XF PMU Machine Series Comparison Guide
Friendly Reminder:
XF X14 and U14 cartridges are specially designed for XF MODEL machines only.
To avoid any inconvenience, please make sure you already own an XF MODEL machine before purchasing these cartridges.
🔹Model 1: MODEL S (Has already been discontinued)
Mechanical booster system: Designed for stable operation.
Low start voltage: Starts from just 0.1V.
High torque: Up to 2.5kg push force – stronger than standard wireless tattoo machines.
Lower speed: 3500 dots/min for steady coloring.
Perfect with sponge cartridges: Great one-pass color performance.
Needle compatibility: Only for XF special cartridges.
🔹Model 2: MODEL Y (It is still available with limited stock, but it will also be phased out once the remaining units are sold.)
Stronger motor than Model S
Dual pen heads: Compatible with both XF cartridges and universal cartridges.
Stroke length: 3.8mm.
Low frequency, high torque: 3500 dots/min, strong and smooth.
Small size & low vibration: Easy to handle, quick to master.
Popular with training centers.
🔹Model 2-1: MODEL SY (Recommended)
We will mainly focus on promoting our upgraded MODEL SY, as well as the new MODEL X5 (coming in December) and MODEL X6 (launching next year).
The main differences between Model Y and Model SY for you:
Logo: Model Y has an embossed logo, while Model SY features a laser-engraved logo, making it much easier for future custom branding.
Handle design: Model Y used a roller-ball style adjustment ring, but SY has been updated to a non-roller system. This change doesn’t affect performance, but SY allows for more precise scale adjustments.
Motor optimization: The motor in SY has been upgraded and made more compact. As a result, the speed is slightly faster than Model Y, and the noise level is a bit lower.
Size & grip: Model SY is slightly smaller in size, making it easier to hold. Power and force remain strong and consistent.
Speed: Both have a slow-stroke system, but SY runs a bit more efficiently thanks to the upgraded motor.
Marking: Another visible change is that the logo is now laser-marked instead of embossed, which supports easy customization for clients.
Heat optimization: One of the best improvements is in heat control. Model S had a tendency to get warm during long use. In SY, we tested it under load with needle cartridges for nearly 20 minutes, and the machine showed **no noticeable temperature
🔹Model 3: MODEL X5/X6 (Not recommended for now)
Structure: Direct drive – faster, more powerful, suited for experienced artists.
Upgraded version coming: We are phasing out the old version and switching to brushless motor.
Expected availability: New model will launch in about 2 months.
⚠️ We recommend waiting for the upgraded X series if interested.
⚠️ The XF needle line actually includes two distinct types, designed for different purposes:
U Needle (Practice Needle)
This is widely used by artists in China for latex/silicone practice mats.
Many trainers use this in live-streaming classes or student demonstrations.
It's ideal for learning stroke direction, hand control, and pattern building.
X Needle (Professional Use on Live Skin)
Specifically designed for working on real human skin.
Better pigment flow and penetration, with upgraded internal structure.
Ensures smoother healing and sharper results.
✅ IMPORTANT:
The hand technique for both needle types is exactly the same — so artists can train on U needles and switch to X needles for actual clients.
However, make sure you understand which needle type they're ordering.
Using U14 needles on real skin may result in poor pigment retention.
Using X14 needles on practice mats may feel less smooth or have less visual sharpness on the surface.
The main difference lies in the needle structure:
U14 Needle – The pins are arranged in a smooth micro-arc shape with no height difference between the needles. This gives a more even and consistent stroke, making it ideal for creating soft and natural lines.
X14 Needle – The pins are also arranged in a micro-arc, but with slight height differences between the needles, forming an irregular arc shape. This creates strokes with more variation in depth and thickness, which can give a different texture effect compared to U14.
👉 In short: U14 = smooth & even strokes | X14 = irregular strokes with natural variation
