Dr. Pen A6 vs Dr. Pen A6S: Is the upgrade worth it?
Their model numbers differ by one letter S, so you might be forgiven for thinking that the Dr Pen A6S is the upgraded version of the A6, apart from the difference in colour, the A6S is green and the A6 is grey. There are also many differences in the battery, speed button, needle connection design and needle thickness. The A6S battery has 3 individual drive systems, great protection, prolong pen life by 3 times, A6S speed button has memory function, A6S upgrades its cartridges, it is thinner with 0.18mm diamater, and it has curved edge, more comfortable treat on skin.

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The Dr. Pen A6S and A6 microneedling devices both offer versatility for home or professional use, embodying cutting-edge technology in skincare. Selecting the ideal device for your needs hinges on a blend of personal inclinations, financial considerations, packaging allure, and functional features. In the timeless debate of Dr. Pen A6S versus A6, which path should you tread?
At times, the decision may seem straightforward. For instance, if color preference holds sway, the choice between the A6S and A6 becomes evident. However, delving deeper into their intricacies reveals a richer narrative. Before delving into the minutiae, let’s embark on a visual journey, acquainting ourselves with these two microneedling pen devices.
Dr. Pen A6 Features
Dr. Pen A6 features two spare rechargeable batteries, an indicator light with 5-speed levels, and ultra-fine stainless steel micro needles with a needle depth range of 0-2.5 mm, making it suitable for home use and beauty salons. It offers 2-in-1 wireless and wired work modes, along with additional features such as an all-in-one button for speed control and power on/off. It is multifunctional, catering to both MTS and PMU treatments.
Dr. Pen A6S Features
Dr. Pen A6S features three driving systems for enhanced protection and a longer lifespan. It includes a speed memory function, upgraded cartridges with curved edges for comfort, and supports both wireless and wired modes. With six speed levels, two rechargeable batteries, and a three-slot lock design for stability, it meets diverse treatment needs. The new 11-pin and 16-pin cartridges improve treatment effects, reduce trauma, and speed up recovery. An LED screen with a digital display allows precise control over the needle depth, ranging from 0 to 2.5 mm.
What is the Difference Between them?
Dr. Pen A6S and A6 exhibit a plethora of distinctions, each microneedling pen contributing to their unique functionalities and user experiences. Let’s delve deeper into their contrasting features.
Starting with the needles, the A6S boasts 16-pin needles, offering enhanced precision, while the A6 relies on 12-pin needles, providing a different treatment experience. Speaking of treatments, the A6S is tailored exclusively for Microneedle Therapy System (MTS), perfect for rejuvenating the skin, whereas the A6 extends its utility to include both MTS and Permanent Makeup (PMU), catering to a broader range of cosmetic needs.
In terms of design, the A6S forgoes a compact, travel-friendly size, prioritizing robustness and functionality, whereas the A6 is ingeniously crafted for portability, fitting seamlessly into any cosmetic professional’s toolkit.
When it comes to performance, the A6S outshines with its maximum RPM of 18000, ensuring swift and efficient treatments, while the A6, with its 15000 RPM, delivers a slightly more controlled application. Moreover, the A6S offers six speed levels, granting users greater customization and control, whereas the A6 settles for five, still providing versatility but with fewer options.
Despite these differences, both devices share the same adjustable needle length range of 0 to 2.5mm, catering to various skin depths and treatment requirements. However, the A6S features an upgraded 3-slot connector type, ensuring a secure and reliable connection with the cartridges, while the A6 opts for a turn-lock clasp connector, which might offer a different user experience.
In terms of user interface, the A6S elevates the experience with its LED screen, providing a clear and intuitive digital speed display, whereas the A6 relies on indicator lights, offering a more straightforward approach.
Moreover, the A6S introduces finer gauge needle cartridge options, enabling users to tailor treatments with even greater precision and finesse, a feature absent in the A6.
Powering these devices, the A6S packs a 600mAh battery, ensuring prolonged usage without frequent recharges, supplemented by two rechargeable batteries for uninterrupted treatments. In contrast, the A6 settles for a 500mAh battery, still reliable but with slightly less endurance.
Lastly, neither device includes an upgrade storage box, a minor detail considering the array of features and functionalities they offer.
Dr. Pen A6S Parameters
| Disposable cartridges | 2PCS 16Pin needles |
| Cartridges | Only MTS needles |
| Design with travel size | No |
| RPM max | 18000 |
| Speed | 6 levels |
| Adjustable needle length | 0 – 2.5mm |
| Speed display screen | LED screen visible digital display |
| Cartridges connector type | Upgraded 3 slots |
| Finer gauge pin cartridge option | Yes |
| Battery capacity | 600mAh |
| Upgrade storage box | No |
Dr. Pen A6 Parameters
| Disposable cartridges | 2PCS 12Pin needles |
| Cartridges | MTS and PMU needles |
| Design with travel size | Yes |
| RPM max | 15000 |
| Speed | 5 levels |
| Adjustable needle length | 0 – 2.5mm |
| Speed display screen | No but with indicator light |
| Cartridges connector type | 2 slots turn-lock clasp |
| Finer gauge pin cartridge option | No |
| Battery capacity | 500mAh |
| Upgrade storage box | No |
| Feature | Dr. Pen A6S | Dr. Pen A6 |
|---|---|---|
| Disposable cartridges | 2PCS 16Pin needles | 2PCS 12Pin needles |
| Cartridges | Only MTS needles | MTS and PMU needles |
| Design with travel size | No | Yes |
| RPM max | 18000 | 15000 |
| Speed | 6 levels | 5 levels |
| Adjustable needle length | 0 – 2.5mm | 0 – 2.5mm |
| Speed display screen | LED screen visible digital display | No but with indicator light |
| Cartridges connector type | Upgraded 3 slots | 2 slots turn-lock clasp |
| Finer gauge pin cartridge | Yes | No |
| Battery capacity | 600mAh | 500mAh |
| Upgrade storage box | No | No |
What has Dr. Pen A6S upgraded?
Indeed, Dr. Pen A6S has been upgraded in certain aspects. We have outlined many differences between them above, but have not specified the content of the upgrades for Dr. Pen A6S. So, in what aspects has the A6S been upgraded?
3D Technology Battery
The upgraded battery to 3D Technology represents a significant advancement in power management. This cutting-edge technology revolutionizes the battery system, elevating it to new heights of performance and reliability. With this enhancement, the device is now fortified with two backup batteries alongside the primary battery, forming a robust trio of power sources. Each battery is designed to function independently, offering unparalleled flexibility and longevity.
What sets this innovation apart is the integration of LED displays on each battery, providing users with real-time insights into their power status. This not only enhances convenience but also ensures seamless operation, as users can easily monitor and manage their battery usage.
In contrast, the previous A6 model necessitated the use of additional batteries for operation, lacking the comprehensive power management capabilities of the upgraded 3D Technology. Through images and videos, we’ll illustrate the tangible benefits of this advancement, showcasing its transformative impact on user experience and device performance.
Speed Smart Memory
The speed button got a cool upgrade! Now, it has a memory mode. Picture using an electric microneedle: it’s like taking a trip where you start slow and then pick up speed. When you get the device, you have to find the right speed that feels good for your skin and your comfort. Speeding up makes more tiny channels in your skin, which helps it soak up important stuff. But going faster also makes it feel more intense, so you have to find the right balance between working well and feeling okay.
Adjusting the speed of your skincare tool is a personal journey because everyone’s tolerance is different. But the Dr. Pen A6S stands out for a smart reason. Once you find the perfect speed for your skin, this device remembers it. So, the next time you use it, it automatically sets to your preferred speed. It makes your skincare routine easier and more precise. With the A6S, skincare isn’t just about working well—it’s about making every moment you spend caring for your skin feel just right for you.
3L Connector
The 3L design, which stands for three slots lock, offers several advantages over the 2 slot lock design utilized by the A6 model. The primary benefit lies in its ability to establish a tighter and more secure connection between the needle cartridge and the body of the Dr. Pen device.
This enhanced connection becomes especially crucial during operation, as the needle undergoes rapid and high-frequency vertical or horizontal movements while treating the skin. In such dynamic conditions, the 3L design ensures maximum stability and minimizes the risk of the needle dislodging or becoming loose.
By providing an additional slot for locking, the 3L design distributes the force and pressure more evenly, resulting in a more reliable and durable connection. Ultimately, this contributes to a smoother and more effective treatment experience, as users can have confidence in the stability of the device throughout the procedure.
Thiner Needle
Both the Dr. Pen A6 and A6S come with five types of Microneedle Therapy System (MTS) cartridges. However, it’s noteworthy that each specific needle configuration, such as the 36-pin cartridge, comprises individual needles. When we refer to “smaller needles” in this context, we’re specifically addressing the diameter of these individual needles.
In the case of the A6S, all MTS cartridge needles have undergone an upgrade. They have transitioned from a diameter of 0.28mm to an even finer 0.15mm diameter. This upgrade to smaller diameter needles enhances precision and potentially reduces discomfort during treatment, offering users a more refined and comfortable microneedling experience.
A finer needle diameter signifies several benefits. As the diameter of the microneedle decreases, the individual needles become thinner, resulting in a reduction in perceived pain during treatment. Essentially, smaller needles translate to less discomfort, making the sensation of pain less pronounced.
For beginners or individuals who are particularly sensitive to pain, the upgraded cartridges with smaller needle diameters may offer a better experience. The reduced diameter of the needles can mitigate discomfort during the treatment process, potentially making the experience more tolerable and less daunting for those who are apprehensive about pain.
Final Thoughts
When considering whether to choose the Dr. Pen A6S or the A6, it’s important to weigh their unique features and differences to make an informed decision.
The Dr. Pen A6 comes with a factory package of 16 needle heads, offering higher precision, whereas the A6 utilizes 12 needle heads, providing a different therapeutic experience. Additionally, the A6S is tailored specifically for Micro Needling Therapy System (MTS), making it ideal for skin rejuvenation, while the Dr. Pen A6 expands its functionality to include both MTS and Permanent Makeup (PMU), catering to a broader range of cosmetic needs. Furthermore, the A6S features a robust 3L connector design to ensure a secure and reliable connection with the needle heads during treatment, whereas the A6 employs a twist-lock connector.
In terms of performance, the Dr. Pen A6S is renowned for its maximum speed of 18000 RPM and six speed levels, whereas the A6 offers only 15000 RPM and five speed levels. Additionally, the A6S introduces finer specification needle heads with a diameter of 0.15mm, enhancing precision and potentially reducing discomfort during treatment, a feature not present in the A6.
Moreover, the speed buttons of the A6S incorporate a memory mode, allowing users to seamlessly recall their optimal speed for future use. This innovation streamlines skincare routines, offering unparalleled precision and convenience.
As mentioned, if there is a high demand for battery performance, we strongly recommend the A6S. Firstly, it boasts better battery capacity, and secondly, its battery independence allows for direct installation of a spare battery for immediate use, with the added feature of an LED electronic display screen on the battery.
In summary, the Dr. Pen A6S brings many upgrades and improvements compared to the A6, making it an excellent choice for those seeking advanced functionality, enhanced precision, and customized skincare experiences.
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