What is the difference between an engraver and a mini drill?

A mini drill is a tool that every master needs. It can be used to carry out operations in hard-to-reach places where the use of a conventional drill is impossible or impractical. The mini drill is designed for processing a wide range of materials: wood, plastic, ceramics, glass, precious materials and steel.

In fact, the engraver is the same mini drill, but with a different attachment. The basis of the device is a straight grinder. But unlike a conventional angle grinder, or "grinder", the engraver has a higher spindle speed: 10-35 thousand revolutions per minute versus 8-8.5 thousand.

The variety of working operations performed with an engraver (mini-drill) is explained by the wide range of attachments used. So the question of what to buy an engraver or a mini drill does not make sense: buy different attachments - they will give you the opportunity to perform more work.

For example, when choosing a power tool in Bryansk, you can choose the cut-off wheels, drills, polishing and grinding attachments, files, cutters, brushes, cutting attachments you need.

With the help of an engraver, you can do:

drilling holes of different diameters in the materials listed above;

engraving and milling;

cutting and grinding;

cleaning and fine finishing;

sharpening and drawing of inscriptions and patterns.

The advantages of a mini drill are its low weight and small dimensions. The tool holder is based on a typical collet chuck.

When buying an engraver in Bryansk, be sure to buy such a thing as a flexible shaft: it will help you do the job even in hard-to-reach places. The scope of delivery, together with the flexible shaft, includes a stand for hanging the mini-drill. The stand will make your work more comfortable, reduce vibration and noise.

Today one of the most popular types of work in the decoration and production of jewelry is engraving. If we talk about the tool used, then in most cases an electric engraver is used for engraving, which is also called a dremel, a drill or a mini-drill. Consider what kind of electric engravers are, which one to choose for the home, which one for professional work, where it is used and the criteria by which they are divided.

Design and characteristics of the engraver

The tool is a modification of an electric drill, enclosed in a case, held by one hand. It is somewhat reminiscent of a large fountain pen, at the end of which the working nozzle rotates. Anyone who has seen a drill in a dentist's office already knows how this tool works.

The body of the device contains: an electric motor, a gearbox, a spindle. A working tip (nozzle) or a flexible shaft of different lengths is fixed to the spindle (in this case, the nozzle is at the end of the shaft). To cool the electric motor, a fan impeller is located on the axle, which blows the engine through special air intake holes.

The principle of operation is almost the same as that of an ordinary drill. As a rule, electric engravers have a mass of about a kilogram, which allows you to work with one hand. Any instrument has a set of characteristics, according to which the user selects a specific model. And if the supply voltage of the device corresponds, most often, to the mains voltage, then properties such as rotation frequency, presence and length of a flexible shaft, mass can differ within fairly wide limits. Serious differences can be in the systems for adjusting the speed of the working tip, the number of nozzles included in the kit and other options.

Objectives and areas of application

Many different operations can be carried out with an electric engraver. In general, the scope of its application covers a lot of professional work and hobbies in various fields of activity, where the use of ordinary power tools (drills, grinders, screwdrivers) is limited due to their more rude action. For example, if you need to drill a hole with a diameter of 0.2–0.4 mm, not everyone can do it accurately with a standard tool. With the help of an electric engraver, this work can be done more precisely. The same applies to operations of grinding, cutting, milling of various materials.

Several areas of use of the tool:

• engraving on almost any material (jewelry, design, decoration);
• modeling;
• watchmaking;
• production and improvement of fishing lures;
• household use for various operations with small parts and objects;
• cleaning of seams, polishing the surface in hard-to-reach places.

It is clear that the list of works in which electric engravers are used can be much longer, but it makes no sense to describe all possible applications.

Intensity of use as one of the selection criteria

In the selection process, the question is often posed: what is the main parameter to divide the instrument? For some, the main criterion is the price, for others - the manufacturer. However, one moment is often forgotten behind the technical characteristics, cost and well-known brand - how often and with what intensity will the device be used? Sometimes the answer to this question determines the choice of a specific model, the required equipment, the need for additional functions. It is clear after all that a device professionally used for engraving on metal, stone, glass every day for 5-6 hours should differ from that used for crafts or hobbies a maximum of 1-2 times a week.

Since there is no shortage today, the tool can be selected in such a way that it ideally corresponds to the tasks set and at the same time does not have redundant, unnecessary functions. For amateur and household purposes, a tool with a power of 100-200 W is quite enough; for professionals, units from 250 W are more suitable. You should also choose the functions inherent in the desired model - from the point of view of whether these capabilities are really needed. After all, there are many parameters with which electric engravers can be equipped today, which one to choose is not an easy question. Common sense should be used here. It's a shame when out of the list of options, which consists of three dozen positions, 2-3 of the simplest are actually used.

The appearance of the engraver and the comfort of work

Not always, but quite often, the appearance and ergonomics of the instrument becomes the determining factor in the choice. Before buying, be sure to hold the engraver in your hand, see how comfortable it is to hold it. If the instrument is comfortable in your hand, isn't it too heavy? Can you work with it for several hours, won't your hand get tired? It will not be superfluous to look at the quality of materials, the accuracy of assembly, whether the switch and controls for adjustments are conveniently located. The comfort of use depends not only on the tool, but also on the data of the person working with it. Therefore, the device must be selected for a specific user, so that it is as convenient for them to work as possible.

It also makes sense to pay attention to the convenience and speed of changing nozzles, the tightness of the flexible shaft, softness and quiet operation. If creaks and knocks are heard from a new instrument, perhaps you should think about whether there is a need to buy it.

Of two absolutely identical devices with identical characteristics and even the shape of the body, a person in most cases will choose the one that looks better. Simply because it is more pleasant to work with a beautiful instrument.

Since electric engravers are, as a rule, small in weight and dimensions, the level of noise and vibration is also low. The tool is several times quieter than a standard drill. Accordingly, the comfort of its use is higher.

Manufacturer and cost

Power tools are manufactured by many companies today. Many of them have earned themselves an outstanding reputation for quality, reliability and accuracy of assembly. These are Defort, Makita, Bosch, Dremel, DWT. Good engravers produce Skil, Sturm, Einhell. Recently, domestic producers - Zubr, Energomash, Vikhr - have shown themselves well.

It is clear that the price of a tool, depending on the class, manufacturer and destination, can differ quite significantly. Here you need to decide on the required properties, compare several models, and then make a choice. If the engraver is used infrequently, then there is no point in overpaying for a professional model. Care should be taken only to very cheap devices, unknown manufacturers, without a guarantee.

As a result, the choice may not be difficult. You need to spend some time on reviews of owners and recommendations of professionals, to compare the necessary parameters with those that are of interest to the models, to outline the cost limits - and the number of possible options will significantly decrease. An important role is played by the equipment of the device, as well as the number of attachments supplied with the tool. It is not bad if the engraver comes with a case containing special sockets for attachments, flexible shaft and other accessories. It is convenient for transportation and storage, everything is in its place.

In the decor of premises, elements with engraving are of great importance, creating new trends and styles. An ordinary drill or electric engraver is fine for this purpose. Almost anyone can work with it. Of course, it is not worth talking about the high quality of work without the necessary skills and an expensive tool.

Structurally engraver- grinding equipment of small size, which is used for small work on grinding, milling, cutting and drilling products from different materials. An electric motor is installed in its housing, a collet chuck in which the necessary nozzles are attached. Some models are equipped with a flexible shaft that transfers rotation to the attachment. The functionality of the tool is determined by the number of attachments used. In a set, their number can exceed 100 units.

Mainly precision equipment repairmen, designers and jewelers work with these devices (it is also used when performing other small works). The tool is whimsical, for this reason it is necessary to select it individually for a certain job and material.

The engraver will help to make patterns on exclusive gifts, souvenirs and jewelry. Now you can use it to process any material. All you need to do is take the hardness of the material into account and use the correct attachments for it.

Types of engravers

The design of the engraver is not much different from the usual electric drill, only its dimensions are smaller, and there are more possibilities. The electric drive of the mechanism, in addition to creating the required torque, provides the required number of revolutions of the nozzle. Most engravers work using the principle of rotation, but some devices convert electrical energy into kinetic energy of impact. The nozzle, made of a very durable material, knocks out unnecessary parts of the workpiece, forming the desired inscription or drawing.

A quality tool of a well-known brand costs a lot of money. Engravers from the most famous manufacturers and their main characteristics:

Model	Characteristics	Purpose
Sturm GM2317FL	Diameter of nozzles 1.6, 2.4, 3.2 mm, device power 170 W, 8-32 thousand revolutions, weight 700 g, 120 nozzles and accessories	DIY tool
Dremel Hobby Edition F0130290JJ	The set includes 2 nozzles, device power 35 W, 6 thousand revolutions, weight 310 g	For needlework
Skil 1415 LC	The set includes 25 attachments and additional accessories device power 125 W, 15-35 thousand revolutions, attachments 2.4, 3.2 mm, weight 730 g	Optimal cost-quality ratio
Dremel 3000 - 1/25	The set includes 25 attachments, power 130 W, 10-33 thousand revolutions, attachments 0.8, 1.6, 2.4, 3.2 mm, weight 550 g	Designed for precision work

There are also mini drills that can do the job of an engraver.

A small mini-drill differs from percussion engravers by the possibility of using it not only for engraving work. It allows you to polish, debur, drill and cut material. Before buying, you need to find out what is sold with the tool, otherwise for some types of work you will have to buy the necessary attachments separately, which will not be cheap.

Choosing an engraver - what to look for

The main qualities of engravers to consider when choosing:

• Tool weight;
• Shaft rotation speed;
• How many attachments are included.

Craftsmen more often choose a light engraver, with a working part revolutions of about 20 thousand per minute, with a large number of attachments. The mass of the engraver should not be more than 1 kg, otherwise your hands will get tired during manual processing of parts. A lightweight tool will allow you to do more work without interruption for rest.

The variety of attachments affects the range of functions of the instrument. For this reason, the number of possible operations proportionally depends on their number. The set can include:

1. Cam clamps, couplings, collets;
2. Engraving attachments;
3. Polishing and cutting wheels;
4. Small drills;
5. Various boras.

In addition, in addition to attachments, flexible shafts can be connected to the engraver, which, due to their length, make it possible to perform work in a hard-to-reach or inconvenient place without experiencing inconvenience.

The following are the main criteria to consider when purchasing an engraver.

Frequency of use

How often do you use an engraver? If you need to do work every day, then you need to buy the most reliable model. And for professional work, it is advisable to provide a power reserve of at least 250 watts. This will make it possible to use low speed in operation due to high torque.

Processed material

When choosing a tool, you need to consider what kind of material you will be processing. Wood and glass products can be engraved or sanded without any problems with a mini drill at a speed of about 20,000 revolutions. Strong steels, high-hardness alloys and gemstones are best cut with a 30,000 RPM tool and can be adjusted. Otherwise, it is better to use an impact engraver.

When you decide for what purpose you will use the engraver, you need to decide on such characteristics as the mass of the tool, speed and power. At the last stage, before purchasing, a selection is made according to the cost of the model, workmanship, ergonomics and noise level.

Engraver size and weight

Choose a tool that is convenient for your purpose. Engravers are made with a minimum weight and size. Their small dimensions become possible only in the absence of a cooling system. As a result, the device heats up, and when using them, it is necessary to take a break from work after 10-15 minutes. This should be taken into account when buying a small device.

Engraver power

Engine power is very important when choosing an engraver. This characteristic affects the cost of using the tool and its price.

For use at home or in a small workshop, you need to purchase an engraver with a power of no more than 200 W and a speed of 20,000 rpm. Professional models are produced with a power of 250 watts.

Shaft rotation speed

Also, when choosing the right tool, first of all consider the maximum and minimum shaft speed. This characteristic is essential for the quality of material processing. Polishing and grinding is performed at low engine speeds (otherwise the surface of the product may overheat). And the cutting and sharpening of the tool is carried out at high speeds. The number of shaft revolutions in modern models is in the range of 15000-35000 rpm.

Check the possibility of adjusting the number of revolutions. Inquire about the presence of an engine speed governor. Good products are electronically controlled, while cheap models are made with a device that simply reduces the motor voltage. You cannot use such tools for high-precision work.

Engraver attachments

Ask how many different attachments are in the kit, find out if there is a flexible shaft. Sometimes it is more profitable to purchase a high-quality engraver with a minimum of attachments, and, if necessary, acquire them gradually. It mainly depends on your wallet, the brand of the instrument, and the manufacturer of the device.

There are a huge number of varieties of special attachments. Among them there are diamond-coated attachments, cut-off wheels, polishing discs, grinding attachments. They process glass, metal alloys, stone, and other hard and soft materials.

Metal attachments... There are several types of such devices, they are made on the basis of high-speed steel or aluminum oxide. The shape is individual for various types of work, there are cone-shaped nozzles, spherical, round, cylindrical.

Metal attachments for engraver

Diamond bits are designed for the processing of hard metals, they are often made with
using diamond spraying. For work on stone, nozzles made of silicon carbide are used. Dimensions and shape are the same as those of a diamond tool, allowing you to work with tiles, marble, glass.

Diamond Engraver Bits

Nozzlesfor material grinding made of rubber interspersed with abrasive crumbs. There are felt cones, they are used to polish the material with a special paste, it is applied to a felt disc. The paste is sold separately or comes complete with polishing attachments. The attachments made of sandpaper allow you to work with metal products and wood. Sell ​​abrasive grinding stones for processing ceramic, plastic and metal parts.

Grinding attachments

Usually the most popular attachments are included in the engraver's kit. Replaceable nozzles are attached using a small keyless chuck (it makes it possible to quickly measure the working tool). The collet requires more time when changing the bit, but it is precisely centered in the collet. For this reason, collet chucks are optimal for precision operations. For different types of work, it is desirable to have both types of cartridges.

Additional accessories

The capabilities of small engravers have been expanded with various additional components. Here are just some of them:

• Angle nozzle necessary for doing work in an inconvenient or hard-to-reach place, it is able to turn your engraver into an angle grinder;
• Flexible shaft with a special bracket or vice makes it possible to work in comfort;
• Special rack will make a drilling machine out of your engraver.

Noise and vibration level of the engraver

Most manufacturers of the device do not indicate this characteristic in the descriptions of the models, but you can turn it on and find out the level of vibration and noise. Most often, medium-cost instruments have small problems with noise, cheap and weak devices practically do not vibrate and do not make noise due to their low power, and in expensive devices this drawback is necessarily solved by the manufacturer. Please note that compared to the usual grinding machine and drill, the engraver makes very little noise.

Engraver cost

In most cases, close attention is paid to this moment, but each person has their own cost-quality ratio. For one master, it is more important to choose a productive and convenient tool, while for another, brand awareness or, conversely, a low price is in the first place.

By purchasing a device from a well-known manufacturer, you get service (any tool can break), and the opportunity to read customer reviews. Here you need to understand that not everyone needs a multifunctional device at a high price - it depends on the purpose of use and the time of continuous operation. Remember that it is unrealistic to buy a tool from well-known manufacturers for an inexpensive price - if you find such an offer, then for sure it is a fake (most often of Chinese manufacture).

For a beautiful and professional decoration of a metal or wood surface, artists need to use only the best engraver. You can choose it if you read our rating. Here are collected the highest quality, reliable, convenient, functional and practical tools. Having bought one of them, there will be no doubt that the engraving work will be performed at a good level!

The rating of engravers included products from the most popular firms in this market, which have a good reputation, have collected a large number of reviews and regularly receive excellent recommendations from experts in the power tool industry.

Here are the products of which companies are in question in this rating:

• Vortex- the company is engaged in the production of electric and hand tools. She has few engravers, and they all work from the network. On average, their power is 150 W, so these devices are more suitable for home use than for commercial use. Their discs rotate at about 20,000 rpm. The body of the products is made of high-quality plastic with increased wear resistance.
• ZUBR- a well-known Russian supplier of high-quality electrical and manual equipment for home and summer cottages. Devices of this brand for engraving are sold in two powers - 130 and 160 W. There are options here with a rotational speed of the disk from 15,000 to 35,000 rpm. The sets of the company are distinguished by a wealth of equipment, on average, they include about 100 add-ons, which will definitely not be superfluous. This is one of the main competitors of the Vikhr trademark. The manufacturer offers products with an optimal price-quality ratio.
• Bort Is a German trade mark under which hand and power tools for home and garden are produced. Her engravers are presented in the form of small drills that can not only cut, but also drill, and also grind metal and wood. The company always provides a long-term warranty for its products, at least one year. The average weight of the devices is 0.7 kg, they are compact and easy to transport. They are favorably distinguished against the background of competitors by their low noise level and high-quality body materials.
• Sturm Is a German manufacturer of construction tools at affordable prices, while it has good European quality. It has stood the test of time and is proven by the results of successfully passed product tests. Both amateurs and professionals can work effectively with the company's devices. The company has provided a high level of service, which makes it easy to replace parts in the event of a device failure. Her products solve even the most difficult problems!
• Dremel- devices for the engraving of this company allow you to engrave on various materials with maximum accuracy, which guarantees a professional result. They provide the ability to control the depth of cut, and this improves the quality of work. The kits include several special attachments, which makes the device versatile and multifunctional. In this way, you can save a little without buying other tools for sanding and drilling wood and metal.
• Hammer- the first instrument of this brand was produced in the 80s of the 20th century. The company's success is due to strict quality control, which is carried out in two stages. First, engineers follow the creation of the product, and the finished product is subject to both automatic and manual checks. After its delivery to the market, managers track customer reactions and complaints. In case of any negative feedback, an investigation is carried out and all measures are taken to correct the existing deficiencies.

Each company whose products are described in this rating of engravers is worthy of attention. All companies offer products with good quality, numerous features and an affordable price, with the exception of some specific tool models.

Rating of the best engravers

When analyzing the reviews and studying the characteristics, we evaluated the engravers according to the following parameters:

• Weight and dimensions;
• The quality of the case;
• Convenience of form;
• Noise level;
• Functionality - the ability to complement grinding, cutting, drilling;
• Practicality of use;
• Ease of replacement of working elements;
• Value for money;
• Power supply method of the model - mains or battery;
• Length of cable;
• Duration of charging;
• Material orientation - wood or metal.

We also took into account the availability of these top engravers in stores when selecting suitable candidates.

The best electric engravers network

The so-called models that operate only on the network, they do not provide for the use of batteries. Because of this, it is inconvenient to take them with you for engraving far from outlets. Unlike products of the second type, these devices are somewhat larger in size and weight. This ranking includes the 4 best network type engravers.

This mini drill is designed for engravers to carry out decorative work on completely different materials - metal, plastic, wood. It is multifunctional, since you can connect a variety of accessories from the kit to it - for drilling, cutting, grinding. It is convenient that the set includes a plastic case for storing and carrying the device and its accessories. The device can drill both through holes and recesses, making it versatile.

Advantages:

• Reliability;
• The speed of engraving;
• Multifunctionality;
• Not bulky;
• Flexible shaft included;
• The ability to switch speeds.

Flaws:

• Not the thickest body;
• After purchase, it is recommended to disassemble the tool and lubricate the parts.

One of the best engravers on the market "Vortex G-160GV" has a long service life, but for this it is necessary to avoid overheating and overloading.

... I bought the ZUBR ZG-160EK engraving device not so long ago, I have been using it for a little over 3 months, I am satisfied with the result, the engraving is clear, smooth, professional ...

Expert opinion

Introducing another versatile engraving tool that can also be used for cutting, grinding, drilling, polishing metal, wood and other materials. It is convenient for them to work in hard-to-reach places due to the fact that this is an angular model.

It is a practical tool as the rotation speed can be adjusted. True, it only works from the mains, so you need an outlet. The device weighs a little - 0.8 kg, it is not difficult to carry it. The set includes 38 items - everything you need for engraving and more.

Advantages:

• Power 160 W;
• The ability to change the diameter of the collet;
• Resistance to voltage drops in the network;
• Protection against accidental switching on;
• Practical body color - gray;
• Comfortable handle.

Flaws:

• Not low noise level - 77.6 dB.

This model in the TOP is one of the best for home use, it is not heavy, its weight is only 0.7 kg. Due to this, it is convenient to carry it with you, for which a special case is provided in the set. By the way, the equipment is very rich, it includes 60 items. The device makes up to 32 thousand rotations per minute, which ensures high speed of the device. It can be easily adjusted if necessary. The locking of the power button provides a high level of safety in the operation of the tool.

Advantages:

• The collet does not jam;
• Suitable for use in hard-to-reach places;
• Small size;
• Light weight;
• Suitable for deep carving;
• Convenient form;
• Sufficient power.

Flaws:

• Hard plastic case;
• The clips on the case may loosen over time.

According to customer reviews, the Bort BCT-170N engraving device fits comfortably in the hand, so it does not create any difficulties in operation.

The Sturm electric engraver features quick and easy tool changes. It has a spindle lock, which guarantees safe engraving work. The ability to adjust the rotation speed allows you to choose the most optimal operating mode. For use in hard-to-reach places, a flexible shaft is provided here. Thanks to the inclusion of all the necessary items in the kit, you can use it immediately after purchase.

Advantages:

• Backlighting;
• Compactness of dimensions;
• Convenient form;
• Low noise level;
• Locking the power button.

Flaws:

• Weight 1.4 kg.

The Sturm GM2317FL engraving device does not have a very long power cable, therefore it is not suitable for use at long distances from the outlet, otherwise it may be necessary to carry it.

Best cordless engravers

Compared to network models, these devices are less powerful, but they are quite enough for performing simple engraving work at home. They are convenient due to the fact that you can take them with you, for example, on the street. The disadvantage of such devices is the need to recharge them regularly, which takes a certain amount of time. The plus is the lack of cables, which is certainly convenient.

Dremel 8220-5 / 65

Despite being battery operated, it is quite powerful for engraving. In one minute, the spindle can make up to 30,000 revolutions, while the cutting is carried out accurately and accurately. Its movement stops immediately after the engine is turned off, which increases the level of safety and makes it more comfortable. It is noteworthy that the manufacturer has added two chargers to the kit. In order to ensure the convenience of using the tool for engraving in the dark, there is a good illumination here.

Advantages:

• The battery is charged in one hour;
• The presence of a comfortable handle, which increases the accuracy of work;
• Product weight is 660g;
• High quality plastic;
• Robust case.

Flaws:

• High price.

Best mini engravers

Such devices usually weigh a maximum of 600 g, which is why they are called "mini". They fit easily in a small bag and are especially useful when engraving is required in tight spaces. They can work both on wood and metal, depending on the material. This category describes the advantages and disadvantages of one, the best, according to customer reviews, model.

This inexpensive mini drill is called that for a reason, it is really compact, does not take up much space in the house and can be easily transported if necessary. True, this device is relevant for performing not long and not very heavy engraving work, since its power is not the highest in the rating. The battery holds the charge for quite a long time and charges quickly. The device, if required, is easy to carry with you. The engraver has a quality housing that can even withstand a drop from a height.

Advantages:

• The set includes 118 add-ons;
• Good charger;
• Light weight;
• Small size;
• Fits comfortably in the hand;
• Protection against accidental activation.

Flaws:

• The maximum rotational speed of the disk is up to 18,000 rpm.

Due to the protection of the motor, during long-term work, the machine may stop periodically.

Which engraver is better to buy

For home use, devices operating at power up to 100-200 W are quite suitable, but for professional use more "powerful" power tools are needed. For rough processing of the material, a mini-drill operating at a speed of up to 10,000 rpm is enough, but if you want to get an accurate cut and a smooth surface, you will need to choose a higher speed.

Here is the best engraver to choose, depending on the situation:

• To carry out engraving on wood, you can buy an electrical device "Whirlwind G-160GV".
• The ZUBR ZG-160EK device perfectly copes with metal work.
• Those looking for a multifunctional machine that can engrave, grind and drill should take a closer look at the Bort BCT-170N.
• For engraving in tight spaces, the Sturm GM2317FL is the best choice.
• If you plan to work a lot and do not want to depend on electricity, then the Dremel 8220-5 / 65 is the best solution.
• For those who are going to travel often with an engraver, the most interesting option will be the Hammer AMD3.6

When choosing the best engraver, you need to focus primarily on your needs, as well as take into account real customer reviews. This will allow you to choose the most reliable, high-quality and useful tool for you.