Does Speed of Multi-Tool Matter? Power?

[Andy Traxel]

There are a few differences between the Fein, Rockwell, Dremel & Harbor Freight multi-tools that I haven't seen discussed here that I'd like feedback on.

The Fein, Dremel and the Rockwell tools in the 37 & 72 piece kits are variable speed. Range is roughly from 10,000 to 20,000 oscillations/second for each.

The Rockwell tool in the 27 piece kit is fixed speed. 20,000 ops.

The Harbor Freight tool is fixed speed. Only 11,000 ops.

Fein's website says they have a 250 W motor.

Rockwell's website says their motor can pull 2.3 A. 2.3 A x 110 V = 250 W.

Dremel's website says their motor can pull 1.5 A. 1.5 x 110 = 165 W

Harbor Freight's website says their motor can pull 1.6 A. 1.6 x 110 = 175W

So while the Harbor Freight tool is by far the cheapest, it can operate only half as fast as the Fein & Rockwell tools. And has 30% less power than those 2.

I'm wondering what twice the speed, variable speed control, and 30% more power are worth when using these tools.

Comments from anyone who has operated more than one of these tools is especially appreciated.

Andy

 

[Merkava_4]

I'm wondering what twice the speed, variable speed control, and 30% more power are worth when using these tools.

The variable speed and the ability to go low speed is the most important; more so than high speed. Different bits and materials all have there optimum safe speed for the attachment bit. The Dremel cut-off wheels for example, will break apart in no time flat if you try to push them through the full 30,000 RPM. The fiber reinforced cut-off wheels can handle a lot more speed, but you pay more for them too. Variable speed in a rotary tool is a necessity in my opinion.

 

[nate379]

I run most everything I have on my Dremel at wide open. It's variable speed but a Lo, Med, Hi would work fine for me even.