Dremel US40-04 vs. Rockwell RK3440K

Let’s take a look at these two circular saws: the Dremel US40-04 and the Rockwell RK3440K.

Features & Benefits

You can read more in our roundup of the best compact circular saws.

Power & Motor

Both products are corded and run on 120 V. The US40-04 draws 7.5 amps. The RK3440K draws 4 amps. Standard U.S. residential circuits are 120 V, 15 A, which will support either of the saws.

The US40-04 motor spins at 13000 rpm and the RK3440K motor spins at 3500 rpm. But don’t get too caught up in these numbers, since the manufacturers measure them under ideal conditions, and they don’t have a direct impact on the saw’s real-world ability to handle different material.

The US40-04 has a direct-drive motor. The RK3440K has a direct motor. Direct-drive motors are usually lighter than other styles, but their side mounting makes the saw a little harder to control.

Blades & Capacity

The US40-04 accepts 4” diameter blades. The RK3440K takes 3 3/8” diameter blades and has a 19/32” arbor.

Both circular saws can bevel the blade up to 0°. The US40-04 can cut up to 3/4” at a 90° angle. The RK3440K can cut up to 1 1/16” deep at a 90° angle.

When beveling the saw, most circular saws will have positive stops at common angles such as 45° and 90°. This ensures you are making precise cuts. Some saws have additional stops at other angles.

Both products have the blade on the left side of the unit. Right-handers sometimes find it easier to see and control blades mounted to the left, while left-handers might find the same true for right-mounted blades.

Pros & Cons

Let’s take a look at some of the pluses and minuses of these products.

For the Dremel:

For the Rockwell:

Comparison Chart

Below is a full side-by-side comparison of these products’ specs. You can view comparisons of the Dremel US40-04 with other products

	Dremel US40-04	Rockwell RK3440K
Brand	Dremel	Rockwell
Power Type	corded	corded
Power - Voltage	120 V	120 V
Power - Amps	7.5 A	4 A
No-load RPM	13000 rpm	3500 rpm
Blade Diameter	4”	3 3/8”
Maximum Bevel	0°	0°
Depth of Cut (at 90°)	3/4”	1 1/16”
Arbor Size	n/a	19/32”
Dimensions	13” L × 5” H
Weight	4.6 lbs	4 lbs
Blade - Side	left	left
Drive Mechanism	direct-drive	direct
Warranty	2 years
Pros	Optional auxiliary handle for extra control Includes multiple blades for wood, metal, PVC, etc. Can make flush cuts with appropriate blade	Very lightweight Laser guide for accurately following cut lines
Cons	Can overheat when cutting thick material	Safety mechanism can be confusing, requires pushing plate down onto work surface
	Check Price	Check Price