Cheyenne SOL Nova Unlimited vs Unlimited II compared

Both versions are offered in four stroke options. The first three are the same (2.5, 3.5 and 4.0 mm); the last one differs: 5.0 mm for the Unlimited and 4.5 mm for the Unlimited II. Anyone who often works with long strokes will therefore find the higher maximum on the first generation. For the Unlimited II, Cheyenne states that the stroke depends on the drive unit fitted and is chosen before work, not during it. To understand what these values mean, read the article 3.5 mm vs 4.2 mm.

For the Unlimited, Cheyenne declares a minimum of 5 hours of working time per battery, with a full charge in about 3 hours and two lithium-ion batteries. For the Unlimited II it declares about 6 hours per battery, depending on use, with two 18500 batteries of 2000 mAh; the manufacturer states that the II uses a different battery from the first version. Note the "minimum" and the "about": they are different wordings and should not be read as two numbers of the same kind.

Three differences emerge from the catalogue: the set of strokes (see above), the battery type and the motor. The Unlimited II is listed with a BLDC motor and three modes that adapt to skin resistance, while the first version is described with a constant mode and a resonant mode. These are manufacturer descriptions: how much the feel changes at work depends on the cartridge, the give and the hand.

There is no better choice in absolute terms. What matters is which strokes you actually use, whether you need the 5.0 mm option or a 4.5 mm maximum is enough, and whether you prefer a standard-format battery (18500) or the first version's system. To narrow it down, use Find My Machine, and to read the sheets, the guide how to read a tattoo machine's specifications.

In the database the weight is only present for the Unlimited (184 g with battery); for the II Cheyenne lists 210 g without stating the condition, and we do not use it. The working voltage is missing for both. Prices change and are not shown. For details, open the SOL Nova Unlimited and SOL Nova Unlimited II sheets.