Proxxon vs Dremel Rotary Tool Comparison: Which Rotary Tool Is Better?

Corded Dremel 400 High Performance Rotary Tool

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The Proxxon vs Dremel debate isn’t likely to end soon as each one has its own followers. So which one really is good for you? Well, that is what this comparison review is for.

Here I’ll take a look at the Proxxon 28512, 38472 and the 3848 and who they compare to the Dremel 4000 and the 4200. The Proxxon line claims it is an alternative to users in need of a power tool, but does the company live up to that claim?

To find out if this is true, I did a detailed review of each product, the speed, ease of use and what its applications are. The following reveals my findings about these rotary tools.

Proxxon vs Dremel Rotary Tool Comparison Table

Before we take a look at the detailed reviews, this table will give you a snapshot of what each product is about and what they offer the buyer.

 Product Proxxon 28512 Proxxon 38472 Proxxon 38481 Dremel 4000-2/30 Dremel 4200-4/36 Dremel 4200-4/36
Variable Speed Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Speed Range 5,000-20,000 5,000-20,000 5,000-20,000 5,000-35,000 5,000-35,000 5,000-35,000
Specialty Cutting, grinding, sharpening, polishing, sanding, carving, engraving, cleaning Cutting, grinding, sharpening, polishing, sanding, carving, engraving, cleaning Cutting, grinding, sharpening, polishing, sanding, carving, engraving, cleaning Cutting, grinding, sharpening, polishing, sanding, carving, engraving, cleaning Cutting, grinding, sharpening, polishing, sanding, carving, engraving, cleaning Cutting, grinding, sharpening, polishing, sanding, carving, engraving, cleaning
Number of Accessories N/A 43 accessories 34 cutters and bits with 6 collets 30 accessories and 2 attachments 36 accessories and 4 attachments 64 accessories and 9 attachments
Weight 1.5 lbs 2.08 lbs 1.5 pounds 4.4 pounds 1.18 pounds 1.18 pounds
Dimensions 1.5 x 11.4 x 6.5 inches 5.3 x 2.5 x 10.4 inches 13 x 8.1 x 4.4 inches 13.9 x 9.4 x 4 inches 15.2 x 10.2 x 3.8 inches 9 x 2 x 2 inches
Corded Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Price Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Amazon

Proxxon vs Dremel Rotary Tool Reviews

Proxxon and Dremel manufacture a lot of products, but I picked these because they are the most popular and widely used. Let’s take a look at each one.

#1: Proxxon 28512 12-Volt Micromot 50 EF Rotary Tool

Proxxon 28512 12-Volt Micromot 50 EF Rotary Tool

The 28512 does not get mentioned a lot in the Proxxon vs Dremel 4000 debate, but it’s one of the more versatile tools Dremel has.

This is a compact rotary tool for those who don’t need a fancy utility. At just 1 1/2 lbs and 11.5 inches wide, the 28512 is suitable for various light to medium tasks and projects.

Its DC motor is powerful but quiet, ideal for long term use. Its chuck is well-designed and used properly should last a long time.

With its keyless chuck and variable speed, the 28512 can handle the tasks you throw at it. Another advantage is it works with different shafts ranging from 1/32” to 1/8”.

The Proxxon 28512 is especially good when it’s used with different types of HS drill bits. No matter what size you’re working it’s easy because the tool is light and easy to use.

The 28512 is made of polyamide that’s been fortified with fiber. The handle is well balanced, soft and comfortable to hold.

The 28512 doesn’t have an on/off switch. Instead you just plug it into the Proxxon supply and turn it on and off from there.

Performance wise the 28512 delivers. The speed control functions as advertised. The other nice thing about this is it doesn’t overheat the way some high end rotary tools do.
Special Features

  • Fiber enhanced body
  • Powerful and low noise motor
  • Electronic feedback
  • Rapid action chuck
  • Very light and easy to carry
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#2: Proxxon 38472 FBS 115/E Precision Rotary Tool

Proxxon 38472 FBS 115/E Precision Rotary Tool

A lot of the Proxxon vs Dremel rotary tools debate focus on specific models like the 38472. It is a versatile rotary tool that is designed for cutting, carving, engraving, de-rusting and deburring.

The 38472 can also be used for polishing, grinding, milling and drilling, underscoring its efficiency. This rotary tool is equipped with an advanced motor for handling different tasks.

The 38472 doesn’t require you to change brushes, plus it has a comprehensive electronic speed control.

The electronic controls ensure the tool delivers consistent performance. This feature also ensures you get a sufficient amount of torque when you use it.

The 38472 Proxxon produces torque even when you’re running it at low speed, making it ideal for polishing and brushing sensitive objects.

The motor is also finely balanced and reduces the possibility of overheating. The 38472 is also free of vibrations so you can it in comfort.

The 38472 also sports an ergonomic design so your hand doesn’t get tired while using it. Need to change the bit? Just use the button lock spindle to do it, a more convenient method compared to those of other rotary tools.

Apart from the spindle lock, the ball bearing also makes the unit easier to work with. Lastly it has a keyless chuck so you can use it with 1/64” to 1/8” shanks.

Special Features

  • Comes with 40 accessories
  • Works with the Proxxon 28610 bench clamp holder
  • Fully compatible with the 28405 adapter
  • Comes with a soft grip for comfortable handling
  • Storage case for the accessories
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#3: Proxxon 38481 Professional Rotary Tool IBS/E

Proxxon 38481 Professional Rotary Tool IBS/EThe Proxxon 38481 is often the product used during a Dremel vs Proxxon comparison review, and it’s to be expected given its efficiency.

The 38481 tips the scale at just 1.3 lbs and is only 9 inches long. Yet it packs 1/8 horsepower to carry out various tasks.

The 38481 goes from 5,000 to 20,000 RPM which means it is more than capable of satisfying your requirements. These specs are complemented by its powerful motor that can handle a lot of different projects.

The powerful specs makes the 38481 a good option for engraving, grinding, cutting, cleaning and polishing. You also get 34 cutters and bits designed for industrial use.

For a lot of people the highlight here is the 6 collets, 1/8, 7/64, 3/3-2, 5/64, 1/16 and 1/32 inches. Performance wise the 38481 is very smooth and the variable speed allows you to use it for professional and hobby projects.

You can run the 38481 at high torque without feeling vibrations or a performance dip. The This rotary tool is also quiet and light, so even at a high torque you’ll get optimum results.

A storage case is provided where you can store the 34 accessory pieces. Half a dozen triple slit collets are included. The RPM and the 1/8 HP motor also deliver in the performance department.

Special Features

  • Bundled with half a dozen steel collets
  • Weighs only 1.3 lbs
  • Powerful motor
  • 5-20,000 RPM
  • 1/8 HP
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#4: Dremel 4000-2/30 120-Volt Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit

Dremel 4000-2/30 120-Volt Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit - CordedIn the whole Proxxon rotary tool vs Dremel comparison, you’ll find more often than not that the Dremel 4000 2/30 is the measuring stick used. If you’ve been using rotary tools for a while you’ll know why this is the case.

The 4000 2/30 is a powerful rotary tool with an RPM of 5,000 to 35,000. It also has a dial so you can fine tune the speed to match the need of your project.

A carry case is provided where you can store the Dremel 4000 and the 30 accessories. A coupe of Dremel attachments are bundled, giving you more ways to cut, polish, grind and otherwise work on your project.

The Dremel 4000 is particularly good at engraving and carving. By using its cutter you’ll be able to carve on wood, metal, plastic and other materials. You can also use this tool to create tapered openings on materials.

The other accessories on the 4000 lets you slot, groove, hollow and shape materials in different ways. Because it’s Dremel you’re assured it’s high quality and compatible with all Dremel accessories.

The variable speed gives you better control of the process no matter what material you’re working on. It also has the EZ Twist nose cap so you can replace accessories with ease. It also has an electronic feedback and 1.6 amp for consistent performance.

Special Features

  • Variable speed
  • Carry case included
  • 360 degree grip zone
  • 2 Dremel attachments
  • 30 Dremel accessories
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#5: Dremel 4200-4/36 High-Performance Rotary Tool Kit

Dremel 4200-4/36 High-Performance Rotary Tool Kit with EZ Change, 4-Attachments and 36-AccessoriesIf we base the Proxxon vs Dremel 4200 comparison on power alone, the 4200 wins. For starters, the unit has a 5,000 to 35,000 RPM, thus giving you have full control over the project you’re working on.

The Dremel 4200 comes with 36 accessories and 4 attachments. Together these features allow you to work on different types of projects without straining the tool.

The Dremel 4200 design is also superior to that of other rotary tools. It has a cooler that allows it to produce up to 20% better airflow compared to other rotary tools. This is a crucial feature to ensure the system does not overheat.

The Dremel 4200 also has an EZ Change System so you don’t need to use a collet lock or wrench to replace any of the accessories.

The 4200 comes with a garden tool sharpener and lawn mower attachment to manage your garden. You also get the A550 shield rotary attachment, 565 multipurpose cutting kit and an A576 grinding/sanding guide.

The accessories include a 191 1/8″ high speed cutter and a 07 1/8″ engraving HS cutter for all types of cutting tasks.

For sharpening and grinding, there is a 932 3/8″ aluminum oxide, a 84922 3/16″ silicon carbide and another 8193 5/8″ aluminum oxide accessory.

Special Features

  • 6 amp motor
  • EZ Change for rapid replacement of accessories
  • Variable speed for various tasks
  • Compatible with various Dremel accessories
  • 403 brush steel and 561 spiral bit included
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#6: Dremel 4300-9/64 High Performance Rotary Tool Kit with Universal 3-Jaw Chuck, 9 Attachments and 64 Accessories

Dremel 4300-9/64 High Performance Rotary Tool Kit with Universal 3-Jaw Chuck, 9 Attachments and 64 Accessories

When it comes to the Dremel 4300 vs Proxxon rotary tool question, the 4300 has an edge given its many features. It has 64 accessories and multiple attachments so you can work on assorted projects.

One of the more contested areas in the Dremel vs Proxxon debate is the accessory and attachment set. It’s good to know the Dremel 4300 does not disappoint.

Its attachments include a Pivot Light to make your work easier. You also get a 679 garden tool sharpener and guides for cutting, grinding and sanding.

You also get a right angle attachment and the straight edge guide, both of whose functions are self-explanatory.  A 225 flex shaft is included as well as an A550 shield and a cutter for circles.

A mandrel is included as well as a drum sanding band. Accessories for polishing, cleaning, sharpening, grinding, cutting, engraving and carving are also included.

The Dremel 4300 lets you change accessories via its 3 jaw chuck. This means you no longer need to use a collet or tool to replace them.

The 4300 delivers a powerful performance thanks to its motor. Its electronic feedback circuitry and variable speed gives you even more control.

The 4300 also scores points for its ergonomic design, ensuring you’ll be comfortable while using it. And with its 360 degree Grip Zone you’ll be at ease no matter how you hold it.

Special Features

  • Comes with 64 accessories
  • Universal 3 Jaw lock
  • 9 attachments
  • Pivot Light for illumination
  • Ball bearing for smooth performance
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Feature Comparison Proxxon vs Dremel

  • Proxxon and Dremel rotary tools are corded and electrically powered.
  • In terms of amp, Dremel rotary tools are more powerful. Voltage is similar however.
  • Both Proxxon and Dremel tools have variable speed built in.
  • Proxxon rotary tools are lighter but only by a few grams.
  • Cord length varies per model. The Proxxon 38481 for instance, has a 7.5 feet cord compared to 6 feet for the Dremel 4000.
  • Most Proxxon rotary tools are compatible with Dremel bits.
  • The Dremel 4000 rotary tools use the EZ Twist System for changing accessories. Some Dremel rotary tools use a quick collet lock with the EZ Twist for accessory switching.
  • Proxxon tools use a lock button to change accessories.
  • Most Dremel and Proxxon have separate on/off switches, ball bearing construction and speed dial.
  • Some Proxxon rotary tools like the 38481 has Active Control Circuitry and carry case provided.
  • The Dremel 4000 have motor brushes which you can replace.
  • The built in features make the Proxxon and Dremel rotary tools suitable for difference tasks.
  • The Dremel 4000 series is a do it all rotary tool for home and on site use. It is generally more powerful and offers more options for speeds.
  • The Proxxon rotary tools however, are more suitable for intricate, detailed work.
  • The Dremel rotary tools are ergonomic, well balanced and built for long term use.
  • The Proxxon rotary tools are notable for being quieter than other models.
  • Both the Dremel and Proxxon rotary tools can cut through different materials.
  • Both brands offer tools that work with different types of accessories.
  • Both Dremel and Proxxon are built with versatility in mind, though the Dremel is more powerful.
  • Both brands offer reliable customer support.
  • All the rotary tools here have ergonomic handles.

Why Get The Dremel Over The Proxxon Tools?

  • The Dremel has a greater RPM speed compared to the Proxxon.
  • Its amperage is higher than a Proxxon rotary tool.
  • There are more kits to choose from.
  • The Dremel is a better all around rotary tool compared to the Proxxon.
  • The Dremel 4000 have speed circuitry control to counter overload.
  • You’re assured it is compatible with all Dremel attachments and accessories.
  • Dremel rotary tools have RPM greater than 20,000 RPM.
  • You get more flexibility, versatility and strength compared to the Proxxon.
  • The Dremel rotary tools last longer even if used heavily.

Why Not Get The Dremel Over The Proxxon Tools?

  • Proxxon rotary tools operate quietly even when at maximum speed.
  • Proxxon rotary tools are better balanced.
  • Accessories and bits are of good quality.
  • Better than Dremel when it comes to precision work.
  • The 38481 doesn’t overheat as quickly as other rotary tools.
  • The Proxxon rotary tools are legitimate alternatives to Dremel.
  • The Proxxon 381481 have six collets of varying sizes
  • Dremel rotary tools are noisier.
  • Dremel tools need a flex shaft for delicate carving. You can buy these easily enough but that is an added expense whereas with Proxxon it’s free.
  • You don’t need the kind of power that a typical Dremel rotary tool does.

Final Verdict

So there you have it, our detailed review of the top Dremel and Proxxon rotary tools. And what is obvious here is there is no best Proxxon or best Dremel rotary tool. Instead the best tool depends on what you need. Generally, Dremel rotary tools are more powerful, suitable for home and onsite use.

Proxxon tools on the other hand, are being marketed as the alternative. They’re not as powerful but can meet the needs of homeowners and DIY buffs. For professionals, you may want to check out the Dremel 4000 instead. So to answer the Proxxon vs Dremel question, it really comes down to what you need.

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14 comments… add one
  • jeansé Dec 1, 2019 @ 3:38

    very great, clear review and comparative of the two brands. Thank you, ive been reading also that the last dremels where not as strong and lasting in time than Proxxon in terms of solidity and longevity of the tool.

  • Eric Markey Jan 30, 2020 @ 6:32

    For me proxxon in general has outlasted any dremel I’ve had.

  • diego Mar 29, 2020 @ 5:57

    hi, so better to choose proxxon?
    Do you know if the dremel 565 accessory is valid for the proxxons you mention?

    • 6qusn Apr 4, 2020 @ 0:49

      It’s a personal preference, but I’d always go for the Dremel tools. I haven’t tried the 565 accessory with a Proxxon, so I can’t be sure if that is OK. It might be worth giving them a call on 1-877-PROXXON (Toll Free) – although I suspect their answer will be “We don’t support the use of third party accessories”. Maybe just go for the Dremel if you intend to use the 565.

      • diego Apr 5, 2020 @ 7:48

        hi, thank you for your answer. in the end I bought the proxxon 🙁

  • Alex Oct 11, 2020 @ 12:43

    After going through Dremel tools at the rate of about 2 per year, I bought a Proxxon about six years ago and won’t ever go back. The same Proxxon is still running perfectly after many, many hours of hard use. IMO, Dremel is great for occasional use or a hobbyist, but for someone who needs a reliable tool day after day, the Proxxon will pay for itself quickly, just in the avoided cost of buying a bunch of Dremels. I’ve found I can run a Proxxon continuously for an hour or more with no overheating, and it’s the heat that kills a Dremel so quickly. Dremel and Proxxon are completely different tools for a professional user.

  • Fikree May 18, 2021 @ 6:19

    A have both brand and use them interchangably in one project…

    IMHO… both has their pro and cons…

    My arsenal is :
    Dremel 4000(sold to other people)
    Dremel fortiflex
    Proxxon 230/e (2 pcs)
    Proxxon LHW

    All my project is small object, if i am shaping i will use proxxon LHW, then adding medium detail using fortiflex, the i will use proxxon 230e for intricate detail…. and lastly hand carving tool…

    The best this about using proxxon 230e is they are very silent (i use it during night time) and the bits spinning and at a high precision where you will almost never see any rattling…. so the carving will be very smooth with less tear-out wood, but after 20minutes the machine will get hot, so switch off and replace with another proxxon 230/e… because of the rotation precision you can also use 0.5mm Hss drill bits with less chance of breaking.

    You must try it, you will never dissapointed…

  • Reed Turney Oct 27, 2021 @ 21:24

    i’ve had two dremel 4000’s and each lasted about two years.. four years ago i got a proxxon micromot 60e as i wanted to do more detailed work. it is quieter and has less vibration than the dremel did and is easier for me to use. i did have some issue with using it for longer periods of time; not with heat from the motor but from the power supply.. since it had no switch i let it run longer, hence the heat. so i got inside it and did some alterations and added a switch and 40mm computer fan.. solved that one. the dremel did seem to have more power overall than this particular proxxon, but i rarely needed to use the high speeds so 20,000 rpm is fine with me.. if you do finer work, then try the proxxon… my ‘normal’ bits are 1/32″ burrs…

  • Howard Jalykakyc Feb 15, 2022 @ 9:30

    Do either Proxxon or Dremel offer a tool with a brushless motor? I can find no mention of this on either of their websites, although everyone seems to think it’s a good idea, offering an extended tool life.

    • Doug Rowell Sep 8, 2022 @ 20:07

      I note the comment that one of the Dremel tools had brushes you can replace. That means they need replacing! Are any of them brushless I wonder.

      • Jordan Jun 17, 2023 @ 22:55

        Dremel 8250 and 8260 are brushless

  • Anne May 4, 2022 @ 11:54

    Are the 12-18V small Proxxons capable of drilling through 2mm brass with a 0.8-1mm drill bit? My dremel 400 is too unsteady/vibrates too much to be precise, even with the flex shaft, and my 18V dremel stylo, although less vibration, has far less power and struggles to drill through metal but it is however, easier to use in the hand due to its size, for precise drilling. I need something powerful enough to grind and sand away metal and drill through thick silver and brass, but steady enough and easy enough to hold in the hand in order to do so (for precision drilling). I’ve read elsewhere that the small Proxxons aren’t powerful enough for such jobs and that its best to get the bigger ones, but those would be very difficult to hold in the hand for precise drilling, will using the flex shaft on it still have the same low vibration aspect of the Proxxon IBS/E and FBS that it does on its own? Does one have less vibration than the other?
    Basically which is best for a silversmith/metalsmith/jeweller?

    Many questions, sorry, please help!

  • JD Aug 10, 2022 @ 3:21

    Hands down- Proxxon IBS/E is the best of the lot. I do a lot of fabrication in carbon fiber, wood, brass, steel and plastic. Have both Dremel and Proxxon that see plenty of hard use as well as fine, intricate work. The quiet precision and torque of the Proxxon makes it my go to tool. Had the dremel already when I discovered Proxxon 10yrs ago and use it as an extra, but not often. Not much of a comparison in real life actually.

    • Doug Rowell Sep 8, 2022 @ 20:11

      So that’s a different model again from those reviewed here?

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