Below, we discuss using a Dremel for case modding (of PCs/computers, video game consoles, and similar hardware).
We consider how/why a Dremel might be used, and we also consider what the best Dremel tool for case modding might be.
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What Is Case Modding?
Case modding involves the modification (changing, upgrading, etc.) of the outer case/shell of a computer/PC – usually from the stock case, to a more customised case.
It can also involve the modification of a video game console, and other similar hardware.
Essentially, it gives the case or console a different appearance.
Can A Dremel Be Used For Case Modding?
Yes, a Dremel rotary tool can be used for case modding.
But, keep in mind a few things:
– Dremel rotary tools are primarily designed for lighter duty DIY type work
This means that they might be more suitable for light duty modding, and lighter duty materials
They may not be suitable for more heavy duty materials like thicker or stronger metal for example
– Dremel rotary tools have a spinning bit
This bit will create at least a little friction on whatever material it is used on
Fragile materials (that will break or damage easily), or materials with lower melting temperatures (such as some types of PET plastic), might not be suitable for some types of rotary tools
Using softer bits, and Dremels with lower speeds (in terms of RPMs), might help address this issue in some ways too
Why A Dremel Might Be Used For Case Modding
Dremel rotary tools are generally very versatile tools capable of carrying out a range of tasks – in part, because they can accept and use a range of different accessories/bits, and also attachments
For example, Dremels can help you cut, grind, polish, sand, drill, engrave/carve, and more.
Therefore, one Dremel rotary tool can perform the function/s of several other tools, and may sometimes replace the need to have or use some of these tools.
Although, some other tools (like non powered tools for example) may be required for certain tasks, so, Dremels can be used alongside these other tools too.
What’s The Best Dremel Tool For Case Modding?
Some of the best Dremel rotary tools to use for modding might be:
Larger, More Versatile Dremel Rotary Tools
These tools below might allow the user to perform a wider variety of tasks – whether that’s for modding, or for other activities.
So, they offer more versatility and potentially value for money.
– Dremel 4000 Series
The 4000 series currently have Dremel’s highest performance and most versatile corded Dremel models.
We’ve compared the 4000 series models to each other in a separate guide.
The 4000 series models are larger than the small/specialized Dremel rotary tools, but they allow the user more versatility to do tasks and activities outside of specialty activities like crafting for example.
The 4300 and 4250 models are currently the highest performance models:
Dremel 4300 Rotary Tool (on Amazon)
Dremel 4250 Rotary Tool – Currently, there’s no US Amazon link available to buy this tool. We will update this link when the product is available. Buying options for the 4250 might currently be available from the Dremel site, or, the tool might be available for sale directly from some sellers
– Dremel 3000
The 3000 model is still a reasonably versatile corded tool, but, it’s an older and lower spec’d model than the 4000 series models.
We’ve compared the 3000 model to the 4000 series and 8000 series models in a separate guide.
You can view the 3000 here – Dremel 3000 Rotary Tool (on Amazon)
– Dremel 8000 Series
The 8000 series currently have Dremel’s highest performance cordless Dremel models.
We’ve compared the 8000 series models to each other in a separate guide.
Like the 4000 series models, the 8000 series models are larger than the small/specialized Dremel rotary tools, but they allow the user more versatility to do tasks and activities outside of specialty activities like crafting for example.
The 8260 and 8250 are currently the most advanced models:
Dremel 8260 Rotary Tool – Currently, there’s no US Amazon link available to buy this tool. We will update this link when the product is available. Buying options for the 8260 might currently be available from the Dremel site, or, the tool might be available for sale directly from some sellers
Dremel 8250 Rotary Tool (on Amazon)
Small & Specialized Dremel Rotary Tools
Dremel has two small and specialised rotary tools that are designed for light duty and detail orientated type work.
A low RPM setting (the speed the bit spins at) might be suitable for tasks where less friction is required.
Other features like the light weight of the tool might be beneficial too.
Those tools are the corded Dremel Stylo+ Craft Tool (on Amazon), and the cordless Dremel Lite 7760 Rotary Tool (on Amazon)
– Dremel Stylo+
A corded rotary tool designed specifically for crafting, and detail orientated works.
It’s smaller, and lighter than Dremel’s 4000 and 8000 series rotary tools, and can be held and controlled in a similar way to a pen.
The Stylo+ can operate at a low RPM speed of 5,000 RPM.
– Dremel Lite 7760
A cordless rotary tool designed specifically for light duty crafting and DIY type work.
It’s smaller, and lighter than Dremel’s 4000 and 8000 series rotary tools.
The Dremel Lite can operate at a low RPM speed of 8,000 RPM
Dremel Attachments
– Dremel Flex Shaft Attachment
Dremel also has a lightweight attachment that attaches to most of the popular Dremel rotary tools
It is designed for precision and detail orientated work (which might be useful for some types of modding work), and you can hold it like a pen.
That attachment is the Dremel Flex Shaft Attachment (on Amazon)
Dremel Bits & Attachment For Case Modding
Bits/Accessories
It depends on what type of activity you are wanting to perform with the Dremel as to what bit/accessory you use.
But, some bits that might be useful might be:
– Cutter bits, or cutting wheels
– Sanding bands and drums, as well as sanding discs
– Grinding stones, or grinding discs
– Polishing/buffing wheels
– Carving and engraving bits
Attachments
Above, we mentioned the Flex Shaft Attachment, as potentially suitable attachments for polymer clay
Other Tools Used For Case Modding
There’s a number of case modding ‘essential tools’ guides online.
There’s also various videos available online where people demonstrate the tools they use, and how they use them.
But, some tools or supplies other than Dremels that some people might use, might include specialised flex shaft tools, other types of cutting tools, a filing tool, sandpaper, clamps, tape and/or some type of adhesive, and other tools.
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