Die Grinder vs Dremel Rotary Tool – Which One Should You Choose?

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Die grinder and Dremels are types of rotary tools that are very popular with both professional woodworkers and homeowners. This is because the tools are very good at completing projects that involve grinding, polishing, cutting, carving, sharpening and sanding.

However, a majority of buyers are usually confused on which brand to go for. For you to decide on Dremel rotary tool vs die grinder, we are going to look at the main features that differentiates the two. They include:

The Main Differences Between a Die Grinder & Dremel Rotary Tool

They have different sources of power

Dremels are usually powered by electricity which is either fed through a cord or a battery. When the battery dies, you can no longer use the tool. Power is measured in amps.

Die grinders on the other hand are quite the opposite of Dremels as they require more energy to run.  The tools are thus powered by an air compressor. However, there are models that are powered by electricity through the installation of powerful motors.

The two fall in different categories

Dremel is a company that is well established in the rotary tool market. Their products are popular with both home owners as well as professional woodworkers because of their ease of use and durability. You will find other similar brands on the market that compete with Dremel. A perfect example is WEN rotary tools.

Die grinders on the other hand comes as a category of tools that are powered by air compressors.  In addition to having many brands that make die grinders, the tools have a wide range of variations that are dependent on the design and how they work. They are however more powerful than rotary tools.

Click here to check the prices of Dremel Rotary Tools

Differences in size

One of the reasons why many people go for Dremel rotary tools is that they come in small compact sizes. As a result, users can find it easy carrying the tool to their project sites.

On the other hand, die grinders are just the opposite of this as they come in considerably larger sizes.  Although compact die grinders are also available on the market, they are still much larger than the average Dremel rotary tools.

Similarly, the attachments and accessories for die grinders are much larger. And although you will find smaller die grinders on the market, they are still weighty because of the air compressors that they use.

The two differ in rpm ranges

Most Dremel rotary tools have a maximum speed of 35000 rpm. This is the top speed at which an attachment or bit can spin when in operation.  This is the case for both corded and cordless Dremel rotary tools on the market.

However, it is important to note that this speed is variable. Therefore, you can set the speed that suits the material or task that you are handling.  

In contrast, most die grinders spin at between 20000 and 25000 rpm. However, the speed is dependent on both the type of bit or disk that you are using as there are attachments that require higher speeds than others. Generally, Dremel bits are much faster given their small size.

However, it is important to note that most home based tasks require low speeds. Like the Dremel, most die grinders and rotary tools come with speed adjustments that allow you to choose a speed that speed that suits your tasks.

You get different torque levels

Both die grinder and Dremel can produce the highest torque at top speed. However, die grinders are able to produce more torque than Dremel rotary tools based on how they operate.

Die grinders use powerful air compressors that are able to tackle the most challenging materials around. That is why these tools are preferred for heavy duty applications.

Capacity is dependent on source of power

For small home based projects, Dremel rotary tools are the most desirable tools to use. The most powerful Dremel tool is the 4300 that comes fitted with a 1.8 amp motor.  This tool can handle most of your household repair needs.

On the other hand, die grinders are in a class of their own owing to the fact that they produce insane rotary power.  When deciding on die grinder vs air Dremel, you need to realize that a die grinder is best for working on hard materials such as metal.

Also, it is a must have if you are working in a big workshop as they can help you complete big projects within a short time. Furthermore, they do not breakdown easily owing to their robust construction.

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How they deal with heat

When you operate electrical power tools for a long time, they have a tendency to overheat. At such an instance, you need to stop working so that you can give them time to cool down. This can bring inconveniences especially when working on a project with a deadline.

The good thing is that a die grinder is exempt to this rule. The tools are driven by an air compressor that does not produce heat during operation. As a result, you can use the tool for long periods of time without worrying that they will overheat.

Features of Dremels:

  • Powered by battery or electricity
  • Has higher speeds that max out at 35000 rpm
  • Compact sizes
  • Most powerful has a 1.8 amp motor
  • Relatively quiet  operation
  • Lightweight at an average of 25 lbs

Features of die grinders

  • Powered by air compressors
  • Feature large sizes
  • Produce more power
  • Can be used on large projects
  • Weighs above 30 lbs
  • Are durable

Conclusion

After looking at the above comparison, it is now clear what the main differences between a die grinder and a Dremel rotary tool are. As a result, you will be able to identify the one that will suits your needs and project the best.

In addition, we have learnt one thing from cordless die grinder vs Dremel: A die grinder is suitable for heavy duty tasks while a Dremel is designed for lightweight tasks.

Click here to check the prices of Dremel Rotary Tools