The best electric rotating tools in the UK 2023

If there's one piece of DIY equipment that's worth keeping, it's the electric rotary tool. Equipped with a multitude of interchangeable bits, it can be used to complete a wide range of projects at home. And for the price, you'll save yourself the purchase of many other tools. Corded or cordless, multi-speed, with hundreds of accessories, .... Discover our comparison of the best electric rotary tools of the moment.

Bosch GRO 12V 35 1
9/10

Best value

Bosch GRO 12V 35

The best power rotary tool in 2021

Whether you're a do-it-yourselfer or a professional craftsman, try this latest generation cordless rotary tool. Bosch GRO 12V-35 is equipped with an LED light to be operational in adverse conditions.

70,40 £ on Amazon

Powered by a 12 V battery, this rotary device has a speed of 5,000 to 35,000 rpm. Such a fast rotation of the motor is a guarantee for a manual work that will be done in a short time. Bosch GRO 12V-35 offers you the possibility to perform tasks related to polishing, cutting, drilling and sanding of materials.

One of the advantages of this rotary tool is its light weight. Weighing only 600 g, Bosch GRO 12V-35 can be handled with precision. Swap the battery of this new version of Bosch device with older models with the same voltage. This compatibility is rarely possible with other brands.

TECCPO TART04P 170W 2
9/10

Best cheap

TECCPO TART04P 170W

The best entry-level power rotary tool

With the Teccpo 170W's 80 parts and accessories, you'll have something to work with for a long time. Powerful and robust, this multi-functional rotary tool has everything you need to boost your creativity.

43,83 £ on Amazon

For this year, our choice is the TECCPO TART04P 170W Electric Rotary Tool. It has 5 adjustable speeds and can go from 8,000 to 35,000 rpm. We love this multi-functional device for its versatility and the included accessories, 80 in all. The combination of included accessories allows you to do almost anything. You can drill, carve, cut, polish and sand, among other things.

The 170W won't go amiss for the toughest jobs. Tested on detail carpentry and DIY shelving jobs at home, it worked well. You can also use it to touch up metal objects. And the customer service for this multi-function rotary tool is very responsive.

Dremel 8220 3
9/10

Best premium

Dremel 8220

The best high-end power rotary tool

The Dremel 8220 exudes quality. Not surprising coming from a Bosch subsidiary that uses many of its components. But it is bulky.

161 £ on Amazon

The Dremel brand is a subsidiary of Bosch. This means that this cordless multifunction rotary tool incorporates many of the parts used by Bosch Professional DIY tools. The Dremel 8220 has 5 adaptations for 65 accessories. The rotation speed varies from 5,000 to 35,000 rpm. To work more precisely, adjust the speed of your device with the 6-step selector. Easy to use, the head is already equipped with an EZ Twist tip: no need for a wrench to change the different accessories. In case of a problem, send the equipment to the Bosch after-sales service as it is guaranteed for 2 years.

As for the design, the mix of grey and black makes an impression. The aluminum case with custom-made housings is imposing. But it is difficult to make it smaller to store 65 accessories and 5 heads. The tool is also massive, heavy. This gives an impression of power and robustness. And with use, this impression is confirmed. No doubt about it, the Dremel 8220 is made to work.

Dremel 3000 4
8/10

Excellent

Dremel 3000

The excellent alternative

Dremel 300 is an excellent alternative. This light but powerful multi-functional rotary tool is sold with no less than 103 accessories. It is suitable for all types of use.

30,39 £ on Amazon

The Dremel 3000 is as interesting for its price as for its 15 perfectly functional accessories. The speed of rotation can be varied according to 5 positions. Moreover, the manufacturer provides a storage case as well as an extension cord to use the tool with more precision. Powerful, it has a maximum rotation speed of 33,000 revolutions per minute.

This device is easy to handle and can be used for many small tasks around the house. You can use it to grind or drill. It also works as a sander and engraver. Dremel 3000 comes with a storage bag and a user manual to simplify the use.

Dremel 4300 5
9/10

Polyvalent

Dremel 4300

A great all-around rotary tool

With few accessories, the Dremel 4300 rotary tool remains relevant and has 45 kits for cutting, polishing, grinding or carving. Its 145 W power output produces a rotation speed of 5,000 to 35,000 rpm.

149 £ on Cdiscount

This powerful Dremel 4300 rotary tool can be used on all your materials, from the softest to the toughest. Being multifunctional with a 360° LED light direction, the device meets all the challenges of DIY. Due to the presence of carbon brushes in its motor, this rotary tool can go beyond its normal power.

The Dremel 4300 can handle up to 230 V and offers 6 speed settings. Without any physical effort, the user of this device can easily replace the accessories through the universal chuck. To keep your work table tidy, put the kits and this rotary tool in their plastic case.

Tacklife RTD36AC 6
9/10

Reliable

Tacklife RTD36AC

A reliable mid-range alternative

For home or professional use, this rotary tool performs 10,000 to 40,000 rpm. The 6 speed levels of the TACKLIFE RTD36AC allow you to get the job done every day.

63,99 £ on Cdiscount

This custom DIY machine has 170 accessories that are designed for drilling, cutting and sanding various materials. With a 200 W motor, TACKLIFE RTD36AC is able to make engravings on wood or stone. The cutting discs of this rotary tool are made of fiberglass for greater efficiency.

In its kit box are multi-function chucks, aluminum oxide wheels and felt wheels. For carving, the rotary tool lets you choose between drills and needles with a variable diameter of 0.8 to 3.2 mm. The shield attachment and cutting guide are safety features that protect the user.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best electric rotary tool

Any specific needs?

The best power rotary tool in 2021

The best entry-level power rotary tool

The best high-end power rotary tool

The excellent alternative

A great all-around rotary tool

Your guide : Samuel

Rate this buying guide :
4.9/511 votes

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Comparison table of the best electric rotating tools

TOP OF THE TOP LOW COST TOP OF THE RANGE EXCELLENT Polyvalent Reliable
Bosch GRO 12V 35 7
9/10
TECCPO TART04P 170W 8
9/10
Dremel 8220 9
9/10
Dremel 3000 10
8/10
Dremel 4300 11
9/10
Tacklife RTD36AC 12
9/10
OUR SELECTION
Bosch GRO 12V 35
TECCPO TART04P 170W
Dremel 8220
Dremel 3000
Dremel 4300
Tacklife RTD36AC
Whether you're a do-it-yourselfer or a professional craftsman, try this latest generation cordless rotary tool. Bosch GRO 12V-35 is equipped with an LED light to be operational in adverse conditions.
With the Teccpo 170W's 80 parts and accessories, you'll have something to work with for a long time. Powerful and robust, this multi-functional rotary tool has everything you need to boost your creativity.
The Dremel 8220 exudes quality. Not surprising coming from a Bosch subsidiary that uses many of its components. But it is bulky.
Dremel 300 is an excellent alternative. This light but powerful multi-functional rotary tool is sold with no less than 103 accessories. It is suitable for all types of use.
With few accessories, the Dremel 4300 rotary tool remains relevant and has 45 kits for cutting, polishing, grinding or carving. Its 145 W power output produces a rotation speed of 5,000 to 35,000 rpm.
For home or professional use, this rotary tool performs 10,000 to 40,000 rpm. The 6 speed levels of the TACKLIFE RTD36AC allow you to get the job done every day.
Power supply
Battery
Cable
Cable
Cable
Wire
Cable
Minimum speed of rotation
5000 rpm
8000 rpm
5000 rpm
10000 rpm
5000 rpm
10000 rpm
Maximum speed of rotation
35,000 rpm
35000 rpm
35000 rpm
330000 rpm
35000 rpm
40000 rpm
Voltage
12 V
240 V
12 V
230 V
220 V
240 V
Number of accessories
-
80
65
15
45
170

Help us improve this table:
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Buying guide - electric rotary tool

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How to choose your electric rotary tool

The electric rotary tool is indispensable for small DIY and hobby activities. If you are planning to buy one, consider the following parameters when making your choice:

#1 - Power

The power of the device is obviously one of the most important criteria to consider before buying. Choose according to your use. If you do wood carving or engraving, a model with a 130 W motor will be perfect for you. On the other hand, if you plan to sand or grind hard objects, you need a more powerful device.

#2 - the type

You will opt, either for a corded device or a battery model. Again, consider your habits to determine which type is best for you. If you work at home or in a workshop, a corded model will be perfect for you. However, if you plan to travel frequently with your tool, it would be wiser to have a battery-powered unit to avoid unpleasant surprises.

#3 - The speed of rotation

Also consider the minimum and maximum rotation speed of the tool. Generally speaking, the models currently available have a speed ranging from 8 to 40,000 rpm. Make sure that the device you choose has several adjustable speed levels, as these devices can overheat quickly with intensive use.

#4 - ergonomics

Be

very careful about the ergonomics of the device, as it is essential that it offers a good grip. Models like the Teccpo 170 W are equipped with a TPE rubber coating, a material designed to give you maximum comfort. Also consider the presence of an external air intake system for effective heat dissipation.

#5 - accessories

The quality of a power rotary tool is primarily judged by the accessories. Most models available today come with the following basic accessories: drill bits, cutting discs, grinding discs, sanding rolls, and milling cutters for engraving. Additional accessories can be ordered according to your needs.

What is a rotary tool and how does it work?

A rotary tool is a small device with a motor that can be fitted with various interchangeable bits. Both handy and versatile, a rotary tool allows you to perform a multitude of tasks such as sanding, drilling, polishing, cutting, grinding, engraving or sharpening.

In general, there are 2 types of rotary tools: corded and cordless. Depending on your needs, you can also opt for a multi-speed model. It is an easy-to-use device and can be adapted to both domestic and professional use. For your information, you should know that there are also mini rotary tools. However, for a safe use, it is strongly advised to wear protective gear such as gloves and masks to protect sensitive parts of the body such as eyes, nose and hands.

How does this device work?

The first thing you should do before using such a device is to read the instructions left by the manufacturer. Then, familiarize yourself with the handling of the different tips so that you can install and remove them more easily when you get down to business. Now let's take a look at how this device works. It's pretty simple: powered by an electric current, the motor turns the bit at a very high speed. And it is thanks to this speed as well as the friction caused that the rotary tool easily manages to cut, smooth or polish.

Precautions to take when using a rotary power tool

As with any other appliance, there are a few precautions to take when using a rotary power tool. These precautions are necessary for your safety, but also for the safety of the tool. Generally speaking, you should do the same as with conventional tools: wear gloves, goggles or a mask to avoid projectiles. If you are sanding wood or glass, wear a mouth guard.

Unplug your machine whenever you change accessories. If it's a cordless model, turn it off before making the change. If you find that your tool is running too fast and the motor is in danger of overheating, it's best to turn it off and wait a few minutes before getting back to work.

The different types of electric rotating tools

The electric rotary tools available today are differentiated by their power, their accessories, but especially their power supply. There are corded and cordless models. Here is a closer look at these two types of rotary tools:

Corded electric rotary tool

A corded rotary tool necessarily has a cord. In other words, it can only work properly if it is connected to the mains. This means that the motor is constantly supplied with direct current. The operation of such a device is dependent on the electrical system. If there is a power failure, for example, the rotary tool will not be operational.

Advantages: A corded rotary tool offers a number of advantages, but the most important one is that it can be used for very long periods of time. As long as there is power, the user can work for as long as he wants. It must be said that he will not be able to benefit from such freedom with a device that works with the help of a battery!

Disadvantages: One of the biggest disadvantages of corded rotary tools is that at some point the presence of a cord may interfere with the user's movements. Also, if you don't want to use an extension cord every time, you'll have to find a cable with a good length. Finally, you will not be able to work as soon as there is a power cut.

Who it's for: Corded rotary tools can be used by both DIY enthusiasts and professionals. They are best suited for those who do home or indoor work. By using it, novice DIYers will be able to give themselves more time in completing their task without having to worry about the issue of battery life.

Battery powered rotary tool

A cordless rotary tool cannot work without a battery. It is the battery that provides the energy to run the motor. When the battery is depleted, the unit must be recharged via a dedicated charger. This is why it is wiser to have 2 batteries to benefit from more autonomy.

Advantages: Cordless rotary tools offer a number of advantages. First, because there is no cord, the user is not hindered when handling the tool. There is no risk of clutter on this point! Secondly, as these devices are not dependent on electrical power, you can continue to work even if there is a power failure.

Disadvantages : Despite their many advantages, cordless rotary tools do have a few negatives. First of all, the user will not be able to work beyond what the battery offers in terms of runtime. Once the battery runs out, you'll have to wait for a recharge. In terms of performance, a wireless model is a little below what a wired device can offer.

Who it's for: Cordless rotary tools are much more suited to the needs of professionals. Indeed, they may have to intervene on sites that do not have a power supply. Furthermore, professionals will be able to do a more precise job with these cordless models. This is largely due to the absence of wires that may be in the way.

Electric rotary tool or multifunctional drill?

Electric rotary tool

The electric rotary tool is a versatile device with which you can sand, grind, mill or engrave. It is equipped with a motor powerful enough to do all these jobs. This type of tool is more affordable. On the other hand, it is mainly designed for precision work such as goldsmithing, unlike a multi-function drill.

Multifunctional drilling machine

Today, there are drills that can also be used as sanders and jigsaws. These devices are mainly designed for drilling or cutting hard materials such as concrete or steel. These tools are more powerful, but they cost more. In addition, they are not suitable for certain tasks such as engraving, unlike rotary tools.

Verdict

It all depends on what you do. If you want to draw patterns on glass, wood or other materials, you need a Dremel-type rotary tool. However, if you do ironwork or work in the building trade, a multi-functional drill would be more suitable. If you are a DIY enthusiast, you will need both types of tools.

Why buy an electric rotary tool?

To carry out DIY work

The electric rotary tool is a must if you want to do DIY work. It is a versatile device equipped with various interchangeable bits. Depending on your needs, you can sand, grind or engrave various materials.

To have a multifunctional device

Almost all electric rotary tool models come with basic accessories. These include drill bits, cutting and grinding discs, sanding rollers and engraving cutters. For more functionality, you can order additional accessories. This makes it easy to work with wood, plastic or metal. It is especially a tool commonly used in jewellery or model making, and finishing other less complex work.

To work efficiently

Since DIY is all about precision, having an electric rotary tool provides you with a cutting guide. This way, you'll have complete control over the cut, no matter what type of material you're working on. In addition, this tool comes with a storage box for easy transportation.

To have a powerful tool

You can find a power tool that has the power to meet your needs. For example, if you plan to do wood carving, you can opt for a model with a 130W motor. You can also get a more powerful model for working on other materials.

To be able to work anywhere

The electric rotary tool is usually equipped with a cord that you need to connect to a socket. This corded model is suitable for long-term use. You can also choose a model with a battery. This allows you to work outdoors or to continue working in the event of a power cut.

The best brands of electric rotating tools

In our opinion, the best brands of electric rotating tools in 2022 are :

Dremel
Teccpo
Tacklife
Goxawee
Galax Pro
Bosch
Dewalt
Ferm

Dremel is a company based in Wisconsin, USA. Now part of the Bosch Group, it is a major player in the field of electric rotary tools, but also in stationary tools, portable saws and oscillating tools.

Tacklife is one of the world's leading manufacturers of automotive tools, handheld power tools and various household appliances. Its electric rotary tools are also very popular with DIY enthusiasts and other professional goldsmiths.

Tacklife is one of the world's leading manufacturers of automotive tools, handheld power tools and various household appliances. Its electric rotary tools are also very popular with DIY enthusiasts and other professional goldsmiths.

Goxawee is one of the references in the field of electric rotary tools and mini-tools in general. Its products are particularly appreciated and they are known for their great reactivity in terms of after sales service.

Galax Pro has produced some of the most popular drills, circular saws and sanders in the world today. Its rotary tool models are among the brand's top products.

What is the price for an electric rotary tool

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
25 £ to 40 £
Mid-range
40 £ to 100 £
High-end
more than 100 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Start with the instructions

Whether you're a novice or an experienced user, it's best to read the instructions before you start using the device. Even if you're eager to see what it's all about, don't skip any steps. The instructions contain the necessary directions that will help you get the most out of your rotary tool and extend its life.

Wear PPE

Protect yourself

with proper protective equipment. Gloves, goggles, mask or mouth guard will all be necessary to keep you safe on the job.

Practice with the tips

Before you turn on

this device, practice putting on and taking off the different tips. This will save you time when you actually get to work.

Test it before starting a project

Before

you start as a project, use the available attachments on items that are no longer of much use. For example, try engraving on a bottle, polishing wood or metal, then you'll have an idea of what it can and cannot actually do.

Go to the forums

If

you have some difficulties to use this tool properly, take a look at the forums dedicated to the product. You will surely find some great tips that will help you move forward.

Before connecting your rotary tool to a power source, you should always make sure the switch on the tool is set to "Off". If it is not, your tool will turn on as soon as you plug it into an electrical outlet, and you could get hurt. Also, you must be careful not to hit the switch while picking up the unit.

It is imperative that you clean your rotary tool regularly to keep it working properly for as long as possible. To clean your rotary tool, you can use a mild soap and a damp cloth. Avoid immersing the parts of the unit in water or any other liquid. Also, the vents should be cleaned with a perfectly dry cloth or soft brush.

The rotary tools available on the market today offer between 8 and 40,000 rpm. Some models offer different speed levels and others have a fixed speed. The cutting speed must be adjusted according to the work to be done with the materials to be processed. For example, a high speed is necessary to work on wood or metal. On the other hand, to cut plastic, a low speed of 15,000 rpm is recommended.

FAQ

What is the best electric rotary tool?

The best power rotary tool depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide for the best products available.

What are the best brands of power tools?

Dremel, Teccpo and Tacklife are the references in this field.

How much does a good quality rotary tool cost?

Expect to spend about 40 euros on a nice electric rotary tool.

What if I need other accessories like forests?

You will find everything in a good tool shop

Where can I buy an electric rotary tool?

Go to a good DIY store. You can also buy online, where the choice is wider and the prices lower.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , Thespruce.com
  2. , Bestreviews.com
  3. , Powertoolsplus.ca
  4. , cdiscount.com
  5. , patrickmorin.com
  6. , castorama.fr
  7. , tilswall.fr
  8. , renodepot.com
  9. , etsy.com
  10. , milwaukeetool.ca
  11. , rona.ca
  12. , youtube.com
  13. , wikipedia.org
  14. , dremel.com
  15. , systemed.fr
  16. , 123bricolage.fr
  17. , zone-outillage.fr
  18. , mes-outils.fr
  19. , boite-a-outil.fr
  20. , vacancespleinair.fr
  21. , rona.ca
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Bosch GRO 12V 35 13
Bosch GRO 12V 35
TECCPO TART04P 170W 14
TECCPO TART04P 170W
Dremel 8220 15
Dremel 8220
Dremel 3000 16
Dremel 3000
Dremel 4300 17
Dremel 4300

Lecteurs

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