Dremel 3000 vs 4000: Which One’s Best?

Rating	Image	Product	Details
Best Choice		Dremel 4000	Lightweight Quick and powerful Separate on/off switch to speed	CHECK PRICE
Best Price		Dremel 3000	Great for sanding Affordable and good quality Equipped with an EZ twist nose cap	CHECK PRICE

Dremel 3000 vs 4000 – Review Summary

All woodworkers need a good rotary tool in their kit, and the Dremel has been a popular choice for years. Both the Dremel 3000 and 4000 are two popular models. Since both models are high performing, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your needs. This article provides you with the information you need to choose between the 3000 and 4000.

To not beat around the bush, the 4000 is more impressive than the 3000. It offers more power and precision that professionals and experts will enjoy. However, these additional features come with a downside, and it is that the 4000 is more expensive than the 3000. Nevertheless, the 4000 is the best option between the two models, and professionals would be wise to select the 4000.

That is not to say that the 3000 is a bad option. On the contrary, the 3000 is a great choice for hobbyists and DIYers because it is still useful but more affordable. Those who don’t need exact precision will be more than satisfied with the 3000.

To find out more about the Dremel 3000 and Dremel 4000, read on. In this review, we will look at each tool individually, compare them, and summarize other users’ experiences with the tools. Let’s dig in.

At a Glance

Let’s look at the key points of each product.

Overview of the Dremel 3000

The Dremel 3000 is an effective but affordable rotary tool. This option is a great choice for DIYers who want a reliable tool at a more affordable price.  It includes a 1.2-amp motor and six variable speeds. The variable speeds run from 5,000 to 35,000 RPM, allowing maximum versatility and precision.

The 3000 also comes with an innovated air flow system. The system helps prevent heat buildup for a smoother, cooler, and quieter operation. This makes a tool more usable, especially if you plan to use it for an extended amount of time.

Many people enjoy the slim and ergonomic body of the Dremel 3000. It includes a 360-degree grip zone for added comfort. The Dremel 3000 is also lightweight. This makes it easy to hold the tool from any angle for an extended amount of time.

Twenty-eight versatile accessories come with this tool. Sanding, sharpening, grinding, cutting, polishing, and cleaning accessories are included. The Dremel 3000 is especially known for its sanding accessory and abilities. The kit also includes two attachments, including a shaping platform and a multipurpose cutting kit.

These numerous features make the Dremel 3000 a great choice for DIYers and beginners. It offers a variety of accessories, and the sanding aspect is highly impressive. With that being said, it does not offer the same precision or power of the 4000, which is why the 3000 is more suitable for hobbyists on a budget.

See Also: 

• Dremel 3000 Rotary Tool Review

Overview of the Dremel 4000:

While the Dremel 3000 is great for DIYers on a budget, the 4000 is great for professionals who prioritize functionality over price.

The 4000 comes with a 1.6-amp motor and a variable speed range. This speed range ranges from 5,000 to 35,000 RPM. It even comes with electronic feedback circuitry for consistent performance. In other words, the speed can adjust to the exact project you are working on. This makes a Dremel 4000 highly precise and powerful.

Like the 3000, the additional power is kept under control due to the innovated airflow system. The tool does not overheat due to the ventilation mechanism. This allows for a smoother, cooler, and quieter use. Additionally, the 4000 has a 360-degree grip zone for maximum comfort and an ergonomic, lightweight design.

The Dremel 4000 comes with 30 high quality Dremel accessories, two attachments, a plastic storage case, and an accessory case. This means that you get more accessories and parts with the Dremel 4000 than the 3000.

The impressive amperage and speed range make the Dremel 4000 a great choice for professionals. It offers more power and precision than the 3000, yet it is lightweight, ergonomic, and resistant to overheating. Of course, these professional features mean that the 4000 is much more expensive than the 3000. Those on a budget might find the price too steep.

What are the differences between them?

Performance

Edge: Dremel 4000

In terms of performance, the Dremel 4000 wins by a landslide. The 1.6-amp motor allows the 4000 to provide much more power than the 3000. At the same time, the variable speed with feedback circuitry provides exact precision. This allows you to control every project with ease and effectiveness completely.

The Dremel 3000, in contrast, is less powerful and less precise. Though it does come with 6-speed variables, you can’t get the exact speed that you need. This means that the power and precision offered by the 3000 are more suited for hobbyists and DIYers, not professionals.

Most of the accessories included with the 4000 are also more impressive than the 3000. They offer more precision and accurate results. The only exception to this is the sander. Most users who have used both tools agree that the sander on the 3000 is more effective than the sander on the 4000.

Overall, you should select the Dremel 4000 if performance is your number one priority. Professionals will get better use of the 4000 than the 3000 for this reason.

Price

Edge: Dremel 3000

Although the 4000 in the 3000 are not all that different, the Dremel 3000 is way more affordable than the 4000. Those looking for a rotary tool on a budget will enjoy the 3000 over the 4000. The 3000 is one of the best options if you are looking for an affordable yet effective option.

Durability

Edge: Dremel 4000

The durability of the 4000 also attributes to its high price. Overall, the Dremel 4000 is way more durable and long-lasting than the 3000. The tool and accessories included are all designed to withstand a lot of pressure and drops, ensuring that your tool and kit last many years.

The Dremel 3000 is less durable. Some of the accessories included are made from plastic, which means that they will not last as long as the accessories included with the 4000. You should definitely opt for the 4000 if durability is a big priority for you.

Design

Edge: None

Neither model wins in the design category because they both have highly similar designs. They both are lightweight, made with an ergonomic design, and include a 360-degree comfort grip. This allows you to use both tools for a long time without much issue.

One downside of both models is that they are both corded. This means that the length of the cord will limit your motion. Although the cord does allow high power, it can be an issue for those who want to work far away from an outlet.

What the Users Say

We went ahead and looked at what other users were saying about these tools. We wanted to know what they thought and how it compares to what we thought. Here is what we found out from our research:

Dremel 3000

Most users of the Dremel 3000 have positive experiences, and most reviews are four or five stars. Many users compliment the user-friendliness and compact design of the 3000. Several people noted that they had never used a power tool before and thought that it was incredibly easy and safe to use. More experienced tool users also noted the versatility of the 3000 and recommended every woodworker keep one in their kit.

There are very few negative reviews that we could find online. A few users did note that the 3000 doesn’t last longer than a year or so. This is probably due to some of the plastic parts of the model.

Dremel 4000

Like the 3000, the 4000 was primarily positive reviews. Most reviewers found the 4000 great for small and large projects alike. The most frequent positive review made about the 4000 is that it is incredibly durable and built to last. Many users commented that there is no other rotary tool that compares in terms of durability.

There were even fewer negative reviews on the 4000 than the 3000. A few people noted that the case was oddly sized but still effective. Additionally, several avid Dremel users note that the collet is more difficult to use than other models.

Conclusion

Both the 3000 and 4000 live up to Dremel’s impressive reputation. They are powerful, economic, and effective, making both the 3000 and 4000 a great addition to any woodworkers’ kit.

With that being said, professionals are advised to choose the 4000 because it offers more power and precision. Although it is more expensive, it will create beautiful and accurate projects. Hobbyists and DIYers, on the other hand, may opt for the 3000 instead. It is more affordable and offers impressive features, but it is less precise and powerful than the 4000.

Ultimately though, the decision is up to you. If you value precision and power over price, then select the 4000. If you value price over performance, then select the 3000. You really can’t go wrong with either option since they’re both high performing and impressive.