When you want to get household projects done, getting the right tool for the job is important. One of the common pairs of tools that homeowners and DIYers find themselves deciding between getting are an angle grinder and a Dremel.
Even though at first glance, the tools might look similar, their use cases are quite different. To learn which of the two is better for your needs, continue reading.
Angle Grinders and Dremels: The Basics
Now, before we jump into discussing the differences between these two tools, let’s start by looking at what each one of these tools is. Also, we will briefly discuss what each tool can do.
What Is an Angle Grinder?
An angle grinder is a tool that can cut hard materials like metal, stucco, and tile.
This tool is often used for sharpening blades and to cut steel because the metal is too tough for other cutting tools. An angle grinder can also be used for sanding and polishing metal and other materials.
It is mainly used in construction, auto repair, and workshops.
What Is a Dremel?
Dremel is a brand that makes versatile tools for workshops and construction work. At the same time, it is also used as a synonym for a rotary tool.
A Dremel rotary tool relies on its fast speeds, instead of high torque like a power drill. It has multiple bits that you can add to the base unit to allow for cutting, sanding, polishing, drilling, and carving.
The tool is commonly used for cutting tough materials like metal and glass.
Angle Grinder vs. Dremel: What Are the Differences?
Though these two types of tools are somewhat similar in a few different ways, they do have several main differences that set them apart. I will go into detail about the main differences so you can make your final choice easier.
Weight
The weight of the angle grinder is significantly heavier than that of the Dremel tool.
The angle grinder is great for cutting metal and can handle heavy-duty projects. However, the weight can get to your arms after a while, which can make it a tough tool to use for a long time.
Dremel tools are much more compact and won’t cause as much fatigue on your body as the grinder will.
Cordless Operation
Having portability is a major plus when you are using a tool. You don’t want to be stuck to a certain area because of a cord.
With the angle grinder offering a cordless operation, this is a benefit that outdoes the Dremel. While there are cordless Dremels, just as with the two tools in general, they are much less powerful than cordless angle grinders.
So, if portability without loss in output is important to you, make sure you get an angle grinder.
Depth Control
When you are using a cutting tool to cut into metal, you want as much depth control as possible to ensure that you don’t cut too much. Mistakes like this could be costly and if you use it for work, it could cause your boss to speak with you about the mistake.
Dremel tools come with depth control for cutting, but the angle grinder generally doesn’t.
So, if this is important to you and you plan to do precision work, then a Dremel might be better. Having that depth control will allow you to get a better cut that doesn’t go too far from where you want it to go.
Cost of Tool
The cost of a tool is not typically such a big difference unless you are choosing between household options for DIY projects versus a profession-use choice. However, in this case, the Dremel tool does cost a lot more than an angle grinder.
You can find some that are similar in price, but there are several low-cost options for you if you need to stick to a tight budget.
Which of the Two Should You Use?
Well, when you think about the benefits of each of these options, the one that sticks out to you will be your best choice. If you need to stay within a small budget but need to get some work done around the house, then choosing the cheaper angle grinder will help you stay below your acceptable cost.
If you need a tool that is heavy-duty and will last through consistent use for home or work needs, then you will want to go with an angle grinder as well. This will allow the tool to last through tough jobs and projects without you having to worry about it breaking down on you.
You can check my angle grinder recommendations here.
On the other hand, if you are looking to get precision work done or need what is generally regarded as the more universal tool, go for the Dremel. Doing so will allow you to do things that an angle grinder can do but on a smaller scale. It will also allow you to do many more things like routing, polishing, and sanding.
Summary
When you need a tool for metal work or construction projects, you need an option that is durable and can do the work that you need to do. Knowing which tools work best for each project will help you decide on getting new tools, but deciding between multiple options can take more time.
With the angle grinder and Dremel being similar in a few main ways, the differences between them make a bigger difference to buyers. Whether you are looking for a cheap but sturdy tool or have a bit of a budget to splurge, you should be able to find a model that works for you – regardless of which of the two tools you will be buying.
How Do Angle Grinders and Dremels Compare with Other Tools?
See how angle grinders compare with: bench grinders | circular saws | cut-off tools | die grinders | oscillating multi-tools | polishers | reciprocating saws | sanders
See how Dremels (rotary tools) compare with: die grinders | drills | oscillating multi-tools | routers