Best Engravers

Review & Comparison, Last Update December 3, 2023
Have you ever thought about marking your valuables for extra safety? Would you like to engrave something special on your wedding ...Read more
Best Pick
Dremel 8050-N/18 Micro Rotary Tool Kit
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on Amazon
PROS
The built-in Li-Ion battery does not have a memory effect, so it has a longer run time. The docking station automatically stops charging when the battery has reached its capacity. The unique chuck lock allows fast replacement of bits.
CONS
The buttons of chuck lock and "on/off" are too close to each other.
OUR VERDICT
The multi-functional tool Dremel 8050-35 is a masterpiece for any type of small repairs. It is very handy and saves your energy. Besides, it features a LED scale showing the battery charge and LED lights built into the nose cap to add in vision and accuracy of work.
detailed parameters
Type
Rotary
Operations
Cutting, Engraving, Polishing, Cleaning, Sharpening, Sanding
Working Materials
Metal, Wood, Marble, Concrete, Glass, Brick, Porcelain, Ceramics, Plasterboard, Tiles and many more
Speed
From 5,000 to 25,000 rpm
Power Source
8 V Li-Ion Battery
Item Weight
0.5 pounds
Chuck Diameter
1/32", 1/16", 3/32", 1/8"
Kit
8050 Cordless Rotary Tool, 18 Accessories, 1 Docking Station (Charger)
Proxxon 38635 Complete Engraving Kit with Trial Glass
8% OFF
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on Amazon
PROS
You can work with this light-weight engraver continuously for a long time. The comfy coiled cable does not get under your arms. The set of tools is shipped in the sturdy plastic case and includes a glass to practice engraving skills.
CONS
The set includes a small number of bits and accessories.
OUR VERDICT
Equipped with the external AC adapter, this device is light-weight and allows using most popular bits for polishing, cutting, and engraving. Proxxon 38635 is the best gift for a creative person who needs a simple and trouble-free working instrument.
detailed parameters
Type
Rotary
Operations
Engraving, Polishing, Cleaning
Working Materials
Glass, Metal, Wood, Plastic, Ceramics and many more
Speed
20,000 rpm
Power Source
12 V AC Adapter
Item Weight
0.25 pounds
Chuck Diameter
3/32", 5/64"
Kit
Engraver GG 112, AC Adapter (12-18V, 0.5A), Trial Glass, 4 Bits
Reasonable Price
Dremel 290-01 Engraver
37% OFF
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on Amazon
PROS
The set includes a letter and number template that simplifies marking your belongings. The soft-grip handle provides extra comfort and control when the tool is held vertically. The power cable is very long - 6 feet.
CONS
It is too loud when working.
OUR VERDICT
This tool is intended exclusively for the engraving on various surfaces. It is a must both for a newbie to use at home and for a professional who will enjoy a possibility to adjust the depth of engraving in 5 stages from fine lines up to deep grooves.
detailed parameters
Type
Vibration
Operations
Engraving
Working Materials
Metal, Plastic, Glass, Ceramics, Wood and Leather
Speed
7,200 spm
Power Source
AC Adapter
Item Weight
0.75 pounds
Chuck Diameter
1/8"
Kit
Engraver Tool, Letter and Number Template, 9924 Carbide Point
Generic Brand Micro Engraver
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on Amazon
PROS
Due to its compact size, this engraver fits even in your pocket. The tool has a precision fingertip control with ergonomic grip and a lightweight aluminum body.
CONS
The rotation speed is rather low for metal engraving.
OUR VERDICT
The compact size of this engraver allows using it for fine works such as framing and signing the glass, plastic or metal objects. Pretty simple device!
detailed parameters
Type
Rotary
Operations
Engraving, Polishing, Cleaning
Working Materials
Metal, Wood, Plastic and Glass
Speed
~ 20,000 rpm
Power Source
2 AAA Batteries
Item Weight
0.15 pounds
Chuck Diameter
3/32"
Kit
Engraver, 2 AAA Batteries, 1 Bit
General Tools Cordless Precision Engraver with Diamond Tip Bit
10% OFF
Check Price
on Amazon
PROS
The contoured grip of this engraver is designed for comfort and control; it provides a lot of fun whether you are working with the metal, glass or plastic surface. The aluminum body is corrosion-resistant.
CONS
It gets too hot if used for a long time without any pauses.
OUR VERDICT
General Tools 505 is a tool for the basic tasks. It will easily handle the engraving of window glass, labeling hand instruments, and other small jobs.
detailed parameters
Type
Rotary
Operations
Engraving, Polishing, Cleaning
Working Materials
Metal, Wood, Plastic and Glass
Speed
20,000 rpm
Power Source
2 AAA Batteries
Item Weight
0.19 pounds
Chuck Diameter
3/32"
Kit
Engraver, 2 AAA Batteries, 1 Bit
Engravers Laser Engravers

Dremel 8050-N/18

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Type and Purpose

Dremel 8050-N/18 is a rotary multi-functional engraver capable of performing various operations including engraving, polishing, drilling holes, finishing, and even cutting. This tool may be used for a range of purposes: to process glass, ceramics, to make drawings on cups or tumblers and to carry out other high-precision intricate jobs. The device perfectly copes with engraving on the metal surfaces, polishing the metal objects, and drilling them. More than that, by using special cutting bits, you can apply this unit as a mini-saw for objects made of metal, plastic or wood in hard-to-reach places that are not accessible for other electrical tools. If you have pets, you can even polish their claws with this engraver.

Performance

This tool is good both for use at home and in a professional environment because it boasts extremely high performance. The maximum speed of the rotary reaches 25,000 rpm allowing you to make a clean and even cut or to polish an item. Besides, the speed of the motor can be adjusted, so you can choose a relevant mode required for the efficient and safe utilization of the device. Dremel 8050-N/18 has the chuck with a key lock for changing tips and bits with sizes from 1/32” to 1/8”.

Comfort and Kit

The engraver is powered with the built-in Li-Ion battery which makes it possible to use this tool when there is no electricity. It means that the device does not limit the freedom of your movements. With Dremel 8050-N/18, you are free to go anywhere and do anything. The device is shipped with a special docking station charging the battery fully in 3 hours and 45 minutes. The charge is sufficient for several hours of continuous operation. The built-in battery has no memory effect, which increases the service life of the engraver. There is a LED indicator to control the battery level. The device is shipped in a case that contains various accessories and bits for engraving. The set includes cutting disks for metal, adhesive disks, polishing disks, and bits of different sizes for engraving, cutting and drilling.
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B015DVN4E4
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What customers say about this product

Features(4.5)

I really like the adjustable speed level which I can adjust for each dog's toenail size and length.

Size & Weight(4.6)

I do especially like that it is light weight and easy to use, due to its small size.

Key Specs(4.5)

Easily files thick dog nails, (My male has good bone, and his nails are very thick. This Dremel has no problem!)

Power(4)

Battery life is fabulous! I did both dogs' nails 8 times before recharging!

Proxxon 38635

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Type and Purpose

The rotary engraver Proxxon 38635 is mainly used for engraving on glass, metal, wood, plastic, ceramics, and many other materials. Additionally, this unit can operate without pauses for a long time. You will have no need to make breaks to change batteries or to charge them, so you will be able to complete the job without loosing your inspiration. This engraver allows making a drawing with finest details, for instance, carving a picture on a window or a glass. It may be the best option not only for a newbie but also for an experienced professional.

Performance

The device has only one operation mode with the rotation speed of 20,000 rpm allowing the user to do accurate and fine engraving, grinding, and polishing of the jewelry with special bits. The high speed of the motor assures trouble-free processing of metal items and makes it possible to engrave pictures or simply to label working tools in a car garage. Proxxon 38635 accepts two types of bits, i.e. sizes 3/32” and 5/64”. Using the fine bit, you can even sign a wedding ring for your fiancée.

Comfort and Kit

Proxxon 38635 is the mains-powered engraver which is plugged into 110 V outlet through the AC adapter for 12 V, 0.5 A. The unit is connected to the adapter with a coiled cable. Such a power supply makes the device sufficiently light-weight, compact and handy. The dimensions are slightly bigger than of the drawing marker, still, the engraver is comfy in grip and has an on/off switcher located under the forefinger. The engraver is shipped in a case including various bits, AC adapter, and a trial glass for training.
Last updated price $52.85
Stock In stock
ASIN B0017NS5W4
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Dremel 290-01

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Type and Purpose

Dremel 290-01 is one of the most popular vibration engravers trusted and respected by many professionals and people who just practice engraving as a hobby. In contrast to rotary engravers, this model features the easy adjustment of the cut depth that is most important for jobs with metal surfaces and jewelry. To our opinion, this tool helps users to create extraordinary beautiful 3-D pictures and ornaments on the metal items. Besides that, the engraver allows processing the wood, plastic, and glass.

Performance

The bits in this device are reliably fixed with the screw lock. The vibration speed of an electrical magnetic motor is 7,200 spm. Note that such speed allows working with the hardest and tempered metals. For example, you can easily initialize or label a wrench. Thus, this engraver might be a good choice for a creative person wishing to try painting portraits or pictures on the granite stone or stained glass. The superior speed of the bit allows turning an imaginary picture into a real engraved masterpiece.

Comfort and Kit

The device has a convenient shape and a rubber handle for a secure grip, ensuring comfortable operation for many hours. It should be mentioned that this unit is mains-powered. There are two switches on the body: one calibrated stroke adjustment dial that regulates 5 positions of the engraving depth, and one power button on the butt. Dremel 290-01 is shipped in a cardboard box including one letter and number template and one universal carbide bit suitable for glass, metal, plastic, leather, and other materials. We recommend you to purchase additional bits of various sizes if you want to implement drawings on the glass or metal.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $21.59
Stock In stock
ASIN B0000302YN
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Generic Brand Micro Engraver

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Type and Purpose

This engraver is best for simple tasks like a fine framing of pictures, drawing fine lines, ornamenting glassware or ceramics, and fine-tuning drawings engraved on the metal surfaces. Generic Brand Micro Engraver 98227 is a small-sized cordless engraver for beginners and professionals. The device has an aluminum body which is both elegant and reliable. All in all, everyone from professional technicians and mechanics to homeowners and DIYers will definitely appreciate this tool.

Performance

A tiny but high-performance motor allows superficial engraving on glass, metal or wood. The engraving bits of 3/32” are fixed by the locking screw. This method is very simple in use and proven by the long-lasting tradition. This mini-engraver is somewhat similar to the brush of artist making a chef-d'oeuvre, although instead of canvas we use the glass, metal or ceramics. Versatile, easy to use, convenient. Sums it up!

Comfort and Kit

Generic Brand Micro Engraver does not need any power cables and is not equipped with a rechargeable battery. Instead, it is powered by two AAA batteries shipped with the tool. The compact size and cordless design make it really handy. The device is slightly bigger than a writing pen. You can fit it even in the pocket of your pants. The set includes the engraver, batteries, and the universal bit of 3/32”.
Last updated price $13.83
Stock In stock
ASIN B006U9CN8W
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General Tools Cordless Precision Engraver with Diamond Tip Bit

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Type and Purpose

General Tools 505 is another rotary engraver used for engraving, framing, finishing, and polishing, which can process glass, metal, wood, leather, and ceramics. This device is not designed for long-lasting and complicated jobs. Usually, it is a kind of a side-tool assisting in finishing of engraved details. For instance, the highly qualified professionals might make a large drawing with a high-performance engraver first and then finish fine details using General Tools 505.

Performance

This compact engraver is equipped with a small motor, having the maximum speed of 20,000 rpm. This rate is close to the performance of professional instruments. It means that you can engrave finest details of drawings on the glass, metal or ceramics without making many efforts. In addition, the device can use very thin bits and polishing accessories of the 3/32”. The bit is fixed by the locking screw.

Comfort and Kit

If you are looking for a compact and handy model, we would like to recommend buying the engraver General Tools 505 which is as small as a marking pen, comfy in grip, light in weight, and powered by two AAA batteries. The kit includes the batteries and the universal bit. If you wish to do the grinding and polishing or just plan to vary the thickness of your engravings, you need to purchase additional bits and accessories.
Last updated price $14.33
Stock In stock
ASIN B004YK66NM
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What is an Engraver

Engraved objects are becoming more and more popular nowadays. Be it watches or jewelry, china or glass, decorated window or other valuable - in order to do all these labelings or decorations, you need an engraver. An engraver is an electrical tool somewhat similar to a drill but usually of much smaller size. Its purpose is to engrave, to do finishing or to polish. The engraver contains an electrical motor with a transmission that directly moves a chuck with a bit. Due to the availability of various exchangeable bits, the engraver can be used not only for engraving but also for cutting or grinding the metal, wood, and other materials. Some special bits allow using this tool as a fretsaw for wood or stone. So, the engraver is a universal tool that can be met anywhere starting from a nail shop, a jewelry workshop, a glass factory and ending with artisans outlets.

In addition to the engraver, we would recommend you to consider Craft tables for hobby and artwork.

What Features to Compare

As we have mentioned, the engraver is a multi-functional tool utilized for finishing, polishing, engraving, drilling small holes and other jobs. That is why you should first of all decide which tasks need to be fulfilled and which materials will be processed. So, from the very beginning take a look at the Type and Purpose of the engraver. It might have a rotary or a vibration motor. Vibration engravers are designed for special purposes and quite efficient for the engraving of the metal, wood, stone, and other materials. Note that they must be held in the vertical position. These engravers can be used for the engraving only and they allow drawing 3-D pictures on the metal or stone. The rotary engravers are multi-functional and used for finishing, polishing, cutting, drilling, and engraving. Such tools are equipped with rotary motors and can be used in any position and reach the most distant and hard-to-reach areas. If you need a right tool for processing and engraving glass, ceramics, or jewelry, the rotary engraver is the right choice.

The speed of the engraver depends on its Performance. The rotary ones differ from other electrical tools in their high rotation speed. For example, if a power saw or a drill makes 1,000 – 8,500 rotations per minute (rpm), the engraver’s motor can perform from 5,000 to 35,000 rpm. You should be aware of the fact that the engravers with regulated rotation speed give you a possibility to save time and efforts. While engraving and polishing of the glass require a high speed of rotation, the wood may be engraved with some minimum speed just to avoid grain dividing. The performance of the vibration engravers depends on the number of vibrations or strokes per minute; on average, the speed of vibration is 5,000 – 10,000 strokes per minute (spm).  

The engravers also differ in the type of socket or chuck fixing bits that have different thickness, length, and purposes. The most common type of socket is the chuck securely fixing the bit with the clamp nut. This type of fixation is good because it allows supporting several types of bits, for example, with diameters from 0.8 mm up to 6 mm. Another popular type of socket is the chuck fixing the bit with the lock screw. This type of fixation is typical for non-professional engravers intended for framing, polishing, and other small tasks. The bits used for these purposes have 3/32” and 5/64” diameters.

The Comfort and Kit of the engraver are very important factors affecting the right choice. That is why this issue should be carefully considered in advance. Engraving tools may use different power sources that influence the weight, dimensions, and comfort of use. If you need a powerful engraver for long-lasting jobs, we advise you to look at the mains-powered devices. Such tools can operate for a long time without breaks and are suitable for use in professional workshops. But if you do not wish to utilize the engraver frequently, you should better consider models with rechargeable batteries as well as ordinary AA or AAA batteries. These engravers boast a compact size and autonomy of use. What's more, you can make an engraving on a stone or a nameplate of the workshop using the autonomous device. Speaking about the size and dimensions, the lighter is the engraver, the longer can you hold it (before your hand gets tired). But if the engraver is 2 pounds or more, you will definitely feel a hand fatigue very soon.

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