When it comes to tattooing, the tools you choose directly shape the quality of your work and the comfort of your clients. Among the many options available today, coil tattoo machines remain the trusted favorite of professional artists who value precision, power, and control. While rotary machines have become increasingly popular for their simplicity, coils still stand as the backbone of traditional tattooing — delivering crisp lines, bold shading, and unmatched skin feedback.

At Vlad Blad, we’ve been perfecting coil tattoo machines for nearly two decades. Our philosophy is simple: every artist deserves a machine that feels like an extension of their hand. That’s why each Vlad Blad coil tattoo machine is crafted with durability, fine-tuned performance, and the flexibility to adapt to different tattooing styles. In this guide, we’ll explore how coil tattoo machines work, why professionals continue to rely on them, and highlight the very best coil tattoo machines from Vlad Blad that can elevate your tattooing game.

What is a coil tattoo machine and how does it work

A coil tattoo machine uses electromagnetic coils to move the armature bar, which drives the needle up and down. When current passes through the coils, they create a magnetic field that pulls the armature bar down. As the circuit breaks and reconnects, the rapid movement results in the familiar buzzing sound and consistent needle motion that defines coil machines.

This system gives artists full control over the power, speed, and depth of the needle. Unlike rotary machines that rely on a motor, coil machines provide a sharp, responsive hit with a natural "give," allowing smoother ink saturation and more precise lines.

There are two main types of coil tattoo machines: liners and shaders. Liners are designed for crisp outlines and detailed work, while shaders are tuned for filling large areas with smooth gradients or solid color. Many professionals use separate machines for each purpose to achieve maximum efficiency.

Our article provides a detailed look at how tattoo machines work.

Why professional tattoo artists choose coil machines

Coil tattoo machines have been the cornerstone of professional tattooing for decades, and for good reason. They offer a level of adjustability and control that allows artists to fine‑tune their machines for any task. From adjusting stroke length and spring tension to balancing power and speed, coils can be set up to match each artist’s individual technique.

One of the biggest advantages is power. Coil machines deliver a strong and deliberate hit, which ensures better ink saturation, especially when working with bold lines or dense color packing. This makes them ideal for styles that demand precision and long‑lasting results, such as Blackwork, Geometry, and detailed linework.

Another reason professionals rely on coil machines is the tactile feedback they provide. The vibration and resistance of the needle give instant information about the skin’s response, helping artists adjust their technique in real time. This direct connection enhances both control and confidence during long sessions.

Finally, durability is a defining feature. With proper maintenance, a well‑built coil machine can last for decades. Vlad Blad coils, for example, come factory pre‑tuned and are built with our Longlife Monospring technology, ensuring reliability from the first line to the thousandth.

If you want to learn more about making the most of your machine, check out How to Tune Vlad Blad Irons Coil Machine.

Best coil tattoo machines by Vlad Blad

Vlad Blad has developed a full range of coil tattoo machines designed to meet the highest demands of professional artists. Each model is crafted with precision, durability, and long‑term performance in mind. Here are the standout machines in our collection:

Infinite Liner Pro

Known as the king of coil liners, the Infinite Liner Pro handles everything from 7RL to 18+RL with sharp precision. Its unique coil setup and perfectly balanced armature bar make it possible to create flawless one‑pass lines, whether you’re working on medium or bold outlines.

Infinite Liner Air B

A lightweight alternative to the Pro model, weighing only 160 g thanks to its aircraft aluminum frame. The Air B offers the same power and accuracy for medium to large groupings but with less strain on the artist’s hand during long sessions.

Blacker Packer Pro

Designed for fast, solid black fills and powerful color packing, this machine works effortlessly with magnums up to 49M. Its hard, controlled hit ensures rich color saturation that heals evenly, making it a top choice for artists specializing in large blackwork or color tattoos.

All Lines Pack Pro

A complete solution for artists who demand perfect lines of any size. This pack includes both the Fine Liner Pro for 3–9RL and the Infinite Liner Pro for 7–18+RL, along with an RCA Ultralight Armor cord. It’s an ideal choice for tattooers who need versatility and reliability in their linework.

Triple Pack Pro

A premium set that covers every tattooing task: the Fine Liner Pro, Infinite Liner Pro, and Blacker Packer Pro in one package. With this kit, you can move seamlessly from clean outlines to dense color fills without compromise.

Triple Pack Air

The lightweight version of the Triple Pack, featuring aluminum frames and vibrant color options. It includes the Fine Liner Air B, Infinite Liner Air B, and Blacker Packer Air B, making it a versatile, ergonomic choice for artists who want both precision and reduced hand fatigue.

How to choose a coil tattoo machine

Selecting the right coil tattoo machine depends on your tattooing style, preferred techniques, and comfort level. While all Vlad Blad coils share the same commitment to precision and durability, each model has unique strengths that suit different needs.

Define your main task
If your focus is on clean outlines, a liner like the Infinite Liner Pro or its lighter version, the Infinite Liner Air B, will give you unmatched control for one‑pass lines. For solid fills and color work, the Blacker Packer Pro is the strongest choice. Artists who want flexibility across all tasks may find complete kits like the All Lines Pack Pro or Triple Pack Pro the most convenient option.

Consider weight and ergonomics
Steel‑frame machines like the Pro series provide maximum stability and vibration damping. On the other hand, aluminum‑frame Air models, such as the Triple Pack Air, are significantly lighter, reducing hand fatigue during long sessions.

Look at coil configuration
The number of wraps in the coils influences power. Higher wrap counts create stronger hits, ideal for bold shading and color packing, while lower counts allow for smoother lining.

Think long term
A coil machine is an investment. With features like the Longlife Monospring and a 25‑year warranty for the first owner, Vlad Blad coils are designed to stay in your toolkit for decades.

For a broader overview of different tattoo machine types and their roles, see Types of Tattoo Machines.

Tips on coil tattoo machine setup and tuning

Getting the most out of a coil tattoo machine comes down to proper setup and tuning. Unlike rotary machines, coils allow you to adjust every component to match your personal technique, which is why professionals value them so highly.

Start with the right power supply
A stable power source ensures consistent performance. The voltage you choose should correspond to the task: lower for delicate lines, higher for shading and color packing.

Adjust stroke length and contact gap
Stroke length determines how far the needle travels, directly affecting ink saturation and skin trauma. Small adjustments to the contact screw and front spring can completely change the way the machine performs. For a deeper dive into this, check out Understanding Stroke Length.

Fine‑tune for lining or shading
Liner coils are set up for speed and precision, while shader coils prioritize power and smoothness. If you use versatile models like the Triple Pack Pro, you can switch between machines rather than retuning during a session, saving valuable time.

Listen to the feedback
The buzz of a coil machine is more than just a sound — it tells you how the machine is performing. A steady, clean buzz usually signals correct tuning, while irregular noise may indicate the need for adjustments.

Regular maintenance
Keep your machine clean, lubricated, and check springs regularly. Vlad Blad coils come pre‑tuned and use our Longlife Monospring technology, meaning less frequent replacement and higher reliability.

For a step‑by‑step guide to adjustments, see How to Tune Vlad Blad Irons Coil Machine.

Coil vs rotary tattoo machines

The debate between coil and rotary tattoo machines has been around for years, but the truth is that each has its strengths. Rotary machines are popular for their simplicity and plug‑and‑play setup, which makes them a good starting point for beginners. They are usually lighter, quieter, and require less maintenance.

Coil machines, on the other hand, remain the preferred choice for professionals who want full control over their tools. The electromagnetic system delivers a sharp and powerful hit, resulting in stronger ink saturation and cleaner lines. The natural give of a coil machine provides better skin feedback, allowing artists to adjust their technique mid‑stroke for maximum precision.

Another factor is customization. With a coil machine, you can tune every component — from stroke length to spring tension — to match your personal style. This level of adaptability is unmatched by rotary systems. For many artists, especially those working in bold linework, blackwork, and color packing, coils continue to deliver superior results.

For artists interested in comparing coil and rotary systems in more depth, take a look at Rotary vs Coil Tattoo Machines.

Final thoughts

Coil tattoo machines have stood the test of time for a reason. They offer unmatched power, control, and customizability — qualities that professionals rely on to create long‑lasting, high‑quality tattoos. While rotary machines may appeal to beginners for their simplicity, coils remain the ultimate choice for artists who demand precision and versatility.

Vlad Blad has spent nearly two decades refining coil machines into reliable, high‑performance tools trusted by tattooers worldwide. From the sharp accuracy of the Infinite Liner Pro to the powerhouse performance of the Blacker Packer Pro, and the all‑in‑one versatility of the Triple Pack Pro or All Lines Pack Pro, every machine is built to help artists push their craft further.

Whether you are searching for the perfect liner, a reliable color packer, or a complete set to cover every style, Vlad Blad coil machines deliver the performance and durability you need. With a 25‑year warranty for the first owner and a legacy of innovation, these machines are not just tools — they are long‑term partners in your art.

Choosing the best coil tattoo machine is more than buying equipment; it’s investing in your growth as an artist. With Vlad Blad, you get machines that honor tattoo tradition while giving you the technology to take your work to the next level.