Best Engravers 2022
In the category of construction power tools there is a group of “engravers”. The devices are only indirectly related to the work of Albrecht Dürer. The best engravers of 2021: understanding the functionality and characteristics

You can apply a pattern or engraving on various surfaces using a laser, graver, bur and engraver. We will talk about manual universal electric engravers, with which you can grind, drill, clean, mill and engrave. 

This electrical device hides an engine and a rotating cartridge in its housing. By attaching various nozzles to it, the master can perform different types of work due to equipment rotating at different speeds. In this way, metal, precious stones, glass and other materials can be processed. 

What tool to buy and how to choose it? Stop on a wired unit or take one that runs on battery power; imported or domestic manufacturer? The KP and expert Yuri Dudin tried to find answers to all these questions. 

Editor’s Choice

Dremel 8220-⅕

Cordless tool for working with different materials: metal, wood and glass. Works on glass can be carried out thanks to 30 thousand revolutions of equipment per minute.

The LED backlight helps you work in low light conditions or where greater precision is required. The battery is quite capacious – 12 V, so the wireless Dremel 8220-⅕ is not inferior in power to a conventional network engraver. A full charge will last at least a few hours.

The interchangeable tips on this model can be changed using the built-in wrench, which makes it easy to switch from one type of processing to another. The disadvantages of the Dremel 8220-⅕ include a slightly increased tool weight (0,6 kg) compared to similar models. On average, the weight of such engravers ranges from 400 grams to 1 kilogram. You need to get used to working with such a tool. 

TECH SPECS

Battery capacity2,0 Ah
Charging time1.5 hours
The weight0,660 kg
Dimensions25 × 4,5 × 6,5 cm
Idle speed5.000 to 35.000 rpm
Battery TechnologyLithium-Ion / ECP
Quick change nozzle systemTHIS is Twist

Advantages and disadvantages

Speed ​​from 5 to 35 rpm, battery capacity 2 Ah, easy nozzle change system
Increased weight of the model; over 20 thousand revolutions vibrates noticeably
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Top 18 best engravers in 2022 according to KP 

1. BOSCH GRO 12V-35 2.0Ah x2 L-BOXX

An excellent representative of cordless drills, equipped with Bosch Electronic Cell Protection to protect the battery from overload and overheating. The tool has a built-in LED light, which helps in the engraver’s jewelry work. 

The battery charge indicator will help prevent battery drain so that material processing is not interrupted unexpectedly. The unit is narrow and suitable for work in hard-to-reach places. 

The rotation frequency is high, up to 35 thousand revolutions. The kit comes with two batteries and a case for storage and transportation. 

TECH SPECS

Battery voltageIn 12
Battery capacity2,0 Ah
The weight0,6 kg
Idle speedup to 35.000 rpm

Advantages and disadvantages

Spare battery, spindle lock
Flexible sleeve not included
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2. Elitech PSHM 170EZHK

The engraver with a display for digital indication of revolutions has proven itself among budget, but high-quality tools. It can be safely attributed to engravers for the home, because the unit weighs less than a kilogram, it lies comfortably in the hand, and is suitable for work for both experienced craftsmen and beginners.

The rotation speed of the shaft to choose from is from 8 thousand to 35 thousand, which characterizes Elitech PShM 170 EZhK as an excellent unit for processing all kinds of surfaces.

Included is a flexible sleeve with a stand for hanging the engraver. Among other things, the set includes as many as 120 nozzles for grinding, sharpening, polishing, milling, as well as various drills. 

TECH SPECS

Power Consumption170 W
Maximum disc speed35000 / min
Network cable length1,8 m
The weight0,7 kg

Advantages and disadvantages

The combination of high quality and budget price, a huge number of interchangeable nozzles and a flexible sleeve in the set
For beginners, the tool may seem heavy
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3. Ryobi EHT150V

Engraving machine Ryobi EHT 150V is suitable for small engraving work. The optimal ratio of price and quality, the equipment does not raise any complaints – more than 100 nozzles in the set, a convenient storage case. 

The power cord is two meters long, which makes it easy to move the tool around the workshop without the use of extension cords. The engraver is sold with a flexible shaft and mount so that the master can position the tool as conveniently as possible. 

The rotation frequency is from 10 thousand to 35 thousand rpm, therefore it is possible to work with wood, and with glass, and even with precious stones. The weight is a little more than half a kilo, so the hands will not get very tired during work.

TECH SPECS

Power Consumption150 W
Maximum disc speed35000 / min
Equipment115 accessories 
The weight0,6 kg

Advantages and disadvantages

Thoughtful details in the set (mounting, flexible shaft)
Unstable to heat, vibration may cause the speed controller to fail
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4. Remove BCT-72Li

For those who do not like network tools, the Bort BCT-72Li engraver will do. The lithium-ion battery allows you to work for three hours without a break for recharging. At the same time, the unit is compact, weighs only 0,26 kg and is equipped with LED backlight. It is possible to choose one of five speeds from 5 thousand to 25 thousand revolutions per minute. 

This engraver has 20 interchangeable nozzles for different types of work. The battery is replaceable, on the market you can always find a replacement in case of non-warranty failure. 

TECH SPECS

Battery capacity1 Ah
Battery typeLi-Ion
idle speedup to 25000 rpm
The weight0,26 kg
VoltageIn 7,2
Equipment20 nozzles and accessories

Advantages and disadvantages

Compact, high-capacity battery, inexpensive tool 
Rotation speed may suffer during prolonged operation
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5. PATRIOT EE 101 The One 

This electric engraver is comfortable to hold in your hand thanks to the rubberized Extra Grip handle. The tool is completed with a large number of interchangeable nozzles (40 pieces), and due to the possibility of spindle lock, it is possible to replace equipment faster. The flexible shaft is included, which allows the master to work in hard-to-reach places. The advantage is the engine cooling system at the risk of overheating, because many engravers overheat in the process and can even burn their hand. 

Fans of working outdoors at low temperatures will appreciate the rubberized frost-resistant cable of the PATRIOT EE 101 The One engraver. Speed ​​range from 10 thousand to 30 thousand revolutions per minute. The model is packed in a case for storage and easy transportation, where the engraver is placed along with all accessories.

TECH SPECS

Power Consumption140 W
Max. disc speed32000 / min
Foodfrom the network
The weight1,2 kg
Minimum Collet Diameter2.3 mm
Maximum collet diameter3.2 mm

Advantages and disadvantages

Overheating protection, speed control
Vibration is palpable
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6. Hammer Flex MD050B

An example of a compact engraver that is mains powered, for domestic purposes or in the garage. The speed is not adjustable, the number of revolutions is 15 thousand per minute. The tool proved to be excellent as a mini-drill, and a lot of nozzles and spare collets in the kit allow you to use it for various engraving jobs. 

Of the pluses, work from a 12-volt power source can be noted, which means that the unit can be connected to the vehicle’s on-board network. This budget model does not have a storage case, which complicates transportation and may result in the loss of attachments.

TECH SPECS

Power Consumption8 W
Max. disc speed15000 / min
Foodfrom the network
The weight0,172 kg
Power button lockYes
Spindle lockYes
Diameter war1/2,4/3/3,2 mm

Advantages and disadvantages

Compact, many turns for a small tool
Vibrates a lot, no storage case
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7. DEKO DKRT200E

High-quality electric engraver with adjustable speed. The device is compact and suitable for work in hard-to-reach places, for example, when removing rust on the bottom of a car. More than 40 interchangeable tips included. 

The speed switch is located so that you can increase the speed directly in the process. The available speed range is from 1 thousand revolutions to 32 thousand per minute.

The unit and all parts are packed in a convenient case. Rubber-coated handles make work easier, reduce the risk of tool pronunciation. The length of the cable reaches one and a half meters, which is quite enough for domestic work. 

TECH SPECS

Power Consumption200 W
Max. disc speed36000 / min
Foodfrom the network
The weight0,75 kg
Equipment3 attachments

Advantages and disadvantages

Light engraver, long cord, low noise
Heats up slightly when running at high speeds
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8. Dremel Engraver (290-1) 

The peculiarity of this network tool is the adjustable depth of processing, which is necessary for applying both superficial lines and deep patterns. The carbide tip, which changes with a couple of strokes, will allow you to work on many surfaces.

A set of stencils for letters and numbers deserves special attention, which greatly simplifies the engraving process. The unit is suitable for beginners. It is comfortable to hold in your hand, but the work is limited by a short power cord. 

TECH SPECS

Power Consumption35 W
beats per minute6000
VoltageIn 240
The weight0,31 kg

Advantages and disadvantages

Light weight, stencils included
Not very long cord, you need to buy additional attachments separately, high noise level
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9. “Caliber” EG-145+VG

The tool of the brand “Caliber” is equipped with a 145 W motor and double insulation. The engraver is sold in a plastic case with hundreds of additional nozzles and with a flexible shaft. The device weighs almost 2 kg, so the hands can get tired. 

With the help of the handle, you can work at different angles in hard-to-reach places, and the tool body itself will not interfere. There is an adjustment of the speed and the function of blocking the power button. 

TECH SPECS

Power Consumption145 W
Max. disc speed35000 / min
Network cable length2 m
The weight0,7 kg

Advantages and disadvantages

Budget option, wide range of nozzles, flexible shaft included
Heats up, vibrates strongly, may smell like burnt plastic during operation
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10. DWT GS06-27 LV

This engraver has six speeds, and a little less than 30 thousand revolutions per minute, which makes it very suitable for working with any materials. The extended body of the DWT GS06-27 LV and additional handle make the tool manoeuvrable. Thanks to the handle, it is more comfortable to work with the device, the weight of which is close to 2 kg. 

The tool is well equipped: in addition to the handle, the set includes a finishing block, grinding stones and an open-end wrench. 

TECH SPECS

Power Consumption600 W
Max. disc speed27000 / min
The weight1,68 kg
Equipmentvarious cutters, a finishing block and an open-end wrench

Advantages and disadvantages

Slim long body, handle included, speed control included
Heavy tool, high noise level at top speed, can overheat
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11. Metabo GE 710 Compact

A model of a straight grinder from a well-known German brand under the auspices of the same Bosch. The scope is limited to grinding. Motor power (710 W) and high speed (up to 34 thousand per minute) allows you to use the tool in construction and finishing work.

The set includes additional nozzles: these are cutters of various diameters with different hardness. The speed range is adjustable, the start is soft, there is an anti-vibration system, engine protection algorithms are provided. Among the advantages, we highlight the ergonomic design that allows access to any space, as well as a comfortable two-handed grip – the device is designed for long-term work.

The only drawback of the tool is the rather high price. As compensation, the manufacturer offers a 2-year warranty period.

Ergonomic, multiple protection systems
Designed for grinding work only
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12. See GD0800C

Classic straight grinder (engraver) from a domestic manufacturer. Like the previous device, it can be categorized as professional tools. The speed range of shaft rotation is from 7 to 28 thousand revolutions at idle, and the maximum output power is 750 watts.

The device is limited in scope and intended exclusively for grinding. As users note, you need to get used to the specifics of the tool – but it is indispensable for construction and finishing work. Can be used for processing welds and twisted grooves. The maximum diameter of the grinding cone is 25 mm.

The advantages of the engraver include a long power cable, and a wide operating range can also become an important argument in favor of the choice: work can be carried out even at sub-zero temperatures. The speed is adjustable, there is a stabilizer. A starting current limiter is provided, there is also an overload prevention system.

The delivery set does not include a flexible shaft, it must be purchased additionally. There is also no protective cover for equipment. Also among the relative disadvantages can be called the high cost of the device with a limited scope.

Suitable for professional building and finishing work, many customization functions
Fairly high price for a grinder
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13. BOSCH GGS 18 V-LI 0 L-BOXX

The portable version of older models – the multifunctional engraver is powered by a lithium-ion battery, so the speed does not exceed 22 thousand / min. (for reference: this is enough for steel processing). The manufacturer positions the device as a drill-driver, but in fact, when buying an additional nozzle, the tool becomes universal. When using the impact function, even work with tungsten-nickel alloys is possible. The reverse function can be useful for work in hard-to-reach places. Care for the user is noticeable not only by the ergonomic design of the device: the manufacturer even took care of the illumination of the working area. Adjustment of speed of rotation and reliable fixing of equipment is available. The tool can not be called budget, but it clearly falls into the category of the best engravers.

Compactness, the possibility of autonomous operation, expansion of functionality with the help of attachments is available
High price
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14. Hammer Flex MD135A

Engraving machine made in China with low power (135W), perfect for small jobs around the house. The set includes 40 nozzles, a flexible shaft and 2 collets. According to customer reviews, the device has no obvious quality flaws. Among the limitations are rapid overheating (no more than 15 minutes of continuous operation is allowed), as well as the lack of a speed stabilizer. Among the shortcomings, problems are noted when working at low speeds, as well as the lack of dust protection of the engine. The clamping head is not centered, so you can not count on the accuracy of the operations.

Budget price
Only suitable for occasional work
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15. Hammer AMD3.6

Portable version of the engraver, the battery guarantees a rotation speed of up to 18 thousand revolutions. Among the advantages, we emphasize the most complete set: 118 nozzles are supplied with the device. Disadvantages – typical for all devices in the mobile segment: a short time of continuous operation before overheating.

Compact, excellent set of nozzles
Allows only one-time work
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16. Proxxon FBS 240/E

Quality engraver made in Germany. The rpm range is 5-20 thousand, and the power is only 100 watts. Unlike cheaper analogues, it does not heat up during prolonged operation, and sagging of revolutions at low speeds is also not detected. You can’t call it a universal tool: it won’t cope with grinding walls, but it will perform small jobs with sufficient accuracy.

Suitable for precision work, reliable operation, light tool
Military style design
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17. CALIBER 160+VG

Budget model of a multifunctional tool. The package includes a flexible shaft and nozzles for basic operations. The device is not intended for precise work: when turned on, a strong vibration of the shaft is noticeable.

Budget price, suitable for renovation and finishing works
Vibration makes it impossible to operate the device without interruption
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18. Remove BCT-140

Another representative of the economy segment: a universal tool with a set of accessories. Suitable nozzles of any manufacturer. There are problems during operation at low speeds, otherwise the device is fully consistent with the declared functional characteristics.

Functionality is expanded with universal nozzles
The device is not recommended for precision work.
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How to choose an engraver

To select the right tool, it is important to determine what type of material you will be working with. The number of revolutions depends on this: for wood and glass – 20 thousand is suitable, and for steel or precious stones at least 27 thousand. If you take an engraver for household work in a house or a small workshop, a tool with a power of up to 200 W is enough, and the shaft rotation speed should not exceed 20 thousand revolutions per minute. 

The second important rule of choice is to focus on the weight of the engraver. A heavy tool without a flexible shaft will not work for you if you plan to work with it on a permanent basis. With a flexible shaft, the hands do not get tired from the weight of the entire tool. 

It is also worth paying attention to which of the nozzles necessary for your type of work come with the engraver. Missing ones can always be purchased separately. 

Popular questions and answers 

Answers popular reader questions Yuri Dudin, seller of household appliances and tools.

What parameters should you pay attention to first of all?

Engravers can be conditionally divided into household and professional ones, and based on your needs, choose a unit according to:

• power,

• speed of rotation of the shaft and the presence of a speed switch, 

• weight, 

• according to the length of the power cord / battery capacity, 

• complete set (which of the nozzles is included, is there a flexible shaft, fasteners). 

What nozzles should the engraver have in the kit?

Nozzles should be selected based on the type of work that you plan to perform. It’s good if the kit immediately comes with curly cutters, grinding, universal collets, abrasive and polishing nozzles. 

I note that today for each model you can choose the necessary nozzle separately or buy a whole set of both the original manufacturer and analogues suitable for the engraver.

What power engraver is optimal for a home workshop?

On average, the power of the engraver is from 30 to 400 watts. In order to understand how much power you need a tool, remember that the larger and harder the part you want to machine, the more power you need. For invoicing, choose power up to 100 W, for working with solid materials at least 250 W.

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