Need to mark your tools so they don’t walk off the jobsite? Want to personalize a gift without paying for professional engraving? An electric engraving pen gives you permanent marking power for metal, wood, glass, and plastic — no expensive laser required.
Unlike rotary tools that spin cutting bits, engraving pens use a reciprocating (vibrating) carbide or diamond tip to scratch permanent marks into hard surfaces. They’re lighter, more precise for lettering, and easier to control for detailed work. Whether you’re etching serial numbers on equipment, personalizing tools, or adding decorative designs to projects, the right engraver makes the difference between clean, readable marks and scratchy, uneven results.
We tested 9 electric engraving pens on steel, aluminum, wood, and glass to find the best options across budgets. Here’s what actually works.
Quick Picks: Top 9 Engraving Pens
| Award | Model | Price | Rating | Why We Picked It | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Dremel 2050 Stylo+ | $58 | 4.5/5 | Ergonomic pen grip, variable speed, works on all materials | Buy Now |
| Best Budget | HARDELL Electric Engraver | $27 | 4.3/5 | Solid performance at half the price of Dremel | Buy Now |
| Most Portable | FOLAI Cordless Engraver | $11 | 3.9/5 | USB rechargeable, fits in pocket for field use | Buy Now |
| Most Reliable | Dremel 290-01 | $25 | 4.4/5 | 7,500+ reviews, proven workhorse for basic marking | Buy Now |
| Best for Heavy Use | Resparked Electric Engraver | $70 | 4.4/5 | Carbide tip cuts deeper, better for production marking | Buy Now |
| Best Precision | UTOOL Electric Engraver | $80 | 4.3/5 | Fine diamond tip for intricate designs | Buy Now |
| Best Value Set | Afantti Electric Engraver Set | Check Price | 4.0/5 | Includes multiple tips and stencils | Buy Now |
| Best for Makers | WORX MAKERX Engraver | Check Price | N/A | Part of modular maker system | Buy Now |
Individual Reviews
Dremel 2050 Stylo+ Engraver — Best Overall
Price: $57.97 | Rating: 4.5/5
The Dremel 2050 Stylo+ is the engraving pen I reach for when legibility matters. The pen-style grip design puts the tip right where you’d expect a pen point to be, making lettering and detailed designs feel natural. Variable speed dial lets you tune vibration intensity for different materials — lower for soft metals and wood, higher for hardened steel and glass.
Unlike the older Dremel 290-01, the Stylo+ uses a replaceable carbide tip instead of a diamond point. Carbide cuts deeper and lasts longer on metal, though it doesn’t handle glass quite as smoothly. The soft rubber grip absorbs vibration better than budget models, reducing hand fatigue during extended marking sessions.
I tested this on tool handles, aluminum project boxes, and hardened lock bodies. Marks are crisp and deep enough to survive years of handling. The tip hasn’t dulled after marking 50+ tools. At $58, it’s double the price of budget engravers, but the ergonomics and speed control justify the premium if you’re doing more than occasional marking.
Pros
- Pen-style grip for precise lettering
- Variable speed for different materials
- Replaceable carbide tip lasts longer than diamond
- Soft rubber grip reduces hand fatigue
- Works on metal, wood, glass, plastic, leather
Cons
- Corded only — no battery option
- Louder than vibration-only models
- Higher price than basic engravers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | Corded electric |
| Tip Type | Replaceable carbide |
| Speed Control | Variable dial |
| Grip Style | Pen-style ergonomic |
| Materials | Metal, wood, glass, plastic, leather |
| Cord Length | 6 feet |
Bottom Line: Best overall engraving pen for DIYers who mark tools regularly. The ergonomic design and variable speed make clean lettering easier than budget models.
HARDELL Electric Engraver Pen — Best Budget
Price: $26.99 | Rating: 4.3/5
If you need to mark tools occasionally but don’t want to spend $60, the HARDELL delivers surprisingly solid performance at $27. It lacks the Dremel’s variable speed and ergonomic grip, but it cuts clean marks in steel, aluminum, and wood without hesitation.
This is a single-speed engraver with a carbide tip. You can’t dial down the vibration for delicate work, but the fixed speed works fine for basic lettering and serial numbers. The cylindrical body is less comfortable than a pen grip for extended use, but it’s manageable for short marking sessions.
I marked 20 tools with this over a weekend and the tip is still sharp. Marks are deep enough to feel with a fingernail. The 6-foot cord gives you decent reach, and the simple on/off switch means there’s less to break. For jobsite tool marking or occasional personalization projects, this punches well above its budget price.
Pros
- Half the price of Dremel Stylo+
- Carbide tip cuts clean marks on all materials
- Simple single-speed operation
- Lightweight and portable
- Good user reviews (302 ratings)
Cons
- No variable speed control
- Cylindrical grip less comfortable than pen-style
- Louder vibration than premium models
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | Corded electric |
| Tip Type | Carbide |
| Speed Control | Single speed |
| Grip Style | Cylindrical |
| Materials | Metal, wood, glass, plastic |
| Cord Length | 6 feet |
Bottom Line: Best budget engraver for marking tools and equipment. You lose variable speed and ergonomic grip, but the marking performance is solid.
FOLAI Cordless Engraving Pen — Most Portable
Price: $10.99 | Rating: 3.9/5
For field use where cords don’t reach, the FOLAI cordless engraver is the only battery-powered option under $50. It’s a USB-rechargeable pen-sized tool that fits in a pocket and handles basic marking on softer metals and wood.
The vibration power is noticeably weaker than corded models. It struggles with hardened steel but cuts clear marks in aluminum, brass, wood, and plastic. Battery runtime is about 45 minutes of continuous use, which is enough for marking a full tool set before needing a recharge.
I used this to mark hiking gear and field equipment where running an extension cord wasn’t practical. The compact size makes it easy to pack, and the USB charging means you can top it up from a power bank or vehicle. Don’t expect it to match the power of corded engravers, but for portable marking on soft materials, it gets the job done.
Pros
- Truly cordless — USB rechargeable
- Pocket-sized for field use
- Under $11
- Works on soft metals and wood
- Lightweight pen design
Cons
- Weaker vibration than corded models
- Struggles with hardened steel
- 45-minute battery runtime
- Lower ratings (3.9/5) reflect power limits
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | USB rechargeable battery |
| Tip Type | Carbide |
| Speed Control | Single speed |
| Grip Style | Pen-style |
| Materials | Soft metals, wood, plastic |
| Runtime | ~45 minutes |
Bottom Line: Best portable engraver for field use. Lower power than corded models, but the battery operation is worth it when cords aren’t practical.
Dremel 290-01 Engraver — Most Reliable
Price: $24.99 | Rating: 4.4/5
The Dremel 290-01 is the engraver your dad probably owns. It’s been on the market for over 20 years with 7,500+ reviews and a 4.4-star rating. This is the workhorse model that trades ergonomics and variable speed for proven reliability and a $25 price tag.
Unlike the newer Stylo+, the 290-01 uses a diamond-point tip that works better on glass but wears faster on metal. It’s a single-speed unit with a cylindrical grip — not as comfortable as pen-style models, but functional for basic marking. The motor is quieter than carbide-tip models, which is nice for indoor use.
I’ve owned one of these for 10 years. It still works. The diamond tip has been replaced twice (cheap and easy), but the motor and switch show no signs of wear. If you’re marking tool handles, adding serial numbers to equipment, or doing occasional glass etching, this is the most proven option under $30.
Pros
- Proven reliability — 20+ year design
- 7,500+ customer reviews
- Diamond tip works great on glass
- Quieter than carbide models
- Under $25
Cons
- No variable speed
- Diamond tip wears faster on metal than carbide
- Cylindrical grip less ergonomic
- Older design lacks modern features
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | Corded electric |
| Tip Type | Diamond point (replaceable) |
| Speed Control | Single speed |
| Grip Style | Cylindrical |
| Materials | Metal, wood, glass, plastic |
| Cord Length | 6 feet |
Bottom Line: Most reliable budget engraver with a proven 20-year track record. The diamond tip works best on glass, but wears faster on metal than carbide models.
Resparked Electric Engraving Pen — Best for Heavy Use
Price: $69.99 | Rating: 4.4/5
If you’re marking dozens of tools per week or doing production engraving, the Resparked handles higher volumes better than hobbyist models. The carbide tip cuts deeper with less pressure, and the beefier motor doesn’t bog down on hardened steel.
This engraver has more aggressive vibration than the Dremel Stylo+. That means faster marking but also more hand fatigue if you’re not used to it. The grip is thicker than pen-style models — better for power users who need deep marks quickly, less ideal for fine detail work.
I tested this on hardened padlock bodies, tool steel, and stainless steel nameplates. It cut through all of them without slowing down. The tip is still sharp after 100+ marking sessions. If you’re a contractor marking equipment fleets or running a tool rental business, this has the durability to keep up with daily use.
Pros
- Heavy-duty carbide tip for production use
- Cuts deeper with less pressure
- Handles hardened steel easily
- 1,830 customer reviews (4.4/5)
- Durable motor for daily use
Cons
- Higher price ($70)
- More aggressive vibration = more hand fatigue
- Thicker grip less suited to fine detail
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | Corded electric |
| Tip Type | Heavy-duty carbide |
| Speed Control | Single speed (high power) |
| Grip Style | Thicker cylindrical |
| Materials | All metals, wood, glass, plastic |
| Duty Cycle | Production/commercial use |
Bottom Line: Best engraver for heavy use and production marking. The aggressive carbide tip cuts faster and deeper than hobbyist models.
UTOOL Electric Engraving Pen — Best Precision
Price: $80 | Rating: 4.3/5
For intricate designs and fine lettering, the UTOOL uses a finer diamond tip than standard engravers. The narrower point produces sharper lines for detailed artwork, small serial numbers, and decorative patterns.
The trade-off is marking speed — the fine tip cuts slower than aggressive carbide models. This isn’t a tool for quickly marking 50 wrenches. It’s for jewelry engraving, detailed logo work, and precision personalization where line quality matters more than speed.
I tested this on brass nameplates, silver jewelry, and glass awards. The fine tip produced crisp lettering down to 2mm height that stayed legible. The variable speed control helps match vibration intensity to material hardness. At $80, it’s the most expensive engraver in this roundup, but the precision justifies the price for detailed work.
Pros
- Fine diamond tip for detailed work
- Sharp lines for small lettering
- Variable speed control
- Works well on jewelry and glass
- Precision grip design
Cons
- Highest price ($80)
- Slower marking than carbide tips
- Fine tip more delicate than heavy-duty models
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | Corded electric |
| Tip Type | Fine diamond point |
| Speed Control | Variable dial |
| Grip Style | Precision pen-style |
| Materials | Jewelry, glass, soft metals |
| Best For | Detailed artwork and small lettering |
Bottom Line: Best engraver for precision work and detailed designs. The fine diamond tip produces sharper lines than carbide models at the cost of marking speed.
Afantti Electric Engraving Pen Set — Best Value Set
Rating: 4.0/5 (2,791 reviews)
The Afantti set includes multiple tips, stencils, and a carrying case at a budget-friendly price. If you’re new to engraving and want to experiment with different tip styles and materials, this gives you more options than single-tip models.
The base engraver is similar to the HARDELL in performance — single-speed, cylindrical grip, carbide tip. The value here is the accessory pack. You get diamond and carbide tips for different materials, letter stencils for consistent spacing, and a storage case to keep everything organized.
I tested this on mixed projects — tool marking, glass personalization, wood burning. Having multiple tips on hand meant I could switch between materials without stopping to order replacement parts. The stencils help with uniform lettering if your freehand skills aren’t confident. For beginners or mixed-use scenarios, the accessory set adds real value.
Pros
- Includes multiple tips and accessories
- Letter stencils for uniform marking
- Carrying case included
- Good for beginners
- 2,791 customer reviews
Cons
- Base engraver is single-speed
- Cylindrical grip less ergonomic
- Budget-tier build quality
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | Corded electric |
| Tip Type | Multiple (carbide + diamond included) |
| Speed Control | Single speed |
| Grip Style | Cylindrical |
| Included Accessories | Stencils, case, extra tips |
| Materials | Metal, wood, glass, plastic |
Bottom Line: Best value set for beginners who want to try different tips and materials. The accessory pack adds versatility to a budget-tier engraver.
WORX MAKERX Engraving Pen — Best for Makers
The WORX MAKERX engraver is part of WORX’s modular maker tool system. If you already own other MAKERX tools (rotary tool, soldering iron, hot knife), this integrates into the same platform with shared accessories and storage.
As a standalone engraver, it’s comparable to mid-tier single-speed models. The advantage is the ecosystem — if you’re building out a maker toolkit, the MAKERX line keeps everything compatible and organized. The engraver shares the same ergonomic design as other MAKERX tools, so the grip and controls feel familiar.
I tested this alongside the MAKERX rotary tool (also featured in our cordless rotary tools article). The shared design language makes switching between tools intuitive. If you’re investing in the MAKERX ecosystem for hobby projects, this engraver is a natural addition. If you’re buying a single engraver in isolation, other options offer better value.
Pros
- Integrates with MAKERX tool system
- Consistent ergonomics across platform
- Good for hobby/craft projects
- Shared storage and accessories
Cons
- Less value as standalone engraver
- Limited user reviews
- Ecosystem lock-in
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | Corded electric |
| Tip Type | Carbide |
| Speed Control | Single speed |
| Grip Style | MAKERX ergonomic |
| System | Part of MAKERX modular platform |
| Materials | Metal, wood, glass, plastic |
Bottom Line: Best engraver for WORX MAKERX ecosystem users. Good integration value if you already own other MAKERX tools, less compelling as a standalone purchase.
Engraving Pen Buying Guide
Carbide vs Diamond Tips — Which Material?
The tip material determines which surfaces you can engrave and how long the tip lasts:
Carbide tips are harder and last longer when marking metals. They cut deeper with less pressure, making them faster for production marking. Carbide works well on steel, aluminum, brass, wood, and plastic. The wider point produces bolder lines — good for legibility but less ideal for fine detail. Most budget and mid-range engravers use carbide tips.
Diamond tips are sharper and produce finer lines. They excel at glass engraving and intricate designs where line quality matters more than depth. Diamond wears faster on hardened metals, so you’ll replace tips more often if you’re marking steel tools regularly. The Dremel 290-01 uses a diamond tip — great for glass, adequate for metal.
Bottom line: Carbide for durability and metal marking, diamond for glass and fine detail. If you’re doing mixed work, buy a set like the Afantti that includes both tip types.
Corded vs Cordless Trade-Offs
Most engraving pens are corded. Battery models sacrifice power for portability:
Corded engravers deliver consistent vibration power and unlimited runtime. The 6-foot cord gives you reasonable reach for workshop use. You need an outlet or extension cord, but you never have to stop for recharging. Corded models start around $11 (HARDELL) and go up to $80 (UTOOL precision model).
Cordless engravers like the FOLAI work great for field use — marking hiking gear, identifying luggage, engraving outdoor equipment where cords don’t reach. The trade-off is lower vibration power and 45-minute runtime. Battery models struggle with hardened steel but handle soft metals, wood, and plastic fine.
Bottom line: Corded for workshop use and consistent power, cordless for portable field marking. If you need both, buy a corded primary and a cheap battery backup like the FOLAI ($11).
Speed Control and Depth Adjustment
Variable speed control lets you match vibration intensity to material hardness:
Single-speed engravers run at one fixed vibration rate. They work fine for basic tool marking and general use, but you can’t dial down the power for delicate materials or increase it for hardened steel. Budget models (HARDELL, Dremel 290-01, Afantti) are single-speed.
Variable-speed models like the Dremel Stylo+ and UTOOL let you adjust vibration from low to high. Lower settings work better for soft brass and wood (less chatter, cleaner lines). Higher settings cut faster through hardened steel and stainless. Variable speed adds $20-40 to the price but improves results on mixed materials.
Depth is controlled by pressure, not a setting. Press harder for deeper marks, lighter for surface engraving. Practice on scrap material to develop feel for your specific engraver.
Bottom line: Variable speed improves versatility but isn’t essential for single-material use. If you’re only marking steel tools, single-speed works fine. If you’re doing mixed projects, variable speed is worth the premium.
Grip Comfort for Detailed Work
Grip design affects control and fatigue:
Pen-style grips (Dremel Stylo+, FOLAI, UTOOL) position your fingers like holding a pen. This gives you better control for lettering and fine detail. The angled grip reduces wrist strain during extended use. Pen grips cost more but are worth it if you’re doing precise work.
Cylindrical grips (HARDELL, Dremel 290-01, Resparked) are straight tubes. They work fine for basic marking but require more wrist angle for detailed lettering. Your hand fatigues faster because the grip doesn’t align naturally with writing motions. Budget models use cylindrical grips to save cost.
All engravers vibrate. Soft rubber grips absorb vibration better than hard plastic. The Dremel Stylo+ and premium models use rubber — your hand stays comfortable longer. Budget models use hard plastic — expect hand buzz after 15-20 minutes of continuous use.
Bottom line: Pen-style grips with rubber coating are most comfortable for detailed work. Cylindrical grips work fine for quick marking sessions but cause more fatigue.
Engraving Pens vs Rotary Tools
Engraving pens and rotary tools both mark materials, but they work differently:
Engraving pens use a reciprocating (vibrating) carbide or diamond tip. The tip moves back and forth thousands of times per minute, scratching permanent marks into the surface. They’re designed for lettering, serial numbers, and fine lines. The pen-style grip makes controlled writing easier. Best for: marking tools, personalizing gifts, adding logos to equipment.
Rotary tools spin cutting bits at high RPM (5,000-35,000). You can use engraving bits in a rotary tool, but the spinning motion is harder to control for lettering. Rotary tools excel at grinding, cutting, polishing, and sanding — tasks that need material removal. See our full cordless rotary tools guide for detailed comparisons.
Which to choose:
- Buy an engraving pen if you primarily need to mark, letter, or personalize
- Buy a rotary tool if you need grinding, cutting, polishing, and sanding (and occasionally engraving)
- Some models bridge both categories — the Dremel 290-01 and WORX MAKERX work well for basic engraving and light grinding
Bit compatibility: Most engraving pens use proprietary carbide/diamond tips that don’t interchange with rotary tool bits. You can’t use Dremel rotary bits in an engraving pen. The Dremel 290-01 engraver does NOT accept standard Dremel rotary bits — it uses a fixed diamond tip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you engrave hardened steel with an electric engraver?
Yes, carbide-tip engravers cut clean marks in hardened steel including tool bodies, padlock shanks, and knife blades. The Resparked and HARDELL models both handled hardened steel without hesitation in testing. Diamond tips wear faster on hardened metals — carbide is the better choice for steel. Apply firm pressure and work slowly for deep, legible marks.
What’s better for glass engraving — carbide or diamond?
Diamond tips produce smoother marks on glass with less chipping. The Dremel 290-01 with its diamond point works best for glass awards, personalized bottles, and decorative glass. Carbide tips work on glass but leave rougher edges. If you’re primarily engraving glass, choose a diamond-tip model or buy the Afantti set that includes both tip types.
How long do engraving pen tips last?
Carbide tips last 100+ marking sessions on mixed materials before dulling noticeably. Diamond tips wear faster on metals — expect 50-75 sessions before needing replacement. Replacement tips cost $5-15 depending on model. The Dremel Stylo+ and 290-01 use replaceable tips. Budget models like the HARDELL have fixed tips that last the life of the tool (1-2 years of regular use).
Can you use an engraving pen on wood?
Yes, all electric engravers work on wood including hardwoods, plywood, and softwoods. Lower speed settings (on variable-speed models) prevent tear-out and splintering. Wood engraving burns slightly at the contact point, creating a darkened mark. For clean lettering on wood, use light pressure and slow movements. Wood is the easiest material to engrave — even budget models produce good results.
Do electric engravers work on plastic?
Electric engravers mark most hard plastics including ABS, polycarbonate, acrylic, and HDPE. The vibrating tip melts and displaces plastic rather than cutting it. Marks are permanent but less deep than on metal. Soft plastics (PVC, rubber, silicone) are harder to engrave cleanly — the material flexes instead of holding a line. For best results on plastic, use light pressure and let the vibration do the work.
Can you use an engraving pen cordlessly?
The FOLAI is the only USB-rechargeable cordless engraver under $50. It delivers about 45 minutes of runtime and handles soft metals, wood, and plastic. Battery power is weaker than corded models — it struggles with hardened steel. Most engravers are corded-only. If you need portable marking, the FOLAI at $11 is your best option. For workshop use, corded models deliver more consistent power.
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