With so many options, choosing your first permanent makeup machine can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the industry. This is why it’s so important to have undertaken training with a reputable trainer who can answer all your questions and ensure you have the most up to date information on products.

At Killer Beauty, we understand the importance of education as well, so we’re here to provide extra guidance on how to choose your first machine and narrow down some of the best PMU machines for beginners on the market today.

How to Choose a PMU Machine



Most machines have a range of features designed to make your life as an artist easier.  However, there are some things you can look out for to make sure a machine is the right fit for you. For example:

  • What stroke length is the machine? Each stroke length is ideal for a different treatment or technique. A machine with an adjustable stroke might be a good option to start with as you can get a feel for different strokes and what they do, all with one machine.
  • Does it accept universal cartridges? Most machines on the market today accept most cartridges but it’s still best to check so you can avoid picking a machine that only accepts certain cartridges. 
  • What is the battery life? It’s important to know how long your machine’s battery will last so you can be prepared with a back-up power supply and allow time to recharge when needed. 
  • Is it wired or wireless? This is generally a personal preference. Some artists prefer the freedom of being able to work wirelessly whereas some prefer the reliability that comes with working wired. 
  • Is it easy to use? It might be better if you choose a relatively basic machine to begin with. This can allow you to focus on getting used to the machine as well as how it performs each treatment, without being overwhelmed by all the technical specifications.
  • How comfortable is it to hold? Most machines have an ergonomic design that means it fits better into the shape of your hand, making it more comfortable to hold. You should also check the weight of the machine to make sure it isn’t too heavy. A lightweight machine is often better for beginners while you learn to be more controlled with your technique. 

Best PMU Machines for Beginners



It’s better to start with an affordable machine before investing in something more expensive. Below are some budget-friendly PMU machines that are perfect for beginners.

The Mast P60 features an adjustable stroke length ranging from 2.2 to 3.2mm making it perfect for a variety of PMU treatments, including brows, lip blush, eyeliner, and areola. Plus, it’s lightweight and relatively small, making it comfortable to handle for longer periods. 

The Mast Tour has a lightweight and compact design making it comfortable to hold as well as easy to travel around with, such as when performing live demos at PMU conferences. It comes with a 3.5mm stroke length, perfect for brow treatments!

The Mast Tour Y22 features a 3.0mm stroke length which is ideal for brow and lip blush treatments. Plus, the battery provides up to 4 hours run time when fully charged and takes around 2 hours to recharge so you can work for longer. 

The Lola Light features a user-friendly digital interface that allows you to adjust the voltage and monitor the battery life. Plus, the versatile 2.8mm stroke length is suitable for a range of treatments, including brows, eyeliner, and lips, whilst the dot mode is perfect for scalp micropigmentation treatments.

With 5 memory settings, each designed for specific PMU treatments, and a 3.0mm stroke length, the POPU Mini Diva is a versatile machine ideal for beginners wanting to perfect their techniques across different procedures.

The Peak Astra has an adjustable stroke feature including 2.5mm, 3.5mm or 4.0mm which you can switch between easily depending on your treatment, style or experience level. The lightweight design offers added control and comfort. Plus, the machine runs for around 5 hours depending on the voltage used!

The Peak Elara is fitted with a 3.0mm stroke as standard but with the interchangeable stroke wheels, you can swap it out for 2.5 or 3.5, giving you more flexibility to adapt your machine to the specific treatment you’re carrying out. Plus, it comes with all the tools you need to adjust your machine!

Keep in mind, there are a lot of options out there, these are just some of the best PMU machines for beginners that we would recommend. 

Learning How to Use a PMU Machine

Before choosing a PMU machine to start with, it’s really important that you’ve undergone training by an experienced and reputable trainer. This can ensure you understand how most machines function and have the skills needed to use them correctly and safely. 

Training also means you can ensure the treatments you carry out on clients are done safely and to a high standard. 

Overall, choosing your first machine as a PMU artist is a personal journey and the right choice will depend on your personal preferences, needs, and style. When you have made a decision, getting used to your machine will take time and practice, which is why it’s important to consider all the factors discussed before making a purchase. 

Eventually, once you have the right machine, you can continue to grow your skills and develop into an experienced and confident PMU artist!