What’s The Major Difference Between Angle Grinder and Dremel?

It’s important to know the differences between an angle grinder and a dremel, which are similar in their design and function.

The angle grinder and Dremel are designed to be used as handheld tools, which allows them to be portable to ensure you can keep them in your tool belt or toolbox.

Compared to high torque power drills, these tools rely on speed to perform different functions and cut through various materials.

Dremel and angle grinder size influence how easy they are to control and if they lead to hand fatigue after several minutes of use.

Difference Between Angle Grinder and Dremel

What is Dremel?

A Dremel is a rotary tool that has a high speed and can perform many different functions. The tool is useful for drilling, cutting, grinding, sharpening, carving, engraving, cleaning, polishing, and sanding.

It uses different sizes of bits to perform different functions and jobs for increased versatility. Some people can even use it to carve pumpkins.

The tool also comes with a variety of different accessories to make it easier to use and to have more precision.

Some contractors use it for cutting baseboards or installing vinyl flooring. Woodworkers can use it for sanding smaller areas that are harder to reach.

What is Angle Grinder?

Angle grinders are used for metal fabrication jobs and are handheld tools that are easy to grip. This type of tool is designed to be used for polishing, debarring, finishing, cutting, and grinding.

They’re typically powered by electricity but are also available in cordless designs to have more flexibility with where you use them and to allow you to take them on the go.

Angle grinders come with a variety of attachments that include discs, wheels, and pads, which should be included with the product unless you choose a base model.

Angle Grinder vs Dremel

There are a few main differences between the angle grinder and the Dremel to be aware of when you’re selecting the right tool to use.

1. Size

Dremels have a smaller compact size that is ergonomic and easy to hold. This allows Dremels to be ideal for heavy-duty projects that take longer to complete.

The compact and lightweight design of Dremels also makes them ideal for taking on the go when you need something portable. You can keep it in a pocket or toolbelt without feeling weighed down throughout the day.

Angle grinders are built with bulkier bodies that can lead to a bit of hand fatigue after several hours of use. The angle grinder also weighs a bit more than the Dremel, which makes it heavier to hold for extended periods of time.

You may notice some of your wrist and hand muscles start to feel strained with continued use. This can also be problematic for those who perform repeated movements because it can lead to injuries over time.

2. Power

Dremels have an average amount of power of 175 W and come with a 1.6-Amp motor. The powerful motor allows it to work well for delivering maximum power at all types of speeds. It’s capable of tackling heavy-duty tasks and is more versatile due to its variable speed.

Because of how much power it delivers, it can work for longer periods of time without slowing down. It also has a corded design with most of the models, which allows it to be ideal to use on construction and work sites.

The angle grinder is built with 1535 Watts of power and relies on an electric motor. It’s powerful enough for small concrete cutting work. You can also use it for cutting through granite, tile, marble, bricks, and other types of heavy-duty materials that are thick and dense.

3. Rotation Speed

Dremels stand out for their high rotation speed, which surpasses angle grinders. The tool directs the speed from the motor power and has an average of 5,000- 35,000 RPM.

This means they can tackle heavy-duty projects but aren’t ideal for jobs that require lower speeds. It can be more challenging to control the tool the higher the rotation speed.

Angle grinders have an average speed of 2,000 to 7,300 RPM. Most angle grinders allow you to change the rotation speed to perform more types of tasks with the tool.

You can try testing the speed in advance to determine which one gives you the best results. You’ll need a higher speed if you’re working with harder materials.

When you need to polish different surfaces, you need to use a slower speed. Delicate work requires having the ability to control the speed to avoid damage to the materials.

If you’re cutting through hard materials, you’ll need to adjust the speed to 5000 to 7000 RPM. Burnishing metals requires a speed of 2000 RMP.

4. Resilience

Dremels have a reputation for having a high level of resilience because they’re built with a high-powered motor. The power from the motor spins the collet in the unit to ensure it can spin various types of attachments at 35,000 RPM.

Angle grinders lack as much resistance as Dremels and can lose some of their power when they’re used for several hours at a time.

This makes them less ideal for larger projects that are time-extensive. You can rely on using a Dremel if you plan to work at a construction site and need the tool for more than an hour at a time.

The motor in the Dremel can continue to produce power without encountering any issues or slowing down.

5. Price

The cost of both of these tools is significant. Angle grinders are available at a lower price point, which makes them more common for different types of contractors to use.

Dremels are priced higher. If you plan to do different projects and tasks around the house, then the angle grinder can be an ideal option if it doesn’t get used heavily.

Dremels are ideal for construction jobs and can tackle heavy-duty materials with ease.

You can rely on the Dremel to hold up well to consistent use without suffering from premature wear or losing any of its power.

6. Cord

Angle grinders are also designed as a cordless tool to ensure the cord doesn’t get in the way as you work. This can make it easier to work at a faster, more efficient pace compared to using an angle grinder.

Although Dremels are available without cords, there are only a few models that offer this option, and they don’t pack as much power compared to the corded tools.

7. Depth Control

Depth control is something that is a feature and setting on the Dremel to ensure you can customize the results more.

Angle grinders don’t come with this option, which can make it easy to cut too much of the material if you’re not careful.

You should have more experience with these types of tools if you use the angle grinder because the mistakes can be expensive if you remove too much of the metal, plastic, or wood.

Is Angle Grinder the Same as Dremel?

There are a few angle grinder and Dremel differences, which include the weight because the angle grinder is a lot heavier. It works well for cutting through metal but can’t tackle heavy-duty jobs like the Dremel.

Can you use a Dremel as a Grinder?

Yes, you can use a Dremel as a grinder because it includes grinding stones and a grinding disc. It can be used to grind all types of materials like composites, wood, and rigid plastic.

Can a Dremel Grind Steel?

Grinding steel with Dremel is almost effortless and seamless because of how much power it packs. The cut-off disk works on all types of metals, including copper, aluminum, and cast iron, and remains stable as it’s in use.

Can a Dremel Cut Aluminum?

Yes, a Dremel is capable of cutting through aluminum if you’re wearing the right protection and gear to avoid injuries while using the tool.

You need to use the right cutting discs to ensure the cuts are clean and the tool cuts smoothly through the metal.

Angle Grinder Vs. Dremel – So, Which is Reliable?

Many people consider the Dremel to be easier to use, especially when you want to have better control of the tool.

The smaller size makes it easier to hold when you need more precision. If you’re working on wood, an angle grinder won’t work well.

Angle grinders come with ergonomic handles and blades and discs that are replaceable. This is an ideal option if you need a handheld tool that works well for prepping different types of materials.

It also comes with safety guards, which are ideal for those who are beginners and are learning to use tools for the first time.

The Dremel can be a better option because it allows you to adjust the depth control and prep different surfaces while also removing any rust that is present.

The compact and ergonomic design makes it easy to control. The multiple blades that are available make it more versatile for different types of projects if you enjoy woodworking. This tool works well for general purposes.

If you need to cut specific materials like cast iron pipe lengthwise, the angle grinder can be easier and more effective to use.

For heavy-duty projects, a Dremel will likely give you the power you need while handling thicker and sturdier materials that are tougher to cut polish, or cut through.

Angle grinders work similarly but are better for household tasks, especially for beginners. Both of the tools are ideal to have within reach for contractors or those who enjoy working with their hands, depending on the type of projects and work you plan to complete in the future.

Arthur Kyser Morn

Hey Guys! It's me Arthur Kyser Morn, aka AKM, the proud founder and author of Tools Auditor. I'm a content marketer, a dad of 2 lovely sons, and a handyman. I love trying out new tools, and together with my team, I've been creating helpful guides since 2017 with tools and DIY tips.

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