Simplemost is supported by our readers. When you purchase an item through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Oscillating Multi-Tool

Last updated on June 24, 2020

We looked at the top 10 Oscillating Multi-Tools and dug through the reviews from 14 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Oscillating Multi-Tools.

Best Oscillating Multi-Tool

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

Look for the Simplemost seal for products that are the best in a category.

Walk into any hardware store and you’re likely to see aisles full of specialized tools for all manner of home improvement jobs. There are sanders, grout removal tools, vinyl strippers and electric blades of various sizes and shapes depending on what they’re meant to be cutting. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was one tool that could handle all of these jobs?

Savvy handymen know that there already is. It’s called the oscillating multi-tool, and although it’s only been a staple in the contractor’s tool chest for the past decade or so, many home repair specialists now wouldn’t dream of tackling a job without one.

So what does it do? As the “multi-tool” name implies, there isn’t much it can’t do. The basic design of this handheld device incorporates a motor that can move a blade (or any one of several accessories) in a rapid side-to-side motion. That motion is known as oscillation, and it’s well suited to portable cutting devices. Unlike circular saws and other comparable tools, oscillating cutters tend to “grab” less and are easier to handle for detail jobs.

As with any interchangeable bladed tool, a secure fit is key. Many older tools might require an allen wrench or some proprietary accessory in order to remove the old blade and sub in a new one. Newer models typically have some lever system such as Bosch’s Starlock that allows users to change accessories on the fly without unscrewing.

As with any power tool, the big attraction for most buyers is going to be the power. A good general measure of that power is the motor’s maximum oscillations per minute, typically abbreviated as OPM. Any decent multi-tool should have that number listed prominently, but it’s hardly the only measure of quality. If you’re doing light-duty jobs like drywall cutting or sanding, you might not even need all that much torque. In that case, you might look for a multi-tool with variable settings that be adjusted down. Less OPM might not cut through masonry so well, but it will make your tool easier to handle for detail work.

The next big factor is portability. If you need to tackle jobs in multiple areas of the house on the same day, you might want to invest in a cordless multi-tool. The battery will need to be recharged periodically, but there have been great strides in lithium-ion battery technology in the last few years. You can expect plenty of use out of a charge on most mid-range or better tools.

Corded multi-tools, of course, will only have a range as long as their cord. That’s fine as long you’re working indoors, or in reasonable range of an outlet — but you will want to be wary of cutting through your own cord or other mishaps in messy work areas. That said, corded multi-tools are generally able to squeeze a bit more power out of their motors. The results may vary, and might be negligible if you’re not doing consistently heavy work. Still, every little bit counts.

Most multi-tools will come in a kit with an array of fittings and blades suited to a variety of jobs. There are blades for grout removal, drywall, concrete and more plus various sizes of sanding pads, to name just a few. You may not need all of them, so pick the kit that suits your work the best. Still, if you’re just starting out in home repair you might want to grab a larger bundle. After all, why have a multi-tool if you’re going to limit its uses?

Our Picks For The Top Oscillating Multi-Tools

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
  Best Overall

DEWALT DCS356D1 Variable 20V MAX XR Speed Oscillating Multi-Tool

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

DEWALT

Variable Speed Oscillating Multi-Tool

The wide variety of blades on this multi-tool can handle most any surface material thanks to the powerful motor. The quick-change lever allows users to switch between them smoothly and safely. With a long-lasting, rechargeable battery, this is one tool that can be used all day without powering down.

Overall Take

Tackles Heavy JobsThis tool combines a powerful motor with an intuitive keyless quick-change system.

  Runner Up

GALAX PRO 2.4Amp 6 Variable Speed Quick-Lock Oscillating Multi-Tool

GALAX PRO

Quick-Lock Oscillating Multi-Tool

Not only is the motor for this tool up to any task, but the speed can easily be switched for lighter jobs. Blades install quickly and easily, and there are plenty of them with the Pro set. The aluminum head is sturdy yet compact.

Overall Take

Tough and VersatileThe high-speed motor and its variable settings allow this tool to take on any kind of job.

  We Also Like

WORKPRO 20V Lithium-Ion Cordless & LED Variable Speed Oscillating Multi-Tool

WORKPRO

Cordless Variable Speed Oscillating Multi-Tool

Those working after hours or in darker areas will love the LED light on this tool. Its universal adapter allows it to be used with most attachments, even from other brands. The quiet operation is a bonus.

Overall Take

Flexible and ReliableThis lighted tool can be used in the dark and can be made compatible with most attachments.

  Strong Contender

Bosch Power Tools GOP40-30C StarlockPlus 4.0 Amp Oscillating Multi-Tool

Bosch Power Tools

StarlockPlus Oscillating Multi-Tool

Solid blade grips and torque transfer combine to give this oscillating tool plenty of power. And thanks to a slow start feature, that power is just as easy to control in heavy jobs as in light duty. The motor maintains speed well under any conditions.

Overall Take

Plenty of TorqueA variety of features make this power tool a great fit for a variety of jobs.

  Also Great

Rockwell RK5142K 4.0 Amp Sonicrafter F50 Hyperlock Oscillating Multi-Tool

Rockwell

Sonicrafter Hyperlock Oscillating Multi-Tool

The design of this multi-tool incorporates offsets to account for high vibrations, resulting in a smooth, safe cut. The 4-amp motor can handle most any job, and the speed controls can be tweaked on the fly. Blade removal is easy without the need for keys or tools.

Overall Take

Smooth Cutting ToolVibration offsets give this multi-tool the ability to cut most any material smoothly.

Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, Simplemost analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
17

Products Considered

We identified the majority of the oscillating multi-tools available to purchase.
10

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

View All Product Rankings

14

Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources.

6,686

User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

The Best Bang For Your Buck

WORKPRO 20V Lithium-Ion Cordless & LED Variable Speed Oscillating Multi-Tool

Our Total Score

9.9

Our Take

Those working after hours or in darker areas will love the LED light on this tool. Its universal adapter allows it to be used with most attachments, even from other brands. The quiet operation is a bonus.

What to Look For

Buying new accessories for your multi-tool is fairly easy, and can even be fun. Still, check your manufacturer’s guide for details. Many multi-tools have adapters that will allow them to use blades and pads from other brands. Others are somewhat more proprietary with their gear. Whatever you do, make sure the fit is secure no matter what head you use. Operating a tool with a loose blade can result in harm to the blade, the tool — and possibly the user.

More to explore