Best Dremel Top 6 Picks + 4 Best Dremel Alternatives
Updated: 17-September-2023
The term ‘Dremel tool’ has become synonymous with ‘Rotary tool’ because Dremel is one of the oldest and the most trusted manufacturer of rotary tools in the industry. Apart from producing a variety of rotary tool models, Dremel has also developed a plethora of attachments and accessories for the Dremel ecosystem.
From pedicure and carving pumpkins to carving wood and cutting metal, Dremel tools have an accessory for every job that makes them extremely versatile and handy. However, with so many models of Dremel tools out there, how would you know which one is best for you? This is what today’s post is all about.
We have first ranked the best Dremel tools with detailed pros and cons. We then move on to find other good options of rotary tool kits out there. We have concluded our post with buyer’s guide questions to clear confusions and answer queries you might have for rotary tools.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Dremel Rotary Tool Kit Model 4000-2/30 – Best Dremel tool overall
Dremel Rotary Tool Kit Model 4300-5/40 – Best Dremel tool for wood carving
Dremel Lite Cordless Rotary Tool Kit Model 7760 N/10 – Best budget pick
Dremel Cordless Micro Rotary Tool Kit 8050-N/18 – Most compact Dremel tool
Dremel Cordless Rotary Tool Kit Model 8220-1/28 – Best cordless Dremel tool
Tacklife RTD35ACL Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft – Best rotary tool alternative to Dremel in overall performance and versatility
WEN Rotary Tool Kit Model 2305 with Flex Shaft – Best budget rotary tool
Black+Decker Rotary Tool Model RTX-B – Best alternative of Dremel for precision works
Best Dremel Tool – Top 6 Picks
We researched the market for finding the most easily available Dremel tool kits and compared them on the basis of performance, ergonomics, fitness for specific tasks as well as completeness of the kit with respect to how many attachments and accessories are included in the package. So without further due, let’s begin,
1. Dremel Rotary Tool Kit Model 4000-2/30
Our Rating: 9.6 / 10
Dremel 4000 is a high performance rotary tool run by a 1.6 amp motor from 5,000 RPM to the highest speed in competition i.e. 35,000 RPM. Speed has variable smooth control and accessory changes don’t require any tool as the same is accomplished by twist of the nose cap.
The 2/30 variant features 2 attachments and 30 mixed Dremel accessories to get you started. The same model is also available in 6/50 variant i.e. 6 attachments (including a flex shaft) and 50 mixed Dremel accessories.
High RPM and low vibrations allow the Dremel 4000 to be used for precise and delicate works such as engraving and wood carving in arts and crafts. We also found it to have the highest positive feedback for cutting metal that proves it carries as much power as its speed.
Backed by 2 year warranty from Dremel, it is the best Dremel tool in competition, it delivers superior performance and fits a vide variety of applications making it our top recommendation as the best Dremel tool.
Pros
Cons
2. Dremel Rotary Tool Kit Model 4300-5/40
Our Rating: 9.4 / 10
Dremel 4300 is a newer model than the Dremel 4000 and shares most of the same qualities including the max. speed of 35,000 RPM and variable speed control. It is powered by a 1.8 amp motor (vs. 1.6 amp of Dremel 4000).
It is second to the Dremel 4000 on our list because of slightly greater weight and unavailability of Dremel’s trademark EZ twist nose cap that allows tool free accessory replacement. However, it packs the same punch of power, performance and versatility.
The 5/40 variant comes with 5 attachments and 40 mixed Dremel accessories. One notable attachment is a pivot light that is a rotatable LED light to suite your precision wood carving, engraving and other arts and craft works that require precision. It also has a 9/64 i.e. 9 attachments (including a flexible shaft) and 64 mixed Dremel accessories.
Backed by 2 year warranty from Dremel, it is the second best Dremel tool in competition.
Pros
Cons
3. Dremel Rotary Tool Kit Model 3000-2/28
Our Rating: 9.0 / 10
The Dremel 3000 is powered by a 1.2 amp motor and is more compact than both Dremel 4000 and Dremel 4300. It also features Dremel’s trademark EZ twist nose cap for tool free accessory changes.
It has 6 variable speed settings from 5,000-35,000 RPM. This particular model features 2 attachments including shaping platform and multipurpose cutting kit as well as 28 mixed Dremel accessories for DIY or crafting projects like sanding, sharpening, grinding, cutting, carving, polishing, and cleaning.
Overall, it has excellent vibration control as well as heat dissipation that prevents the tool from heating up. It is also backed by Dremel’s 2 year warranty.
Pros
Cons
4. Dremel Cordless Rotary Tool Kit Model 8220-1/28
Our Rating: 8.8 / 10
Portability is the defining feature of Dremel 8220 thanks to its 12V max battery system powering a brushless motor for improved efficiency and reduced maintenance – a feature rare in rotary tools as most rotary tools come with conventional brushed motors.
You’d intuitively think that it will have comparatively larger size than its corded counterparts because of an attached battery, however, the opposite is true. It is more compact and light weight than Dremel 4000 and 4300.
The only place where its cordless-ness might have taken a toll in competition is its highest speed that is 30,000 RPM – 5,000 less than the top three on our list, however, 30,000 RPM is an impressive speed rating for cordless models. It is also backed by Dremel’s standard 2 year warranty.
Overall, its competitive performance and versatility combined with cordless portability makes it the best cordless Dremel tool in competition.
Pros
Cons
5. Dremel Lite Cordless Rotary Tool Kit Model 7760 N/10
Our Rating: 8.1 / 10
Dremel 7760 is powered by a 4 Volt battery system running between 8,000-25,000 RPM with variable speed control. It also features Dremel’s EZ twist nose cap that allows accessory changes to be easily done without the need of a wrench.
This particular model does not feature an attachment, however, includes 10 mixed Dremel accessories. It also does not feature a carrying case. Both these shortcomings are compensated by a lower price point making it a good budget pick.
Pros
Cons
6. Dremel Cordless Micro Rotary Tool Kit 8050-N/18
Our Rating: 8.0 / 10
The name ‘Micro’ in Dremel 8050 represents its compactness. At a length of 8”, width of 1.5” and weight only around half lbs. it is the most compact tool in competition.
It features LED button speed control between 5,000 and 25,000 RPM powered by a brushless motor for reduced maintenance and improved efficiency (brushless motors are rare in rotary tools).
Dremel Micro’s slim design allows it a very good choice for arts, crafts and other delicate works allowing a very convenient grip on the tool. Another unique feature is its docking charging station that allows it to be positioned on your workbench ready for grab and action.
Pros
Cons
Best Rotary Tool Alternatives to Dremel
Although Dremel specialized in making rotary tool kits, however, some other manufacturers are also producing rotary tool kits worthy of recommendation. We hereby present the best alternates to Dremel tools we found in our survey.
1. Tacklife RTD35ACL Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft
Our Rating: 8.4 / 10
The Tacklife RTD35ACL is powered by a 1.0 amp motor and runs between 10,000-32,000 RPM with a variable speed control. It carries enough power to undertake metal cutting jobs while the flex shaft allows it to be used for wood carving as well as engraving.
It has good vibration control, however, there have been some heating up complaints. It is backed by 2 year warranty by Tacklife and includes an impressive number of 80 accessories to get you started as soon as the package arrives.
Its decent performance and versatility makes it our top recommendation as the best rotary tool alternative to Dremel.
Pros
Cons
2. Dewalt Cut Out Tool DW660
Our Rating: 7.9 / 10
The Dewalt cut out tool is designed for cutting applications specifically. It is not the best tool for performing all the vide variety of jobs that the Dremel tool and other rotary tools offer, however, when it comes to cutting patterns on glass, metal, plastic and wood, Dewalt DW660 is a decent tool.
It is powered by a 5.0 amp motor running the tool up to 30,000 RPM with tool free accessory/bit change mechanism. It comes with 1 drywall cutting bit and two collets of 1/4" and 1/8" size.
The best part about it is the warranty terms of Dewalt. 3 Year warranty against defects, 1 year free service and 90 days money back guarantee are the best warranty terms in competition.
Pros
Cons
3. Black+Decker Rotary Tool Model RTX-B
Our Rating: 7.8 / 10
The Black & Decker RTX-B is powered by a 2.0 amp motor that runs the tool between 12,000 to 30,000 RPM with 3 speed settings. It is backed by Black & Decker 2-year warranty with the condition that tool is used in home environment.
It does have some vibration and heating up complaints, however, we found excellent user feedback of the tool for precise and delicate works in arts and crafts making it the best rotary tool alternate to Dremel for precision work.
Pros
Cons
4. WEN Rotary Tool Kit Model 2305 with Flex Shaft
Our Rating: 7.3 / 10
The WEN rotary tool kit 2305 packs everything that 80% of the users need from a rotary tool at a price that is 20% of the price of a good quality Dremel tool making it the best rotary tool for the money.
It is run by a 1.0 amp motor with 6 speed settings between 8,000 and 30,000 RPM. It comes with 80 accessories as well as a 42” flex shaft.
The tool vibrates too much at the highest RPM to the level that it is not usable, however, everything changes with a flex shaft through which the vibrations go down considerably and allow you to easily work at the highest RPM.
The overall build quality of the tool is not as good as Dremel and the speed dial tends to rotate itself by tool's vibrations at speed settings above 4, however, these issues are ignorable in front of its price.
Its collet is compatible with majority of Dremel accessories improving its versatility. We also found it to have one of the highest positive feedback on engraving and carving applications.
Overall, it is a tool worthy of a recommendation as it packs a big punch of performance at a very low price.
Pros
Cons
Buyer's Guide Questions
What is the best Dremel tool to buy?
The choice of the best Dremel tool depends on your application. We found the following Dremel tools to be the best in the competition,
Dremel Rotary Tool Kit Model 4300-5/40 - Best for artists and craftsmen who would like to use the tool primarily for carving patterns and designs on wood and stone.
Dremel Lite Cordless Rotary Tool Kit Model 7760 N/10 – Best budget pick in Dremel tools if you want to stick to Dremel brand but also want a cost-effective option.
Dremel Cordless Micro Rotary Tool Kit 8050-N/18 – Most compact Dremel tool with a docking charging station for applications where on and off use of the tool is required such as small finishing touches or cut offs every now and then.
Dremel Cordless Rotary Tool Kit Model 8220-1/28 – Best cordless Dremel tool for applications in which portability is top priority and you don’t want a cord to limit you.
WEN Rotary Tool Kit Model 2305 with Flex Shaft – Best cheap alternative of Dremel tool at some compromise on build quality and performance but an overall decent option.
Black+Decker Rotary Tool Model RTX-B – Best alternative of Dremel tool for precision work such as in arts and crafts.
Dremel Rotary Tool Kit Model 4000-2/30 – Best Dremel tool for metal cutting as well as an all rounded performance on wood, plastic, glass and ceramics.
Are Dremel tools worth it?
Dremel tools are worth it if your application requires creating small and fine details on a workpiece such as engraving an artistic pattern on wood or glass, or polishing the intricate crests, troughs nooks and crannies of an artifact.
Dremel tools find their best use in arts and crafts, however, variety of attachments and accessories that have been developed for Dremel tools have made them suitable for a whole bunch of other applications from pedicure and carving pumpkin to cutting small screws and plastic as well as sharpening knives.
What is better than a Dremel?
We did not find a rotary tool better than a Dremel in performance and versatility because it is not just about the tool but also about how much variety is available in attachments and accessories compatible with the tool. Since Dremel is the oldest player in the game, it has the widest variety of attachments and accessories to make your Dremel tool fit different applications.
However, if you are looking for alternative brands, we’d recommend the following,
Tacklife RTD35ACL Rotary Tool Kit with Flex Shaft – Best rotary tool alternative to Dremel in overall performance and versatility
WEN Rotary Tool Kit Model 2305 with Flex Shaft – Best budget rotary tool that offers good performance and comes with a wide variety of accessories and attachments (most notably a flex shaft), all at a very low price
Black+Decker Rotary Tool Model RTX-B – Best alternative of Dremel for precise and delicate arts and crats jobs.
What's the difference between Dremel 3000 and 4000?
The main differences between Dremel 3000 and 4000 include,
1. Dremel 3000 is powered by a 1.2 amp motor while Dremel 4000 is powered by a 1.6 amp motor therefore it carries more power.
2. Dremel 3000 is lighter in weight and smaller in dimensions than the Dremel 4000 making it more compact among the two.
3. Dremel 4000 has its on/off switch separate from speed dial that allows you to change the speed of the tool in the middle of the job whereas there is no separate on/off switch in Dremel 3000.
4. Dremel 4000 has an electronic feedback system for regulating power and speed of motor while taking feedback from the job to improve user experience whereas Dremel 3000 doesn’t have such a system.
In short, Dremel 4000 has more features and higher performance than Dremel 3000.
Is Dremel owned by Bosch?
Yes. Dremel was purchased by Bosch in 1993 and now works as one of the divisions of Robert Bosch Tool Corporation.
What can a Dremel tool be used for?
It can be used for a wide variety of applications such as,
1. Carving wood and stone to make artifacts and sculptures.
2. Engraving and etching complex patterns on wood, stone, plastic and glass for decorative purposes.
3. Polishing intricate nooks and crannies of jewelry and decorative items.
4. Servicing and cleaning small and precision-made machine components such as automotive spark plugs.
5. Removing rust or paint from tools, screws and bolts.
6. Sharpening knives and scissors.
Apart from above, there can be many more applications of Dremel tool from mechanical and electronic work to arts and crafts. Just type “Dremel Projects” on YouTube and you can find a wide variety of stuff people are doing with Dremel tools.
Do all Dremel accessories fit all Dremels?
Majority of Dremel rotary tool accessories fit all Dremel rotary tools.
What is the difference between Dremel 4000 and 4300?
Dremel 4300 is a newer model than Dremel 4000. The main differences include,
1. Dremel 4300 has 1.8 amp motor vs. 1.6 amp motor on Dremel 4000.
2. Dremel 4300 is slightly greater in weight as well as width than Dremel 4000.
3. Dremel 4000 features EZ twist nose cap that allows tool free accessory change whereas Dremel 4300 features a universal 3-jaw chuck that accepts all Dremel accessories, however, requires tool for replacing accessories.
4. Dremel 4300 comes with a Pivot light attachment i.e. a rotatable LED light for illuminating the job for precision work whereas Dremel 4000 doesn’t have any LED light.
Can I cut metal with a Dremel?
Yes. Dremel has special metal cutting wheels in its accessories that you can buy for it. However, don’t expect Dremel tool to cut through inches thick of metal because it is not an angle grinder. It is more suited for cutting light gauge metal plates, thin strips, screws and rings. You can find Dremel accessories best suited for cutting metal here.
What is the difference between a Dremel and a rotary tool?
Dremel is a brand whereas rotary tool is a type of hand held power tool. However, the term “Dremel tool” has become synonymous with “Rotary tool” because it is the oldest and most trusted manufacturer of rotary tools.
In fact, there is a special term for such phenomenon where a brand or trademark becomes a generic term in public due to its significance and popularity – called genericization.
Can you drill holes with a Dremel tool?
Yes. You can find drill bits compatible with your Dremel tool on Dremel’s official website’s accessories section with a filter on drilling accessories.
Can a Dremel cut wood?
Yes. Dremel tools can be used for cutting wood as well as engraving and etching decorative patterns on wooden workpieces. However, don’t think of it as a replacement of reciprocating saw or circular saw because it cannot cut through very thick pieces of wood.
How deep can a Dremel cut?
The largest diameter wheel we found in Dremel rotary tool accessories has a diameter of 1-1/4” that means we can cut a maximum depth of a little over 1/2”.
Can a Dremel cut aluminum?
Yes. Dremel rotary tool accessories include cut off wheels for metals that can work on aluminum as well.
What Dremel bit do I use to cut glass?
You can find bits and wheels for glass here.
Which cordless Dremel is best?
We found Dremel Cordless Rotary Tool Kit Model 8220-1/28 to be the best cordless model. It features a brushless motor and has excellent vibration control and heat dissipation to prevent heating up of tool during use.
Does Dewalt make a Dremel tool?
Dewalt does not make a rotary tool like Dremel, however, it does make a rotary cut out tool that can do a lot of things Dremel can do but not all. It is Dewalt DW660 that is powered by a 5.0 amp motor running the tool up to 30,000 RPM and tool free bit change.
What can you do with a Dremel 4000?
Dremel 4000 is a highly versatile tool that can be used for all sorts of rotary tool projects including carving, engraving, etching, cutting and sanding wood, metal, glass, plastic and stone. From servicing your car’s spark plugs to polishing jewelry, you can use it for mechanical as well as arts and crafts applications.
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