This Dremel 4000 Vs. Dremel 3000 comparison chart and buying guide will provide you with all of the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision in the next 15 minutes.
You’ve decided to purchase a Dremel (or upgrade your 10-year-old model), and you’ve quickly determined that the Dremel 3000 and Dremel 4000 are the best options. They are corded gives you the most power and the longest run time.
Which Is the Better Option? Dremel 3000 vs. Dremel 4000
Is it worthwhile to spend the extra money to upgrade to the Dremel 4000?
Like any well-known brand, Dremel rotary tools offer a variety of models at varying price points. It is a sound strategy that ensures they can meet the needs of all budgets while preventing cheaper tool brands from entering the rotary tool market.
Unfortunately, these model variants can cause shoppers to become perplexed. Do you need to spend more money to get the best model they make? Would the less expensive model perform just as well? Tool Tally specializes in providing tool comparisons to assist you in making an informed decision.
On Etsy, I discovered this hand-carved Gourd bowl made with a Dremel. It never ceases to amaze me how people use these tools to make money.
Dremel 3000 Tool Kit
- 7.5 inches in length
- 1.2 kilograms
- Motor: 130 watts
- Motor: 1.2 Amp
- RPM range: 5,000 to 32,0005 RPM Options
- There is no separate on/off switch.
- For changing tools, use the EZ Twist Nose Cap.
- Stationary Workstand Compatibility
- Excellent for cutting and standing.
- Not all Dremel attachments are compatible.
Dremel 4000 Tool Kit
- 9 inches in length
- 1.4 kilograms
- Motor: 175 W
- Motor: 1.6 amps
- RPM range: 5,000 to 35,000
- RPM settings are infinite.
- On/Off Switch Separate
- For changing tools, use the EZ Twist Nose Cap.
- Compatibility with a Stationary Workstand
- Excellent for cutting and sanding
- Control of Electronic Feedback
- All Dremel attachments are compatible.
10 Second Summary: Both variable speed rotary tools are exceptionally well-made and provide comparable RPMs. Both devices include a built-in wrench system for quick bit changes. The Dremel 3000 version, on the other hand, tends to “lag” when under heavy pressure, and the Dremel 4000 has a slightly larger motor to compensate. The Dremel 4000 incorporates an electronic feedback feature to protect the motor and assist the motor in automatically adapting to different tasks, resulting in increased performance. This additional control is intended to improve precision, speed of task completion, and motor life. The Dremel 3000 has a lower price point and a slightly smaller and lighter machine. I prefer the feel of the Dremel 3000 in my hand because it feels more maneuverable.
Dremel 3000: Ideal for woodworking, plastics, and light tasks
Dremel 4000: Only if you require extra power for metal and ceramic work. Because of the additional length, it is less comfortable to use.
Buying Tip: Each model comes with a different set of accessories. Below, I go over the various kits and offer recommendations for the best arrangements.
What Is the Difference Between 3000 and 4000?
These two versions are nearly identical. For example, if you compare only their RPMs, you’ll notice that both units have a similar RPM range. This is because they both start at 5,000 RPM, but the Dremel 3000 has a maximum speed of 32,000 RPM, and the Dremel 4000 has a top speed of 35,000 RPM.
While 3,000 RPMs may not seem like much of a difference in the ability to carve, grind, and polish, it is one of the noticeable improvements with the newer model.
What’s more, the Dremel 4000 includes electronic feedback circuitry. This minor upgrade allows the Dremel to increase power when under load, resulting in more consistent speeds.
When combined with higher power and peak RPMs. The Dremel 4,000 enables you to work quickly and efficiently while automatically adapting to the demands of your task.
It should be noted that sanding and drilling equipment emit fine particles that are hazardous to one’s health and cause cancer. Therefore, wear appropriate eye, ear, and noise protection when performing these tasks.
Performance of a Rotary Tool
Electronic feedback control represents a significant advancement. This gives the user more control over the device because it modulates based on its use. It also aids in the protection of the motor from overheating.
The Dremel is constrained by a significant design constraint in that it must be small enough to be handheld, lightweight, and vibration-free.
It’s not like they can just drop in a 3-horsepower engine. The motor must be small enough to fit comfortably in the user’s hand.
Dremel was able to eliminate inefficiencies in the drill and create more consistent power by inventing the electronic feedback control system. It allows you to get more power out of the same (or nearly the same) amount of space.
As a result, the 4000 series tool is Dremel’s most powerful line of handheld rotary tools. (Dremel also makes a handy cordless rotary tool line, but the 4000 is more powerful.) With a 1.6 amp, 175-watt motor, this 120volt variable speed rotary tool packs nearly the same power as a small blender.
The 4000 series can be pushed to its limits and bog down even with these enhancements. It is critical to remember that these tools operate on speed rather than torque. This is especially true when it comes to material cutting. Allowing the tool time to pull itself through the material appears to require extra patience.
It’s a significant enough difference that the Dremel 4000 should be the preferred tool for grinding and replacing grout or cutting tile (one of the more difficult tasks you could do with a Dremel)
Consider their miniature saws if you do a lot of cutting.
Tool Switches
A separate on/off toggle switch is one of the Dremel 4000’s upgrades. This allows you to turn off the tool instantly while still turning it back on and picking it up at the same speed.
Another cool switch feature is the Dremel 4000’s spin dial, which allows you to dial at the proper speed. In addition, it appears that the Electronic Feedback Control allows it to provide a little more torque at lower speeds.
There are only 5 pre-set speed control settings on the Dremel 3000. It also struggles with low-speed underperformance, forcing you to select a higher RPM (which lowers precision on some tasks).
Tool Kit Longevity
According to some other review sites, the Dremel 4000 has better attachments. However, after shopping online and at Home Depot, the attachments appear to be of very similar quality.
In my opinion, when comparing the Dremel 3000 Vs. 4000, both tools offer comparable levels of durability. The two biggest issues I’ve discovered with this tool are that fine dust can occasionally get inside the tool and interfere with the connection. Blowing out the Dremel with a few squirts of compressed air appears to solve the problem.
The other problem is the “blue wire problem,” which occurs when the tool is dropped. A small blue grounding wire will fall out of its place, requiring the tool to be reopened and the wire to be reinserted. But, again, it’s a simple fix that only happens once in a while.
Aside from that, both tools are extremely resistant to drops and accidents. The most difficult challenge is that advertisements for these tools show them cutting drywall and performing various other amazing tasks, leading users to be overly optimistic about what the tool can do.
I needed to remove a frozen bolt from a muffler, and due to the limited space, I chose the Dremel 3000. It did the job well, but I had to be patient with the bits because the rotary cutoff wheel took 5 to 10 minutes to work its way through the bolt.
Design of a Rotary Tool Kit
The Dremel 3000 is a little smaller and lighter than the Dremel 3000. This is a useful feature for users who do intricate carving work because it makes the tool easier to hold in hand.
Both tools, however, are ergonomically designed and ideal for handheld use, with a 360-degree grip zone. The ergonomics difference is unlikely to be noticeable unless you have small hands.
If ergonomics is the most important tool, you should consider getting the flex shaft, which provides a pencil-like grip for fine carving. (If you purchase the 4000 kit, which includes this flex shaft, you will also need to purchase the special stand to hold the motor while working.)
These two powerful tools are both corded. Investing in a corded model makes sense for the extra power. However, if you are constantly on the go, you may want to consider upgrading to a cordless rotary tool instead.
Dremel Rotary Tool Cost
The Dremel 3000 is an incredible value for money for those on a tight budget. You’re getting a rotary tool that can do everything the 4000 can do with a little patience.
It improved over previous Dremel models and has been a long-standing workhorse in their rotary tool lineup.
It also comes with a lengthy list of attachments.
However, the Dremel 3000 plays an important marketing role in that you can upgrade to a better rotary tool for only a few dollars more. This is a psychological game that large corporations play, and Dremel excels at it.
If you’re just getting started and want your first Dremel, the 3000 will not disappoint. However, if you intend to use it every month, it is worth paying the extra money to get the 4000.
If you want a better rotary tool, it is worth investing in a more expensive rotary tool, especially if you intend to keep it for many years.
What Other Users Have to Say
I can’t remember a time in my life when I didn’t own a Dremel tool. As a result, I’ve enjoyed using these tools as the company matured and released newer versions.
The internet allows us to test a tool with many users. The only disadvantage is that it takes a long time to go through all the reviews and figure out the commonalities.
I spent some time doing that (3 cups of coffee) and came up with some important points for you to think about.
Attachments with the 4000 are superior. One of the reasons people prefer the Dremel is that it is a highly versatile tool that can be used to solve a wide range of problems. While the 3000 comes with a good set of tools, it doesn’t make you go “wow.” The 4000 does, with additional features such as a guide for sharpening lawnmower blades.
There’s also the issue of people hating on the “new” Dremel. Again, this is common — we always remember “older” versions of brands as “better,” but the Dremel 4000 appeared to have fewer complaints about “old stuff was better.”
Furthermore, the 4000 appears to be more capable of completing construction-related tasks such as cutting tile, cutting holes in the wall, and removing grout. The 3000 appears to have a larger hobbyist and crafter user base that raves about the tool (although some of the dedicated crafters have upgraded to the 4000).
Attachment Options for Rotary Tool Kits
Deciphering attachments and accessory kits is one of the more perplexing aspects of the Dremel purchasing process. (This may have been the most difficult part of this review to put together.)
Take note of how they are labeled: 3000 -1/24. The “1” denotes a “one” attachment (such as a high-speed cutter), and the “24” denotes the number of accessories (such as bits) included in the kit.
I find that I go through the accessories quickly. This is a good starting point, but if you plan on doing a larger project, you will need to invest in more of the specific accessory that you require.
Please keep in mind that one of my fellow bloggers tries to check and update this list once a year. Therefore, I make no guarantees about the list’s accuracy. If a particular bit is important to you, you should double-check that it is still included in the tool kit.
Options for the Dremel 3000
Dremel 3000-1/24 Kit
This is an excellent starter kit set for those just getting started with the Dremel or purchasing the Dremel for a specific task. The 1/24 is an excellent kit that includes the most commonly used tools.
What you get is as follows:
- 1 sanding/grinding guide for when a flat surface is required
- 1 engraving bit (high-speed)
- 2 chopping wheels
- three distinct grinding stones
- 1 cleaning bristle brush
- 1 deep-cleaning steel bristle brush
- Use three felt polishing wheels and a polishing compound to clean and polish.
- 2 sanding barrels
- 7 sanding band replacements
- 3 mandrels for attaching different bands and bits
- Wrench for bit swapping. (Not required, but useful on occasion)
Dremel 3000 -1/25 Kit
There are a few minor accessory changes between this set and the 1/24 version. The most noticeable difference is substituting a shield attachment for the saw attachment (reduces flying dust and debris).
There are minor differences in the 1/24 tool kit accessories, such as 1 extra sanding band and no nylon brush wheel. I believe we can sum up that this product kit is intended for the buyer who intends to do a lot of sanding.
- 1 shield augmentation
- 1 engraving bit (high-speed)
- 2 chopping wheels
- 3 Various Grinding Stones
- 1 Stainless Steel Bristle Brush for thorough cleaning
- 4 felt polishing wheels, as well as polishing compound
- 2 sanding barrels
- 8 sanding bands (replacement)
- 3 mandrels for mounting cutting wheels
- Wrench for bit swapping (not always needed, but handy to have)
Dremel 3000-1/25 Kit With Flex Shaft
You will receive the same kit as described above, but with the addition of a Flex Shaft attachment. One of the most useful tools for completing intricate work is the flex shaft.
Most people discover that they also require something to hold their Dremel while using the Flex Shaft Attachment. But, again, this tool holder is reasonably priced.
Dremel 3000-2/28
This is my personal favorite of the Dremel 3000-series kits.
This one expands the 1/24 kit with a multipurpose cutting guide and some cutting bits. These cutting accessories make it much easier for users to do more wall cutting and plunge cuts. However, this is a valuable addition to all of our sites.
- This version also includes additional engraving and carving tools.
- With the 3000 series, this is one of the most robust tool kits available. If you’re looking for a rotary tool in the 3000-series, I’d recommend this one.
- Attachment for Cutting Guides (adjustable)
- Sanding/Grinding Instructions (flat surface)
- 3 Engraving Instruments
- 1 straight cutting bit and 2cutofff wheels (similar to a saw blade)
- 4 stones for grinding
- 1 brush with bristles
- 1 Stainless Steel Brush
- 5 polishing wheels, each with its polishing compound
- 1 drum sanding
- 5 sanding bands (replacement)
- 3 attachment mandrels
- Wrench (not necessary, but handy to have)
Options for the Dremel 4000
Dremel 4000-2/30
(My top pick for the 4000 series is the 4/34 kit, which I discuss further below.)
This is a fantastic series to give as a gift to any homeowner or hobbyist. It includes a good selection of the most basic tools. It’s also a favorite tool of mechanicfaq.com.
- 1 attachment for cutting circles (doubles as a straight-edge guide for more professional cuts)
- 1 sanding attachment, flat
- 1 engraver bit with high speed
- four cutoff wheels
- 1 bit for cutting (similar to a saw blade)
- Three grinding stones
- 1 bristle steel brush
- Polishing compound and two felt polishing pads1 drum sanding5 drum sanding bands in replacement.
- eight sanding discs
- two mandrels
- Spanner (EZ twist tool switch makes swapping bits easy)
- Some versions of this kit include a flex shaft attachment and a chuck attachment for converting this Dremel into a full-fledged drill.
Dremel 4000-4/34
This Dremel comes with more attachments, extending the rotary tool’s range. If you plan on spending a lot of time with this rotary tool, you’ll appreciate the extra benefits that come with this kit.
- 1 attachment for a flat surface
- 1 cutting guide (universal)
- 1 cutting guide for circles (also can be used as a straight edge)
- 1 Detailer’s grip for improved ergonomics and fine work control
- 3 chopping wheels
- 1 bit of cutting (similar to a saw blade)
- 4 Bits for Grinding
- 1 nylon bristle brush
- 1 Stainless Steel Bit
- 5 polishing wheels with felt and polishing compound
- 1 drum sanding
- 7 sanding band replacements
- Four sanding discs
- 3 mandrels for bit attachment
- Spanner (EZ Nose Grip Means you only need this occasionally)
Dremel 4000 6/50
Every shopper should purchase this deluxe rotary tool kit if money is no object. This model rotary tool has 6 attachments and 50 accessories, making it suitable for any situation (except, possibly, a zombie apocalypse).
It is one of the most cost-effective ways to acquire these tool features. You can even get it with the drill press work stand, which converts your Dremel into a mini drill press.
- 1 Attachment for Flex Shaft
- 1 Cutter, Circle (which also works as a Straight Edge Guide)
- 1 Sanding/Grinding Manual
- 1 Fundamental Cutting Attachment
- 1 Shield Attachment for Dust Reduction
- 1 as well as Lawn Mower and Garden Tool Sharpening Attachment
- 3 Carving Tools
- 11 chopping wheels
- 1 bit for cutting (similar to a saw blade)
- 6 Stones for Grinding
- 1 nylon bristle brush
- 2 brushes with steel bristles
- 5 polishing wheels made of felt
- 1 polishing agent
- Three sanding buffs
- 1 drum sanding
- 6 sanding bands (replacement)
- 6 sandpaper discs
- drill bit 1/8 inch
- three mandrels
- Collet (chuck) is used to attach drill bits to rotary tools.
- Wrench (when you need to swap bits on the rotary tool).
Dremel 3000 vs 4OOO Conclusion
The Dremel 3000 is an excellent low-cost rotary tool for home hobbyists and crafters.
The homeowner who intends to use the tool in their shop or as a remodeling tool will appreciate the 4000 series rotary’s higher power and ability to remove the grout and cut tile (plan on buying extra rotary wheels).