Tattooing is an art that requires both skill and the right tools. One of the most critical factors that can make or break your work is tattoo voltage. The correct voltage not only affects your machine's performance but also determines the quality of the tattoo and your client's experience.

At Vlad Blad Irons, we understand the importance of precision. Our high-quality tattoo machines are engineered to offer smooth voltage adjustments, ensuring you get the best results. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about tattoo voltage to help you create tattoos that are nothing short of masterpieces.

What Is Tattoo Voltage?

Tattoo voltage refers to the amount of electrical power supplied to your tattoo machine. Think of it like the gas pedal of a car. The more voltage you apply, the faster and harder your machine will run.

But here's the catch — just like speeding can lead to accidents, using the wrong voltage can result in poor line work, uneven shading, or damaged skin.

That’s why knowing the ideal voltage for different tasks and understanding how to adjust it effectively is crucial.

How Voltage Affects Tattooing

Voltage directly impacts three key factors in tattooing:

  • Speed. Higher voltage makes your needle move faster. It’s like sprinting versus walking — faster speeds are great for clean lines but can be harsh for shading.
  • Force. More voltage means a stronger hit, which is essential for lining but can be too aggressive for color packing or soft shading.
  • Skin Trauma. Incorrect voltage can cause excessive skin damage, leading to slower healing and poor tattoo longevity.

The machines from Vlad Blad Irons are designed to give you control, ensuring optimal voltage settings for every tattoo style.

Optimal Voltage for Different Tattoo Techniques

Getting the voltage right for each technique is essential. Here’s a quick guide to voltage ranges based on your tattooing style:

  • Lining: 7.5V - 9V
  • Shading: 6V - 8V
  • Color Packing: 7V - 9V

Lining (7.5V - 9V)

When you’re laying down those crisp, bold lines, you need power. Higher voltage ensures your needle penetrates quickly and consistently. Vlad Blad Irons machines provide a stable hit that maintains precision even at high voltage.

Shading (6V - 8V)

For smooth, soft gradients and flawless shading, a lower voltage is ideal. It allows for better control and reduces trauma to the skin. Our machines are engineered to maintain smooth shading without skipping or sputtering.

Color Packing (7V - 9V)

Packing color requires finding the sweet spot — not too low that you lose saturation, and not too high that you damage the skin. Vlad Blad Irons machines deliver consistent power for solid, vibrant color saturation.

Choosing Voltage for Different Types of Tattoo Machines

The type of tattoo machine you use significantly influences your voltage settings. Let's break down how different machines behave at various voltage levels.

Coil Machines

Coil machines are the OGs of tattooing. They’re powerful and hit hard, making them ideal for lining. Due to their electromagnetic coils, they often require higher voltage (8V - 10V).

Rotary Machines

Rotary machines are smoother and quieter. They operate on lower voltage (6V - 8V) and are perfect for shading and color packing. If you’re using a rotary from Vlad Blad Irons, you’ll experience seamless performance at any voltage.

Pen Machines

Pen-style machines mimic the natural motion of drawing. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and usually operate best between 6V and 8V. Vlad Blad’s pen machines are perfect for detailed linework and intricate designs.

Factors to Consider When Adjusting Voltage

Adjusting voltage isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Several factors influence the ideal voltage for your machine:

  • Needle Configuration - larger needle groupings require more voltage.
  • Skin Type - thicker or more resilient skin may need a higher voltage.
  • Tattoo Style - fine lines need precision at lower voltage, while bold designs need power.

  • Experience Level - beginners may benefit from starting with lower voltage to avoid damaging the skin.

Tips for Finding Your Ideal Voltage

Here are some practical tips for dialing in the perfect voltage:

  • Listen to Your Machine - a smooth, consistent hum usually indicates the voltage is spot-on.
  • Test on Synthetic Skin - practice on fake skin to find your comfort zone.

  • Adjust Gradually - small voltage changes can make a big difference.

  • Get Feedback - pay attention to how the skin reacts and adjust accordingly.

Safety Considerations for Your Clients

Using the wrong voltage isn’t just bad for your artwork — it’s harmful to your clients. Excessive voltage can lead to overworked skin, scarring, and uneven healing.

At Vlad Blad Irons, our machines are built with safety in mind. They provide steady, reliable voltage, giving you the confidence to create beautiful tattoos while ensuring your clients’ skin heals properly.


Mastering tattoo voltage is a game-changer. From crisp lines to vibrant color, voltage control is the key to taking your art to the next level.

When you choose Vlad Blad Irons, you’re not just getting a machine — you’re getting precision engineering designed by tattoo artists, for tattoo artists. Our machines offer smooth voltage adjustments, reliable performance, and stunning results. Ready to elevate your tattoo game? Visit Vlad Blad Irons and experience the difference.