The Best Rotary Tools for 2022
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Best Rotary Tool
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The size and versatility of a rotary tool make it an indispensable tool for do-it-yourselfers, contractors, electricians, plumbers, remodelers, and more. This tool provides you with access to thousands of cutting, grinding, sanding, and polishing solutions to tackle almost any small job. To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best rotary tools currently available.
UPDATED: April 18, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the Dremel 4000-2/30 because it features 30 assorted accessories, a variable speed motor, and a collet lock for quick changes.
What is a rotary tool?
The most well-known maufacturer is Dremel, such that it has become common to refer to these simply as “Dremel tools” regardless of the brand. It is a relatively a simple device that functions like a small hand-held drill. An electric motor spins a chuck that can hold a range of different drilling, cutting, and sanding accessories. Most models offer variable speeds to futher customize the tool to the task.
Is it the right tool for the job?
Remember that rotary tools are best used for small-scale tasks.
If you have a large sanding job, for example, go with an orbital or belt sander.
Large drilling job? Use a cordless drill or drill press.
Large grinding job? Use a bench grinder.
Here are some features to look out for when selecting a particular model:
Corded vs. Cordless
Thanks to the advancement of battery technology you can now get the equivalent of plug-in power along with the flexibility of a cordless design.
Depending on your needs you may favor one power method over another. For example, if you are typically working away from an available outlet or are bothered by the cord being in the way cordless is the way to go. On the other hand, you may not want to deal with recharging batteries and prefer uninterrupted plug-in power. I have included selections of both cordless and corded tools below.
Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)
As the name implies the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the tool is simply how fast the shaft spins. The end of the shaft has a chuck to which a range of tools and accessories can be connected. This speed can range from around 8,000 RPM up to 30,000+. Some models also offer a variable speed selector that can offer the flexibility to work on a range of projects by setting the appropriate RPM.
Accessories
Some of the rotary tools listed below are simply the bare tool and others come as a kit with cutting wheels, drill bits, and grinders. Depending on what you will be using it for, such as just cutting drywall, the accessories might be unnecessary and it would be best to simply go with a bare tool.
Quick Change Chuck
Some models offer a “quick change” chuck that allows for fast swaps between attachments without the use of a wrench.
Bit Size
Related to the chuck is what size of accessory bits it will accept. The most common sizes are 1/8 in. and 1/4 in. Some tools will accept just one size and others will work with both. If you have an existing collection of bits check to make sure they are compatible.
Body Width
Depending on how you like to hold the tool will determine the ideal overall width of the tool. If you prefer to hold it more like a pencil then a narrow body width would be ideal. However, if you just want to grip it in your hand a larger diameter can be more comfortable.
Lock-On Switch
As the name implies this simply keeps the trigger or power switch locked in the “on” position. This allows you to work without having to hold it down, reducing hand fatigue. Just be careful not to drop it.
Bit Guide
Some tools feature a guide mounted to the end that creates a ring around the bit. This is used for consistent depth control and to keep the cutting bit perpendicular to the work surface. They are typically adjustable which lets you set how far the bit goes into the surface. This is helpful for cutting drywall or sheets of wood.
Weight
If you are going to be using it all day, pay attention to the overall weight. Using a heavy tool for 8 hours+ can cause a lot of hand fatigue. Keep in mind that the cordless options can be heavier than the corded tools when taking into consideration the weight of the battery.
Check out this quick overview and demonstration video featuring a Dremel tool:
Now, on to the individual products. I’ve compiled a list of the top models available from well-known manufacturers including Dremel, DEWALT, Milwaukee, and more. Each unit has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy and has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make an informed selection.
So here is my list of The Best Rotary Tools for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: Dremel 4000-2/30 Rotary Tool Kit
The Dremel 4000-2/30 features a variable speed motor with ball bearing construction for a range of DIY uses.
Features a slim, ergonomic body design with a convenient 360 degree grip.
Works with all existing Dremel accessories and attachments.
Equipped with electronic feedback to maintain consistent speed even while under loads.
Separate on/off switch and speed control dial to set the appropriate speed for the job.
Includes a collet lock for quick accessory changes.
Features replaceable motor brushes to help extend the life of the unit.
Includes a carrying case for storage and transport.
Runner-up: Dremel Lite 7760 Cordless Rotary Tool
The Dremel Lite 7760 features a cordless design powered by a rechargeable 4V Li-Ion battery.
Equipped with four speeds from 8,000 up to 25,000 RPM.
Offers the ability to quickly change accessories without a wrench using the EZ twist nose cap.
Features a lightweight and compact design for easy transport.
Equipped with a 360-degree soft-grip material for comfort while working.
Includes a battery life indicator and a USB charger.
Best for Drywall: DEWALT DW660 Rotary Tool
The DEWALT DW660 features a quick-change system that allows for easy swapping out of bits without a wrench.
Features a turn-on and bump-off switch allowing for easy tool shut off.
Powered by a 5.0 Amp motor with up to 30,000 RPM.
Equipped with a sealed motor and switch to minimize dust infiltration.
Includes both 1/8 and 1/4 inch collets.
Weighs just 3.2 pounds to reduce hand fatigue.
Must-have Accessory:
Don’t forget the extra bits.
Best Cordless: Makita XOC01T 18V Rotary Tool Kit
The Makita XOC01T delivers up to 30,000 RPM for fast and efficient cutting.
Equipped with vent slots to force potential debris out of the work area.
Features a wrench-less quick-change bit system.
Quick and easy tool-less depth adjustment.
Equipped with a power-on slide switch with an always-on lock.
Accepts both 1/8 in. and 1/4 in. bits.
Features an anti-overload system to prevent overheating and damage to the motor.
Charges to full capacity in 45-minutes or less.
Weighs just 3.7 pounds.
Best Value: Dremel 3000-1/25 Rotary Tool
The Dremel 3000-1/25 features the EZ Twist nose cap with an integrated wrench that eliminates the need for a separate tool.
Features a symmetrical design with a trumpet-shaped nose cap to operate with a pencil-like grip.
Equipped with an efficient fan design and side vents for cooler operation.
Offers the ability to use all of the existing Dremel tool accessories.
Best Accessory Options: GOXAWEE G4007 Rotary Tool
The GOXAWEE G4007 is powered by a 110-120V electric motor to simply plug in and use.
Features a variable no-load speed in five steps from 8,000 to 30,000 RPM.
Includes a keyless chuck to quickly make accessory changes.
Equipped with a side-mounted speed dial for quick adjustments.
Equipped with a 1/64 to 1/8 inch (0.5 to 3.2mm) collet to accept a range of accessories.
Best Value Kit: WEN 23190 Rotary Tool
The WEN 23190 comes with an impressive 190 accessories for grinding, polishing, drilling, sanding, and more.
Equipped with a variable speed dial that ranges from 5,000 up to 35,000 RPM.
Comes with a convenient carrying case with a clear top that makes it easy to see all of the accessories.
Works with bits from 1/32” up to 1/8”.
Includes a flex shaft that allows for increased mobility and precision.
Features a lightweight design at just 1.3 pounds.
Best Lightweight Design: Dremel 7700-1/15 Cordless Rotary Tool
The Dremel 7700 offers a lightweight design that comes in at just 1.86 pounds
Features a two-speed motor at either 10,000 or 20,000 RPM.
Includes a three-hour charger with LED light.
Equipped with a removable battery pack.
Compatible with the Dremel 758-01 charger and Dremel 757-01 battery.
Best High RPM Cordless: Milwaukee 2460-20 Rotary Tool
The Milwaukee 2460-20 is powered by a 12V motor and the REDLITHIUM battery system.
Offers a variable speed of 5,000 to 32,000 RPM.
Features a collet that is compatible with all 1/32 and 1/8-inch accessories.
Weighs 1.3 pounds and is 9.5 inches long.
Equipped with grinder-style exhaust ports.
Features a protected front bearing for increased tool life.
Best Flexible Shaft: SE 979FSG Rotary Tool
The SE 979FSG Flexible Shaft rotary tool features a unique design that allows it to hang the motor overhead and use the flexible shaft grinder to work.
Equipped with a foot pedal to control the speed.
Powered by a 1/4 horsepower motor.
Includes 40 accessories.
Provides up to a maximum of 22,000 RPM.
Includes a 5/32” chuck.
Comes with a molded case.
I hope this list of the best rotary tool was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
