A power supply is a critical piece of equipment when it comes to tattooing with machines. Every tattoo machine requires a power supply in order for it to work properly. The main function of a power supply is to control the voltage of your tattoo machine, this, in turn, helps control the speed of your machine.
Another important reason for using a power supply is to keep your machine safe, as it allows the current to pass through a safe system, which if overloaded will automatically be adjusted. And the last important reason to use a power supply with your machine is to be able to control your machine better.
With the help of a clip cord, you can easily connect or disconnect your machine, you can also attach a foot pedal with your machine through a power supply, which helps you control it with your feet.
So, we can safely say that every tattoo artist requires a good quality, reliable tattoo power supply.
List of Top Tattoo Power Supplies: By Best Feature
Buyer Guide: Important Things to Consider Before Buying a Tattoo Power Supply
1. Voltage Range
Every tattoo power supply has a certain voltage range, it can be anywhere from 1.5 volts to 18 volts. The standard voltages required for operating tattoo machines are between 5V to 9V.
Always look for a power supply machine that has a good range of voltages as it will mean that you can operate all types of tattoo machines with it.
Often a liner machine requires a different voltage than the shader machines, so always make sure that your machine is compatible with the power supply that you are buying.
2. Dual Port
If you are using a coil machine for tattooing, then you will have two use two separate machines for lining and shading. To be able to use them simultaneously you will have to use a dual-port power supply.
Dual power supplies allow you to connect both your machines at the same time, along with a foot pedal if you want to use it.
These power supplies are also great for anyone who is doing a detailed tattoo as they may need to use multiple tattoo machines at the same time.
3. User-Friendly Design
Every power supply will have a dial that allows you to navigate through the different voltages. It should also have a screen or an indicator that tells you the precise voltage your machine is at.
A small and compact power supply machine with an ergonomic design allows for a better user experience. A user-friendly power supply machine should also have proper support underneath it so that it does not accidentally fall or cause an accident.
4. Portability
Tattoo machines have progressively become smaller and more compact over the years, therefore it only makes sense that other tattoo equipment will also get more compact.
Several companies have created portable and small power supplies for tattoo machines, so that tattoo artists can travel with them.
The portable power supply machines are also great for a studio as it takes up less space, allowing more space for other equipment.
5. LED screen
Although not all power supply machines come with a LED screen, it is a great addition to the machines that do have it. A LED screen will help you see the exact voltage you are working with.
It may also allow you to see the indicators for a foot pedal. Sometimes the more advanced screens will show you additional information, such as the current, duration of use, etc.
Top 5 Best Tattoo Power Supplies
1. Dragon Art Aurora Power Supply
Best For: Portability
The Dragon Art Aurora Power Supply is a portable and lightweight power supply that is essential for every tattoo artist. It is great for both beginners as well as professionals.
It is great for traveling artists as well, who like to travel with their tattooing equipment. This tattoo power supply looks great and it has an interesting style.
The light-up design also works as an indicator for the voltage of your machine. It has a magnetic bottom along with an anti-slip base which helps keep the machine stationary in your workspace.
Key Features and Specifications of Dragon Art Aurora Power Supply
- This power supply is compatible with all types of coil and rotary machines.
- It features a push knob to turn it on or off. The same knob can also be rotated to change the voltage of the power supply.
- Dragon Art Aurora Power Supply features a foot pedal input, which can be used to attach a foot pedal if you want to.
- The machine features a multicolored light, which is also an indicator of the different voltages that the machine works on.
Pros and Cons of Dragon Art Aurora Power Supply
Pros:
- It is very lightweight, making it great for traveling with it.
- This tattoo power supply has a compact and efficient design, which takes up less space on your work surface.
- This tattoo power supply features two-foot pedal modes- maintained and momentary.
- The anti-slip base allows you to use the machine without worrying about accidentally dropping it.
Cons:
- You will have to memorize the different colors of lights that correspond to specific voltages to be able to use the machine effectively.
Why Should You Buy This Tattoo Power Supply?
Dragon Art Aurora Power Supply is great for portability. It is not only light, but it is also very compact, making it really portable. This machine also does not take up a lot of space on your work surface, so you do not have to worry about wasting space.
If you are an artist who likes to travel with their tattoo equipment, this is the perfect power supply machine for you.
2. TATELF Digital Tattoo Power Supply
Best For: LED display
TATELF Digital Tattoo Power Supply is a futuristic power supply that features a smart display complete with touch controls. It has one of the most compact designs among Digital power supplies.
It features several different data on the screen such as the duration of use, the voltage, ampere, efficiency, etc. It comes with a magnetic as well as an anti-skid base, so you can attach it to any surface that you may be working on.
The touch control buttons are very easy to use, making this one of the best tattoo power supply machines on the market.
Key Features and Specifications of TATELF Digital Tattoo Power Supply
- This Digital Tattoo Power Supply features several touch buttons. Power, voltage up, voltage down, foot pedal modes, and a time reset button is provided.
- It features a highly informative LED screen with details regarding the current, voltage, processor, etc on it.
- The compact design of this power supply machine makes it ideal for traveling with it or to carry it around with you.
- It has a foot pedal input, so if you want to use a foot pedal with this machine, you can do that easily.
Pros and Cons of TATELF Digital Tattoo Power Supply
Pros:
- The touch buttons are easy to use, and they allow the user to quickly change the settings without much hassle.
- It comes with a magnetic base and a suction attachment, which allows you to attach it to any surface.
- The LED screen provides a lot of information, allowing the user to have a better understanding of their machine.
- It comes with overload protection, which will not only protect your power supply machine but also your tattoo machine.
Cons:
- It features a single port, so you can only use one machine at a time.
Why Should You Buy This Tattoo Power Supply?
This Power supply machine has an incredible LED Screen which displays lots of information regarding the machine. It shows you all the vital information such as the working voltage, the ampere of currants, the foot pedal modes, etc along with other things such as duration of use and the machine’s efficiency.
TATELF Digital Tattoo Power Supply is great for all tattoo artists who want a compact and effective machine.
3. Mast Halo Tattoo Power Supply Box
Best For: User-Friendly design
Mast Halo Tattoo Power Supply Box has a compact design, yet it contains all the essential features of a traditional power supply machine. It features a knob system, which allows you to change the voltage, making it a user-friendly experience.
It features a LED display on the top, which shows you the voltage that it is currently at. There are also lights that indicate the voltage range. It can be connected to a foot pedal, and you can work with a single machine at a time.
Key Features and Specifications of Mast Halo Tattoo Power Supply Box
- It weighs only 340 grams and therefore it can easily be carried around.
- The light-up system allows you to easily recognize the voltage of the machine.
- This machine can rotate completely, which allows you to adjust the position of your cords.
- The voltages increase at 0.1-volt incrementS, allowing you great precision.
Pros and Cons of Mast Halo Tattoo Power Supply Box
Pros:
- This power supply machine is built to last, so you can rely on it.
- The machine can rotate completely so you can arrange your cords whichever way you want, giving you complete control.
- The lightweight and compact design make it easier to use and carry with you.
Cons:
- The screen only shows the output voltage. No more information is given.
Why Should You Buy This Tattoo Power Supply?
The biggest feature of the Mast Halo Tattoo Power Supply Box is its compact and user-friendly design. This power supply box has a 360 rotation function that allows you to rearrange your cords according to your preference.
The top of the box can be rotated to change the voltage and it also has a LED display on the top that shows you the voltage. All of these great features make it incredibly user-friendly and great for every tattoo artist.
4. Pirate Face Tattoo Dual Digital Tattoo Power Supply
Best For: Dual Ports
Pirate Face Tattoo Dual Digital Tattoo Power Supply is great for using two machines at the same time. Although this power supply is bigger in size, it is a very efficient power supply.
It has a separate foot pedal port as well, so you can use a foot pedal with your machines. It features a LED screen, which shows you the precise output voltage.
The machine comes with its own foot pedals, and two clip cords. Overall, this is a great power supply for those who like to use two tattoo guns at the same time.
Key Features and Specifications of Pirate Face Tattoo Dual Digital Tattoo Power Supply
- The output voltage range is from 1.5V to 18V. This ensures that you can work with any machine.
- It comes with a stainless steel foot pedal, which is an upgraded version of traditional foot pedals.
- The dual ports allow you to attach two machines at the same time. This is especially useful for coil machines, as you require two different machines for lining and shading.
- Both ports have separate voltage controls, and a flip switch will easily determine which one you want to turn on.
Pros and Cons of Pirate Face Tattoo Dual Digital Tattoo Power Supply
Pros:
- You can choose which machine to power on by simply flipping a switch.
- The maximum voltage goes up to 18V, making it a great power supply for all types of machines.
- The machine comes with two 6 feet long clip cords, making it easier for you to work with.
- A flat foot pedal is included, which makes the work easier for the artist.
Cons:
- This machine is quite heavy and not great for carrying with you.
Why Should You Buy This Tattoo Power Supply?
If you are a person who needs to run two tattoo machines at the same time, then this is the perfect power supply for your machines. Pirate Face Tattoo Dual Digital Tattoo Power Supply is great for any tattoo machines regardless of the type of machine.
The dual-port is great for using coil machines as you would require two machines for lining and shading. So if you are using coil machines, this is a great power supply machine to use with them.
5. Dragonhawk LCD Tattoo Machine Power Supply
Best For: Value for Money
Dragonhawk LCD Tattoo Machine Power Supply is a minimalist and simple machine that is both portable and functional. It comes with a clip cord and a foot pedal, making it a great package for a minimal price.
The power supply machine features a LED screen that displays the output voltage on it. It also features a knob that can be pushed to turn it off or on, and it can also be rotated to control the voltage.
It is a very lightweight and small machine so it will not take up too much space on your working desk.
Key Features and Specifications of Dragonhawk LCD Tattoo Machine Power Supply
- It weighs only 145 grams, which is one of the most lightweight power supply machines on the market.
- The foot pedal provided with the machine can be used to easily control your tattoo machine.
- The voltage range of this machine is from 1.5V to 18V, which means you can use any kind of tattoo machine with it.
- This machine has overload protection, so you can be assured that your tattoo machine is protected against electrical damage.
Pros and Cons of Dragonhawk LCD Tattoo Machine Power Supply
Pros:
- The compact design of this machine makes it easier to carry it around with you.
- A good voltage range is always important for operating different types of machines.
- You can attach a foot pedal with the machine, which makes using your machine much easier.
Cons:
- It does not have any anti-slip base, so it may drop if mishandled.
Why Should You Buy This Tattoo Power Supply?
This power supply machine is a great one for every tattoo artist who is looking for a power supply within budget. The Dragonhawk LCD Tattoo Machine Power Supply has a single port with a simple LED screen and a knob that controls the voltage.
It comes with a clip cord and a foot pedal which also helps control the machine more effectively. This machine has all the features that a power supply should have but it is also very minimalistic. Overall it is a value-for-money product.
Comparison of Top 5 Best Tattoo Power Supply Machines
| Voltage Range | Number of Ports | LED screen | Portability | |
| Dragon Art Aurora Power Supply | 3- 15 V | Single | No | Portable |
| TATELF Digital Tattoo Power Supply | 3 – 18 V | Single | Yes | Portable |
| Mast Halo Tattoo Power Supply Box | 0.5 – 12 V | Single | Yes | Portable |
| Pirate Face Tattoo Dual Digital Tattoo Power Supply | 1.5 – 18 V | Dual | Yes | Not Portable |
| Dragonhawk LCD Dual Tattoo Machine Power Supply | 1.5 – 18 V | Single | Yes | Portable |
Summary:
If you are getting started with tattoos, you will need a tattoo machine power supply. It is not only essential for controlling the voltage of your machine, but it also protects your machine from overload and helps you work smoothly without interruptions from electrical fluctuations.
If you are unsure about which power supply to buy, you can choose from our list of the best power supplies and choose your favorite.
Some power supplies will work better at one aspect than another, so always choose according to your needs. Now that you know about tattoo power supplies, it’s time for you to buy one and get started with it.
FAQs:
Q. Is it necessary to buy a power supply for my tattoo machine?
Yes, it is mandatory to buy a power supply machine in order to be able to run your tattoo gun, without this machine you will not be able to control the speed of your tattoo machine.
Q. Can I use any power supply for my tattoo machine?
No, you need to buy a power supply machine that is specifically made for tattoo guns/ machines.
Q. Do I need to use a foot pedal with my power supply machine?
It is not mandatory to use a foot pedal with your power supply machine, however, you may attach it if you want to control your machine remotely.
Q. What is the most important thing to look for in a power supply machine?
The most important thing is the voltage range. Always check the running voltage of your tattoo machine, and make sure that your power supply machine can provide that.
Q. How long will my power supply machine last?
Usually, power supply machines last a long time, i.e. over 5 years, given that it does not have any defects.
Q. Can I use all types of tattoo machines with my power supply?
Yes, most power supply machines support all types of tattoo guns and machines.
Q. Do I need to buy a machine with dual ports?
It is not necessary to buy a machine with dual ports unless you plan to use two tattoo guns at the same time. If you do plan to use two machines simultaneously, then a dual-port machine is ideal for you.
Q. Will my power supply keep my tattoo gun safe?
Yes, most power supply
