Best Oscillating Multi-Tools to Cut, Sand, Polish, and Do Much More
- AVID POWER Oscillating Multi-Tool - Best Overall
- GALAX PRO Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit - Runner Up
- DEWALT Oscillating Multi-Tool - Honorable Mention
- KIMO Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit - Also Consider
- Milwaukee Oscillating Multi-Tool
Whether you are a professional woodworker or an enthusiast, a power tool is the best option for you to carry out different tasks. Not only do they make your work easier and quicker, but they also help you achieve more accuracy. Powerful woodworking tools can be used for several purposes, including sanding, cutting, drilling, polishing, etc. We have listed down some of the top oscillating multi-tools in 2024, and we have narrowed down this list after reviewing hundreds of potential options.
If you are looking for something that allows you to perform different tasks at once, you can make use of an oscillating multi-tool, which is a handy and helpful power tool that you can use at home or a worksite. It features a blade spinning at a high speed, and several different components to choose from. If you are actively searching for oscillating multi-tools but can’t make the choice, we can help you do so. Plus, we have also added a buying guide that you can check out if you need any help in finding the best value tools. Also, keep an eye out for special offers where you can bundle up for less price.
Best Oscillating Multi-Tool Worth Considering for 2024
AVID POWER Oscillating Multi-Tool
– Best OverallOur first pick is the AVID POWER oscillating multi-tool, which features a powerful 3.5A motor and offers you six variable speeds for maximum accuracy. It makes your performance more efficient with its 4.5° oscillation angle. This allows you to easily cut through wood and metal tubes. This oscillating multi-tool also comes with a quick-change accessory system, so you can easily change blades and attachments without the need for a wrench. With its versatility, you can use the oscillating tool for all sorts of cutting, sanding, cleaning, scraping, polishing, and other projects.
This oscillating multi-tool also comes with 13 useful accessories, including a saw blade, plunge blade, semicircle saw blade, scraper blade, and several others.
- Comes with 13 different accessories
- Can be changed easily
- Ergonomic design prevents wrist fatigue
- Takes time to understand the speed settings
GALAX PRO Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit
– Runner UpNext up, we have the GALAX PRO 2.4Amp oscillating multi-tool kit. It has a heavy-duty 2.4A motor that spins at 21000 oscillations per minute. Moreover, it has six variable speed settings that allow you to adjust and control the tool for several projects. It comes with a quick release lever that ensures tool-free blade replacement, thus helping you save time and effort. It also has a durable aluminum head that enables you to navigate within hard-to-reach spaces.
With this oscillating multi-tool, you can easily perform cutting, sawing, sanding, trimming, grinding, and other tasks. Moreover, it comes with 28 accessories and a carry bag as well.
- Comes with user manual for easy understanding
- Variable speed control offers more precision
- Tool-free blade replacement saves time
- Slightly thicker than other multi-tools
DEWALT Oscillating Multi-Tool
– Honorable MentionThis list would be incomplete with the DEWALT 20V MAX XR oscillating multi-tool, which has a powerful 20V brushless motor. It features a 3-speed selector that makes it easier for handymen and DIY enthusiasts to perform various cutting, grinding, sanding, and other tasks. Moreover, it has a dual-grip variable speed trigger that offers better control and speed adjustment. Thanks to it, you can easily control the speed between 0 to 20,000 oscillations per minute.
This oscillating multi-tool has a quick-change accessory system that enables attachment replacement without any tool. Its universal adapter is compatible with several accessory brands, and its bright LED allows you to use the tool in low-light settings.
- Comes with blade kit and accessories
- 3-speed adjustment provides more accuracy and precision
- Works well with accessories of several brands
- Handle may get too hot while working
KIMO Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit
– Also ConsiderIf you are looking for a cordless machine, then this KIMO 20V cordless oscillating multi-tool kit is perfect for you. It is powered by a 20V lithium ion battery, which allows you to work anywhere without the hassle of finding a power outlet. It also features a heavy-duty and high-performance motor that delivers a top speed of 21,000 oscillations per minute. Moreover, you can easily adjust the speed with the 6-speed position feature, which enhances the accuracy that you experience while handling it.
This oscillating multi-tool has a 3° cutting angle, which makes it easier for you to cut, grind, sand, and do much more. It also comes with plunge cut saw blades, segment saw blades, diamond-tipped blade, scraper blade, sanding plate, and several other accessories.
- 6 different speed settings to choose from
- Powerful battery provides sufficient usage before recharge
- LED and power cue light for better performance in dark settings
- Manual can be difficult to understand
Our last pick for the top oscillating multi-tool comes from Milwaukee, a trusted name in the world of power tools. It features a cordless design with a lithium-ion battery that provides you with sufficient working time, while also allowing you to work in tight spaces without having to worry about finding a power outlet. This oscillating tool features 12-speed settings, so you can easily control the speed between 11,000 to 18,000 oscillations per minute.
This oscillating multi-tool can be used for several applications, including cutting, grinding, sanding, polishing, trimming, etc. Moreover, you can easily use it on metal, plastic, and other similar materials with precision.
- Offers 12 speed settings for increased control
- Metal gear case protects it from getting damaged easily
- Handle is covered in rubberized mold to offer a firm grip
- Can be tricky to change the blades
Best Oscillating Multi-Tools Buying Guide
What Is an Oscillating Multi-tool?
An oscillating multi-tool, or oscillating tool, is a type of versatile and multifunctional tool that oscillates the accessory head, instead of a rotating or reciprocating action. This power tool is available in both battery-powered and corded variants. It is referred to as the multi-tool because it can be used for cutting, sawing, sanding, grinding, scraping, polishing, rasping, and even old grout removal as well.
The oscillating multi-tool performs these various functions with the help of its multi-accessory head, which is compatible with a wide range of attachments and accessories. You can also use blades for cutting, sanding, scraping, polishing, tile, grout, and masonry. Apart from this, there are also sanding attachments, polishing pads, and many other options. Most of the options that we have listed above come with their own set of accessories included. Plus, you can also find oscillating multi-tools that are compatible with universal attachments at the best value.
Why Is It Important To Have an Oscillating Multi-tool?
One of the biggest benefits of having an oscillating multi-tool is that they eliminate the need for different tools for various functions, and this also makes it easier for you to work on larger projects on the go. Moreover, it is much more convenient and hassle-free to carry only one tool with you, as compared to bearing the weight of several different power tools.
Another reason why you should use an oscillating multi-tool is that they can be easily accessed and used. Moreover, you can replace the attachments on them without the need for a tool, thus increasing the convenience even more. Consider it this way: if you are using the grinding attachment and you want to switch to a sander for a short while, you simply have to press the lever and replace one attachment with another.
In a nutshell, the level of convenience and utility that you get with an oscillating multi-tool is unparalleled, and if you have to perform various functions on your projects, then this is the perfect woodworking tool for you.
The video from ‘WoodWorkWeb’ uses DeWalt products to discuss the best ways to use oscillating tools in your woodworking shop.
History of the Oscillating Multi-tool
It is believed that the oscillating multi-tool first made its entry into the DIY and fabrication market back in 2009. Prior to that, multi-tools were built for cutting, shaping, sanding, grinding, and other jobs. However, there were very few of them that could be used for both cutting and shaping.
With the invention of the oscillating multi-tool, people got the heavy-duty machine that could be used for tight and hard-to-reach spaces, and could also make cutting, sanding, grinding, and scraping possible with one powerful tool.
The roots of the oscillating tools date back to the 1960s, and the credit for it goes to a German inventor and electrical engineer named Wilhelm Emil Fein. In 1967, after working on several breakthrough inventions, he set out to address a common issue in the medical profession: the removal of plaster casts without injuring the patient.
Back then, only circular and drop saws were used, and they had a rotating action that wasn’t safe for medical personnel to use on the patients’ limbs. Instead, Fein came up with the oscillating action for the blade, which would only work against rigid objects, like the plaster cast. The oscillating blade only cuts when it experiences resistance from a hard object, which makes it less likely to cut through human skin.
Thus, the plaster cast saw was invented in 1967. In 1985, Fein introduced the oscillating cutting tool, which could be used in the fabrication and construction industry. In the later years, he tweaked the power tool to become compatible with a wide range of attachments, and this made it into a multi-purpose tool or a multi-tool.
In 2009, Fein’s patent for the oscillation mechanism expired, which led all of the big names, including Bosch, Dremel, Milwaukee, and several others to build their own versions of the oscillating tool, which are available in the market today.
What To Look For in an Oscillating Multi-tool?
There are several factors that make or break an oscillating multi-tool, and it is important for you to consider them before you make a final decision. Even though we have provided you with a narrowed-down list, you should still refer to the following variables when you are evaluating an oscillating tool.
Power source
When talking about the power source, we mean checking whether the oscillating multi-tool is corded or battery-powered. Both of them have their pros and cons. For instance, if you are always on the go and need something that you can quickly whip out, then the cordless model is better for you.
However, if you need more power and speed from your oscillating tools, then it is best if you stick to the corded variant, provided you get easy access to a power source wherever you are working.
Attachment compatibility
As you may know, power tool attachments can wear out pretty quickly, especially if you use them constantly. Therefore, you need to determine whether the multi-tool you get is compatible with a wide range of attachments or parts. Ideally, you should opt for options that come with their own set of attachments, and oscillating tool blade like a metal cutting blade, or scraper blade.
Apart from this, you can also find various oscillating tools that have universal compatibility, i.e. they work with attachments from several brands.
Variable speed control
The variable speed feature is a must-have when you get a multipurpose power tool, mainly because you can’t cut and sand with the same level of speed. Most of the oscillating multi-tools come with 6-speed settings, while others also have 10 or 12-speed settings. Choosing one with variable speed will help you get more precision and a better finish in your projects.
Power
Another important factor to consider is the power rating of the motor inside the oscillating multi-tool. The power is usually measured in Amps, and if you can choose between the ones that have a power rating between 1.6 and 3 Amps. The thing to remember is that the lower the power rating, the harder you will have to press down on an object.
PEOPLE ALSO ASKED
It depends on the length of the blade. Generally, you can cut between 1 and 3 inches from the standard blades that come with the oscillating tools.
Although the oscillating mechanism makes it less likely for the blade or any other attachment to cut through the skin, you should be much more careful when working with oscillating tools.
Since oscillating multi-tools are handheld, they don’t come with any kind of guide. This makes it relatively difficult to cut a straight line with precision.