There are so MANY rotary tools out there... which makes it hard to make the right purchasing decision. This guide will help you pick the right tool!
In order to find the right tool you need to answer these 3 questions:
1) How big is the project you are working on?
2) How small is the project you are working on?
3) What is your budget?
Keep these three questions in mind as we move forward.
Rotary tools for Big Projects
Recommendation 1: Foredom K.5240 Woodcarving Kit
Pros
External speed/foot controller
Consistent torque at lower speeds & higher speeds
Interchangeable hand-pieces & ability for larger 1/4 bits
Has the ability to go forward or in reverse
Cons
Higher cost compared to other similar units
Larger flex shaft tools like the Foredom have a larger motor, which in turn has more torque to "hog" through the wood. These units are very powerful and can handle small to large projects. The Foredom SR has proven itself over the years to be a workhorse in the toughest of conditions.
If you have the budget for it, then you will not go wrong. You will find many available kits in the Foredom. I recommend the K.5240 Kit
Current Price on Amazon: N/A (price fluctuates)
Current Price on Wood Working Shop's Website: $342.95
Recommendation 2: Dremel Fortiflex
Pros
External speed/foot controller
Consistent torque at lower speeds & higher speeds
Best cost/performance value
Cons
Doesn't accept 1/4 bits
NO interchangeable handpieces like the Foredom
The Fortiflex is a great option if you want the power of the Foredom but can't afford one. The price of the Fortiflex is half of the Foredom SR but does come with some limitations. There is no option for a 1/4 bit which can get a little annoying since this has a big motor like the Foredom.
I have carved many pieces of wood with the Fortiflex and it performs on par with the Foredom.
Current Price on Amazon: $219
Recommendation 3: VOTOER Budget Flex Shaft
Pros
Budget-friendly
Cheap to replace
Cons
Rip-off of the Foredom
Cheaper parts
May not last
Questionable warranty
The only reason I have this on my recommended list is because of the number of positive reviews. Please keep in mind this is a cheap knock-off of the Foredom. I do not know what the warranty is like or how long this tool will last.
The reviews seem promising, but keep your fingers crossed when going with cheaper imitations tools.
There are many Chinese knock-offs of the Foredom & Dremel Fortiflex that range from $75-$150. If you do go with one of the cheaper tools, do your research.
Current Price on Amazon: $119
Rotary Tools for Medium to Smaller Sized Projects
Smaller, hand-held rotary tools are the most common and widely available. A common example of this is the standard Dremel.
Dremel and other similar brands are marketed as "hand-held rotary" tools but almost all of them have an option for a flex shaft attachment.
This style of rotary tool will be my main recommendation for the general public because of its versatility.
Recommendation 1: Dremel 3000 w Flex Shaft
The Dremel 3000 is a proven workhorse and is one of the most versatile rotary tools out there. There are many kit options available however, I recommend the one with the flex shaft attachment.
Pros
Easy to find
Versatile
A ton of attachments are available
Cons
Can lack torque for bigger projects
Not necessarily made for hours of extended use
Recommendation 2: Dremel 4000 w Flex Shaft
The Dremel 4000 is an upgraded version of the 3000. In most cases, people are preferring the Dremel 4000 over the 3000 because of the new features.
Main Differences between the Dremel 4000 & 3000
Electronic Feedback (makes adjustments to deliver consistent speeds)
Variable Speed Dial ( The Dremel 3000 has a speed "switch" - This is more efficient)
The Dremel 3000 model has a maximum amperage of 1.2, whereas the 4000 model has 1.6 Amps. The newer 4300 has an even higher amperage rating at 1.8 Amps.
Basically, the Dremel 4000 is a step up from the 3000. If you have the budget, I would recommend the 4000. If you are an overachiever, The Dremel 4300 is extremely nice as well!
Budget Dremel Knock-Off
While I do recommend Dremel tools for their warranty and customer service, there are many budget brands that start at $18 and go up to $50 on Amazon. There are many to choose from so I will recommend the one from my research.
Budget Recommendation: ApexForge
Pros
Budget-friendly
Cheap to replace
Cons
Rip-off of the Dremel
Cheaper parts
May not last
Questionable warranty
This rotary tool will fit the bill if you are on a budget. These tools are usually made in the same factories with different colors and names. This one seems to be more of an established brand so they might actually stay in business which would give you better coverage of a warranty.
Current price on Amazon: $46.72
How Big is Your Carving or Hobby Space?
Many people are limited by the space they can craft in. For this section, I will recommend the two rotary tools below. These rotary tools are unique because the motor is built inside the handpiece.
Recommendation 1: Dremel Stylo
I have used the Dremel Stylo+ for years and I love it! This little thing is a powerhouse and will perform well if you keep your demands reasonable. To see a video demonstration of this tool click here
Pros
Budget-friendly
Great performance
Versatile if you keep your demands reasonable
Cons
None!
Current price on Amazon: $39.97
Recommendation 2: Marathon 111 Micromotor
Pros
Included Foot Controller
Up to 35,000 RPMs
Low Vibration
Compact design
Cons
Complaints of handpiece not working
Not usable with every bit size
The Marathon 111 is a great little rotary tool for detail work because of the low vibration and ease of use. I had to get my handpiece replaced when I first got mine in because my bit would not stay locked in. Other than this problem It has been great.
MANY companies buy these units and put their own brand name on them. I recommend finding the cheapest place to buy.
Current price on Amazon: N/A - Varies on the seller
Battery Operated Rotary Tools:
Recommendation 1: Dremel 8260
This is the world's first SMART Rotary Tool with built-in Bluetooth and an app. Don't let all this tech fool you... This is a POWERHOUSE of a tool outperforming the corded Dremel 4300!
Pros
Can control from a smartphone via Bluetooth
2x longer battery life than Dremel 8220
20% higher power vs Dremel’s most powerful corded tool the 4300
Brushless motor (This extends the life of the tool)
Cons
A lot of people do not like the smart feature
The price might be out of some folk's budget
I made a comprehensive video testing this tool... It BLEW my mind! View the video on YouTube here
Current price at Home Depot: $169.00
Other Worthy Mentions for Battery Operated Rotary Tools:
This is a great budget rotary tool for someone who needs an inexpensive option for light-duty use.
While not as powerful as the Dremel 8260, this still packs some torque to handle heavy task's around the house.
After going through this blog post you probably have more clarity. So, let me ask you these 3 questions again:
1) How big is the project you are working on?
2) How small is the project you are working on?
3) What is your budget?
When looking for a rotary tool, find the one that SERVES your purpose the BEST. The most expensive option may not be the best option for the application you are performing.
Leave a comment below on which rotary tool you use or the one you are thinking about getting.
There is a complete video to go with this blog post, watch it below:
"HowToWoodCarve participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. HowToWoodCarve currently holds affiliation with Dremel. HowToWoodCarve currently holds an affiliation with Amazon.