10 Best Rotary Tools of 2024

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The Best Rotary Tools

The Best Rotary Tools
  1. Best 12V cordless multi tool - Dremel 8220 Cordless 12 Volt Rotary Tool Kit

  2. Best corded rotary tool for crafters - Dremel 3000 130 Watt Rotary Tool Kit

  3. Best budget rotary tool for beginners - Hi-Spec Power 170 Watt Rotary Tool Kit

  4. Best for serious hobbyists - Dremel 4000 Rotary Tool

  5. Best budget rotary tool for accessories - Terratek 135 Watt Rotary Tool with Accessory Set and Storage Case

  6. Best budget version with keyless chuck - Goxawee 130 Watt Rotary Tool Kit

  7. Best cordless multi tool for charging time - Ginour Cordless Rotary Tool

  8. Best cordless precision rotary tool - Dremel Lite 7760 Cordless Precision Rotary Tool

  9. Best budget rotary tool - VonHaus Heavy Duty 170 Watt Rotary Tool

  10. Best battery powered rotary tool for power - Ryobi R18RT-0 18V ONE+ Cordless Rotary Tool

Rotary Tool Reviews

Editors Choice

1. Dremel 8220 Cordless 12 Volt Rotary Tool Kit

Best 12V cordless multi tool

best rotary tool Dremel 8220 Cordless 12 Volt Rotary Tool Kit
  • Huge range of rotation speed. You can go between 5,000 – 35,000 rpm, which makes it suitable for drilling, cutting, grinding, polishing, and just about any other job.
  • The tool free “EZ-Twist” nose cap makes changing bits as easy as it sounds. You don’t need to fiddle about with a mini spanner when you swap between a cutting disc and drill bit.
  • The detailer’s grip is brilliant for getting the most control for delicate jobs like engraving or carving. It attaches to the front of the tool and gives you more leverage and control.
  • The shaping platform is another excellent accessory that elevates this rotary tool to pro-levels. You can shape, grind, or cut at precise 45° or 90° angles effortlessly.

  • Anyone who uses a rotary tool like this a lot will appreciate a flexible shaft. It’s a shame that a comprehensive kit like this doesn’t come with one. It’s probably the most useful accessory.
  • This is a brilliant piece of kit for a professional or serious craftsperson, but it’s a lot of money to spend for a casual DIYer. Compared with the HI-Spec tool it’s rather expensive.
Power
Battery - 12V
No-Load Speed
5,000-35,000rpm
Speed Settings
Fully Variable
Accessories
45
Attachments
2
Tool-less
Yes
Storage
Case
Overall Score 4.3
Build Quality
5
Performance
5
Ease of Use
4
Value for Money
3

The biggest name in rotary tools, someone might ask to borrow your Dremel no matter what brand you own. They’ve been in the game for a long time too, so they know a thing or two about making the best cordless rotary tool on the market. The 8220 12V cordless muti tool is a lightweight and highly versatile tool with a comfortable grip and great performance. It’s a really useful piece of kit that will make your life a lot easier whether you’re a DIYer or a craftsperson.

The first thing I like about this tool is the soft grip. The soft rubberised material used helps to cut down on vibration and means you can use it for long sessions without hurting your hands. The rotation speed is controlled by a slider and there’s a bright LED work light perched on the front for working in dark corners. It weighs just 660 g.

It runs on 12V power, so there’s plenty of grunt for grinding and cutting, unlike underpowered rotary tools you can almost stop with your hand. You also get a generous 2.0 Ah battery on board that’s removable, so you can buy extra batteries and not suffer any downtime when one runs low. It’s great not having a trailing cable or an annoying internal battery that can’t be replaced.

It all comes in a sturdy blow-moulded plastic case that’s held closed with chunky clips. There’s space in there for the shaping platform and detailers grip accessories plus the 45-piece accessory kit that comes with heads for carving, cleaning, polishing, or whatever you turn your hand to. It’s hard to beat a top-spec Dremel like this.

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Runner Up

2. Dremel 3000 130 Watt Rotary Tool Kit[ SAVE 18% ]

Best corded rotary tool for crafters

best rotary tool Dremel 3000 130 Watt Rotary Tool Kit
  • The EZ-Twist nose cap does away with fiddly bit changes. You can quickly swap bits between cutting, drilling, and grinding without the little spanner. It saves time and a bit of effort.
  • This is a relatively inexpensive rotary tool made by the premier brand that offers great performance, just without the bells and whistles compared with the Dremel 8200.
  • Something that Dremel does well is the interchangeable nose caps. The standard one offers comfortable grip and control all the way to the front of the tool, and others are available.

  • This rotary tool doesn’t come with Dremel’s extremely handy shaping platform or detailer’s grip. They’re probably the best accessories for doing accurate work.
  • Weighing in at 1.1 kg, this rotary tool is rather heavy. If you want to do fine work or use the tool for long sessions, it can get tiring. It’s a shame a flexible shaft isn’t included.
Power
Mains - 130W
No-Load Speed
10,000-33,000rpm
Speed Settings
Fully Variable
Accessories
15
Attachments
0
Tool-less
Yes
Storage
Case
Overall Score 4.3
Build Quality
5
Performance
4.5
Ease of Use
3.5
Value for Money
4

Needing no special introduction, Dremel have been making the best rotary tools for close to a century now. The 3000 series corded rotary tool is one of the more affordable Dremel tools that boasts excellent performance without costing too much. If you want a powerful rotary tool for making things, and don’t mind the power cord, this is a hard tool to beat for the price.

The shape and design of this rotary tool make it comfortable to hold on to, and the rubberised grip sections stretch right to the front for added control. The onboard 130 W motor boasts mains power torque and a variable speed of 10,000 – 30,000 rpm. It doesn’t come with a work light or flexible shaft.

The tool comes in a blue semi-rigid case that zips closed. It provides a decent level of protection, and there’s space to add more bits and pieces as you collect more. It comes with a small 15-piece accessory kit that includes all the basics, but it would be good to add more when you get a chance. If you want a solidly built and reliable corded rotary tool, this is the one.

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Also Good

3. Hi-Spec Power 170 Watt Rotary Tool Kit[ SAVE 21% ]

Best budget rotary tool for beginners

best rotary tool Hi Spec Power 170 Watt Rotary Tool Kit
  • You get an enormous accessory kit with this rotary tool. So many that you might take a while learning what they can all do. Regardless, you won’t need to stock on bits up any time soon.
  • It’s hard to argue with a rotary tool that comes in at this price point. It’s compatible with Dremel bits and accessories, provides plenty of power, and is comfortable enough to use.
  • One of the best things about these types of rotary tool is that they can usually share bits. If you buy decent quality Dremel branded accessories, they will fit a budget model like this.
  • Corded tools are fine if you have plenty of power cable to play with. You get nearly 2 m of flexible cord with this tool which is enough for benchtop work in most situations.

  • Having lots of different bits, cutting discs, and grinding dies is great for practising your technique, but the individual quality of them isn’t exceptional. Upgrade them when you can.
  • Compared with the Dremel 3000, this rotary tool lacks a case of any sort. You can keep it in the cardboard box, but a case with accessory and bit storage is essential for a tool like this.
  • Compared with the Dremel EZ-Twist tool-free bit holder, the ones supplied with this tool are lacking. You get three different size collets, but they’re fiddly and not as secure.
Power
Mains - 170W
No-Load Speed
8,000-35,000rpm
Speed Settings
Fully Variable
Accessories
120
Attachments
0
Tool-less
No
Storage
Accessory Box only
Overall Score 3.9
Build Quality
3.5
Performance
3
Ease of Use
4
Value for Money
5

With a wide range of power tools for the home and garden, Hi-Spec are a reliable brand that make everything from drills to vices. The Hi-Spec Power 170 Watt rotary tool is a remarkably powerful corded device that boasts impressive specs for not a lot of money. If you want a rotary tool on a budget, you can get this one and upgrade it with new bits and accessories when you want.

Starting with the design and ergonomics, the Hi-Spec is the right shape, although it lacks the grippy rubberised sections you get on the best rotary tools. What you do get is a powerful 170 Watt motor that blows most of the competition out of the water. It can spin up the drilling, carving, or grinding end from 8,000 – 35,000 rpm, which is impressive for a budget multi-tool like this. And it only weighs 550 g.

What makes this one of the best budget rotary tools available right now is the huge accessory kit that comes with it. You get 120 sanding discs, cutting discs, drill bits, wheel points, grinding stones, mandrels, cutters, and brushes. You could try your hand at a huge range of jobs without needing to buy new accessories. It’s simply a case of plug in and see what you can create.

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4. Dremel 4000 Rotary Tool

Best for serious hobbyists

best rotary tool Dremel 4000 Rotary Tool
  • With nearly 100 years of service, Dremel are the original and best rotary tool brand out there. The quality of the tools and accessories are excellent and should last for ages.
  • The massive range of speed on this powerful tool is impressive. You get 5,000 – 35,000 rpm to play with. You can choose whatever speed setting feels right with the variable speed control wheel.
  • The included EZ SpeedClic Starter Set is fantastic! Instead of fiddling with cutting discs, they simply pop on and off. There’re tons of different sanding and grinding heads available too.
  • The circle or straight cutting jig turns this powerful rotary tool into a precision woodworking tool. Depending on what accessory you fit, you could cut, grind or sand with great accuracy.

  • As useful as this tool is in the workshop, you’re still tethered to the national grid as this is still a corded rotary tool. Compared with the cordless Dremel Lite 7760, you can’t take it out on a job with you.
  • Some users have complained about the poor instructions that come with the Dremel 4000. The writing is tiny, and it doesn’t do a good job explaining what the attachments do.
  • The case is excellent quality but there’s not much room for added extras. A bit more room would be welcomed.
Power
Mains - 175W
No-Load Speed
5,000-35,000rpm
Speed Settings
Fully Variable
Accessories
128
Attachments
6
Tool-less
Yes
Storage
Case
Overall Score 4.3
Build Quality
5
Performance
4
Ease of Use
5
Value for Money
3

The name Dremel is as much associated with rotary tools as Hoover is with vacuum cleaners, or Sellotape is with sticky tape. Developed all the way back in 1935, it’s the granddaddy of rotary tools and the most trusted brand out there.

The Dremel 4000 is widely regarded as one of the best handheld craft tools available right now. You get six quality attachments, and an excellent accessory set to go with it. It makes this a brilliant buy for any DIYer or craftsperson. And it comes in a solid tool case to keep everything organised and safe.

The Dremel itself should be a familiar sight to most craftspeople or DIYers. It’s a simple but robust handheld tool with simple controls that are easy to master. There’s an ON/OFF switch, a speed selection roller and a locking button. They’re sturdy blue controls that are built to last.

What makes this one of the best rotary tools out there is the quality of the six accessories that come with it. You get a flexible drive shaft, a circle or straight cutting jig, a cutting guide, a detailer’s grip handle, a shaping platform, and a right-angle attachment. They work to elevate this tool above the competition because they’re not gimmicks but quality accessories that make this one of the most versatile tools you’ll have in your toolbox.

Whether you’re going to use the Dremel 4000 for grinding, cleaning, polishing, or drilling, the massive speed range and tool-free bit-changing will save you time and the recently introduced LED light will make those tasks even easier. It might even improve the quality of your workmanship. I’m a big fan of Dremel and I’m not sure I could do without one in my shed.

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  • You get an absolutely huge range of bits, brushes, sanding drums, cutting wheels, drill bits, and sanding bands with this rotary too. There are 234 different ones to try out.
  • It’s hard to ignore such a huge toolkit and powerful rotary tool for this sort of price. Even if the individual components aren’t class leading, it is fine for light DIY work.
  • Compared with the Hi-Spec rotary tool, this one comes with a case. You’ve got room to store the tool and accessory kit, keep everything together, and protect it from most knocks.

  • Compared with the quality bits you get with a Dremel rotary tool, these ones aren’t the best. They’re fine for a few uses, but don’t expect to push them hard or they’ll just break.
  • Some users have complained that this rotary tool is underpowered. It might not have the torque of the Dremel 3000 corded version, but it’s still fine for light duty work.
Power
Mains - 135W
No-Load Speed
8,000-33,000rpm
Speed Settings
6
Accessories
234
Attachments
0
Tool-less
No
Storage
Case
Overall Score 3.8
Build Quality
3
Performance
3.5
Ease of Use
3.5
Value for Money
5

Firmly filling the position of decent quality but budget-friendly tools and accessories is Terratek. The 235 Watt rotary tool they manufacture comes as a huge kit with hundreds of different bits and even a case to keep things safe. This extremely budget-friendly rotary tool kit is an ideal solution for the weekend DIYer who wants to do some crafting without emptying their wallet.

The motor 135 Watt onboard motor is powerful enough for DIY work, and it can produce from 8,000 – 33,000 rpm. It’s a comfortable enough tool to use, but it lacks the vibration-damping rubber of a more expensive model. Weighing just over 1 kg, it’s not the lightest rotary tool I’ve seen, but it’s fine for a budget model.

You don’t get an LED work light or flexible shaft, but there’s an enormous set of accessories to get working with straight away. It comes with a set of three different size collets – 1.6, 2.3, and 3.2mm for different thickness attachments as well. It’s a very handy addition to any crafter’s toolkit and can cut, grind, sand, or polish a wide range of materials.

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6. Goxawee 130 Watt Rotary Tool Kit[ SAVE 28% ]

Best budget version with keyless chuck

best rotary tool Goxawee 130 Watt Rotary Tool Kit
  • The Goxawee has tool-free bit changing. The collets include traditional drill chucks that can be tightened by hand.
  • Goxawee have included, on top of the extensive accessory kit, a pair of replacement brushes for the motor. It’s always good to see companies that think forward like that.
  • Even though there are five variable speed settings marked on the selector switch, there are stops in between them. This means there’s a wider range of speeds to select from.
  • The hard plastic case does a great job at keeping everything stored and the dedicated flex shaft storage is very handy.

  • You only get 8,000 – 30,000 rpm range to play with. That’s less range compared to other rotary tools like the Dremel 4000.
  • The power cable isn’t very long. It doesn’t quite reach 1.3 m, which is just not enough for corded rotary tools. Compared with other rotary tools, it’s disappointing.
  • With just 130 Watts to play with, this is an underpowered rotary tool compared with the Dremel 4000’s 175 Watts. Some users have complained they can stop the tool too easily.
  • The quality of the included bits leaves a lot to be desired. It’s great that there are so many included, but if they don’t last, they’re less useful than a few quality accessories.
  • It’s a shame that the rotary tool itself isn’t ergonomically designed and doesn’t have any rubberised sections to aid grip. Compared to the Ginour rotary tool it’s not comfortable.
Power
Mains - 130W
No-Load Speed
8,000-30,000rpm
Speed Settings
5
Accessories
140
Attachments
4
Tool-less
Yes
Storage
Case & Accessory Box
Overall Score 4.3
Build Quality
4
Performance
4
Ease of Use
5
Value for Money
4

Tool and gadget company Goxawee make a few different types of cordless drill and rotary tool kits. Their 130 Watt rotary tool kit comes with a massive 140 piece accessory kit and a decent case to keep everything safe.

The multi-tool itself is a solidly built piece of kit. It certainly doesn’t seem inadequate or that it will fall apart after a couple of uses. It’s not the most ergonomically designed rotary tool, but it fits in the hand well enough and is easy to operate. There are only two controls- the spindle lock and the variable speed control slide that doubles up as the on/off switch.

You get five speed settings to choose from, but the value of this tool comes from the extensive accessory kit. You get a pair of useful attachments- a long flex shaft and a fixed router collet as well as a clear plastic shrapnel guard. There’s then a huge range of grinding, cutting, polishing, sanding, and cleaning attachments, all supplied in a blow-moulded plastic case.

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7. Ginour Cordless Rotary Tool[ SAVE 17% ]

Best cordless multi tool for charging time

best rotary tool Ginour Cordless Rotary Tool
  • The size and weight of this rotary tool means it’s incredibly easy to handle. In fact, compared to the full size Dremel 4000, this feels more like you’re using the flex shaft attachment permanently.
  • This is an incredibly inexpensive way to get into working with rotary tools. For the price, it’s more than capable for light crafts like jewellery making.
  • Charging the battery to 100% takes around 2 hours. This is a lot quicker compared with the Dremel Lite, and less downtime means more worktime!
  • Even though this is a budget tool, an automatic shutoff feature is included. If you try to put too much pressure on the bit, it will turn off rather than overheat.

  • You can’t push this little rotary tool hard. The tiny, brushed motor is not powerful enough for anything more than light work on soft materials. If you overdo it, it will cut out.
  • Although this kit comes with a Micro USB charging cable, it doesn’t come with a standard 3-pin plug. Although most people have access to USB power, it might catch some users out.
  • Compared with the Dremel Lite, the speed range of 5,000 – 15,000 rpm is really slow. If you’re planning on using high speed settings, this isn’t the best choice of rotary tool.
  • Compared with the Dremel tools , this little device doesn’t come with a case. It’s shipped in a cardboard box, but I’d rather have something more protective.
Power
Battery - 3.7V
No-Load Speed
5,000-15,000rpm
Speed Settings
3
Accessories
32
Attachments
0
Tool-less
No
Storage
Accessory Box Only
Overall Score 4
Build Quality
4
Performance
3
Ease of Use
5
Value for Money
4

With an impressive range of tools to suit all budgets, Ginour make everything from metal detectors to laser range finders. With their recognisable green cases, their take on the cordless version of a rotary tool is a reliable and functional bit of kit that’s ideal for DIY or craft applications.

The first comparison I made between this rotary tool and the full-on Dremel 4000 series is the size and weight. This is a tiny little multi-tool that weighs just 240 g and feels more like a bulky pen than a traditional rotary tool. You get three variable speeds to choose from that are controlled with just one button.

Doing away with power cords, this little rotary tool makes use of a 3.7 Volt Lithium-Ion battery. It charges up using a standard Micro USB cable and comes with a decent little rotary tool kit that includes 32 different bits for grinding, sanding, and drilling.

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8. Dremel Lite 7760 Cordless Precision Rotary Tool[ SAVE 8% ]

Best cordless precision rotary tool

best rotary tool Dremel Lite 7760 Cordless Precision Rotary Tool
  • Compared with the Dremel 4000, you’re getting the same tried and tested technology, just without the cords. It makes this an ideal small tool for using on the job away from the mains.
  • Operating this rotary tool couldn’t be easier. There’re just two controls- the locking button for changing bits and a slider that turns it on and selects the speed setting..
  • The variable speed settings available on this tool compared with the cordless Ginour rotary tool are incredible. Having 8,000 – 25,000 rpm in a battery powered tool is really impressive.
  • Thanks to the light weight and grippy rubberised texture on this power tool, it’s wonderfully easy to hang on to. There’s not a lot of vibration either, which makes it fine for precision jobs.

  • The charging time of around three hours is pretty slow compared with a lot of modern battery powered rotary tools. It means you’re out of action for a long time unless you remember to keep it fully charged!
  • You can’t run rotary tools like this off the mains. Even with the Micro-USB plugged into the wall, it won’t turn on. If you run out of power, you’re waiting for a recharge. No cheating.
  • Compared with the Dremel 4000 rotary tool, it’s a shame you don’t get a decent case to hold this one. You just get a cardboard box and separate holder for the bits.
  • You don’t get the brilliant attachments compared with the Dremel 4000 set. The detailer’s grip handle, for example, would have been an ideal inclusion for this tool.
  • Unfortunately, you can’t replace the Lithium-Ion battery inside this power tool. Over time, batteries lose their charge, so there’s a definite useful life span for this tool.
Power
Battery - 3.6V
No-Load Speed
8,000-25,000rpm
Speed Settings
4
Accessories
15
Attachments
0
Tool-less
Yes
Storage
Accessory Box Only
Overall Score 4.3
Build Quality
5
Performance
4
Ease of Use
5
Value for Money
3

Here’s another entry from the king of rotary tool brands, Dremel. My hopes were high for this Dremel Lite Cordless Precision Multi-Tool, and I’m pleased to say it’s a marvellous addition to any craftsperson’s tool kit and one of the best cordless rotary tools out there.

Looking unsurprisingly like the excellent Dremel 4000, there are a few differences that make this cordless tool extremely easy to manoeuvre. Weighing in at a mere 270 g, it’s lighter, and you of course do away with the power cord. The power comes instead from a 3.6 Volt Lithium-Ion battery that is charged with a standard Micro USB cable.

Although this cordless tool doesn’t come with a fully adjustable variable speed range, there are four variable speed settings to choose from that give you enough range for a portable multi-tool like this. You don’t need any tools to change over the bits either, thanks to the clever end cap that can be used as a spanner as well as a grip.

Supplied with a small plastic box of 15 different bits, there’s enough to get you started on whatever DIY project is in front of you. You get a reasonable selection of bits including grinding wheels, polishing pads, cleaning brushes, and a high-speed cutter. Not lots, but enough to get going.

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9. VonHaus Heavy Duty 170 Watt Rotary Tool

Best budget rotary tool

best rotary tool VonHaus Heavy Duty 170 Watt Rotary Tool
  • The 170 Watt motor is a capable bit of power to have under the bonnet. Compared with the Goxawee’s small 130 Watt power plant, this powerful rotary tool is going to do the business when you need it.
  • VonHaus have included a hanging hook, which means you can use it safely with a flex shaft attachment. Although you will need to buy one separately.
  • Getting 120 accessories to practise with is impressive. It means you can buy a rotary tool and try it out on a range of surfaces without having to fork out more cash straight away
  • This is an inexpensive crafting tool. Compared with the Dremel 4000 set, it’s affordable to almost anyone that wants to try out rotary tools for their next project.

  • Compared with the Dremel 4000 or the Tilswall rotary tool, you don’t get any attachments. If it had a flexible drive shaft or precision grip it would be a lot more versatile and useful.
  • It also doesn’t come in a carry case. You get a plastic box for the accessories, but nowhere to store the rotary tool when it’s not in use. It could be prone to damage without one.
  • Several users have complained about the quality of the included collets. After repeated use, they don’t grip the bits tight enough, which could be dangerous.
  • There seems to be a lot of vibration when the tool is used at higher speeds. This could be due to less than perfect machining, and it could shorten the useful life of the tool.
Power
Mains - 170W
No-Load Speed
8,000-30,000rpm
Speed Settings
6
Accessories
120
Attachments
0
Tool-less
No
Storage
Accessory Box Only
Overall Score 4.5
Build Quality
4
Performance
4
Ease of Use
5
Value for Money
5

Manchester-based VonHaus have been getting a lot of good reviews for their budget-friendly but useful tools in recent years. Their 170 Watt powerful rotary tool is a handy piece of kit that will improve the arsenal of any craftsperson without emptying their wallet.

Starting with how VonHaus have designed this rotary tool, they’ve gone for a slightly angled end that I suppose means you can switch it on and off with your little finger. I’m not sure it makes it more ergonomic as it’s not the most comfortable tool to hold, but there are a few rubbery bits to make it a bit more grippy.

You can choose from six different speed settings using a roller on top of the device, and the long power cord means you can get it to where you need it without resorting to a flex shaft. That’s probably for the best because you don’t get one included in this set.

What you do get is a 120 piece accessory kit that includes a range of drill bits, different shaped grinding stones, polishing pads, and cutting wheels. If you’re just getting into using a rotary tool, this is a good place to start. It’s one of the best cheap multi-tools out there for the money.

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10. Ryobi R18RT-0 18V ONE+ Cordless Rotary Tool

Best battery powered rotary tool for power

best rotary tool Ryobi R18RT 0 18V ONE+ Cordless Rotary Tool
  • Compared with the lightweight Ginour cordless tool, this thing is a beast. The 18 Volt battery system gives it an impressive amount of power for such a small tool.
  • With a variable speed ranging between 4,000 and 35,000 rpm, this is a versatile and powerful bit of kit compared to other cordless rotary tools.
  • The rotary tool station features several different ways to hang it or attach it to a wall. It turns this rotary tool into a brilliant work bench implement if you want it to.
  • If you use this tool with one of Ryobi’s big 5.0 Ah batteries, you get up to 87 minutes of work time working with wood. Compared with the Dremel Lite’s 40 minutes, it’s really impressive.
  • Compared with the other cordless rotary tools like the Dremel Lite and Ginour, you can swap the batteries out when they run flat. Provided you’ve got spares, there’s barely any downtime.

  • This rotary tool station is sold as a “bare” tool. That means it doesn’t come with a battery or a charger. Unless you’ve already bought into the ONE+ system, it’s an expensive tool to own.
  • The 90 cm flexible shaft is short compared with the metre long one you get with the Dremel 4000. Seeing as it’s the only way to use this rotary tool, I thought it would be longer.
  • Even though this is a “cordless” rotary tool, it’s still not as manoeuvrable as the Dremel Lite or the Ginour. You’re still tethered to a large battery and control box.
  • This is quite a loud rotary tool. At low speed it’s relatively quiet, but as soon as you jump up towards the max speed setting it’s quite noisy. You’ll need ear defenders.
Power
Battery - 18V
No-Load Speed
4,000-35,000rpm
Speed Settings
Fully Variable
Accessories
33
Attachments
1
Tool-less
1
Storage
Accessory Box Only
Overall Score 4.5
Build Quality
5
Performance
4
Ease of Use
5
Value for Money
4

Famous for their bright green power tools and brilliant ONE+ battery systems, Japanese tool brand Ryobi are a DIYers favourite. With a slightly different take on a portable multi-tool, the R18RT-0 18V ONE+ Rotary Tool is a really impressive piece of 18 Volt kit.

Doing away with both power cables and tiny little 3.7 Volt battery systems, this rotary tool calls on Ryobi’s powerful 18 Volt system to power a portable rotary tool station. You get a control unit that houses the ON/OFF switch and variable speed controller, and a place to store a whole bunch of different bits.

The handle part that you use for carving or grinding sits at the end of a 90 cm flex shaft. This means the part you hold is kept to a minimal size and weight for extra manoeuvrability. The shaft has a decent amount of rubber to it thanks to Ryobi’s patented GripZone over-moulding. It means you could use this for extended periods of time without getting too tired.

Alongside the rotary tool unit, Ryobi have included an accessory kit in its own plastic case. This includes a modest range of decent quality discs, drill bits, grinding dies, and sanding pads. If you’ve already bought into the Ryobi ONE+ battery range, this is probably the best portable rotary tool on the market right now.

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Harry's Smart Buying Tips

  1. The best rotary tool should be robust and powerful, yet versatile and comfortable to use with a rubberised grip, so you can perform delicate tasks with precise control and work for extended periods without becoming tired.
  2. Mains-powered rotary tools should have a motor rated at least 130 Watts.
  3. Cordless rotary tools are also very popular – the smallest and lightest ones are almost pen-size and usually feature a 3.6 Volt battery that is charged with a micro USB cable. There are also more powerful cordless rotary tools too that run off 18V batteries.
  4. Whether corded or cordless, most rotary tools feature incredibly wide speed ranges – anywhere from 5,000 to 35,000 rpm. This makes them incredibly versatile and perfect for small cutting, grinding, cleaning, and polishing tasks.
  5. The best rotary tools feature a flex shaft that makes them even more adaptable.
  6. The controls should be simple to use. The on-off switch should be dust-proof.
  7. To regulate the speed look for a thumbwheel for variable-speed models or a dial with up to 6 settings for fixed-speed operation.
  8. Rotary tools can be used with an enormous range of accessories, and most are sold with a handy starter selection.
  9. Some rotary tool kits also include specialised attachments.
  10. Tool-less accessory changing is also common on the best rotary tools.

Compare Product Features

Use the dropdown to sort the table by the feature you want to see.

  • Dremel 8220 Cordless 12 Volt Rotary Tool Kit
    best rotary tool Dremel 8220 Cordless 12 Volt Rotary Tool Kit
    • 4.3
    • Battery - 12V
    • 5,000-35,000rpm
    • Fully Variable
    • 45
    • 2
    • Yes
    • Case
  • Dremel 3000 130 Watt Rotary Tool Kit
    best rotary tool Dremel 3000 130 Watt Rotary Tool Kit
    • 4.3
    • Mains - 130W
    • 10,000-33,000rpm
    • Fully Variable
    • 15
    • 0
    • Yes
    • Case
  • Hi-Spec Power 170 Watt Rotary Tool Kit
    best rotary tool Hi Spec Power 170 Watt Rotary Tool Kit
    • 3.9
    • Mains - 170W
    • 8,000-35,000rpm
    • Fully Variable
    • 120
    • 0
    • No
    • Accessory Box only
  • Dremel 4000 Rotary Tool
    best rotary tool Dremel 4000 Rotary Tool
    • 4.3
    • Mains - 175W
    • 5,000-35,000rpm
    • Fully Variable
    • 128
    • 6
    • Yes
    • Case
  • Terratek 135 Watt Rotary Tool with Accessory Set and Storage Case
    best rotary tool Terratek 135 Watt Rotary Tool with Accessory Set and Storage Case
    • 3.8
    • Mains - 135W
    • 8,000-33,000rpm
    • 6
    • 234
    • 0
    • No
    • Case
  • Goxawee 130 Watt Rotary Tool Kit
    best rotary tool Goxawee 130 Watt Rotary Tool Kit
    • 4.3
    • Mains - 130W
    • 8,000-30,000rpm
    • 5
    • 140
    • 4
    • Yes
    • Case & Accessory Box
  • Ginour Cordless Rotary Tool
    best rotary tool Ginour Cordless Rotary Tool
    • 4
    • Battery - 3.7V
    • 5,000-15,000rpm
    • 3
    • 32
    • 0
    • No
    • Accessory Box Only
  • Dremel Lite 7760 Cordless Precision Rotary Tool
    best rotary tool Dremel Lite 7760 Cordless Precision Rotary Tool
    • 4.3
    • Battery - 3.6V
    • 8,000-25,000rpm
    • 4
    • 15
    • 0
    • Yes
    • Accessory Box Only
  • VonHaus Heavy Duty 170 Watt Rotary Tool
    best rotary tool VonHaus Heavy Duty 170 Watt Rotary Tool
    • 4.5
    • Mains - 170W
    • 8,000-30,000rpm
    • 6
    • 120
    • 0
    • No
    • Accessory Box Only
  • Ryobi R18RT-0 18V ONE+ Cordless Rotary Tool
    best rotary tool Ryobi R18RT 0 18V ONE+ Cordless Rotary Tool
    • 4.5
    • Battery - 18V
    • 4,000-35,000rpm
    • Fully Variable
    • 33
    • 1
    • 1
    • Accessory Box Only

How to Choose The Best Rotary Tool

Rotary tools are extremely useful for projects both large and small. From major home renovations to craft projects these versatile tools will save you not only time and energy but will also achieve highly professional finishes in your work.

Rotary Tool Attachments and Accessories

Rotary tools come with a variety of attachments that are suitable for cutting, sanding, polishing, grinding, engraving and more. They can be used on metal, wood, glass, ceramic, and even plastic. Combine this versatility with the powerful motor, fast speed, and compact size and it’s easy to appreciate how useful rotary tools can be in most homes.

With their handy size and the availability of a huge range of accessories, rotary tools can be a great alternative to having a range of bulky tools in your workshop. Their lightweight and compact design also makes these versatile tools extremely easy to use.

Corded and Cordless Rotary Tools

Rotary tool kits are available in corded and cordless versions. Corded rotary tool kits give you as much power as you need but do have the disadvantage of trailing cables and being unusable in areas without a power source – such as the bottom of the garden. Cordless rotary tools offer convenience and mobility but of course, they do need charging which can interrupt your workflow. However, powerful lithium-ion batteries mean most rotary tools can last for long periods. Corded models tend to weigh a little more than cordless ones.

Rotary tools also come with fixed or variable speeds. Variable speed is extremely useful in combination with the rotary tool’s general versatility. A single-speed motor may not give you the flexibility you need for delicate tasks.

Most rotary tools can accommodate a range of shank sizes  – 0.8mm, 1.6mm, 2.4mm and 3.2 mm are the most common. This means that they are compatible with attachments from different brands.

Rotary Tool FAQs

Rotary tool attachments are designed to perform 5 main functions…

  • Carving & Engraving
  • Sanding
  • Cutting
  • Grinding and sharpening
  • Cleaning and polishing

For carving and engraving, you should use either a diamond bit or a high-speed cutter. Diamond bits are suitable for use with aluminium, glass, ceramic tiles, mirrors and steel. High-speed cutters can be used with wood, clay and lino.

A rotary tool kit usually comes with sanding discs, a sanding drum and a variety of sanding bands. The sanding bands are fitted over the drum and come in a range of grits from coarse to fine. Sanding bits can be used on wood, aluminium, plastics and clay.

Rotary tool kits contain various cutting wheels, including an abrasive cutting wheel that can be used with wood and plexiglass. Also included you may find a fibreglass cutting wheel that can be used with ceramic tiles, wood and aluminium.

A rotary tool kit may also include a variety of sharpening and grinding stones of different colours. The orange stone can be used for polishing steel. The blue/green and pink stones can be used on aluminium, ceramic tiles, and glass.

For polishing use the felt polishing wheels and pads, and the polishing compound that is usually included with a rotary kit.

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