What's the Difference Between Rotary Tattoo Machines and Coil Tattoo Machines?

Tattoo artists have long debated the superiority of rotary and coil machines. These two types of tattoo machines have distinct qualities that make them suitable for different tattooing styles.

To settle this ongoing dispute, it's important to familiarize yourself with both machines and understand their unique features and benefits.

In this article, we'll provide an in-depth comparison of rotary and coil tattoo machines to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right tool for your tattooing needs.

 

Key Takeaways:

  • Rotary tattoo machines are lightweight and quiet, making them suitable for both veteran and novice tattoo artists.
  • Coil tattoo machines excel in creating intricate lines and shading but require more experience to handle effectively.
  • Rotary machines offer a more gentle tattooing process and are ideal for color work.
  • Coil machines have a punchy needle movement and are better suited for specialized techniques.
  • The choice between rotary and coil machines depends on personal preference, tattooing style, and individual comfort.

 

Rotary Tattoo Machines:

Rotary tattoo machines operate using an electric motor that creates a smooth rotary motion. These machines are lightweight and quiet, making them popular among both veteran and novice tattoo artists. Rotary machines excel in creating precise lines and shading, providing artists with the versatility to execute various tattooing techniques. They are particularly effective for color work and offer a gentle process that minimizes damage to the skin. However, when using larger needles, rotary machines may not deliver the same power as coil machines.

 

Coil Tattoo Machines:

Coil tattoo machines, on the other hand, are the traditional choice found in most tattoo shops worldwide. These machines utilize a system of electromagnetic coils that drive the armature bar, resulting in a punchy and powerful needle movement. Coil machines are favored for their ability to create intricate lines and smooth shading. However, they require more experience to handle effectively and are not recommended for beginners. Coil machines tend to be heavier, which can lead to hand fatigue and cramps during extended tattoo sessions. Additionally, they produce more noise and vibration compared to rotary machines.

 

Operational Differences:

The primary distinction between rotary and coil machines lies in the way the needles move within the machine. Coil machines rely on an electromagnetic current to drive the armature bar, resulting in a choppy needle movement akin to a hammer. In contrast, rotary machines use a small motor that generates an up and down motion of the needles, providing a quieter and more gentle process. The smooth motion of rotary machines reduces the risk of hand fatigue and cramps, allowing artists to work for longer periods without sacrificing precision.

 

Weight and Ergonomics:

Coil machines typically have a heavier build due to the presence of coils and iron rods. This weight can lead to tired hands and cramps, especially during longer tattoo sessions or when working on larger tattoos. In contrast, rotary machines are significantly lighter as they operate on a motor, providing artists with better ergonomics and prolonged comfort. The lighter weight of rotary machines enables artists to work more efficiently and tackle larger tattoos without undue strain on their hands and fingers.

 

Noise Output:

Coil machines are notorious for their buzzing sound, which results from the electromagnetic current flowing through the coils. This buzzing noise can be intimidating for some clients, potentially causing nervousness or discomfort during the tattooing process. In contrast, rotary machines operate quietly since they lack an electromagnetic current. The reduced noise level of rotary machines can help alleviate clients' apprehensions and create a more relaxed tattooing environment.

 

Versatility:

Coil and rotary machines differ in terms of versatility. Coil machines are typically specialized for either drawing lines or shading and may require the use of a separate machine for the other technique. In contrast, rotary machines offer greater versatility as artists can use them for both lining and shading by simply changing the needles. However, it is worth noting that rotary machines may be less suitable for highly customized tattoos that require intricate line work.

 

Motion Quality:

The quality of motion provided by a tattoo machine is crucial for achieving precise and clean tattooing results. Coil machines produce a punchy needle movement due to the electromagnetic current powering the on-off circuit. In contrast, rotary machines offer a smoother and more consistent up and down motion of the needles, resulting in reduced skin trauma and improved tattoo quality. The fluid motion of rotary machines allows for greater control and precision during the tattooing process.

 

Maintenance:

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of tattoo machines. Coil machines are relatively easier to disassemble and clean, making them more straightforward to maintain. Rotary machines may require more finesse during the cleaning process and regular lubrication to ensure smooth operation. Tattoo artists should prioritize proper maintenance practices to keep their machines in top condition and deliver consistent results to their clients.

Conclusion

In the debate between rotary and coil tattoo machines, there is no definitive winner. Each type of machine has its own set of advantages and considerations. Rotary machines offer lightweight operation, versatility, and a gentle tattooing process, making them suitable for various tattooing techniques, especially color work. Coil machines excel in creating intricate lines and shading, delivering a punchy needle movement. They may require more experience to handle effectively and regular maintenance. Ultimately, the choice between rotary and coil machines comes down to personal preference, tattooing style, and individual comfort. Tattoo artists should conduct thorough research, try both types of machines, and seek advice from experienced professionals to make an informed decision that aligns with their artistic vision and clientele.

We Make Ink Do More

Paul Park, The Xtreme Team

For more information on our TATTOO INK sets, please take a look at our piece on Xtreme Inks: Artist Collections.

7 Signs You're Incredibly Intelligent

Will Tattoos be Hanging in Museums Someday?

Worldwide Tattoo Supply

Traditional Black Japanese Sumi Tattoo Ink

Stick and Poke Tattoos: What Inks Work Best

The Role of Tattoo Artists in Preserving and Reviving Traditional Hand-Poked Tattoo Techniques

A Tribal Tattooing Case Study: Expressing Heritage and Pride through Ink

Understanding the Cultural Significance of Tribal Tattoo Designs

The Significance of Black Tattoo Ink in Traditional and Contemporary Tattooing

Latest Posts

https://www.instagram.com/p/CuI42Tfo46O/

TAGS:

#AnimalTattoos#asianart #tattoodesign #irezumi #calligraphytattoo #mandalatattoo#BlackworkTattoos #TattooArtistry #BodyArt #PersonalExpression #TattooSymbolism #TattooCulture #TattooDesigns #AncientTribalTattoos #ModernTattoos #PersonalNarratives#BodybuildingAndTattoos#BodyPositive#CleanLines#CleanTattooEnvironment#ColorPalette#DelicateDesigns#Empowerment#FineLineTattoos#FineLineTattooTips#geishatattoo #japaneseculture #irezumi #neotraditionaltattoo#HealingThroughArt#InkSterilization#IntricateTattoos#MuscleGrowth#ParamedicalTattooing#PhysiqueAndTattoos#PrisonTattoos #TattooCulture #InmateIdentity #TattooHistory #InmateSurvival #PrisonCulture#Scars#SkinArt#StretchMarks#TatiannaB#TattooAftercare#TattooApplication#TattooArt#TattooArtistsGuide#TattooCare#TattooColors#TattooGuide#TattooHealthConsequences#Tattooing #Architecture #ArchitecturalTattoos #LandmarkTattoos #ArtForms#Tattooing #CollageTattoos #TattooArt #PersonalStories #BodyArt#TattooInk#TattooInkSterilization#TattooRemastering #OldTattoos #TattooArtists #RodgerLaw #BrunoLima #XtremeTeam#TattooRisks#TattooSafety#TattooStyles#TattooTechniques3d effect tattoo3D Printing3d tattoo3D tattoos7 signs of intelligence7 signs you're a talented tattoo artist7 signs you're incredibly talentedAbstract TattoosAcceptanceaccessory packageaccurate stencilachieving optimal resultsAcne-Prone Skinacrylic-freeadditivesadjustable tattoo machineadjusting ink consistencyAdventureAdvocacyaesthetic appealAesthetic ConsiderationsAfricaAfter Inked Tattoo Aftercare LotionAftercareage of tattooAgricultureair compressorAlcohol Consumptionallergic reactionsalternative inksAlternative MethodsAlternative Tattoo Practiceamericana tattoosanchor tattooAncient AngkorAncient TattoosAncient TraditionsAndy WarholAnimal IdentificationAnimal Resource CenterAnimal SheltersAnimal SpiritsAnimal TattoosAnimal WelfareAnimationAnimeantibioticsantiseptic ingredientsAnxietyAotearoaapanese tattoosapprenticeshiparmature barArtart and cultureart and fashionArt AppreciationArt CollectionArt CommodificationArt EvolutionArt Exhibitionart formsart high school in PolandArt MarketArt Movementart stylesart therapyartist collectionsartist-client relationshipartistic challengesartistic expressionArtistic growthArtistic InnovationArtistic Journeyartistic prowessartistic shadingartistic skillsartistic stylesartistic symbolismArtistryartists use neutral colors forAsh KetchumAsiaAsianTribalTattoosassembling a tattoo gunAstrologyAstrology TattoosAstronomy TattoosAsuka LangleyAt-Home Tattooingathletic achievements tattoos.athletic tattoosato legaspiAto Legaspi's Realism Color Setattoo HistoryAwarenessbback tattoosbacteriaBaking TattoosBangkok InkBangkok Tattoosbarrier creamsBear TattoosBeauty StandardsBecoming a tattoo artistbeginner guideBeginner Tattoo ArtistBeginner Tattoo Artistsbeginnersbest blue tattoo inkbest female artistsbest female tattoo artistsbest green tattoo inkbest inkbest street art tattoosbest tattoo inkBest Tattoo PensBeverage TattoosBicep TattoosBio-InksBiomechanical TattoosBiosecuritybird tattooBirthmarksBlack & Grey tattoosblack and grey tattooBlack and Grey TattooingBlack and Grey TattoosBlack Fridayblack inkBlack Magic Tattoo Inkblack tattoo inkblackbird tattooBlacklight TattoosBlackwork TattooBlackwork Tattoosbleaching propertiesblending tattoo inkBlockchain Technologyblood thinnersBlood Thinningblood-borne pathogensblue and green tattoo inkBlue Butterfly Tattooblue inkblue ink symbolblue tattooblue tattoo inkblue tattoo ink meaningbody artbody art alternativesbody art and identityBody Art in IndiaBody Art.Body modificationBody Positivitybody tattoosBold Colorsbold fontsbold inkbold tattoosBook CharactersBook-Inspired TattoosBotanical Tattoosbottlingbrand identitybrand loyaltybrand reputationbrandsbreaking beauty standardsbreaking stereotypesbreathable barrierBrushstroke CalligraphyBrushstroke TattoosBuddhismBuilding a portfoliobusiness insurancebusiness managementbusiness planButterfly TattoocalciumCalligraphy StylesCalligraphy TattoosCambodian Militarycan you tattoo over black ink?carbon inkcarcinogenic riskscarcinogenscarrier liquids in tattooingCat TattoosCelestial SymbolsCelestial TattoosCeltic Folklorechair rental for tattoo artistschallengeschallenging gender normschallenging processCharacter TattoosCharactersChef Tattooschemical reactionschemical stabilityChest TattoosCheyenne Hawk PenChineseTattoosChiShenchlorinecircle tattooCitrus FruitsClean Linescleaning guidelinescleaning solutionclientClient Collaborationclient communicationClient Relationshipclient safetyclogged poresCloud StorageclumpingCollaborationcollaborative creativitycollagencolorcolor consistencyColor Enhancerscolor fadingcolor mixingcolor paletteColor Precisioncolor psychologycolor retentioncolor saturationcolor spreadingColor SymbolismColor Tattooscolor theorycolor-changing inkcolored tattooscolorfastnesscoloring techniquesComic TattoosCommitmentCommunitycommunity engagementcompatibilitycompatibility with skin tonescompetitioncompositionconcentrationconsistencyConstellation TattoosconsultationContact Dermatitiscontact screwContemporary Artcontrastcorneocytescorporate social responsibilityCosmetic TattooingcosmicCosmic TattoosCosplayCostume Playcountry-specific tattoo rulescover up tattoocover-up tattoosCraniofacial Surgerycreative collaborationCreative IdeasCreativitycross-contaminationCrown ChakraCrown of the HeadCulinary ProfessionCulinary TattoosculturalCultural AppreciationCultural AppropriationCultural CommentaryCultural Cuisine Tattooscultural expressioncultural heritagecultural identitycultural impactcultural influencescultural originscultural perspectivesCultural PreservationCultural Respectcultural sensitivitycultural shiftcultural significancecultural symbolsCultural Tattoo HistoryCultural TattoosCultural traditionCultural TraditionsCulture and Tattooscursive fontscustom designCustom Designscustom shadesCustom Tattoo Designcustomer relationsdandelion tattooDark Horse Tattoodark tattoo inkDayakTutangdeep black inkDekudelicate tattoosDepressionDepthDermal DiseasesdermatitisDermatographydermatologistDermatologyDermisdermis layerdesigner collectionsdesired resultDeveloping drawing skillsDiabetic PatientsDiagnostic MethodsDigital ArtDigital Art ToolsDigital Revolutiondilution solutiondiscolorationDisney Tattoosdisplay fontsdisposable cartridgesdistilled waterDiversityDIYDIY TattooDIY tattoo stencilDIY TattoosdocumentationDotworkDragonhawk Mast PenDrawing skillsDream ImageryDream SymbolsDream-Inspired Tattoosdry skindual functionalitydurable constructiondurable tattoo inkdynamic tattoo designse-commerceeagle tattooEarning potentialeasier tattooingeco-friendly inkseczemaEducationEdward Elricelegant tattoosElimination ChallengesEmerging Artistsemerging technologiesEmma Kierzekemotional connectionemotional milestonesemotional paletteEmotional SignificanceEmpowering ArtistsEmpowering SymbolsEmpowermentempowerment tattoosend resultsEndoscopic Tattooingengraved tattoosenhanced realismEnso CircleEnso Tattoosentering the skinentrepreneurshipenvironmental awarenessenvironmental responsibilityEphemeral Artepidermal tattoosepidermisepidermis bindingepisode themeEren Yeagerergonomicsetched effectEthereum BlockchainEthical Considerationsethical tattoo practicesethical tattoo productsEthical TattooingEU regulationEuropeevolutionExo Black Tattoo InkExo WhiteExperienced tattoo artistexperimenting with inkexpert tattoo artistsexpiration dateextra blackExtra WhiteExtraterrestrial Tattoo DesignsExtremeTravelfacial tattoosfadingfair competitionfake info about tattoosfake skin practicefalcon tattoofamily tattoosFandomfashion collaborationfashion industry.FDA regulationFDA regulations on tattoo ink.feather tattoofemale tattoo artistfemale tattoo artistsfemale tattoosfeminine tattoosfeminist tattoosfilm dressingFinding a mentorFinding ClientsFine Artfine particle sizefine-line techniquesFirst tattooFitzpatrick ScaleFK Irons ExoFK Irons SpektraFlash Challengesflat needlesflower tattoosFolkloreFood and Drink TattoosFood Inspired TattoosFood Lovers Tattoosforearm tattoosForensic MedicineFree For Artistsfreedom tattoosfreehand tattoofreehand techniqueFreemasonryfruit tattoo practiceFruit Tattooingfruit tattoosFundraisingFuture of Tattoosfuture trendsfuture trends in tattoo removalFuturistic TattoosGalaxy Tattoosgaming cultureGastronomyGen ZGenZTravelgeometric designsgeometric tattoosglobal practicesglobal talentglobal tattoo standardsglovesGlow-in-the-Dark TattoosglycerinGokuGold Tattoo InkGood Luck Charmsgothgoth tattoosgothic fontsgothic tattoosgothicaGraffiti ArtistGranulomasgray realismGreek Mythologygreen ink supplygreen soapgreen tattoo inkgreywashguide to mixing colorsguide to mixing tattoo inksHand and Finger Tattooshand tattoosHand-Poked Tattooshand-tappingHands-on experiencehandwritten fontshard waterHarry Potter TattoosHawaiian tattooshawk tattooHealinghealing processhealing tattoo inkhealth and safetyhealth consciousnessHealth Directiveshealth regulationsHealth Riskshealthcare providerheart tattooheavy metalshectograph transfer paperHenna Practiceherb tattoosheritagehigh-quality inkhigh-quality tattoo inkHigher ConsciousnesshighlightingHighly experienced tattoo artisthiring staffHistorical SymbolsHistorical Tattooshistorical usehistoryhistory of tattooHistory of Tattooshistory of the tattoo needlehome tattoo removal techniquesHome Tattooinghomemade tattoo inkHoneydew Practicehori needleshormonal medicationsHorror Tattooshow to be a professional tattoo artist.how to begin tattoohow to dispose of tattoo inkhow to learn how to tattoohow to mix tattoo inkshow to prevent contamination in tattoo inkhow to start tattooinghow to store tattoo inkhow to use wetting solutionhuman canvashummingbird tattooHydrationhygieneHygiene and Safetyhygiene and sanitationIconic ImageryIconsIdentityIdentity FormationImaginationImmortalized TattoosImmune Responseimmune response modifiersImpulsive DecisionsInclusivityinclusivity.Indian Tattoo CultureIndian Tattoo HistoryIndianTribalTattoosindigenous artindigenous culturesIndigenous Tattoo TraditionsIndividual ExpressionindividualityIndonesianTattoosIndustry StandardsinfectiInfection RiskInfection Risksinfinity symbolinfinity symbol tattooinfinity tattoo designinfluencer marketingInk Absorptionink additivesink behaviorink breakdownink consistencyink contaminationink contamination risksink diluentsink flowink formulationInk InteractionInk Longevityink manufacturersInk MasterInk Migrationink mixingInk Precisionink propertiesink qualityink quality standardsink removalInk Reviewink saturationink setsink shelf lifeink storageInk Swatchesink textureink versatilityInk Vibrancyink viscosityInked Practiceinking in greenInkjecta Flite X1inkjet printerInner StrengthinnovationInnovation In Inkinorganic pigmentsInspirationInstagramintelligentintelligent signsinternational tattoo lawsInterpersonal skillsiPadsIrezumiirritationitchinessitchingitching after tattooiwiJapanese craftsmanshipJapanese FolkloreJapanese tattoo cultureJapanese tattoo needlesJapanese tattoo traditionsJapanese tattoosJokerKaneki KenkapeKeith HaringKelly Dotykeratinizationkevin boudreauKielcekirituhikorukosher inkKwadron proteamlaser printerlaser tattoo removallatest postsleaf tattoosLearninglearning to tattooleg tattooslegacylegal aspectsLegal ConsiderationsLegendsLGBTQ+license renewallicensing feesLichenoid ReactionsLidocainelife phaseslifelike portraitLifestylelightweight tattoo machinelimitationsliner machinelining and shading inkLining WhiteLion TattoosLiterary QuotesLiterature TattoosLivestock managementLivestock TattooingLiving Tattoo Artlocation of tattoolong-term exposurelong-term health effectslongevityLongevity symbolslove tattoosLuffymachine compatibilitymachine lubricationmagnesiummagnum needlesmainstream culturemainstream mediaMainstream Tattoosmaintenance tipsmale tattoomale tattoo ideasmanamanaging expectationsmandala tattoosmanual tattoo transfermanufacturersMaori cultureMaori Ta MokoMarine life tattoosmaritime-inspired fontsmarketingMarvel-inspired tattoosMasonic SymbolsMasonic TattoosmatauMatt Hodelmeaningful tattoosMedical AlertMedical Alert TattoosMedical RisksMedical Tattooingmedical tattoosmedical-grade alcoholmedicationsmemorial tattoosmemoriesMen's TattoosMental Healthmental health tattoosMentoringmentorshipMentorship in Tattooingmetallic inksMetallic TattoosMichal Wursztmicro tattoosMicropigmentationMiddle EastMikasa AckermanmiliaMillennialTravelMindfulnessmineral contentmineral-based tattoo inksminimalist tattoosmisconceptionsmixingmixing containermixing sticksmixing tattoo inksmixing techniquesmodern designsmodern fontsmodern tattoo artistsModern TattooingModern Tattooing in Indiamoisturized skinmoisturizingMolesMoon TattoosMoral Lessonsmountain tattooMoviesmulti-colored worksMuseum ArtMusic SymbolsMusic TattoosMythological TattoosMythologyMythology in Tattoosmyths about tattoosname tattoosNanotechnologyNarutoNative American tattoosNatsu Dragneelnatural healing processnatural oilsnatural pigmentsnatural remedies for tattoo removalNature Tattoosneck tattoosneedle compatibilityneedle depthneedle gaugeneedle identificationneedle penetrationneedle sizeNeo TrNeo-traditional TattoosNeotraditional Tattoosneutral color setneutral colorsNew School 12 color setNew School tattoosnew tools in tattoosNew York Historical SocietyNew ZealandNFTsNightlifeNo Facenon-permanent tattoosnon-toxic materialsNorse mythologyNorth AmericaNumbing OintmentsNurturingOceaniaOld School tattoosoldest tattooOnline Platformsonline shoppingoozing and peeling after tattooOptical Illusionsorangesorganic inkorganic inksorganic pigmentsOrganic Tattoo InkOriental styleoriginsornamental tattoosOSHAotziowl tattooowning a tattoo studioPac-ManPain ManagementPain ReductionPain TolerancepassionPassion for tattooingPatient Identificationpeacock tattooPerceptionPermanent ArtPermanent Inkpermanent makeupPersonal EmpowermentPersonal ExpressionPersonal FreedomPersonal GrowthPersonal IdentityPersonal Journeypersonal meaningPersonal NarrativesPersonal Significancepersonal stylePersonal SymbolismPersonal TattoosPersonal transformationPersonalized tattoo experiencepersonalizing tattoosPet Identification.pH changepH levelsPhoenix Tattoosphoto-realisticPhotoallergic ReactionsPhotostability.Pig Skin Tattoopigmentpigment allergiespigment chemistspigment concentrationpigment dilutionpigment dispersionpigment dispersion sciencePigment Hypersensitivitypigment lightfastnesspigment migrationpigment qualitypigment-to-carrier ratioPigmentspinkspixel artPlaneta Biuplanning tattooplant-based dyesPlastic Surgerypneumatic tattoo machinesPokémonPolandPolish tattoo artistPolycyclic Aromatic HydrocarbonspolynesianpoolPop ArtPop Culturepop culture influencePop Culture Referencespop culture tattoosPopular Sci-Fi Franchisespopular tattoos for womenPopularitypore blockageportable tattoo ink systemportable tattoo kitportfolio buildingPost-Operative Tattoospower supply settingsPower Tattoopractice and patiencePractice Materialsprecautionsprecision in tattooingprehistoric tattoospreservationpreventing smearingpridePrilocainePrimary Aromatic AminesProcreateProcreate Swatchesproductionprofessional considerations for tattoosprofessional developmentProfessional Suppliesprofessional tattoo artistsprofessional tattoo artists.Professional Tattoo Gearprofessional tattoo removalprofessional tattooingprofessionalismProfessionalTattooingproper ink storageProstheticsPseudolymphomaPsychological Ownershippublic health.purified waterpurplepurple tattoo inkpurpliciousputting together a tattoo machinequalityQuality Inkquality of tattooquality tattoo inksquote tattoosRadiation OncologyRadiation TherapyRadiologyREACHreach complianceREACH standardsrealismrealism tattoosrealistic tattooRealistic Tattoosreality tattoo showreality TVRebirthreclaiming the bodyrecommendations.Reconstructive Tattooingred tattoo inkredsregular paperregulationsregulatory agenciesreliabilityReligious SignificanceRemembrance