Few tools are as valuable and versatile as a Rotary Tool, so If you’re looking for the Best Rotary Tool to add to your workshop or toolkit, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide offers the best brands and types of rotary tools to consider, and while the selection can be a little overwhelming – we’ve narrowed down the list to the ten best rotary tools you can buy today.
In addition, our guide and FAQ section will help educate you on How to use a Rotary Tool – and which model may be the Best Rotary Tool Brand for your workshop.
The Best Rotary Tool (Reviews For 2023)
The Editor’s Choice: Dremel 4000
Why We Like It
What is the best rotary tool to buy? Dremel has, over the years, more than any other brand, become synonymous with rotary tools, and in our opinion is the best Dremel Tool you can buy. To make that point, Most people reference the name “Dremel” instead of its proper name – the “Rotary Tool.”
The Dremel 4000 rotary kit comes in #1 in our reviews. Dremel 4000 offers an RPM range of 5,000 to 35,000, making it very powerful and ideal for cutting, finishing, or carving tasks.
Included with this model are the 30 essential Dremel attachments. The Dremel rotary tool is fully compatible with the entire line of Dremel attachments.
Specs
- Variable speed from 5,000 to 35,000 RPM, With very easy-to-understand speed dial features
- Compatible with all of the Dremel accessories and attachments
- Includes 30 Dremel accessories and 2 Dremel attachments
- 360-degree grip zone for control in any position. The cord Length is 6ft. long
- The carrying case is included
This Rotary tool video from Dremel Show You “How a Rotary Tool Works,” What the Dremel 4000 can do, and Other Specialty Dremel tools:
Our Take Away
If you’re looking for the best rotary tool on the market, it’s hard to beat a Dremel brand rotary tool. Dremel is the utility flagship of rotary tools, all made for quality and precision.
The Dremel 4000 kit allows users to tackle many projects with all the essential accessories needed to cut, carve, or etch. If you are, however, looking for a cordless Dremel tool, this model is not cordless.
To view the battery-powered Dremel tool, see the “Dremel Lite 7760” Cordless Dremel in our review below.
Dremel
Runner Up: Goxawee Rotary Tool
Why We Like It
While it lacks the name recognition of Dremel (definitely an obscure name in the U.S.), the Goxawee rotary tool makes up for its performance. This includes (for many people) the indispensable “flex shaft carving tool.” Nothing simplifies wood carving more than a flex shaft for rotary tools.
With RPMs ranging from 8,000 to 30,000 and 140 attachments, this kit is an excellent all-around rotary tool for almost every homeowner.
Specs
- Quick Change Drill Chuck – Come with 3 Jaw Universal Chuck applying better stability on your projects, allowing you to freely change accessories on the Rotary machine tool.
- 140pcs Attachment & Accessory – With Flexible Shaft holds like a pen for your specific projects.
- Variable Speed & Compact – Variable speed dial is easy to use. The Variable Speed Adjustment Knob includes 5 Speeds from 8,000 to 30,000 RPM.
- High-Performance Craft Tool – Perfect for sanding, polishing, cutting, shaping, drilling, deburring, grinding, cleaning, engraving, and trimming.
- Includes a solid carrying case.
Our Take Away
The Goxawee Rotary Tool may never be as popular or prominent as the Dremel brand, but with its tool selection and quality, Goxawee deserves more recognition than it probably gets.
If you’re looking for the best rotary tool for wood carving at a very reasonable price point, this model from Goxawee may be the Rotary Tool you were looking for. With 1,368 – 4.5 star review ratings and as an Amazon “Best Seller,”; this price is one to look at.
Goxawee
Best Value: WEN 80- Accessory Kit – With Flex-Shaft
Why We Like It
With 100 attachments and a 1.4-amp electric motor, the WEN 2305 rotary tool stands out from other models in its price range. Speeds range from 8,000 to 30,000 RPM, and the tool is durable and made for long-term use.
Specs
- Perfect Rotary tool to polish, sand, cut, grind, or drill projects around the house.
- Powerful 1-amp variable speed motor provides ample power for rotary tools
- Three innovative collars
- Drilling/routing guide plate
- 80 Accessories – 3 different collet sizes, diamond coated bits for grinding, drilling, polishing, sanding, and cut-off.
- Rotatable spark and debris deflection shield
- 3-foot flex shaft for jobs requiring intricate and complex detail work
- Multi-compartment carrying case allows for easy organization of your tool, collars, flex shaft, and 80+ accessories
Our Take Away
Based on price alone, the WEN rotary tool is the best electric rotary tool you’ll find in today’s market. What makes it stand out is the inclusion of one of the best rotary tool accessories kits you’ll find anywhere.
With 80 different attachments, you’ll have no trouble finding the one best suited to your job.
WEN – Rotary Tool
Best Upgrade: Dremel 4300
Why We Like It
For those who already have a Rotary Tool but are looking to “Upgrade” to the Best……We like the Dremel 4300.
The 4300 Rotary Tool kit is manufactured with the Dremel brand’s signature quality and attention to detail. With 64 different attachments, this kit is more versatile than the 4000 (which only includes 30 pieces), but its RPM range remains the same.
Besides the additional 34 attachments, one of the most helpful features of the Dremel 4300 is a pivot light for awkward or hard-to-reach spaces while you are working. This tool also includes an air-flow system to keep internal parts from getting overly Heated.
Specs
Includes 30-piece attachment kit
- Platinum Edition – includes the 4300 high-performance rotary tool, nine attachments, including the Flex Shaft attachment, and 64 genuine Dremel accessories.
- Universal 3-Jaw Chuck – Provides the user with “tool-less and collet-less” accessory changes. Compatible with Dremel’s entire line of accessories and attachments.
- Pivot Light– rotates to illuminate your projects even in difficult-to-reach spaces.
- Powerful Motor – with variable speed (5,000 – 35,000 RPM)
- Airflow system – for smoother, cooler, and quieter operation
- Ergonomic Design – for added comfort & grip during extended use
- Separate On/Off Switch and “Speed Dial” – for added convenience & control
Our Take Away
Overall, we think the Dremel 4300 is the best Dremel tool on the market. With its expanded selection of attachments and pivot light, this rotary tool will give you tons of versatility in the workshop while delivering a user-friendly experience.
Dremel
Best “Premium Cordless” Rotary Tool”: Dremel Lite 7760
Why We Like It
If you’re looking for the best cordless rotary tool, this is it. While Dremel tools are always extraordinarily convenient and easy to use, the 7760 Dremel model takes it to the next level, replacing a cumbersome power cord with a 4-volt lithium-ion battery.
Yes, it’s Cordless – and although it is a battery-powered Dremel – It can still hit RPM ranges as high as 25,000!
The Dremel Lite 7760 also includes a basic kit of 10 Dremel attachments.
Specs
- Includes 10 Dremel accessories
- Quick accessory changes – with EZ twist nose cap – Tool-less accessory changes.
- Variable speed dial – from 8, 000 to 25, 000 RPM
- Easy battery charging – Rechargeable 4V li-ion battery & convenient USB charger
- Battery life indicator- LED light illuminates to notify you when the battery needs to be charged
- Portable & lightweight – 360 Degree soft-grip material allows for comfort & precise control.
- Cordless design offers the freedom to use it anywhere
- Compatible – can be used with most Dremel accessories and a selection of attachments
- 2-year warranty
Our Take Away
While we wish that the Dremel Lite came with a broader selection of attachments, there’s a lot to be said for the convenience of going with a cordless rotary tool.
This battery-powered rotary tool is excellent for fine carving work where a cord may get in the way and for cutting in areas without an electrical outlet readily available.
Dremel
Most Affordable Rotary Tool with Flexshaft: “Avid Power”
Why We Like It
This rotary tool kit from AVID POWER AEDT128 brings an even more extensive accessory than the slightly more affordable WEN rotary tool kit.
Avid Power includes a 107-piece accessory kit, adjustable high-speed power, 3-foot Flex Shaft functionality, a carrying case, and a price range for a rotary tool that anyone can afford.
The Avid Power AEDT128 is also one of the best-selling Rotary Tools on Amazon. Its speed setting of 10,000 – 32,000 RPMs rivals the Dremel Rotary Tool Lineup.
Specs
- Suitable for light work – not intended for commercial heavy-duty rotary use.
- Includes “Flex Shaft” attachment
- Includes 107 pc. accessory kit
- Quick Change Coupler for Attachments
- Rubber Grip
- Carrying Case
- Six-Speed Adjustment – One button to switch rotation speed from 10,000 to 32,000 RPM.
- Includes 6 ft. Electrical Cord
Our Take Away
If you’re in the market for an inexpensive cordless rotary tool, this Avid Power rotary tool is an excellent option for anyone who wants all the options, but can’t justify the cost of a Dremel Brand tool.
Our research of real user reviews found that the device does a good job handling precision work and seems well-made to stand the test of time.
AVID POWER – ROTARY TOOL & KIT
Best Dremel Tool for “Woodcarving”: Dremel 8050
Why We Like It
Let’s face it – This “Micro” Dremel Tool for Carving – Is not cheap, however, for woodworkers looking for the best micro rotary tool for carving.
In our opinion, the Dremel 8050 is the best Dremel for woodcarving.
This small, easy-to-handle Dremel tool is arguably the best rotary tool for wood carving on the market; thanks to its compact size, precision handling, and no cord to deal with – it is a cordless Dremel tool.
As an added benefit, the Dremel 8050 is a cordless wood carving rotary tool, and with an RPM range of up to 25,000, this tool packs plenty of power.
Still, it offers precise wood carving and is nimble enough to handle the most difficult engraving tasks.
Specs
- Powerful Cordless rotary tool
- LED Project Light – Front-end light illuminates projects for better visibility.
- 8-Volt Lithium-Ion battery delivers compact power and longer run times.
- Docking Station – Continually charges the tool so it is always fully charged and ready to use.
- LED Battery Life Indicator lets you know when it’s ready for a recharge. 3-hour & 45-minute charge time.
- Variable Speed Dial – Achieve your optimal speed between 5,000 – 25,000 RPM using the LED Speed Dial Indicator
- 18 Piece Tool Kit– Includes the 8050 cordless rotary tool, 18 high-quality Dremel accessories, and a charging dock.
- Ergonomic Body – for added comfort & grip during extended use
- 2-Year Warranty with U.S.-Based Customer Service
Our Take Away
This Dremel tool is exceptionally light and easy to use, making it great for high-precision work that other rotary tools would be too large and heavy.
If there is one downside we have found with this tool, it is that it has somewhat limited battery life.
This should be expected with a tool designed for small and low weight, as large battery packs add bulk and weight to any cordless tool. Overall this is the woodcarvers or glass engraver/cutters dream tool – If the price suits your budget.
Dremel
Best Rotary Tool Accessory Kit: Dremel 160-piece Kit
Why We Like It
With rotary tool attachments for sanding, cutting, carving, polishing, and grinding, the Dremel 160-piece accessory kit features a little of everything.
The kit also included eight removable storage trays that are great for keeping your attachments organized and making them easy to find when needed.
Specs
- Reusable storage case and 160 accessories
- Can stand upright or hang on a wall by a hook
- Ideal for cutting, sanding, polishing, grinding, and carving
- A complete start-up kit offering a breadth of accessories helpful for a wide assortment of tasks
- Clear lid, eight storage bins, and removable trays make accessories easy to locate
Our Take Away
One of the best things about the Dremel family of tools is the vast number of attachments that can be used. This best rotary tool kit makes a great add-on to any Dremel rotary tool and will help dramatically increase your Dremel’s functionality.
Dremel
Rotary Tools -Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What Are the Best Uses For Rotary Tools?
A: The Best Rotary tools best uses are from sanding or carving wood, cutting through metal, and engraving metal or glass.
Anything that requires the application of friction to cut, carve, or finish a surface can be accomplished with a good rotary tool.
Other Common uses for Rotary tools include; sharpening outdoor equipment blades, polishing metal parts, and engraving hard surfaces.
Q; Can You Use Dremel “Bits” in a Power Drill?
A: Dremel bits are Not effective for use in a Power Drill. The rotary tool requires a high RPM to cut, carve, or etch, which power drills do not provide.
A rotary tool provides high speed but not the “torque” produced by drills for drilling through wood, concrete, or driving screws.
Because Dremel bits won’t function properly in a drill, regular drill or driver bits will not fit into a Dremel or rotary tool. As I said, that’s the longer answer 🙂
Q: Is a Rotary Tool Worth It?
A: Whether you do your DIY jobs around the house or work in a skilled trade, a rotary tool is one of the best tools you can own and is worth the purchase. Rotary tools come in compact forms, are easy to store, and only require replacing new bits for dull ones.
Q: What Is the Best Rotary Tool for Carving Wood?
A: The Dremel Lite 7700 and the Dremel 8050 are the best rotary tools for carving wood. The Dremel Lite 7700 is excellent for delicate, intricate wood carving work, while the 8050 will help you make short work of rougher carving jobs.
Q: What Is the Best Dremel Rotary Tool to Buy?
A: For all-around use, we find the Dremel 4000 the best overall rotary tool on the market. While the best tool for you will vary with the intended use, the 4000 model will best fit the average consumer and their workshop.
Q: Why Does Rotary Tool RPM Range Matter?
A: Accomplishing tasks like cutting and polishing metals requires higher RPMs, so considering the rotary tools’ RPM is important. Additionally, Jobs involving softer materials, on the other hand, like wood, typically require lower RPMs.
The best choice is a tool that can be adjusted to several RPM speeds for maximum versatility.
Conclusion
Overall, our reviews of the best rotary tools in today’s market found that the Dremel 4000 topped the list as the best overall Rotary Tool and Kit, with the Goxawee Rotary Tool Kit coming in at a respectable second place.
Consider looking into the Best Value Rotary tool – the WEN 100-piece rotary tool kit for a budget-friendly option.
Either way, whether you choose one of these three models or one of the other top picks on our list, we feel confident in recommending all of the rotary tools as a great addition to your finest tools.
Thanks For Stopping By, and Don’t Forget to Leave a Comment or Make A Suggestion Below – We Would Love to Hear from You!
Additional Reading & References:
- “Rotary Tool Basics” – DIY Network.com
- “The Best Garage Heater You Can Buy” – Besthomegear.com
- “How To Select Wood Carving Rotary Bits – Wood carving Illustrated.Com
- Best Space Heaters For 2020 – Besthomegear.com
- “The History of Dremel And Rotary Tools” – Wikipedia.Org
- “How to Use a Rotary Tool With Photos” – WikiHow.Com
