Whether you’re a new homeowner, a contractor, an electrician, or anything in between, a rotary tool is one tool that’s worth its weight in gold. With so many different uses, accessories, and attachments, a quality rotary tool can help you save time and money while helping you get the job done right.
However, with much more competition on the market these days, it can be hard to select the best rotary tool for your needs. Today, we’ll cover five of the top models available, and provide you with some tips and info on how you can select the best rotary tool for you.
Top Five Rotary Tools
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These five tools represent some of the best the market has to offer. These tools are full-featured, easy to use, and they all make a strong case for why you should consider them for your next rotary tool.
Dremel 8220-1/28
Last update on 2022-08-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This 12v rotary tool from Dremel is one of the most intriguing models available if you’re looking for a battery powered rotary tool that still packs plenty of power for more demanding jobs.
This model features a 1.5 amp motor with variable speed. It’s capable of reaching an impressive 33,000 RPM, which is more than enough power to tackle the larger jobs that other battery-powered tools might not have enough juice for.
The 8220 series also features Dremel’s EZ Twist nose cap which makes for incredibly fast bit changes, helping you to save time as you work.
Since Dremel manufactures a seemingly endless array of different bits and attachments, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to tackle tons of different types of jobs with your rotary tool.
This model also offers fast charging, and a dead battery can be recharged in an hour. Also included beyond the tool, battery, and charger, are 28 different bits and accessories, and a hard storage case.
The 8220 series is also one of the best when it comes to ergonomics. This tool is small, lightweight, and it feels great in your hand, which makes it easier to use for longer and more demanding jobs.
This rotary tool is protected by a two-year manufacturer warranty.
What We Like
- More powerful than most battery tools
- Fast charging
- Easy bit change
What Could Be Better
- Doesn’t include enough bits and accessories
BLACK+DECKER RTX-6
Last update on 2020-08-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The RTX-6 from BLACK+DECKER has quickly become one of the most popular budget rotary tools on the market. It’s loaded with features that are usually only present on higher-end models, which makes it ideal for those looking for quality tools on a budget.
This variable speed model features a powerful 2-amp motor, and it operates at 12,000/24,000/30,000 RPM, which allows you to easily tailor the power to the task at hand.
While their Flip Lock bit change system isn’t quite as easy as Dremel’s EZ Twist chuck, changing accessories is still easy to do with the RTX-6. Speaking of accessories, this model includes 27 different bits as well as a soft carrying case.
This lightweight model features over-molded rubber grips for added comfort and stability, but it doesn’t quite have the same hefty feeling in your hand that many people look for when shopping for power tools. I’m reluctant to say that this model feels cheap, but it certainly doesn’t have the same high-quality feel of higher-end models.
The universal collet system allows you to use virtually any bit or accessory on the market with this tool, so there’s no limit to what you’ll be able to achieve with your multi-tool. Like the Dremel model above, this rotary tool includes a two-year manufacturer warranty.
What We Like
- Affordable
- Works with bits from other major manufacturers
- Comfortable to use
What Could Be Better
- Doesn’t include many accessories
- Mediocre power for a corded model
Dremel 4000-6/50
Last update on 2022-05-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Arguably the crown jewel of the Dremel line, the 4000 series is a high-end rotary tool designed for professionals, as well as hobbyists who demand the best from their tools.
This model features a powerful 1.6 amp motor with variable speeds between 5,000 and 35,000 RPM. It also features Electronic Feedback, which tailors the speed and power of the tool to the job you’re working on automatically.
This tool features Dremel’s EZ Twist chuck for effortless bit changes, and it includes an impressive array of included bits and accessories. Most notably, you get the Dremel Flex Shaft in this kit, which allows you to tackle a range of difficult jobs you would never have thought a rotary tool could handle.
Altogether, 50 different accessories are included, as well as a hard carrying case and an accessory case. It’s worth noting that there are several expensive accessories included that would set you back another $50-60 if you had to buy them separately.
The 4000 series also features a 360-degree grip zone so you’ll be able to comfortably hold the tool in any position, which is a major plus when working on longer jobs. This rotary tool is backed by a two-year warranty, as well.
What We Like
- Electronic Feedback tailors the power to the job
- Includes Dremel Flex Shaft
- Includes many high-end accessories
What Could Be Better
- Expensive
DeWalt DW660
Last update on 2024-01-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The DW660 from DeWalt provides ample power and reliable operation, and it’s becoming an increasingly popular choice in the rotary tool market.
This tool features the most powerful motor on our list at five amps. However, it only reaches 30,000 RPM, which is a bit on the lower side for a corded rotary tool.
The DW660 features heavy-duty construction that’s made for job site reliability. It features jam-pot construction and a dust-sealed switch to provide longer life, even on dirty and dusty job sites.
That heavy-duty construction translates to heavier weight, too. At over three pounds, this is probably the heaviest rotary tool that’s on the market — the DW660 features ⅛” and ¼” collets, which make it compatible with many bits from top manufacturers.
You’ll need to purchase all of your accessories separately, as the only thing included with this tool are the adapter collets and a single drywall cutting bit. So, while this tool is more affordable than many other top options, you can expect to spend extra assembling a collection of bits and accessories.
The DW660 includes one of the best warranties on the market, and you’ll be covered for three years should anything go wrong.
What We Like
- Built to last
- Impressive warranty
- Works well in tight spaces
What Could Be Better
- Additional weight causes fatigue on longer projects
- Includes no accessories
Tacklife PCG01B
Last update on 2021-05-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What if you’re looking for a small and easy to use rotary tool that’s affordable and ideal for occasional use? Fortunately, Tacklife has you covered.
The PCG01B is tiny, and it features a 3.7v lithium-ion battery and a variable speed motor that operates at 5,000, 10,000, or 15,000 RPM. This kit includes 31 different accessories as well as 3/32” and ⅛” adapter collets.
While 3/32” shaft bits aren’t very popular and can be difficult to find, you’ll be able to use plenty of compatible ⅛” bits with this tool. Fortunately, Tacklife does manufacture a massive 282-piece accessory kit that’s compatible with this model, which greatly increases the number of jobs you can tackle.
The extremely compact design of the PCG01B makes this an ideal tool for intricate detail work, and for working in tight spaces where other rotary tools can’t go.
Considering the small size and light weight of this tool, it’s a great option to have in your back pocket for small jobs or occasional use where it makes less sense to break out your big rotary tool.
However, if you’re looking for a high-powered rotary tool that’s compatible with virtually all bits and accessories, you’ll probably want to look towards a more capable model. This model from Tacklife includes a two-year warranty.
What We Like
- Incredibly lightweight and perfect for small detail work
- Comfortable to use
- Affordable
What Could Be Better
- Tiny motor lacks the power needed for bigger jobs
- Only includes a few accessories
- Not as compatible with accessories from other brands
Rotary Tool Buying Guide
You may decide to purchase one of the tools listed above, or you may prefer to go your own way and find another tool by a different brand. Whichever way you go, there are some important features to look for and considerations to make before deciding on a rotary tool.
Battery or Electric
Initially, all rotary tools were corded electric models, but new technology has allowed brands to produce some very compelling battery-powered models, as well.
Battery powered rotary tools have some inherent advantages. For one, since they don’t require an electrical outlet, there’s more freedom of motion when using a battery model. It’s also easier to work in tight areas where a corded model may not be able to fit.
Since no electric is required, these models are also very helpful when working at a job site that doesn’t have power available.
But, with battery models, you’re at the mercy of the amount of power remaining in the battery. If your tool dies and you don’t have a spare battery handy, you’ll have to stop what you’re doing until your battery recharges.
Many people keep both battery and electric models on hand depending on the type of project they’re working on.
Power
Another major point to consider is the power of the rotary tool. Today’s heavy-duty options often have powerful 3-amp or higher motors that spin at an incredible 30,000 RPM or more.
Corded models usually have far more power than their battery-powered counterparts, which is another point to consider when evaluating corded or battery models.
While a motor with lower power can still make quick work of small jobs around the house, heavy-duty jobs benefit immensely from a more powerful motor. So, if you plan on tackling bigger jobs with your rotary tool, look for a high powered model with a 30,000 RPM or higher motor.
Ventilation
How well vented your rotary tool is can play a major part in the overall life of the tool.
When rotary tools die, damage from overheating is one of the most notorious culprits. Meanwhile, well-vented models are far less prone to overheating.
Cheaper tools rarely prioritize ventilation, and as a result, a cheaper tool is far more likely to burn out than a more expensive option.
Accessories
Today’s rotary tools have a seemingly endless array of different accessories, which help make the rotary tool one of the most versatile power tools you can own.
Even cheaper models often come with a broad selection of bits and accessories to help you maximize what you can do with your rotary tool.
In particular, Dremel makes the largest selection of bits and accessories. While other brands usually play nice with bits and accessories from Dremel or another manufacturer, I’ll always have a soft spot for brands that make their own bits and accessories, specifically designed to work with their tools.
If you’re looking to be able to use the broadest selection of bits and accessories for your rotary tool, Dremel may be your best choice.
Bit Changing
Originally, changing bits on your rotary tool was a pain in the butt. They had chucks similar to an old power drill, and a key was required to change accessories. Today, many cheaper models still feature old-school style chucks that make changing bits a headache.
Meanwhile, higher-end models usually feature keyless chucks that make changing bits easy. Some models even allow you to change bits with one hand. This helps you save time so you can focus on the task at hand instead of wasting time changing bits.
Ergonomics
The issue of ergonomics mostly comes into play for woodworking tasks and large scale jobs. Rotary tools are fairly lightweight and easy to control. But, after fifteen or twenty minutes of continuous use, they can take a toll on your hands.
Today’s high-end models are ergonomically designed to reduce fatigue while also making it easier for you to comfortably control your rotary tool, which makes it feel more like an extension of your hand and less like a clumsy power tool.
If you plan on tackling intricate detail work, or larger jobs, an ergonomically designed tool will help reduce fatigue and allow you to work with precision.
User Serviceable Parts
If you’re looking for a rotary tool you’ll be able to pass onto your kids one day; you’ll want to look for a model that has user serviceable parts, such as replaceable motor brushes.
Being able to perform maintenance and repairs on your rotary tool is critical to the long life of the tool. Motor brushes, in particular, should be replaced every 40-50 hours of use, and they can help keep your rotary tool working in tip-top condition for many more years to come.
FAQ
Q: What’s the difference between a Dremel and a rotary tool?
Nothing, since a Dremel is a rotary tool. In years past, Dremel was the only gig in town, and their brand name was so ubiquitous with rotary tools in general that most people use the names Dremel and rotary tool interchangeably, even today.
While Dremel is still arguably the leading manufacturer of rotary tools, there are tons of other quality manufacturers, such as DeWalt, Hitachi, BLACK+DECKER, and more.
Q: Can I use bits from other manufacturers if my rotary tool is made by another brand?
In almost all cases the answer is yes. All rotary tools feature similar chucks and collets, and most bits will work with any tool. Depending on the size of the shaft on the bit or accessory, you may need to use an adapter collet to get it to work properly.
Q: Which is better, battery or corded?
The answer to this question will largely depend on the type of work you plan on doing, how much power you require, and whether or not you’ll ever need to travel with your rotary tool.
Corded models are typically more powerful and provide constant, steady power. But, they’re usually a bit larger than battery models, and they can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. Also, if you’re working somewhere without electric, you won’t be able to use your tool.
Meanwhile, battery-powered models are more portable and easier to maneuver in tight spaces. They can also be used anywhere, even where there’s no power available. Many people purchase and use both.
Final Verdict
When it comes to selecting the best rotary tool, characteristics like power, versatility, and ergonomics are major points to consider before buying. While all five of the models we discussed would make a great choice for your next rotary tool, there can only be one overall winner in our roundup.
Last update on 2022-05-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
That title goes to the Dremel 4000-6/50. This rotary tool provides industry-leading performance with a generous selection of included accessories, which helps make this one of the most versatile tools on the market.
The 4000-6/50 features power to spare, it’s easy and comfortable to use, and it’s built to stand up to anything you can throw at it.
Meanwhile, if you’re hoping for a more economical option, you may want to take a closer look at the BLACK+DECKER RTX-6.
