Tattoo Cartridges Guide

When it comes to tattooing, needle configurations make a world of difference. Whether you're working on fine line details, bold shading, or intricate color packing, knowing which needles to use—and from which brand—can elevate your results. In this guide, we’ll break down the essential tattoo needle types (RL, RS, RM, Magnum), explore four top cartridge brands on the market, and help you choose the right tools for your tattooing style.

Breaking Down the Basics: RL, RS, RM, and Magnum

·         RL (Round Liner): Tight, round formation of needles for precise, clean lines. Ideal for outlines and fine details.

·         RS (Round Shader): Similar round formation, but with a bit more spacing. Great for small shading work and soft color blending.

·         RM (Round Magnum): Also known as curved magnums. These are designed with a slight curve to help the needles sweep the skin more smoothly—ideal for soft shading and gradients.

·         Magnum (M1): Flat spread of needles. Perfect for packing in color or shading larger areas quickly.

Top Tattoo Cartridge Brands to Consider

Kwadron Cartridges — Premium Performance

Known for: Precision, durability, and flawless ink flow.

Kwadron is a top-tier brand trusted by professional tattoo artists worldwide. With an ultra-sharp needle construction and medical-grade plastic tips, Kwadron cartridges deliver unmatched performance, especially for artists working in fine line, black and grey, and realism styles.

Notable RL, RS, RM Configurations:

·         RL: Incredibly sharp and stable—perfect for ultra-fine detail.

·         RS: Smooth ink flow with consistent distribution.

·         RM: Curved magnum with perfect taper for gradient shading.

Bishop Da Vinci Cartridges — Balance of Cost & Quality

Known for: Collaboration with artists and innovation in design.

Bishop, a name synonymous with innovation, brings the Da Vinci cartridge to artists who want high-end performance without the top-tier price tag. The membrane system ensures safety, while the needle grouping and tips are designed for consistent ink flow.

Notable RL, RS, RM Configurations:

·         RL: Excellent for bold and crisp lines.

·         RS: Smooth enough for soft shading yet versatile for color blending.

·         RM: Superb for black and grey gradients and soft transitions.

MAST Pro Cartridges — Affordable & Artist-Approved

Known for: Accessibility and surprising quality for its price.

MAST Pro offers artists a cost-effective option with consistent performance. Trusted by beginners and professionals alike, these cartridges hold up well across various tattoo styles.

Notable RL, RS, RM Configurations:

·         RL: Sharp and reliable, great for daily linework.

·         RS: Balanced configuration for beginners working on small-scale shading.

·         RM: Holds ink well, offering soft transitions and a clean sweep.

CNC Police Cartridges — Quality on a Budget

Known for: Stability and a surprising level of performance at a low price.

CNC’s Police cartridges offer a reliable membrane system, smooth ink flow, and stainless steel needles—all wrapped up in an affordable price point.

Notable RL, RS, RM Configurations:

·         RL: Strong and solid, perfect for practicing or day-to-day use.

·         RS: Performs well for greywash or color blending.

·         RM: Great for smoother shading and wide coverage with control.

Conclusion: Choose What Works for You

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to tattoo cartridges. Each artist has unique preferences, and each style demands specific tools. Whether you go for the premium feel of Kwadron, the dependable balance of Bishop Da Vinci, or the cost-effective yet consistent MAST Pro and CNC Police, what matters most is understanding how each configuration (RL, RS, RM) performs for your desired result.

       Explore our full selection of tattoo cartridges at Tattoo Boutique.

Experiment, test, and find your perfect match—because great art starts with the right tools.