Dremel 3000 Vs 4000: Which Is Better?

If you are into DIY projects, then you must be familiar with rotary tools. They are a must-have accessory if you are a serious woodworker. But which one to buy? Which one offers the best value for the money? Let’s compare Dremel 3000 vs 4000  and find out which is best.

Our Verdict

If you need the best one among Dremel 3000 and 4000, consider your requirements if you are looking for an advanced and feature-rich tool. Then, Dremel 4000 is the best among the two. It comes with a more powerful motor and more accessories. It also enables you to adjust the speed. It’s also compatible with other accessories from Dremel. But if you are a DIY enthusiast on a tight budget, then you are better off with Dremel 3000. It may not be the best one. But for the asking price, it packs a punch.

Dremel 3000 Vs 4000: Comparison Chart

To understand and conclude on a possible device, we have to compare their features. Both tools are used for the same purpose. To find a likely winner, we have to compare their specifications and features.

Differences

1. Motor And Power

Dremel 4000 has a more powerful motor. The motor has a power of 175-Watts. The engine is rated at 1.6amps. Dremel 3000 has only 130-Watts and 1.2-amps. 

The more powerful motor of Dremel 4000 enables it to work a lot better. Both are replaceable brushless motor. A brushless motor lasts long as it has a permanent magnet instead of coils.  The increased power is useful in metal carving and cutting. 

Bottom Line: The Dremel 4000 has more power than Dremel 3000.

2. Speed Range

For different jobs, rotary tools need different speeds. Both Dremel 4000 and 3000 have variable speeds. But Dremel 4000 has a higher speed range of 5,000 to 35,000 RPM. Even though Dremel 3000 has reduced higher RPM at 32,000, it is no slouch. Both perform well. But the higher speed of Dremel 4000 helps it to perform better.

Bottom Line: Dremel 4000 wins over 3000 as it offers a higher speed range. At 35,000 RPM Dremel 4000 provides better control and efficiency.

3. Size And Weight

Both Dremel 4000 and 3000 are handheld tools. But they vary in size and how compact they are. Dremel 3000 is the smaller of the two. It has a length of 7.5 inches. Dremel 4000 is longer at 9 inches.

In the case of weight, Dremel 300 is the lighter one. It weighs 1.2lbs. The Dremel 4000 weighs 1.4 pounds. Dremel 4000 is more prolonged and more massive. They might induce hand fatigue over extended usage. 

Bottom Line: Dremel 3000 the clear winner as it is lighter and more compact than Dremel 4000. Weighing at 1.2 pounds, it is lighter by 0.2 pounds.

4. Electronic Feedback Control

Dremel 4000 comes with electronic feedback control. But Dremel 3000 lacks such a system. When you are using a Dremel 3000, you have to eyeball the pressure and speed of the tool. If you are not an experienced person, then it can be disastrous.

Electronic feedback is an essential and modern feature in many rotary tools. It comes handy when you are grinding hard. Electronic feedback allows you to have better control over the tool. This a great feature for beginners as it helps them to avoid removing too much material. 

Bottom Line: The electronic feedback in Dremel 4000 allows you to have better control over the tool. This makes it clear among both.

5. Separate On/Off

Dremel 4000 comes with separate on/off speed dial. This helps to control the speed without compromising power. Both models have variable speed control. But having a different on/off speed dial gives Dremel 4000 better manage. The separate on/off tool enables you to slow/speed the tool while working. You can turn off the tool and pick up at the same speed where you left off. This helps to improve the project better. In the case of Dremel-3000, you only have limited control over the speed. But the separate on/off tool in Dremel-4000 offers improved control over the speed on the tool.

Bottom Line: The separate on/off in Dremel 400 allows you to have better control over the tool. Such a feature is always sought after by DIY users and professionals alike.

6. Kit Options

When you buy both the tools, they come with a variety of attachments. The tools differ when it comes to the number and type of accessories. A rotary tool comes with 1 to 4 attachments and 24 to 50 accessories. Here Dremel 4000 has a clear advantage. Dremel 4000 comes with four kit options. The kit options are (4000-2/30, 4000-3/34, 4000-4/34, and 4000-6/50). But Dremel 3000 comes in only three options. They are (3000-1/24, 3000-1/25, and 3000-2/28). 

But every accessory produced by Dremel is not compatible with Dremel-3000. Various accessories made by Dremel is consistent with the tool. 

Bottom Line: Dremel 4000 offers a more significant number of attachments and accessories. For a long-term investment and multiple tasks, Dremel 4000 is the ultimate winner.

7. Cost

Dremel 3000 is a lot cheaper than Dremel 4000. But on the downside, Dremel 3000 has fewer number of attachments and accessories. Dremel 4000 costs $89 for one attachment and 28 accessories. For one attachment and 24 accessories, the cost is $66 for Dremel 3000. Dremel 3000 is a lot cheaper. 

Dremel-4000 offers up to 6 attachments and 50 different accessories. The initial price is expensive. But you get a lot of accessories along with it. For long term usage, it is cost-effective.

Bottom Line: Dremel 3000 is cheaper than the Dremel 4000. But over the long term, Dremel-4000 is a better investment.

Dremel 3000 Vs 4000: Similarities

1. Accessory Change System

When it comes to the accessory change system, almost all Dremel are the same. But for newer models, it is different. For Dremel-3000 and 4000, it same. Both use an EZ Twist Nose Cap. This nose cap eliminates the need for a spanner or unique tool. You can change different accessories in about 5 seconds. Many DIYers and enthusiasts love this feature. It helps to reduce downtime and faster work. But not every accessory is compatible with Dremel-3000. When buying a Dremel-3000, take time to check if your accessory is compatible or not.

2. Power Supply

Both Dremel-4000 and 3000 power tools with cords. Both use a 120 volts power supply. The cord is often considered as a disadvantage.

3. Design And Grip

Dremel-4000 is an evolution of the design of Dremel-3000. Both models offer a comfortable grip. Both have soft rubber grips with ergonomic hand design.

4. Variable Speed

Both Dremel-4000 and 3000 models come with variable speed controls.

Even though both have variable controls, Dremel 4000 has separate on/off speed dial. This improves the ability to control the speed without adjusting power. Also, Dremel-4000 has higher speeds than Dremel-3000.

5. Durability

Both Dremel-3000 and 4000 offers similar levels of durability. The main issue with both the tools is the clogging due to fine dust. But blowing off the dust with compressed air can solve the problem. 

Another thing many have reported is the “blue wire” problem. Inside the device, the blue colored wire shows the tendency to pop out. To fix it, you have to open the tool up. But apart from these two problems, the tools offer excellent durability. 

What Is A Rotary Tool?

A rotary tool is a handheld power tool. It has a rotary tip that accepts a variety of attachments. A rotary tool is compact, weighs less, and offers high speeds. It is an alternative to sizeable bulky power tools. A rotary tool has many uses such as polishing, cutting, carving, engraving, and etching, among many. You can also use a rotary tool on various objects such as wood, metal, and fiberglass. But you need the right accessories for different surfaces.

To sum up some of the uses of rotary tools,

• You can use the cutting attachments on fiberglass, wood, and plastic.
• You can use the metal cutting attachment for cutting baseboards, crown molding, etc.
• You can engrave on metal using carbide bits.
• You can also use the tool to polish faucets, doorknobs, or even jewelry.
• You can use wire wheels for removing rust from metal.
• You can attach a sharpening wheel to sharpen knives.
• You can also attach a sanding drum to sand wood surfaces.

Dremel

Dremel is an American brand that manufactures power tools. They are well known for their rotary tools. Albert J. Dremel started the development of these rotary tools and set up a company in 1932. Albert J. Dremel was an Austrian immigrant. He started the Dremel company in Racine, Wisconsin. But in 1993, Robert Bosch GmbH purchased the company. Now it’s a division of the Robert Bosch Tool Corporation located in Mount Prospect, Illinois. They are well known for their professional rotary tools. They are also market leaders in this segment. They are a common household name when it comes to providing the best tools in the business segment. Dremel Europe handles the activities of Dremel in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Dremel 3000 Vs 4000: Technical Specifications

Dremel 3000

• Speed:Variable (5,000 – 32,000 RPM)
• Warranty: Limited 2 Years
• Cord Length:6 ft
• Voltage: 120V
• Amperage:1.2
• Kits: 3000-1/24, 3000-1/25 and 3000-2/28
• Dimensions: 7.5 inches in length
• Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Motor: 130- Watts
• Nose Cap: EZ Twist Nose Cap
• Electronic Feedback Control: Not present
• Separate On/Off Speed Control: Not present

Dremel 4000

• Speed: Variable (5,000 – 35,000 RPM)
• Warranty: Limited 2 Years
• Cord Length: 6 ft
• Voltage: 120V
• Amperage: 1.6
• Kits :4000-2/30, 4000-3/34, 4000-4/34, 4000-6/50
• Dimensions:9 inches in length
• Weight:1.4 pounds
• Motor:175- Watts
• Nose Cap: EZ Twist Nose Cap
• Electronic Feedback Control:   Present
• Separate On/Off Speed Control:     Present

Dremel 3000 Vs 4000: What’s In The Box?

Apart from the tool and the hard case, the products come with different options. The kits vary in the number of accessories and attachments. The most prominent kits of both Dremel-3000and 4000 include

Dremel-3000

Dremel 3000-1/24

It comes with only one attachment. A sanding/grinding guide. Along with that, you get 24 accessories which are:

• One high-speed cutter for carving and engraving applications 
• Two cut-off wheels for cutting 
• One silicon carbide grinding stones and two aluminum oxide grinding stones for grinding and sharpening 
• One nylon bristle brush, one carbon steel brush, 3 felt polishing wheels, and one polishing compound for cleaning and polishing 
• Two sanding drums and seven sanding bands for sanding applications 
• Two miscellaneous mandrel accessories, one dressing stone, and one wrench

Dremel 3000-1/25

It comes with only one attachment. A sanding/grinding guide. Along with that, you get 24 accessories which are:

• One high speed cuter for carving and engraving 
• Two cut-off wheels for cutting 
• One silicon carbide grinding stone and two aluminum oxide grinding stones for grinding and sharpening 
• One carbon steel brush, 4 felt polishing wheels and one polishing compound for cleaning and polishing 
• Two sanding drums and eight sanding bands for sanding 
• Two miscellaneous mandrels, one dressing stone, and one wrench

Dremel 3000- 2/28

The two attachments are sanding/grinding and cutting guides. It also comes with 28 accessories:

• One engraving cutter, one high-speed cutter, and one diamond wheel point for cutting 
• Two cut-off wheels and one multipurpose cutting bit for cutting 
• One silicon carbide grinding stone and three aluminum oxide grinding stones for sharpening and grinding 
• One nylon bristle brush, one carbon steel brush, 5 felt polishing wheels, and one polishing compound for cleaning and polishing 
• One sanding drum and five sanding bands for sanding 
• Two miscellaneous mandrels, one dressing stone, and one wrench

Dremel-4000

Dremel 4000-2/30 kit

It offers two attachments, which are circle cutter/straight edge and sanding/grinding guides. The accessories include:

• One high-speed cutter for engraving and carving 
• Four cut-off wheels and one multipurpose bit for cutting 
• One aluminum oxide grinding wheel, one aluminum oxide grinding stone, and one silicon carbide grinding stone for grinding and sharpening 
• One carbon steel brush, 2 felt polishing wheels and one polishing compound for cleaning and polishing 
• One sanding drum, six sanding bands, and eight sanding discs for sanding 
• Two miscellaneous mandrels and one wrench

Dremel 4000-3/34

It offers three attachments and 34 accessories. The attachments include a multipurpose cutting guide, sanding/grinding guide, and detailer’s grip. The included accessories are:

• One engraving cutter and one high-speed cutter for carving and engraving 
• Four cut-off wheels and one multipurpose cutting bit for cutting 
• Two silicon carbide grinding stones and two aluminum oxide grinding stones for grinding and sharpening 
• One nylon bristle brush, one carbon steel brush, 5 felt polishing wheels, and one polishing compound for cleaning and polishing 
• One sanding drum, five sanding bands, and four sanding discs for sanding 
• Three miscellaneous mandrel accessories, a 3/32-inch collet, and one wrench

Dremel 4000-4/34

It offers four attachments and 34 accessories. The attachments include a multipurpose cutting guide, sanding/grinding guide, circle cutter/straight edge guide, and a detailer’s grip. The accessories are:

• One engraving cutter and one high-speed cutter for carving and engraving 
• Four cut-off wheels and one multipurpose cutting bit for cutting 
• Two aluminum oxide grinding stones and two silicon carbide grinding stones for grinding and sharpening tasks 
• One nylon bristle brush, one carbon steel brush, 5 felt polishing wheels, and one polishing compound for cleaning and polishing applications 
• One sanding drum, seven sanding bands, and four sanding discs for sanding projects 
• Three miscellaneous mandrel accessories and one wrench

Dremel 4000-6/50

It offers a total of 6 attachments and 50 accessories along with the tool. The attachments include a flex shaft attachment, circle cutter/straight edge guide, multipurpose cutting guide, shield attachment, sanding/grinding guide, and a lawnmower and garden tool sharpening attachment. The accessories include:

• One engraving cutter and two high-speed cutters for carving and engraving 
• 11 cut-off wheels and one multipurpose cutting bit for cutting 
• Two aluminum oxide grinding wheels, two aluminum oxide grinding stones, and one silicon carbide grinding stone for grinding and sharpening 
• One nylon bristle brush, two carbon steel brushes, 4 felt polishing wheels, one cloth polishing wheel, and one polishing compound for cleaning and polishing applications 
• Three abrasive finishing bus, one sanding drum, six sanding bands, and six sanding discs for sanding 
• One drill bit, three miscellaneous mandrels, a 3/32-inch collet, and one wrench

Overview

Overview Of Dremel 3000

The Dremel 3000 has a 1.2amp motor offering a variable speed of 5,000-32,000 RPM. It has a 10-step variable speed control. For the asking price, it is a powerful tool. It has a length of 7.5 inches and weighs 1.2 pounds. The motor has a rated wattage of 130-Watts. It offers a comfortable grip as well as a pencil shape design: the lightweight and smaller size help to reduce hand fatigue. This multi-tool can do any job that you want it to. You have to use the right accessory, though.

Dremel 3000 also has the EZ Twist nose cap. The tool is a lot cheaper than other tools. Their price puts them in the lower end of professional rotary drills. But their features put it ahead of them. They have many purposes, such as sanding, removing rust, polishing, cutting among many. It also comes with a manufacturer’s warranty of 2- years. But the professional usage warranty is only for 1-year. Such usage is quite normal in industrial set up.

The tool comes with various kit options. The kit options include 3000-1/24, 3000-1/25, 3000-2/28. Dremel-3000 only accepts up to 2 attachments, and the accessory number is also limited at 28. Again, not all Dremel accessories are compatible with this tool. The tool also lacks a separate on/off control system. The electronic feedback system is also absent. These are critical drawbacks and a significant deal-breaker for many buyers. The EF system gives a warning when you are exerting too much pressure or speed.  In Dremel-3000, you have to eyeball it. Consider yourself polishing a very valuable heirloom. You don’t want to eyeball anything. Do you? Another main drawback is the cord. Also, many components are plastic in origin.

Dremel-4000

The Dremel-4000 is another multi-tool that offers many interchangeable features and attachments. The device is longer than Dremel-3000 at 9 inches. It is also heavier at 1.4 pounds. But its main advantage is the powerful motor. It has a 1.6 Amps motor. It also puts out 175 watts of power. Such a powerful motor is useful in various circumstances. The device also offers a higher speed at 35,000RPM. They have a variable speed ranging from 5,000 to 35,000RPM. To control the speed, it has a separate on/off control system. This helps to reduce or increase the speed without losing power. Having a different on/off speed dial gives Dremel 4000 better control. The separate on/off tool enables you to slow/speed the tool while working.

It also has an electronic feedback system. Electronic feedback allows you to have better control over the tool. This is a great feature for beginners as it helps them to avoid removing too much material. It also has an EZ Twist Nose Cap, which enables switching between different accessories in less than 5-sec. The Dremel-4000 also has better kit options. The kit options range from 4000-2/30, 4000-3/34, 4000-4/34, 4000-6/50. The higher number and specialization improve its versatility. Also, all the Dremel attachments are compatible with the tool.

The tool offers many uses such as sanding, removing rust, polishing, cutting among many. It also comes with a manufacturer’s warranty of 2- years. But the professional usage warranty is only for a year. Such usage is quite normal in industrial set up. The major disadvantages of this rotary tool include its price, corded nature, and heft. The initial price is expensive. But you get a lot of accessories along with it. For long term usage, it is cost-effective. Also, the cord reduces the portability and adds to the difficulty. It is also more prolonged and more massive. This makes them harder to use over extended periods. More weight means more hand fatigue over extended usage.

FAQs

Final Thought

The chances are that the Dremel 4000 is going to take the lead when it comes to versatility. It comes with a stronger motor and more accessories. It also enables you to adjust the speed. It’s also compatible with other accessories from Dremel.

But, if you’re a novice user, Dremel 3000 may be the better choice. This suggestion is for people on a very tight budget too. It’s cheap and has lots of accessories too. Also, you can do away with the learning curve on a cheaper machine. You don’t want to spend a fortune on your 1st tool. Even though it is cheap, it offers excellent quality. Their price puts then right up with lower professional tools. But their performance is often better than them. As an upgrade, you can look for Dremel 4000 or 4200 series.