Introduction
I have always admired Dremel power tools. The brand stands out among other popular names because of its quality and precision qualities. Two of the most popular and versatile Dremel handheld power saws in the market today is the Dremel Saw Max and the Dremel Ultra Saw. These tools are known for their ability to cut through almost all kinds of materials with their powerful motors, good features, and precision cutting capabilities. But when it comes to prepping surfaces for projects, the Ultra Saw stands out.
Prepping a surface is removing rust, corrosion and other unwanted substance or coating on the surface of the material to be used. Surface prepping gives the material extra TLC before it is cut or eventually used.
This short review will guide you in choosing between the Dremel Ultra Saw and Saw Max. Hopefully, in the end, you have found the ideal power tool that will work best for your own projects.
Dremel Saw Max vs Dremel Ultra Saw
| Product Details | Dremel Saw Max | Dremel Ultra Saw |
|---|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 17.5 x 4.2 x 9.2 inches | 16 x 7.5 x 5.2 inches |
| Weight | 6.4 pounds | 6.75 pounds |
| Motor Power | Battery-powered 120 volts | 120 volts |
| Accessories | With a variety of saw blades and | With a variety of saw blades |
| Ratings | 8 out of 10 | 8 out of 10 |
| Price | Check Lowest Price | Check Lowest Price |
Buyer’s Guide
How to pick the right product
A portable power saw is convenient to have at home and at the workplace. It can work on a variety of jobs and can also be used for DIY. These saws are simple and easy to operate but despite these, you must choose the best one that suits your needs. Here are a few important things to consider.
- Is a portable saw suitable for your project?
If you are going to cut large and thicker materials then you might consider a regular—sized circular saw instead. But if you just need a saw for light materials and for DIY use then a portable saw would suffice.
Regular circular saws come in a different of sizes according to the diameter of the saw blade from 4” to 7- ¼ “. Power saws are also rated depending on the horsepower and the RPM of the saw blade. Therefore choose a portable saw with a higher horsepower than saws of the same size.
Power saws that have a higher horsepower rating have improved cutting power and can take thicker materials and heavier projects.
- Portable power saws with easy to adjust features
Controls like knobs, dials, and levers should be at least accessible to the user. Despite being portable, updated models have controls for adjusting the depth of the cut (from 0 to 2- 3/8”) and the bevel of the cut (from 0 to 45 degrees). Take time to get adjusted to using these features so you can operate your saw safely and efficiently.
- Power saw safety features
There are tons of new and cool features but the most important features should be about safety. Check for a safety switch which is a switch that has to be unlocked before the trigger can be pressed to start the saw. A safety switch of a power saw is similar to a gun’s safety switch. The saw should have at least a blade guard to protect you as the blade spins or in case of any accidents.
- Complete accessories for your portable saw
Portable saws come with a variety of accessories. There are portable saws that are sold as a bare tool and could be quite cheaper when buying a set or kit. However, buying a bare tool will only cost you more because you have to purchase additional accessories which could be pricey when bought separately. The most common accessories that come with a portable saw are extra blades, wrenches, guards and kits or bags to keep the tool.
- Corded or cordless power saws
Choose from a corded or cordless portable power saws. Cordless models come with a 4-inch blade and can cut simple materials like a ¼-inch plywood. These are very lightweight but may have less motor power. Corded models may be a challenge to take to the worksite because you need a long extension cord. But nevertheless, you will have continuous power to work on any project.
How do we compare Dremel Saw Max vs Dremel Ultra Saw?
The following parameters were used to compare these two equally popular power saws. You must be keen on checking these factors to get the best value out of your money.
- Quality
The Dremel Saw Max and the Ultra Saw are quite similar when it comes to appearance and purpose, however, there are a few noticeable differences. The Ultra Saw has a metal body which makes it heavier but durable to use on a variety of materials.
The Saw Max has a plastic body which makes it less durable and efficient when cutting through different materials. The plastic body makes it lighter though compared to the Ultra Saw and other handheld power saws.
- Price
The Dremel Saw Max and Ultra Saw are quite similar when it comes to price. A small difference could be due to the metallic body of the Dremel Ultra Saw but all-in-all; both products have similar designs, accessories, and attachments available. The metallic body has made the Ultra Saw slightly heavier than the Dremel Saw Max.
- Blade Size
The Dremel Ultra Saw has a 4-inch blade diameter while the Saw Max has a 3-inch diameter. Both tools come with a carbide wood cutting wheel, metal cutting wheel and a carbide wood flush cutting wheel. Both power tools have replaceable blades and don’t need sharpening at all. Simply replace the blades once these have been used up.
- Weight
The Dremel Ultra Saw is slightly heavier than the Saw Max possibly due to its metallic body. Nevertheless, the two weighs less than 7 pounds which still makes these versatile, easy to handle and can be used or taken anywhere as a portable power saw.
- Motor Power
The motor of the Ultra Saw is more powerful at 7.5 amps than that of the Saw Max, which is at 6.0 amps. This means the Ultra Saw is a better option for more frequent cutting work. Meanwhile, the Saw Max may be more ideal for light cutting tasks on smaller projects. This has not stopped a lot of customers from going for the Saw Max, though, despite working on some not-so-light jobs every now and then, and many of these consumers do not regret their decision.
- Cutting Depth and Speed
Both can cut to a maximum depth of ¾ inch. The Ultra Saw is only slightly slower than the Saw Max; they can cut at speeds of 13,000 and 17,000 rpm, respectively. This means the Ultra Saw may be more suitable than the Saw Max for thinner materials, which can be damaged by high-speed cutting.
Meanwhile, the higher cutting speed of the Saw Max may be a better match for thicker materials, which can be cut at high speeds without getting damaged, although you do have to take the amperage into account.
- Parts
In terms of construction, both models seem to be more or less on equal footing. They are just the right weight and feel sturdy enough without being difficult to control. Our only gripe is that the Saw Max has a plastic wheel guard (The Ultra Saw’s is metal.), which will always be inferior to metal regardless of how heavy-duty it is. In fact, many consumers have the same complaint, with some even sharing accounts of the plastic guard burning or melting off due to the heat produced during cutting.
- Applications
Regardless of the nature of your projects, it is still practical to have circular saws that are versatile and can be used for a wide variety of applications if needed. It is difficult to weigh Dremel’s Saw Max and Ultra Saw according to this criterion because they both have capabilities that the other does not have. For example, the Ultra Saw can be used for cutting and surface preparation, whereas the Saw Max can be used for cutting only. However, the Saw Max can take care of straight, plunge, and flush cutting.
- Accessories
This is something you should consider especially if you do not have accessories yet. Fortunately, you can buy both the Saw Max and the Ultra Saw in a variety of kits. You may be able to find bare saws, those with blades, and those with more accessories. Kits that come with storage or carry cases are common. Try to get one of those if you plan to travel a lot with your portable saw in tow.
1) Dremel Saw Max
Why Use the Dremel Saw Max and Who Is It For?
The Dremel Saw Max is for people who want to use a handheld, portable power saw that they can take anywhere they wish to go. For a power tool with the ability to create straight edges, create straight cuts and for simple cutting projects then the Saw Max could be the one for you.
Review
The Dremel Saw Max is a reliable and versatile straight cutting power saw The Saw Max can do what a large circular saw can do. It has a compact design that will let you use this portable saw all day long without straining your hands or arms. This will work on different materials like wood, plastic, tile, metal, masonry and so much more. Aside from straight cutting through a variety of materials, you can also use this for plunge cutting and flush cutting.
The Saw Max has a Versatile Cutting System with two cutting wheel positions for straight, plunge and flush cut. It has a strong 6 amp motor to help you work with a variety of applications. It has Adjustable Depth Control feature lets you define the cut and control you apply on the material being cut. It also has a cutting guide and dust port adapter so you can work seamlessly and uninterruptedly. It has accessories like a carbide wheel, metal cut-off wheel, tile diamond wheel and a multiple-purpose flush cut carbide wheels so you can work on different types of projects.
Main Features
- Used for straight cutting lines
- With a compact ergonomic design
- For straight cutting, plunge cutting, and flush cutting
- With a versatile cutting system
- With two cutting wheel positions
- With a powerful 6 amp motor
- With adjustable depth control for ultimate precision and control
- Can be used in one hand
- Can cut through wood, plastic, metal, tile, masonry and more
- Comes with a cutting guide and dust port adapter
- Comes with a variety of blades (multi-purpose carbide wheel, metal cut-off wheel, tile diamond wheel and a multi-purpose flush cut carbide wheel)
- Comes with a hand carry case
- Battery operated
Q&As
Where can you purchase accessories for the Dremel Saw Max?
There are a variety of accessories available for the Dremel Saw Max and the most common are different blade sizes. You can purchase accessories online or from a local outlet. This also comes with a carrying case which lets you take your tool anywhere you wish to work.
Can you use the Saw Max on any surface or material?
What type of material do you want to cut? Youcan cut through a variety of surfaces like wood, tile, metal, aluminum acrylic, masonry and more. You must select and use the blade that matches the type of material that needs to be cut.
How do you maintain the Dremel Saw Max?
You must manually clean the Saw Max to ensure that it works well each time you use it. Follow manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean and maintain this power saw to keep the Saw Max in tip-top condition.
What kind of motor does the Saw Max have?
The Saw Max has worm drive gearing. The motor is positioned perpendicular to the axis of the saw blade, which results in a boost in efficiency and power.
What materials can the Saw Max cut?
This Dremel power saw can cut through wood, plastic, metal, stone, tile, and the like. Depending on which kit you buy, your saw might already have a large set of saw blades bundled with it.
Pros
- This is lightweight and easy to carry anywhere
- Can cut through a variety of materials
- Can be taken anywhere because its battery operated
- With a dust port adapter
- Comes with a variety of blades
Cons
- Battery- operated so you will eventually run out of power
- Has limited cutting capabilities
2) Dremel Ultra Saw
Why Use the Dremel Ultra Saw and Who’s it For
The Dremel Ultra Saw is for people who would like to use a versatile, easy and reliable handheld power cutting toll for plunge cutting and for surface cleaning or prepping. This has almost exactly the same specs and features with the Dremel Saw Max except for a few differences.
Review
The Dremel Saw Max is for plunge cutting or cutting directly into the center of a board without drilling pilot holes for a floor vent. This saw is capable of rip cutting, flush cutting plunge cutting, and surface prepping which is not common among users. This can cut and prep a variety of materials like wood, plastic, metal, tile, and masonry. It also has two widest wheel positions and has a more powerful motor at 7.5 amps. You get a clean line of sight and adjustable depth control every time you use this portable cutting tool.
Main Features
- Used for straight cutting lines
- Used for prepping surfaces like rust and corrosive materials
- With a compact ergonomic design
- For straight cutting, plunge cutting, and flush cutting
- With a versatile cutting system
- With two cutting wheel positions
- With a powerful 7.5 amp motor
- With adjustable depth control for ultimate precision and control
- For one-hand operation
- Can cut through wood, plastic, metal, tile, masonry and more
- Comes with a cutting guide and dust port adapter
- Comes with a variety of blades (multi-purpose carbide wheel, metal cut-off wheel, tile diamond wheel and a multi-purpose flush cut carbide wheel)
- Comes with a hand carry case
Q&As
Can you buy accessories of the Dremel Ultra Saw locally?
There are a variety of accessories for the Dremel Ultra Saw and the most common are different blade sizes and carrying cases. You can purchase accessories online or from a local outlet.
Can you use the Ultra Saw on any surface or material?
With the Ultra Saw, you can cut through and prep a variety of surfaces like wood, tile, metal, aluminum acrylic, masonry and more. You must select and use the blade that matches the type of material that you will prepare or cut.
How do you maintain the Ultra Saw?
Follow manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean and maintain this power saw to keep the Ultra Saw in good condition. The most common ways to take care of a handheld power saws are to keep its blades in good condition and to replace these when needed. Keep the power saw safe after use and never allow children to use the Ultra Saw.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry anywhere
- Will prep a variety of surfaces
- Will cut through and prepare a variety of materials
- With a dust port adapter to quickly clean and remove dust and dirt
- Comes with a variety of blades.
Cons
- Is corded and could be a hindrance to its versatility.
- Heavier than the Saw Max making it harder to handle and heavier to lift.
- Lower cutting speed
Alternate Choices
1) Rockwell Versacut RK3440K
Perhaps the one circular saw hat is most often compared with the Saw Max and the Ultra Saw is Rockwell’s Versacut. This model can be used to make rip and plunge cuts through sheet metal, aluminum, wood, plastic, ceramics, and the like. The blade diameter is 3 ⅜ inches, and the maximum cutting depth is 11/16 inch. The motor amperage, which is 4.0 amps, is substantially lower than those of the Saw Max and the Ultra Saw.
2) Makita SH02R1
Like the Ultra Saw, this mini handheld saw from another power tool giant Makita is an upgrade. The SH02R1 replaces the saw in the Makita LCT208W kit. The blade diameter is also 3 ⅜ inches, and there is a tilting base for making bevel cuts at angles between 0 and 45 degrees. It is often recommended for cutting pegboards, MDF, particleboard, plywood, drywall, melamine, and similar materials. The maximum cutting capacities are 1 and ⅝ inches at 90 and 45 degrees, respectively.
3) Worx WORXSAW WX429L
You may want to try this out if you are looking for a very reasonably priced mini circular saw. The Worxsaw costs less than $80 but manages to rival the performance of many saws belonging to higher price brackets. There is an easily set depth gauge, which you can use to go from 0 to 1 11/16 inches at 90 degrees. The worxsaw can also be used to make bevel cuts from 0 to 45 degrees.
4) Genesis GCS545C
This mini circular saw from Genesis runs on a 5.8 amp motor and cuts at a speed of 3,500 rpm. There are a built-in dust port and a vacuum adaptor. This model is also known for being an affordable choice, and it is often compared with the Worxsaw and other low-cost alternatives to the Ultra Saw and the Saw Max. It is also very light, weighing just a bit over 4 lbs.
5) Rockwell RK3441K
This model from Rockwell is a close relative of the Versacut. It has a left-handed blade design for improved visibility of the cut line. There is the so-called Slim-Line grip design, which is intended to enhance control, balance, and user comfort. The RK3441K runs on a 5 amp motor at a no-load speed of 3,500 rpm. The maximum cutting depth is 1 11/16 at 90 degrees, and the bevel cut capacity is 1 ⅛ at 45 degrees.
The Final Cut
The Dremel Saw Max is for you if you want a no-nonsense, easy to use a power saw. This has the basic features of a regular handheld power saw, therefore, you must choose this for everyday woodworking projects.
But if you must prepare surfaces, remove rust and stuck dirt and paint then the Dremel Ultra Saw is better. This has a surface prep feature that lets you prepare the material you need to use.
