Is a Dremel the Same as a Grinder?
For DIY household projects, everyone needs three things: skill, patience and the right tools. Having the right tools for any job gets you halfway to your target. But for that, you need to know what’s in your toolkit.
Many people tend to confuse grinders with other rotary tools due to their ability to accomplish somewhat similar tasks. They are not the same, however, and have many operational differences. Below we’ll cover how the two tools differ from each other.
Dremel Rotary Tool vs. Angle Grinder
As far as angle grinders are concerned, these are heavy-duty power tools designed to cut through hard materials, like tiles, stucco and metal. They are usually used in workshops, auto repair shops and construction sites. Many DIYers also use them for sharpening blades, sanding and polishing different materials, including metal.
On the other hand, Dremel is a brand or an umbrella term used for a variety of power tools used in workshops and construction work. It is also synonymous with a rotary tool that doesn’t rely on high torque like a power drill. This tool uses its fast speed for drilling, carving, cutting, sanding and polishing rigid materials like glass and metal.
Now, let’s discuss their differences in detail:
Weight
Generally speaking, an angle grinder weighs significantly more than a rotary tool. While the former is designed for handling heavy-duty projects and can cut through tough materials, its weight often makes the job difficult.
Most users avoid using an angle grinder for longer projects to give their arms some rest. In contrast, rotary tools tend to be compact and lightweight. DIYers often prefer these tools as they can be used for long hours without causing excessive fatigue.
Power sources
Another significant difference between the two tools is how they’re powered. Angle grinders are commonly powered in two ways: with an air compressor (pneumatic) or electric. While pneumatic grinders are more popular, electric ones offer superior speeds. On the other hand, rotary tools are usually not powered by air compressors. An electric power source almost always powers them.
Cordless operation
Portability is a primary requirement in construction tools because you never know where you will be using them. Having a cordless tool is beneficial because it doesn’t limit you to work only where you can plug it.
While grinders and rotary tools are available in cordless options, the former offers a more powerful output than the latter. If you want a portable but powerful tool, you should go with a grinder instead of a rotary tool because they’re high-powered.
Depth control
To ensure that you are able to cut precisely while handling metal, your tool needs to have depth control. One wrong move and you may end up ruining the piece. As far as grinders are concerned, they usually don’t come with this feature, making them pretty useless for anyone who wants precision. Rotary tools, on the other hand, have great depth control, allowing you to get accurate cuts.
Price
You won’t find a significant difference between the prices of the two tools as long as you choose the ones suitable for DIY projects. If you’re getting one for professional use though, you may find that rotary tools are generally more expensive than angle grinders. If you manage to find low-priced ones, they usually don’t have the right power for professional use.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Use?
Well, it depends. Both tools offer great benefits, but the perks of one may stand out to you more, based on your requirements. You should choose an inexpensive angle grinder if you’re on a budget but need some work done around the house.
If you’re looking for precision, however, you may want to invest in a rotary tool. So, ultimately, it comes down to the requirements, amount, and quality of your work when choosing between the two tools.