The versatility of rotary tools in woodworking and other industries is undeniable, but with many affordable options popping up lately, DIYers tend to purchase models that stop working after several uses.
Indeed, finding the best rotary tools for longevity can be a challenge. Given this, I took it upon myself to rigorously test the top-performing units available today, aiming to sift the wheat from the chaff.
Reviews of the Top Rotary Tools
1. Dremel 3000-2/28 Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit
Dremel’s rotary tool kit features a 1.2-amp motor that can handle variable speeds ranging from 5,000 to 35,000 RPM. Its smaller motor makes it easier to handle for precise cuts, giving enough power to move through the wood.
The Dremel 3000-2/28 kit also has a rubber grip, making holding easy, and is contoured to the hands. It also features a variety of Dremel accessories, such as carving and cutting accessories.
The tool’s collar can be used as a toolless chuck and features a built-in chuck designed to fit over the collet.
What I Like
- The package includes a smart nose cap wrench
- It has variable speed settings
- There are also accessories included
- The rubber grip makes handling the tool more comfortable and easier
- No other tool required
What I Don't Like
- Its availability can vary
- You'll need access to power outlets
2. Milwaukee M12TM Portable and Cordless Rotary Tool Kit
If you’re looking for a portable rotary tool that can handle various tasks, the Milwaukee M12TM is a good choice to consider.
This cordless rotary tool uses the company’s M12 batteries producing speeds of up to 32,000 RPM. It comes with a charger, a set of heavy-duty wheels, and a chuck for easy bit changes.
This handy tool is very easy to use and can quickly cut through various types of steel, which is very different from other cordless models I’ve encountered. Although Milwaukee doesn’t explicitly advertise it, the slow start feature proved to be exceptionally useful in my experience.
What I Like
- It has a powerful motor
- It is cordless
- Heavy-duty cutting wheels
- High-speed
What I Don't Like
- There aren't much accessories included in the package
- Loose collar vibration
3. WEN 2305 Rotary Tool Kit
The WEN 2305 rotary tool kit might not be a household name, but its price will certainly grab your attention. You have the option to get this kit with or without a flex shaft.
This WEN rotary tool is a versatile tool you can use for cutting, polishing, and drilling. This tool kit includes 100 individual pieces, each with its own set of a drill, polishing pads, and sanding discs. The onboard spindle lock system can be used to change the drill bits’ characteristics.
This power tool can be your best option if you’re looking for more precise control at a budget-friendly price. With its lightweight design and a plethora of included accessories, I’d highly recommend it for both home and craft users.
What I Like
- It is complete with rotary tool accessories
- It is priced reasonably
- There is a flex shaft attachment included
- It suits various tasks
What I Don't Like
- The carrying case isn't the best in terms of quality
- Users will need access to power outlets
4. Dremel 4300-5/40 High-Performance Rotary Tool Kit
The Dremel 4300-5/40 is one of the best rotary tools that’s powerful and made with high-quality material. Its 1.8-amp motor has a speed range of up to 35,000 RPM and features a detachable work light that can handle any task.
It also has a universal chuck, carving bits, and various accessories, such as cutting and sanding wheels. These items are stored in a hard storage bag to keep them organized and safe.
During rounds of testing, the Dremel 4300-5/40 showcased consistent and remarkable power. Despite its construction from thick steel, it made quick work of cutting through various materials. The detachable work light was also a handy feature, especially when I replaced the collar.
What I Like
- It is a powerful and effective tool for various tasks.
- The tool's quality is top-notch
- The added detachable work light is a plus precision.
- It comes with lock cut-off wheels and a wide range of accessories.
- Impressively swift cutting capabilities.
What I Don't Like
- It is reliant on a power source.
- It tends to vibrate when running above 20,000 RPM.
5. Goxawee Rotary Tool Kit w/ MultiPro Keyless Chuck and Flex Shaft
This Goxawee Rotary Tool is another affordable tool to get started with various projects, such as wood carving, metal engraving, and crafting. It features over a hundred attachments and accessories, allowing you to do various tasks such as cutting, carving [1], and engraving.
Aside from including all the necessary accessories for most DIYers, the Goxawee Rotary Tool Kit also performed surprisingly well for all sorts of projects. Its 1.3-amp motor generates speeds of up to 30,000 RPM that can suffice for different light to moderate projects.
The tool is also very easy and comfortable to use. It also came with other accessories like a guard collar and replacement brushes.
What I Like
- It is affordable
- There are many accessories included
- It comes with replacement brushes
- It's easy to change the bits
What I Don't Like
- Users will need access to a power source
- It may not suit long-term use
6. Hardell Mini Rotary Tool Kit
Unlike most rotary tools, the Hardell Rotary Tool doesn’t require a thick cord. It’s a completely cordless rotary tool that you can charge using a USB cable. But its battery life can last for up to 200 minutes.
Hardell is a small rotary tool ideal for smaller projects, such as carving soft wood, polishing metal, grinding stones, and drilling holes. Its convenient speed control allows enough grip regardless of your project.
The versatile rotary tool comes with 55 accessories featuring seven different sizes of chucks. I also liked the LED light, which effectively eliminated blind spots and shadows on my work surface, ensuring precision in every task.
What I Like
- This rotary tool is extremely portable
- It comes with many accessories
- The LED light is very useful
- It is a cordless tool
What I Don't Like
- The battery life is limited
- It may not work for heavy-duty tasks
7. Black+Decker RTX B-3 Speed RTX Rotary Tool
The Black+Decker RTX-B3 is a great pick for those wanting a portable tool that can handle various tasks. It comes with a variety of accessories, featuring a universal chuck you can use to interchange accessories of other rotary tools.
Its powerful 2-amp motor makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a more powerful tool. The variable speed settings allow power control. Its highest speed range can reach 30,000 RPM, which is quite powerful.
In addition, the flip-lock spindle lock provides a convenient way to change accessories. Based on my experience, I’d suggest this for anyone aiming for a high-spec rotary tool, be it for professional tasks or occasional projects.
What I Like
- It features a universal collet system
- Its light weight ensures ease of use and maneuverability.
- The flip-lock spindle lock makes changing accessories a breeze.
- Even though its affordable, it doesn't skimp on power.
What I Don't Like
- A few key accessories need to be purchased separately.
- It could benefit from a broader range of variable speed options.
Rotary Tools Buyer's Guide
What Are Rotary Tools?
Rotary tools are versatile machines suitable for a wide variety of tasks such as cutting drywall, engraving, polishing, and several woodworking projects. They are also compatible with drill bits.
With the right accessories, a decent rotary tool can mimic the functions of a miniature woodworking drill press. The process of exchanging attachments and accessories is typically quick and straightforward.
Although most rotary tools are portable, the latest models are usually less powerful than corded rotary tools. One of the most used nowadays are battery models that have consistent performance.
Terms You Need to Know
Voltage
Volts or voltage work together with the amperage. It helps the electric current flow, which provides a good idea of how powerful rotary tools are.
Amperage (amp)
Amperage is the amount of electricity that your device’s motor has provided. The higher the amp number, the more power the tool has.
RPM
The speed at which your rotary tool will operate. The best devices will allow you to set variable settings to adjust them based on your project.
What Are You Using the Rotary Tool For?
One of the most popular features of rotary tools is that they can do so much. Whether planning on doing something simple or complex, the best rotary tools can help you accomplish your goals.
Small or DIY Projects
You can do these projects without a lot of power, but they require more skill. It is best if you have a tool to do the job correctly. For instance, if you’re planning on making jewelry, consider using a combination of glass etching and engraving.
For Your Home
For those with numerous projects to complete, the rotary tool can be a great asset. It serves various purposes, including removing old paint, cutting drywall, and eliminating grout or rust.
Big Projects
If you are upcycling an old piece of furniture or creating new fixtures for your home, you might need a powerful rotary tool that can handle heavy attachments such as a sander.
Corded or Cordless?
Some companies now produce cordless rotary tools, which are more versatile and can be used in tight spaces that traditional tools cannot. These tools make it easy to touch up projects that require a lot of work.
Despite the advantages of these tools, traditional corded models are still around. They have lower power output, variable speeds, and RPMs and will eventually need to be charged. This means finding an outlet to plug in a charger is a must for any workday.
Motor Power
The motor’s amp or the battery’s voltage determines a rotary tool’s power output. The lowest output is typically found in cordless tools with a battery voltage of less than 4V.
These tools are great for engraving as they tend to have lower RPMs and are good for light jobs.
Higher power outputs can be found in 12V and 1.8-amp rotary tools that can reach 35,000 rpm and are equipped with heavy-duty motors.
These types of tools are cumbersome to handle, and you can use them for a long time. An intermediate model is ideal if additional power is needed for carving or cutting.
Rotations per Minute (RPM)
The RPM is a good measure to compare different types of rotary tools. It can also be used to determine which one is appropriate for your needs.
The higher RPMs are ideal for certain jobs that need a lot of force, such as carving, cutting, and sanding. However, they can also be very expensive. On the other hand, a lower RPM is good for working with soft materials.
In addition to having a variable speed setting, most rotary tools also have a variety of tools that allow users to select the appropriate RPM for their project.
However, if a lighter model is used, it will have a hard time reaching a higher RPM. Before buying a new tool, make sure that it can handle the expected job through its RPM.
Why is Speed Important for a Rotary Tool?
Throughout this review, I’ve consistently highlighted the importance of speed ranges in these tools. When choosing a rotary tool, your top consideration is its ability to hit high rotational speeds but also offer flexibility to operate at slower rates.
High-speed tools shine in activities like drilling and carving. However, they can also generate too much heat when used for sanding or carving. Having the ability to dial in the speed makes for cleaner work, as the tool can cut and shape properly.
People who use high-speed tools for pet nail trimming should remember that too fast a speed can hurt their animals. For instance, if you’re polishing a surface, start at the lowest setting and work up to a higher gear in the middle.
The wider the range of speeds, the better equipped your rotary tool will be.
Ease of Use
Are you a professional who needs a powerful unit that can handle various materials? Or are you a beginner who needs a light touch when creating delicate jewelry?
The type of rotary tool you choose can affect how well it performs your job. For instance, if you choose a tool with lower motor output and slower speeds, it might not be able to cut through thick materials.
If you are planning on spending more money on a powerful tool, it might not be practical for someone with delicate goals. Use attachments such as a flex shaft to make intricate jewelry designs easier to carve.
If you’re a beginner might opt for something simple to use. What you choose depends on what you’re planning on using it for and how easy you can use it.
Attachments for a Rotary Tool
Some rotary tools come with a variety of attachments, which can be fun to have if you are planning on tackling a lot of projects. These bits can offer a wide range of options, such as drilling, sanding, and more.
However, if you are only doing a specific project, you might not want to spend a lot of money on a new set of attachments.
One of the most important factors you should consider when choosing a rotary tool is its ability to change out the attachments easily. Some models come with a keyless chuck, which is very convenient.
However, it’s also important to note that many of these accessories don’t stay on for long. You should also ask other people if they have used this type of tool and if it worked just as well as a standard chuck.
If you’re the usual DIYer or a beginner, you might want to look for the following attachments:
- Drilling bit
- Polishing wheel
- Grinding stone
- Engraving tip
- Metal-cutting wheel
- All-purpose cutting wheel
- Sanding disc
- Drum sander
Accessories
Although there are many accessory options, Dremel is the only brand that can provide you with high-quality products.
Some special brands make specialized attachments and rotary burrs, such as Kutzall. These are typically much more expensive than the actual tool itself.
Most people buy these expensive drill bits when they need them the most, as this is where the money goes.
Other Features
Most rotary tool kits feature various accessories and power output to enhance their appearance. These tools are usually accompanied by a variety of parts to make them look more professional.
Some kits also have additional features, such as an ergonomic design, a bump-off switch, and a USB charger. These features make the rotary tools more comfortable to use.
Although the USB charger has not caught on with the best models yet, it could be a useful feature for those not looking for a professional rotary tool.
Safety
It would be best if you had both ear and eye protection when working at high speeds. Masks are also required in certain cases. Fiberboard dust is not meant to be inhaled, so you must avoid it at all costs.
FAQ
Are a Dremel and a rotary tool the same thing?
A Dremel and a rotary tool are not the same thing. Dremel is a manufacturer of rotary tools, which confuses some people referring to rotary tools as Dremels. However, other companies make various types of rotary tools, and Dremel only makes certain types.
Why use a Dremel instead of a drill?
Many use a Dremel tool instead of a drill because of its lighter and smaller profile. It is ideal for working with small workpieces and carving. It can also be used with other non-Dremel accessories, such as grinder wheels and drill bits.
Will I be able to use a rotary tool to cut glass?
Yes, you just need special cutting wheels or bits. The good thing today is that many companies produce diamond-embedded bits for rotary tools.
Will I need to choose a powerful rotary tool for drilling holes?
Although many rotary tools are powerful enough to drill holes, they’re not capable of doing so if the material they’re working on is not good. A good quality bit is more important than the output of the tool. But if the tool’s power is not maintained properly, it might take longer to get the job done.
My Top Pick For a Rotary Tool:
Dremel 3000-2/28 Variable Speed Rotary Tool
After thorough examination and testing, I’ve chosen the Dremel 3000 as the best rotary tool in the market today. It’s a versatile tool that works with a wide range of attachments.
It features various Dremel and cutting attachments which are ideal for a wide range of tasks. Plus, its powerful and smooth performance truly set it apart compared to the power tools I’ve tried in this list.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
