Ultron 3 vs Ultron 4 Pro: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Tattoo Machine

The Ultron series by Vlad Blad merges cutting-edge technology with ergonomic design, delivering exceptional tattooing precision and ease of use. This comparison breaks down the key features of the Ultron 3 and the newer Ultron 4 Pro, helping tattoo artists select the ideal wireless rotary pen tailored to their style and workflow.

Design and Ergonomics

The Ultron 3 boasts a sleek, minimalist cylindrical body made from recycled aviation aluminum, combining lightweight durability with balanced weight distribution courtesy of its bottom-mounted battery. This design ensures comfort during long tattoo sessions, though its rounded shape may cause it to roll on flat surfaces. It offers three fixed stroke lengths — 3.8 mm, 4.2 mm, and 4.7 mm — chosen at purchase, with a simple interface featuring a minimalist display and three control buttons.

In contrast, the Ultron 4 Pro features a shorter body with an asymmetric cartridge layout to enhance grip and visibility. Crafted from premium materials like titanium and carbon fiber, it remains both robust and lightweight. Its low center of gravity and well-placed controls deliver superior ergonomics, particularly appreciated by artists who prefer a chunkier grip. The stroke length is fully adjustable on the fly, ranging from 3.2 mm to 5.5 mm via smooth ring rotation, complemented by an advanced anti-gravity system that allows customization of hit firmness or softness. The high-resolution screen stays clearly visible during use, and intuitive buttons enable quick adjustments without disrupting workflow.

Technical Specifications

Powered by the custom M3Pro brushless motor, the Ultron 3 outputs 12.6 watts with a flywheel to ensure smooth, consistent hits. It operates between 30 and 130 Hz with 1 Hz increments precision. The machine’s fixed stroke lengths cater to different tattooing needs: 3.7 mm for fine and medium lines, 4.2 mm for versatile applications, and 4.7 mm for harder hits suited to linework and blackwork. DirectPower control stabilizes power delivery to expedite pigment saturation with minimal skin damage. The device measures 31 mm in diameter, 135 mm in length, and weighs 178 grams. It includes a 2040 mAh battery offering 5 to 7 hours of continuous use with fast USB-C charging.

The Ultron 4 Pro takes these capabilities further with the M3 Ultra motor, doubling power output and maintaining absolute control even at ultra-low speeds starting from 10 Hz. Its innovative stroke system includes six adjustable lengths from 3.2 mm to 5.5 mm. The motor controls use coil switching instead of voltage drops, locking voltage at 12V to guarantee hit consistency. This model offers over 84 hit types through SmartHit technology, which smartly tweaks softness or sharpness based on the artist’s pressure and technique in real-time. Compact at approximately 118 mm length and weighing about 282 grams, it’s optimized for balance and wrist comfort. Equipped with a premium 4000 mAh battery, it provides up to 10 hours of use, supports fast charging, and allows easy user battery replacement.

Performance and Quality

The Ultron 3 excels with smooth, powerful performance driven by the M3Pro motor and StableHit technology, ensuring precise, consistent hits throughout its fixed stroke lengths. Artists value its reliability across lining, shading, and solid color packing tasks. It operates quietly with minimal vibration, reducing hand fatigue over prolonged sessions. The DirectPower system maintains steady frequency regardless of cartridge stiffness or battery status, enabling even pigment saturation and sharp lines.

The Ultron 4 Pro elevates control and versatility with its broad stroke range and more than 84 hit modes. SmartHit technology adjusts the hit dynamically to soften or sharpen according to pressure and needle load, perfectly adapting to various tattooing techniques in real-time. Its advanced ergonomic design and stabilizer mass reduce vibration while providing stability even with large needle configurations. Whisper-quiet operation and an intuitive interface enhance focus and workflow, making it a preferred choice for professional tattoo artists requiring top performance and customization.

Professional Reviews and Experience

The Ultron 3 is widely praised by tattoo professionals for its consistent performance, user-friendly design, and ergonomic balance. Artists appreciate its fixed stroke options and StableHit feature for delivering sharp, reliable hits useful in a variety of styles. Its lightweight construction and low vibration significantly cut down fatigue during extended sessions.

Professional artists commend the Ultron 4 Pro for its adaptability and advanced hit control. Its adjustable stroke system and multifunctional hit modes facilitate smooth transitions between shading and bold lines without needing multiple machines. Enhanced ergonomics and extended battery life suit marathon tattoo sessions where precision and comfort are paramount.

Pricing and Value

The Ultron 3 is positioned as an accessible, high-performance wireless tattoo pen, combining reliability and ergonomic benefits at a competitive price. It’s perfect for artists seeking a proven machine with a variety of fixed stroke options. Limited edition and custom design models offer additional personal style choices.

The Ultron 4 Pro comes at a premium price tag, justified by its advanced technology, full stroke adjustability, and diverse hit modes. It appeals most to professional tattoo artists demanding maximum versatility and performance in a single device. Its increased battery life and ergonomic improvements make it a worthwhile investment for those managing varied and demanding tattoo styles.

Read the original article Ultron 4 Pro vs Ultron 3: which tattoo machine is right for you?