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Checked and updated on April 8, 2021 by Aaron Barnett
The best Dremel for wood carving and metal engraving is most importantly easy to handle to ensure the most accurate results.
If you require a high-powered engraving tool consider one that includes a Flexi-shaft pen attachment.
You also might want to consider the best cordless Dremel tool if portability is something you need. However, a corded tool might be better if you expect to be using your engraver for longer periods without rest.
Best cordless rotary tool
#1 Best cordless engraver tool
Dremel 8220 2/28 28 pcs, 5,000 to 35,000 rpm, 12V, cordless rotary tool kit
- Has 33% longer run time than Dremel 8200.
- Can effectively engrave hard materials and your tools.
- Packs some impressive power that can cut through the hardest of materials.
- The spare battery is useful for longer jobs.
- Includes flexible extension for easier grip and control.
- The tool can make a bit of noise.
#2 Compact cordless rotary tool
Bosch GRO up to 35,000 rpm, 10.8V, cordless rotary tool
- Has a powerful speed of up to 35,000 rpm with an easy-to-handle size making it perfect for quicker jobs.
- Fitted with ECP or Electronic Cell Protection that keeps the battery safe from overload.
- The best tool for quick work engraving jobs.
- Its coiled AC power cord is so short so an extension cord may be needed.
#3 Best to hold cordless engraver
Milwaukee M12TM 5 pcs. 5,000 to 32,000, 12V, cordless rotary tool kit
- Has variable speed, which’s 10% faster than the other tools in its class.
- Unrivaled load performance powered by a 12-volt motor.
- Best rotary tool for wood carving.
#4 Most lightweight Dremel engraver tool
Dremel 8050 N/28 18 pcs, 5,000 to 25,000 rpm, 8V, cordless rotary tool kit
- Has a docking station for continuous battery charging, ensuring that the tool is always fully charged and ready to use.
- Compact and lightweight making it ideal for intricate work.
- Hide it from your girlfriend so she doesn’t use it for her pedicure and trimming nails.
- Batteries are not meant for the longest of run times.
#5 An affordable cordless engraver tool
Ryobi One+ 33pcs, up to 34,000 rpm 18V, cordless rotary tool kit
- Comes with a 33 piece set of accessories, making it handy for multiple tasks out of the box.
- Better performance with variable speed that can pack up to 34,000 rpm.
- The best tool for DIY engraving and sharpening knives
- Can be a little noisy.
#6 Cordless rotary tool for DIYers
Dremel 7760 lite 10pcs, 8,000 to 25,000 rpm, 4V, cordless mini rotary tool kit
- The EZ twist nose cap for quick changing of accessories.
- Supports USB charging of 4V li-ion battery for easier and more flexible charging.
- This works like a charm for various DIY woodworking tasks.
- Battery life isn’t as suitable for prolonged use.
#7 A comprehensive DIY engraving tool
TECCPO TDRT03P 80pcs, 5,000 to 28,000 rpm 12V, cordless rotary tool kit
- Has a 6-speed switch for speed control from 5,000 – 28,000 rpm.
- With keyless chuck for easier changing of accessories.
- The best tool for polishing wood and metals.
- The motor occasionally stalls.
Best corded rotary tool
#1 Best Dremel engraver tool
Dremel 4000-2/30 30 pcs, 5,000 to 35,000 rpm, 1.6 amp, rotary tool kit
- Has a powerful motor with a variable speed of up to 35,000 rpm.
- Has a shaft lock button for easier rotary bit changes.
- Great tool for stone shaping work, and for drilling. holes.
- The collet sometimes jams in the collet nut.
#2 Best Dremel rotary tool
Dremel 4300-5/40 40 pcs, 5,000 to 35,000 rpm, 1.8 amp, rotary tool kit
- It is equipped with electronic feedback for better and more accurate control of the tool.
- Can be easily converted from a rotary tool to a small. plunge wood router.
- Most comprehensive set for wood carving.
- Some accessories may not handle the tool’s power.
#3 Another Dremel engraver for wood carving
Dremel 3000-2/28 28 pcs, 5,000 to 35,000 rpm, 1.2 amp, rotary tool kit
- It is fitted with an Innovated Air Flow System that. prevents the buildup of heat and avoids overheating issues.
- Has a slider-style speed control of up to 35,000 rpm.
- This is perfect for fine engraving work.
- Not for heavy use.
#4 A quick-accessory-changing rotary tool
Dremel 200 1/15 15 pcs, 15,000/35,000 rpm, 0.9 amp, rotary tool kit
- Has a ball-bearing construction for quiet and flawless operation.
- A keyless chuck that doesn’t require a wrench or collet when changing bits.
- Handy and light in weight at only 1.76 lbs. makes it perfect for finishing touches and various engraving tasks that demand high precision.
- It doesn’t have control for on and off speeds separately.
#5 A DIY rotary tool
Tacklife RTD37AC 61 pcs, 10,000 to 40,000 rpm, 1.8 amp, rotary tool kit
- Has a LED Display that lets you track changes in speed from 10,000 to 40,000 RMP.
- Powered by a 1.8amp motor lets you do some tougher jobs like drilling, grinding, cutting, and more.
- A comprehensive kit for a considerable price.
- Performs better than grinding stones for faster stock removal.
- A little heavy at 4.79 lbs. for delicate work that requires maximum accuracy.
#6 Good value corded engraver
Black + Decker RTX-B 63 pcs, 12,000/24,000/30,000 rpm, 2 amp, rotary tool kit
- Has high torque and a powerful motor, which is twice the power versus some of the DIY competition.
- Quiet operation with no vibration even at high speeds.
- Great tool for cutting stainless steel tubing and metal pipes.
- Some minor issues with the collet nut.
#7 Corded rotary tool for home users
Tacklife RTD36AC 170 pcs, 10,000 to 40,000 rpm, 1.8 amp, rotary tool kit
- It is well-powered for tough jobs with a 6-level speed control of up to 40,000 rpm.
- Has attachment assistance for better protection during cutting and grinding work.
- Better used for cutting metal sheets and shaping wood.
#8 A lightweight rotary tool
Eclipse PT-5501A 40 pcs, 10,000 to 32,000 rpm, 1.1 amp, rotary tool kit
- It is very handy and lightweight at only 1 pound
- Comes with a portable storage case for the protection of the unit.
- Recommended tool for grinding stones and sanding jobs.
- Limited accessories.
#9 DIY 5-speed corded rotary tool
Goxawee G4007 140 pcs, 8,000 to 30,000 rpm, 1.1 amp, rotary tool kit
- Changing accessories is easy, with the 3-Jaw Universal Chuck.
- Has a 5-level variable speed setting of up to 30,000 rpm.
- Just the right tool for cutting tiles, ceramics, and glasses.
#10 A quiet corded rotary tool
Tacklife RTD35ACL 80 pcs, 10,000 to 32,000 rpm,1 amp, rotary tool kit
- Its low-noise operation makes it a perfect tool for indoor work, without causing so much disturbance.
- Has a detailer grip for a more focused and accurate finish.
- Great tool for detailing work.
- Quite heavy for long use.
#11 DIY corded engraver with speed control
Ginour 111 pcs, 8,000 to 35,000 rpm, 1.5 amp, rotary tool kit
- Has better speed flexibility with 7-speed variable control of up to 35,000 rpm.
- Can be fitted with Dremel attachments and accessories.
- Powerful at a low price.
- The tool is a bit heavy.
- Not suitable for heavy-duty use.
#12 Another affordable engraver tool
WEN 23114 100+ pcs, 8,000 to 35,000 rpm, 1.4 amp, rotary tool kit
- It is easy to use while being lightweight at only 1.4 pounds.
- Provides 40% more power compared to other alternative DIY rotary tools.
- Great tool for long hours of wood carving, and grouting bathroom tiles.
- Workable with less precision.
- A tendency to rest the tool to avoid overheating.
Introduction
You can do a lot more with a rotary tool than just engraving work because of the amount of added accessories that you can also get that fit the tool. This means that you can perform multiple tasks with just one Dremel engraver.
This means that Dremel engravers are used for different detailed grinding projects like grinding metal edges, cleaning rusty equipment and tools, and even sharpening knives and scissors.
Hobbyists and DIY’ers sometimes use a rotary tool for engraving art, glasses, and shaping jewelry by using the top-rated diamond Dremel router bits.
It’s a common tool in construction for engraving and marking your tools, cutting details in tiles, drilling, and grinding in small tight areas. Carpenters can use an engraver for carving and cutting into delicate wood.
This tool is also commonly used even in salons for polishing nails and works great for trimming your pet dog’s nails. Mostly a rotary tool is a perfect tool for DIY’ers to have for doing detailed engraving work during the weekends.
Features to consider with a Dremel tool
- Power. The performance of a Dremel or a rotary tool is defined by the power rating in amps. More amps translate to more power. Tougher jobs may require a higher power rating of up to 4 to 5 amps. But for light work like nail trimming, a lower rating will do.
- Variable Speed. Different tasks require the appropriate spin speed for the job, this can range from 5,000 rpm all the way up to as much as 40,000 rpm. A variable speed feature provides you the capacity to adjust the speed according to the task at hand.
- Accessories and attachments. Accessories and attachments let you perform more tasks and projects. Bundled accessories may range from 16 pcs up to 180 pieces. You can do a lot of things with more accessories in your toolbox.
- Weight. Most rotary tools have a compact design that is lightweight, making it easy for long non-stop use. Heavy-duty engravers are a little bit bulkier at 4 to 5 pounds but are still light enough to effectively operate. You may need to have some breaks in between when working with heavier rotary tools to keep your accuracy on point.
Reasons to buy a rotary tool
- Sanding. Metal rust, stains, and tight areas in wood can be removed and sanded by using a rotary tool fitted with an appropriately sized sanding disk.
- Cutting. You can cut different materials with a Dremel tool such as glass, wood, tiles, jewelry stones, aluminum, and steel bars, with the appropriate cutting blade.
- Cleaning and polishing. You can get rid of hardened stains on bathroom tiles, and you can polish a range of surfaces to get a dazzling finish again by using the correct attachment on your Dremel for the material you want to polish.
- Drilling. A rotary tool can drill small holes in different materials and surfaces like glass, wood, cement, and more. A Dremel can take smaller drill bits than a cordless drill to let you do more detailed jobs.
- Glasswork. Using a diamond bit lets you even cut through glass. This is perfect for shaping glass materials, like altering the glass shape on a pair of glasses.
- Engraving. A Dremel or rotary tool is designed primarily for engraving jobs, some engravers include a lightweight pen shaft attachment with a detailer grip for even more accurate engraving jobs while using a more powerful higher amp tool.
Common Dremel tool attachments and their uses
- Cutting Guide. Offers depth adjustment flexibility, to accurately control your cuts according to how you have set the tool.
- Collets or a keyless chuck. For easier and quicker accessory changes without the need of a small wrench, opt for a keyless chuck change.
- Flex shaft attachment. Provides a lightweight fingertip control for engraving, polishing, sanding, and wood carving on a heavier higher amp rated engraver.
- Handle with detailer grip. Some tools provide enhanced grip for better comfort and better control for optimum precision and results.
- Blade shield. Enhances protection from sparks and debris during polishing, sanding, and cutting.
Corded vs. Cordless Dremel engraver?
Dremel corded engravers are perfect for DIY’er that want a cheaper price tag or for heavy-duty long time frame tasks since the tool won’t run out of battery. They are also great for frequent use and uninterrupted work time with continuous power. On the downside, usage is limited by the length of the cord.
A cordless Dremel tool, on the other hand, has better mobility since you can use it anywhere, even if there’s no power outlet around. The weight is also still; light, making it the best Dremel for wood carving and other tasks where precision is demanded.
But for heavy tasks that require longer work time, this may not be the right tool as battery life diminishes over time, and will require occasional charging.
Why does Dremel make the best engraver tools?
Because Dremel introduced the Moto-tool in 1932, the first rotary tool, they had not stopped making and improving the rotary tool we know and love even up until this today.
Dremel makes the most popular engraving tools for many, making them famous for producing the best engraver kits to work with at a price that’s good for professionals as well as DIY’ers and hobbyists.
Dremel extensively lets you customize your tool for a huge variety of engraving jobs from woodworking and metalwork to also a range of artwork. By using either a carbide point or a diamond point for heavy-duty and hard surfaces.
I would say Dremel makes the best engraver tool for artists and woodworkers and should be the only choice.
For the best wood carving engraver, the Dremel 4300 includes a plunge router attachment! For larger wood carving jobs get a dedicated plunge router like whats here.
Alternative rotary tool brands
There are also other alternative brands aside from Dremel. Many DIY’ers are waiting for a DeWalt rotary tool to make the mark, however, you could consider other brands when looking for an engraver tool.
Cheaper DIY brands like Tacklife or Black and Decker can be considered as a tool to let you engrave with also some precision and style. These brands also take the same carbide bits made from tungsten and are open to taking a wide range of cutting and polishing attachments as well.
WEN could be considered if you’re looking for the cheapest corded engraver; it is an economical option that still provides steady power for continuous and uninterrupted work.
Remember that most DIY brands are still equipped with an ergonomically-designed grip for fine detailing work, but don’t fully compare to a Dremel.
Choosing the best rotary tool
#1 Best cordless Dremel engraver tool
The Dremel 8220 2/28 with the included flex shaft attachment works great for typical use in precision work. You can even sharpen mower blades, assist with regrouting tiles in your bathroom, and cutting holes in solid drywalls.
Its variable speed can pack up to as much as 35,000 rpm which is outstanding for a Dremel cordless tool, and on par with some of the best-corded options.
The Dremel 8220 2/28 rotary tool is equipped with an accurate battery indicator to track battery life. Without compromising precision expect a soft grip for a firm comfortable hold. Being lightweight at only 1.25 pounds it is handy to carry around the tool and allows me to work long hours without finger or hand fatigue.
#1 Most affordable Dremel rotary tool
The Dremel 8050-N/18 micro rotary tool works great for the tightest of spaces. Its ergonomic design lets you handle detailed work with total ease. Compact power is provided by an 8-volt Lithium-ion battery that provides a decent and long run time.
Battery charging is made easier by a docking station that continuously charges the tool, and makes it ready to use at any time within a moment’s notice. Its size, power, and ergonomic design make a perfect combination for DIY projects and various light-duty work.
It’s the best Dremel tool that you can rely on for smaller projects.
#1 Cheap DIY corded rotary tool
The Ryobi One+ has enough power without breaking the bank. It comes with a 36-inch shaft pen for intricate work that demands high precision. It also comes with an 18-volt battery that provides long run time on just a single charge, making it an ideal tool for uninterrupted work.
The 36-piece included accessory bundle offers the user plenty of grinding, sanding, and engraving options out of the box, but I still recommend looking into some of the kits I recommend on this site to go with it.
#1 The best elertric Dremel rotary tool
The Dremel 4000-2/30 is enticingly packaged with 100 pieces of genuine Dremel accessories, plus 3 other attachments. It is a perfect all-around tool for all different engraving, cutting, and sanding tasks. It comes with a flex shaft for a comfortable grip and has enhanced control during grinding and cutting with variable speed.
Comparing Dremel 3000 vs 4000, the latter is better with more power at 1.6 amps, compared to 1.2amp for the 3000 model. On the other hand, the Dremel 4000 vs 4300, the former has plenty of attachments to the chuck design with a Flexi-shaft for more accurate work compared to 4300.
But the 4300 includes a small plunge router base for a different type of carving depending on what your after it might be best to see if you can buy the plunge router attachment separately with the 4000.
There is a higher price tag if you opt for the Flexi-shaft over the plunge router base but as long as I have the power that I need to cut through hard surfaces, and perform multiple tasks while still having a pen-like light handle it’s worth it.
#1 Affordable DIY corded rotary tool
The Black & Decker RTX-B 3-Speed Rotary Tool has a built-in safety feature that prevents the switch from being engaged during use. The rubberized textured ergonomically-designed grip promotes better control and firm hold for higher accuracy when working on delicate projects.
The ‘flip and lock’ switch provides stability during the changing of accessories. The kit includes 63-pieces in a bundle and is already good enough for its price with sufficient power that can handle multiple projects smoothly.
#1 Lowest cost corded rotary tool
The WEN 23114 variable speed rotary tool is a tool that also gets jobs done, even on a tight budget. The 1.4-amp motor easily handles basic tasks like polishing and engraving without a snag. But even the toughest jobs can be done with its optimum torque.
A lot can be done with this tool with the included 100 pieces of accessories, you can also extend your vision with the LED light attachment.
Checklist before buying a rotary engraver tool
Check the durability.
Of course, you’d like an engraver tool to stick around with you for many years, without having to get a replacement for your future projects ahead. So, make sure to consider durability when shopping for one.
When it comes to durability, go for the tested and trusted brands such as Dremel, which has already etched its name in the industry.
Research the brand.
Different brands have different qualities and performances, so, choose the ones that can truly give you the power that you need for multiple projects. Dremel is a premium brand when it comes to rotary tools.
But there are also other brands like WEN, TACKLIFE, and Black + Decker with a high-performance output.
Think about the price.
Some rotary tools are expensive, but they also have more power, durability, more attachments, and accessories, and are equipped with better features well-suited for the toughest engraving jobs around.
But if you are tight on budget, there are more affordable alternatives that can still get things done without emptying your pocket.
If you’re planning on light work for this tool, you don’t have to spend much on an expensive product. There are tools designed for light work, at a lesser cost on your part, but might not be cheaper in the long run.
Tips for using a Dremel tool
Dos
- Clean the tool regularly to ensure it is always in top shape.
- Use a woodworking apron when working on woodturning and woodworking jobs for added protection and to stay clean.
- Maintain at least a 3-inch distance from the rotating metal drill bit.
- Engravers can be fitted with a chuck attachment that enables its use with standard metal drill bits.
- Extend the tool life by proper handling, and not overworking a low amp tool.
- To keep your Dremel in top shape at all times, clean the tool regularly, after use.
- Make sure to return everything to the box, especially the accessories so you don’t lose them.
- Store it in a cool safe place away from children.
- If there is no storage case bundled in your purchase, buy one for better safekeeping.
Don’ts
- Don’t grind the side part of the cutoff wheel.
- Don’t attempt to use damaged accessories.
- Don’t wear gloves while using a drill press as glove materials may get wrapped in the Dremel drill bit leading to a possible hand injury.
- Avoid using the tool near flammable materials.
- Don’t forget to wear safety glasses even if you have eyeglasses.
- Avoid flying fragments getting in your face, depending on the task a lightweight face shield might be better.
Comparison of cordless rotery tools
Dremel 8220 | Bosch GRO | Milwaukee M12TM | Dremel 8050 N/28 | Ryobi One+ | Dremel 7760 | TECCPO TDRT03P | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Verdict: | #1 Top performing cordless rotary tool | Best value Dremel tool | Most affordable cordless rotary tool | ||||
Weight: | 1.56 lbs | 1.9 lbs | 1.3 lbs | 1.1 lbs | 2.65 lbs | 2.29 lbs | 4,45 lbs |
Shank/keyless chuck: | 1/8 inch | na | 1/32 to 1/8 inch | 1/32 to 1/8 inch | 1/8 inch | 1/8 inch | 1/32 to 1/8 inch |
Accesories: | 28 pcs | na | 5 pcs | 18 pcs | 33 pcs | 10 pcs | 80 pcs |
Speed: | 5,000 to 35,000 rpm | up to 35,000 rpm | 5,000 to 32,000 rpm | 5,000 to 25,000 rpm | up to 34,000 rpm | 8,000 to 25,000 rpm | 5,000 to 28,000 rpm |
Power: | 12V | 10.8V | 12V | 8V | 18V | 4V | 12V |
Storage: | Hard case | na | Contractor bag | na | Storage tool box | Storage tool box | Hard case |
Comparison of corded engravors
Dremel 4000-2/30 | Dremel 4300-5/40 | Dremel 3000-2/28 | Dremel 200 1/15 | Tacklife RTD37AC | Black + Decker RTX-B | Tacklife RTD36AC | Eclipse PT-5501A | Goxawee G4007 | Tacklife RTD35ACL | Ginour | WEN 23114 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Verdict: | #1 Top performing cordless rotary tool | With plunge router | Best value corded | Most affordable cordless | ||||||||
Weight: | 1.41 lbs | 1.56 lbs | 1.25 lbs | 1.12 lbs | 4.53 lbs | 1.04 lbs | 5.28 lbs | 1 lbs | 3.3 lbs | 3.78 lbs | 3.82 lbs | 1.4 lbs |
Shank/keyless chuck: | 1/8 inch | 1/32 to 1/8 inch | 1/8 inch | 1/32 to 1/8 inch | 1/8 inch | 1/32 to 1/8 inch | 1/32 to 1/8 inch | 1/32 & 1/8 inch | 1/64 & 1/8 inch | 1/32 & 1/8 inch | 1/64 to 1/8 inch | 1/8, 3/32 and 1/16 inch |
Accessories: | 30 pcs | 40 pcs | 28 pcs | 15 pcs | 61 pcs | 63 pcs | 170 pcs | 40 pcs | 140 pcs | 80 pcs | 111 pcs | 100+ pcs |
Speed: | 5,000 to 35,000 rpm | 5,000 to 35,000 rpm | 5,000 to 35,000 rpm | 15,000/35,000 rpm | 10,000 to 40,000 rpm | 12,000/24,000/30,000 rpm | 10,000 to 40,000 rpm | 10,000 to 32,000 rpm | 8,000 to 30,000 rpm | 10,000 to 32,000 rpm | 8,000 to 35,000 rpm | 8,000 to 35,000 rpm |
Power: | 1.6 amp | 1.8 amp | 1.2 amp | 0.9 amp | 1.8 amp | 2 amp | 1.8 amp | 1.1 amp | 1.1 amp | 1 amp | 1.5 amp | 1.4 amp |
Storage: | Hard case | Hard case | Hard case | Storage tool box | Hard case | Storage bag | Hard case | Hard case | Hard case | Hard case | Hard case | Storage |
Conclusion
The Dremel 8220 review showed that this cordless rotary tool is a beast. It has the power to handle a wide variety of light to heavy tasks at hand, and on par with some corded brands.
It’s lightweight at only 1.25lbs. making it perfect for long working hours, and for projects that demand high accuracy. This is the best cordless Dremel tool to carry around and have in your workshop for various jobs located in different areas.
For high demanding consistent work, I would go for the most high-performance craft corded tool like the Dremel 4000. It works great for various DIY work as well, and it lives up to the demands of different projects.
Dremel 8220-2/28 review
Pros:
- Runs 33% longer than Dremel 8200.
- Engraves on hard materials and your tools efficiently and with precision.
- Packs some impressive power cuts through a variety of soft and hard materials.
- The flexible extension makes possible better grip and control.
Cons:
- Make sure you have a spare battery.
#1 Best cordless rotary tool
References:
- Dremel is in the business of inventing rotary tools and can be found here, https://us.dremel.com/en_US/about
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