles in 12 gauge standard size with 10 of each.
These needles are made with 316 stainless steel which is corrosion proof and does not cause irritation to the skin. These needles are super sharp and they cause minimum trauma to the skin while tattooing. Romlon Tattoo Needles are not only great for all types of tattoo machines, they are also great for stick and poke tattoos.
Key Benefits of Romlon Tattoo Needles Set:
- These needles are sterilized and packaged individually in blister packages.
- The needle tips are clean and sharp, which allows you to have a smooth tattooing experience.
- A wide variety of needles allow you to use them for different types of tattoos.
- Romlon Tattoo Needles are great for stick and poke tattoos as well.
11. Autdor 50pcs Disposable Mixed Tattoo Needles
Autdor 50pcs Disposable Mixed Tattoo Needles contains several different sizes of tattoo needles in each style- Liner, Flat Shader, Round Shader, and Magnum. The huge assortment of needles makes it a perfect kit for beginners who need different types of needles to practice.
It is also a good kit for professionals who draw more complex designs. The needles come with their respective tattoo tips which help keep the needles in place and keep them steady.
Autdor 50pcs Disposable Mixed Tattoo Needles are made from the highest quality stainless steel and the needle tips are made from high-quality plastic.
Key Features of Autdor 50pcs Disposable Mixed Tattoo Needles:
- Clear tattoo tips allow you to see the needle inside it so that you can work smoothly.
- The needles are made from high-quality stainless steel and they do not have bumps or irregularities on the tips.
- Autdor 50pcs Disposable Mixed Tattoo Needles are sterilized and put into individual blister packages for your safety.
- Different sized needles allow you to use them for different purposes.
12. HAWINK Tattoo Cartridges Needles
HAWINK Tattoo Cartridges Needles comes with different types of needles in 12 gauge. This pack contains Round Liners, Round Shaders, and Magnum needles of different sizes.
These needles are packed inside a high-quality cartridge which is compatible with all types of Rotary and coil machines that use cartridges. HAWINK Tattoo Cartridges Needles are made from stainless steel and they are sharp without any bump or ridges on the tip.
The semi-transparent tip of the tattoo cartridge makes it easier for you to see the needle coming through it, while the nano-silica gel membrane helps prevent damage to your machine and keeps the needle steady.
Key Features of HAWINK Tattoo Cartridges Needles:
- Needles and needle tips are both made from medical grade materials, ensuring your complete safety.
- Each needle is individually packaged and sterilized using E.O gas to prevent any contamination.
- These needles have a long shelf life of up to 4 years.
- HAWINK Tattoo Cartridges Needles are compatible with rotary machines, coil machines, and the company’s own hawk machines.
Editor Choice: Top 3 Best Tattoo Needles by Features, by Price & Value for Money
Best Tattoo needle with Awesome Features
- Mast Pro purple tattoo cartridges needles have been providing with high density clear plastic body.
- This cartridges are equipment with the perfect tension for less stress on your tattoo machine maintain the pen long time working.
- Mast Pro needles reliable for all-purpose work .offering all the groupings and sizes you need whenever liner or shader
- The easier to clean clear bodies allows the tattoo tip cleaned properly between purple color changed.
- Membrane mechanism prevents ink spitback. The membrane and tip of these needles allow artists to enjoy a more fluid tattooing procedure
If you are on the lookout for a pack of needles with the best features, then Mast Pro Cartridge Tattoo Needles is the perfect one for you. This cartridge needle is made from high-quality stainless steel and the needles are polished by a machine to make them smooth and sharp.
The sharp tip is great for packing color into the skin and it also helps cause minimal trauma to the skin. The needles are also quite tough and they stay sharp throughout the tattooing process.
These needles are encased in a high-density plastic casing that acts as a grip and a tube for the needle. This plastic casing is clear, allowing you to see the needle inside, giving you more precision in your work.
Mast Pro Cartridge Tattoo Needles also have a membrane function that prevents the ink from spitting back inside the machine, preventing your machine from damage. Mast Pro Cartridge Tattoo Needles are one of the best and most feature-packed tattoo needles in the market right now.
Tattoo needles with the Best Price
- PERFECT TATTOO KIT - The 100pcs Tattoo Needles and Tips Set includes 5pcs of each 3RL 5RL 7RL 9RL 5RS 7RS 9RS 5M1 7M1 9M1 tattoo needles (total 50pcs); 10pcs of each 5RT 7RT 9RT, 5pcs of 3RT 5FT 7FT 9FT disposable tattoo tips (total 50pcs). RT tips for RS, RL needles' use, such as 5RS 7RS 9RS 3RL 5RL 7RL 9RL. FT tips for 5M1 7M1 9M1 tattoo needles use.
- SAFETY MATERIAL - Tattoo needles made of great grade stainless steel 316L and clean soldering for optimal control & results. Brand new rotary tattoo guns needles set. The tattoo needles used for coloring in or shading tattoos. Tattoo disposable tips are made of ABS plastic plastic. Clear colors tattoo tips body to easy tattooing and better visibility, you can see the ink and needle clearly.
- PRE-STERILIZED - The tattoo needles and disposable tattoo tips have CE Approval Individual Packaging, all our tattoo needles and tips set are pre-sterilized with EO Gas. Peel back the paper cover from plastic blister to use. Our tattoo needles are sterilized and safe to use. Individually stamped with expiration dates. Each tattoo needle and tips is for single use only, safe and healthy.
- GREAT DESIGN - The tattoo needles tips is no bent, extremely sharp, is a must tattoo supplies for any professional tattoo artists. The tattoo disposable tips model number is carved on the tip. Prevent to confuse the size for not waste any disposable tattoo tubes. The edges are smooth, good design can catch more ink. The unique design make the tattoo ink flowing well. Applicate on tattoo tubes and tattoo needles and tips, any tattoo machines.
- 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - We are dedicated to providing our customers with affordable, premium tattoo equipment. If for any reason you are not fully satisfied about the Autdor Tattoo Needles and Tips Set, please contact us at any time. We will help you solve the problem as soon as. Please don't worry. Full refund or exchange are acceptable.
If you are on a budget but still looking for some quality tattoo needles, Autdor 50pcs Disposable Mixed Tattoo Needles is the ideal choice for you. This set of tattoo needles have very good features for the price they are being offered at.
You get 5 pieces each for 10 different types of needles, including liners, shaders, and magnum needles. Autdor Tattoo Needles needles are made from surgical grade stainless steel and they have been polished to achieve the sharpest possible tips.
The tattoo tips are clear and so they allow you to see the needle inside, allowing you maximum precision. These needles and needle tips are sterilized for your safety as well.
Autdor 50pcs Disposable Mixed Tattoo Needles + 50pcs Mixed Disposable Tattoo Tips comes at an affordable price, also one of the cheapest options available in the market.
Value for Money Tattoo Needles
- High-quality Material: The Dragonhawk tattoo needles and tubes are made of high-quality materials, ensuring durability and reliability. The 304 stainless steel tattoo needles are resistant to rust and corrosion, while the soft ABS black tattoo grip provides a comfortable and secure hold. The plastic tubes are clear and transparent, allowing you to see the tattoo ink and needles clearly.
- Comfortable Grip Design: The tattoo tubes feature a comfortable grip design with an anti-slip handle, making it suitable for most people's hands. The ergonomic design ensures a firm and steady grip, allowing for precise and controlled tattooing.
- Versatile Sizes: The Dragonhawk tattoo needles and tubes come in various sizes, including 3RL, 5RL, 5RS, 7RL, 7RS, 9RL, 9RS, 7M1, 5M1, and 9M1. Whether you need fine lines or shading, these different sizes provide flexibility and versatility for all your tattooing needs.
- Durable and Long-lasting: Made of high-quality materials, the Dragonhawk tattoo needles and tubes are built to last. The durable construction ensures that they can withstand repeated use without losing their sharpness or performance. You can rely on these tattoo supplies for long-term use.
- Professional Tattooing Experience: With the Dragonhawk tattoo needles and tubes, you can enjoy a professional tattooing experience at home or in the studio. The high-quality material, comfortable grip design, and versatile sizes allow for precise and accurate tattooing, ensuring stunning results every time. Elevate your tattooing skills with these reliable and top-notch tattoo supplies.
If you are on a budget but you do not want to compromise on the quality of your needles, then Dragonhawk 60 Counts Black Tattoo Needles With Tubes is the best option for you.
Dragonhawk needles are highly praised in the tattoo industry as every tattoo artist loves using these needles. They are extremely high quality and they never fail to give you the best tattooing experience.
This pack of needles contains an assortment of needles which include liners, shaders, flat shaders, and magnum needles, giving you a wide variety of needles to work with.
These Tattoo Needles are made with medical grade stainless steel and the plastic grips are made from high-quality plastic. The grips are excellent at keeping your finger steady and prevents your hand from slipping.
Dragonhawk 60 Counts Black Tattoo Needles and Tubes come at an affordable price. So overall we recommend this for everyone who is either starting their tattooing journey or is a professional who is looking for high-quality needles at an affordable price.
Comparison of the Top 3 Shortlisted Tattoo Needles
| Tattoo Needles | Best Attribute | Needle Quality | Grip Quality | Special Feature |
| Mast Pro Cartridge Tattoo Needles | It has the most high-quality features. | Very High | Very High | Membrane function prevents ink spit back. |
| Autdor 50pcs Disposable Mixed Tattoo Needles | It has the most affordable price. | HIgh | Medium | Needles hold more ink. |
| Dragonhawk 60 Counts Black Tattoo Needles | These needles are the most value for money. | High | High | Comfortable non-slip grips. |
Final thoughts:
Tattooing is an art that not everyone can learn. It takes skill and dedication to be able to be a professional tattoo artist. For every tattoo artist, one of their most commonly used equipment is the tattoo needles. They need to constantly change them to complete each tattoo. Every needle can be used only once and then needs to be discarded, so tattoo artists constantly run out of tattoo needles.
Every artist has their own favorite brand of needles that they like, however, if you are clueless about which one to choose our list of the best tattoo needles is surely going to be helpful for you. So no more waiting, choose your favorite pack of tattoo needles and get started on your journey to becoming a master tattoo artist.
