Choosing the best oscillating multi-tool used to boil down to just a couple of brands. Not anymore. Advancements in battery, motor, and vibration control technologies offer more options than ever. The oscillating multi-tools of today feature advanced vibration control and accessory interfaces, plus they benefit from carbide tooth blades and innovative problem-solving accessories.
A quick note: our crew is unanimously in favor of cordless OMTs. Corded models are still relevant, though. They’re less expensive, and there are some outstanding options available. However, battery power is far more convenient, and the best ones have all the features and performance of their corded counterparts.
Our Best Oscillating Multi-Tool Top Picks
- Best Overall: Flex 24V Brushless FX4111
↓ Jump to this Tool - Best Performance: Ridgid 18V Brushless R86242
↓ Jump to this Tool - Best Vibration Control: Makita 18V LXT Brushless XMT04
↓ Jump to this Tool - Best on a Budget: Skil PWRCore 20 OS5937-10
↓ Jump to this Tool - Best Corded: Fein MultiMaster MM 700
↓ Jump to this Tool - Easiest Blade Change: Starlock
↓ Jump to this Tool - Best Blades and Accessories: Imperial Blades
↓ Jump to this Tool
Jump to These Section to Learn More
- Test Methods and Full Results
- Common Questions About Oscillating Multi-Tools
- What To Look For When You’re Shopping for an OMT
- Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews
Best Oscillating Multi-Tool Overall
Flex 24V Brushless FX4111
- Oscillating Angle: 4°
- Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM
- Interface: Starlock Max
- Bare Weight: 2.8 lbs
- Length w/Battery: 13.1 inches
Reasons to Buy
- Top-tier performance
- Very good vibration control
- Starlock accessory changes
- Professional quality build
- Outstanding value
- Lifetime warranty with registration
Reasons to Consider Another Model
- 24V system isn’t as extensive as top brands
- You prefer a variable speed trigger
If you’re looking for the best all-around oscillating multi-tool, I highly recommend you take a close look at the Flex FX4111. In our testing, it had the second-best overall performance and is built for the rigors of professional use yet it costs less than its premium competitors. Plus, it has a Starlock Max interface that makes accessory changes easy.
As far as the tool goes, there’s not much to complain about unless you’re dead-set on having a variable speed trigger instead of a power switch.
Even though it earned a vibration control rating in the bottom half of the pack, the isolated head design does an excellent job of dampening vibration as you cut. Flex is one of the eight OMTs we tested with an advanced vibration control system we consider highly effective.
As a system, Flex doesn’t have as many tools on its 24V battery platform as brands like Milwaukee or DeWalt. Still, it’s steadily expanding and has a lifetime warranty that includes your batteries.
Price: $129 bare, $199 kit with a 2.5Ah battery
Test | Time | Ranking |
---|---|---|
Yellow Pine | 2.95 seconds | 1 |
Red Oak | 4.74 seconds | 3 |
Nail-Embedded Pine | 3.12 seconds | 2 |
CPVC | 1.04 seconds | 1 |
Copper Pipe | 12.07 seconds | 3 |
EMT Conduit | 6.68 seconds | 2 |
Threaded Rod | 60 seconds | 4 |
Vibration | 4 out of 5 | 7 (tie) |
Best Oscillating Multi-Tool Performance
Ridgid 18V Brushless R86242
- Oscillating Angle: 3.6°
- Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM
- Interface: OIS
- Bare Weight: 2.4 lbs
- Length w/Battery: 14.3 inches
Reasons to Buy
- Best performance in our tests
- Professional quality build
- Slim handle is comfortable
- Good value
- Lifetime service agreement with registration
Reasons to Consider Another Model
- You prefer a slide switch
- No kit option
- 18V system isn’t as extensive as top brands
Ridgid wasn’t a pre-test favorite, but it proved the design team did some serious work under the hood, as it consistently finished at or near the top. While the physical design didn’t change much from the previous model, it didn’t need to. Ergonomically, it’s excellent, and the tool-free interface makes for easy accessory changes (though not as quick or easy as Starlock).
Note that this model has a variable speed paddle trigger rather than a slide switch. Its lock-on button bridges the gap between the two styles, and there are three speed modes to work with.
The tool’s vibration control didn’t challenge the leaders in the category. However, it’s not far off and it’s an impressive improvement from previous models that earned a thumbs up from our team.
Ridgid’s 18V system still isn’t as expansive as the top Pro brands. However, it is steadily growing, and the development team regularly updates core tools to keep improvements rolling. Plus, a lifetime service agreement covers your tools and batteries.
Price: $149 bare
Test | Time | Ranking |
---|---|---|
Yellow Pine | 3.30 seconds | 3 |
Red Oak | 4.49 seconds | 1 |
Nail-Embedded Pine | 2.99 seconds | 1 |
CPVC | 1.10 seconds | 3 |
Copper Pipe | 8.18 seconds | 1 |
EMT Conduit | 6.36 seconds | 1 |
Threaded Rod | 31 seconds | 1 |
Vibration | 4 out of 5 | 7 (tie) |
Best Oscillating Multi-Tool for Vibration Control
Makita 18V LXT Brushless XMT04
- Oscillating Angle: 3.6°
- Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM
- Interface: Starlock Max
- Bare Weight: 3.0 lbs
- Length w/Battery: 12.6 inches
Reasons to Buy
- Best vibration control
- Starlock accessory changes
- Professional quality build
- Rxtensive system of compatible 18V LXT tools
Reasons to Consider Another Model
- Slower performance than competing models
- You prefer a variable speed trigger
- Expensive
Sporting a somewhat odd look compared to other models, Makita’s XMT04 proved to be the leader in vibration control in our tests. Whatever dampening magic the design team has going on inside that bulbous head is incredibly effective.
This model includes a Starlock interface as part of the design. It’s different from others in that it has a tool-free pin that adds a step in accessory changes, so it’s not quite as fast as other Starlock models, even though it’s still highly convenient.
While its performance was in the bottom half among competitors, it is significantly better than Makita’s previous model. With such low vibration, many Pros will be happy to take a little more time on cuts to gain the higher comfort that comes with it.
Makita’s 18V LXT battery system is one of the largest available. From core contractor tools to trade-specific solutions, it includes an extensive array of tools.
Price: $249 bare, $429 kit with a 2.0Ah battery and accessory set
Test | Time | Ranking |
---|---|---|
Yellow Pine | 6.01 seconds | 6 |
Red Oak | 11.23 seconds | 8 |
Nail-Embedded Pine | 9.93 seconds | 8 |
CPVC | 1.97 seconds | 9 |
Copper Pipe | 16.23 seconds | 7 |
EMT Conduit | 12.10 seconds | 7 |
Threaded Rod | 69 seconds | 6 |
Vibration | 1 out of 5 | 1 |
More Oscillating Multi-Tools From Our Head-to-Head Testing
Bosch 18V Brushless GOP18V-34N
- Oscillating Angle: 3.4°
- Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM
- Interface: Starlock Plus
- Bare Weight: 2.7 lbs
- Length w/Battery: 13.1 inches
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent vibration control
- Starlock accessory changes
- Professional quality build
- Part of the AMPShare battery system
Reasons to Consider Another Model
- Slower performance than competing models
- You prefer a variable speed trigger
- Users with small hands may not like the large diameter handle
Bosch partnered with Fein to develop the Starlock interface system, so they certainly deserve a tip of the hat for that. While their latest oscillating multi-tool lags behind a bit in performance, its vibration control is excellent. In general, Bosch’s cordless tools are well-built for professional use, and the GOP18V-34N is no exception.
Ergonomically, this model has a wider handle that may challenge users with small hands to find a comfortable grip.
Bosch’s 18V battery platform isn’t as extensive as brands like Milwaukee and DeWalt, but it’s not as limited as smaller brands. The system covers almost anything a general contractor needs plus some trade-specific tools, and Its ProFactor line continues to push the limits of what an 18V battery can do.
Price: $159 bare, $249 kit with a 4.0Ah Core18V battery and accessory set
Test | Result | Ranking |
---|---|---|
Yellow Pine | 7.72 seconds | 8 |
Red Oak | 12.75 seconds | 9 |
Nail-Embedded Pine | 5.28 seconds | 4 |
CPVC | 1.56 seconds | 7 |
Copper Pipe | 22.72 seconds | 8 |
EMT Conduit | 9.52 seconds | 6 |
Threaded Rod | 65 seconds | 5 |
Vibration | 2 out of 5 | 2 |
DeWalt 20V Max XR Brushless DCS356
- Oscillating Angle: 3.2°
- Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM
- Interface: OIS
- Bare Weight: 2.6 lbs
- Length w/Battery: 12.8 inches
Reasons to Buy
- Very good vibration control
- Professional quality build
- Quick accessory changes
- Slim handle is comfortable
- Good value
- Extensive range of compatible tools
Reasons to Consider Another Model
- Slower performance than competing models
- Interface requires accessories with a rear cutout or universal adapter (included)
- You prefer a slide switch
DeWalt’s DCS356 is a bit of a mixed bag. While its performance was near the bottom overall in our tests, it’s a significant improvement from previous models. It keeps the form factor DeWalt has used for several generations, including a comfortable, slim, contoured handle that most other brands haven’t embraced yet.
Its clamping interface style was one of the first quick-change designs and works well. However, you either need accessories with a rear cut-out or you have to use the universal adapter that comes with the tool.
DeWalt’s price is a bit less than most other professional-grade cordless oscillating multi-tools, making it a good value. Keep your eyes open, too. We’ve seen some stellar deals throughout the year on this model.
From a system standpoint, DeWalt’s 20V Max battery platform is one of the largest and most popular available.
Price: $169 bare, $219 kit with a 2.0Ah battery and accessory set
Test | Result | Ranking |
---|---|---|
Yellow Pine | 8.13 seconds | 9 |
Red Oak | 4.50 seconds | 2 |
Nail-Embedded Pine | 4.44 seconds | 3 |
CPVC | 1.55 seconds | 6 |
Copper Pipe | 46.05 seconds | 9 |
EMT Conduit | 17.32 seconds | 8 |
Threaded Rod | DNF | 8 |
Vibration | 3 out of 5 | 3 (tie) |
Fein 18V Multimaster 700 AMM700
- Oscillating Angle: 4°
- Speed: 10,000 – 19,500 OPM
- Interface: Starlock Max
- Bare Weight: 2.4 lbs
- Length w/Battery: 12.5 inches
Reasons to Buy
- Very good vibration control
- Starlock accessory changes
- Professional quality build
- Part of the AMPShare battery system
Reasons to Consider Another Model
- 18V system isn’t as extensive as top brands
- You prefer a variable speed trigger
- Users with small hands may not like the large diameter handle
- Expensive
In addition to developing Starlock alongside Bosch, Fein previously developed one of the best vibration control systems, and it dominated for years. It has more competition in that category than previously but it is still in the top tier among all models.
Based on our tests, this model’s performance is mid-range. Of course, mid-range among the best oscillating multi-tools is still excellent compared to the overall landscape.
For ergonomics, this is another model that has a large handle diameter. If your hands are on the small side, you might want to look for something a little slimmer.
As far as the 18V battery system is concerned, Fein more limited than most premium brands. However, it’s part of the AMPShare system, a group of more than 30 brands with cordless tools that work on the same batteries, including Bosch’s 18V batteries.
Price: $299.99 bare, $399.99 kit with two 4.0Ah batteries and accessory set
Test | Time | Ranking |
---|---|---|
Yellow Pine | 6.77 seconds | 7 |
Red Oak | 6.88 seconds | 5 |
Nail-Embedded Pine | 5.28 seconds | 5 |
CPVC | 1.06 seconds | 2 |
Copper Pipe | 15.76 seconds | 6 |
EMT Conduit | 9.03 seconds | 5 |
Threaded Rod | 72 seconds | 7 |
Vibration | 3 out of 5 | 3 (tie) |
Hilti Nuron 22V Brushless SMT 6-22
- Oscillating Angle: 4°
- Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM
- Interface: Starlock Max
- Bare Weight: 2.5 lbs
- Length w/Battery: 13.8 inches
Reasons to Buy
- Very good vibration control
- Starlock accessory changes
- Professional quality build
- 20-year warranty
Reasons to Consider Another Model
- 22V Nuron system isn’t as extensive as top brands
- You prefer a variable speed trigger
- Expensive
Since the launch of the Nuron battery system, Hilti has been steadily expanding into more general construction and remodeling tools. Its first-generation oscillating multi-tool is a success with solid mid-range performance and vibration control to go with a Starlock Max accessory interface.
The downside is that it’s more expensive than other brands you might be considering. Hilti tends to cater to larger construction firms, though, and its fleet pricing structure may be better for your business.
As I said, the 22V Nuron system is steadily expanding, though it’s more limited than the big brands. The 20-year warranty and excellent service after the sale can help eliminate a lot of headaches for your crib manager, though.
Price: $239 bare
Test | Time | Ranking |
---|---|---|
Yellow Pine | 5.52 seconds | 5 |
Red Oak | 6.77 seconds | 4 |
Nail-Embedded Pine | 14.88 seconds | 9 |
CPVC | 1.17 seconds | 5 |
Copper Pipe | 14.16 seconds | 5 |
EMT Conduit | 8.21 seconds | 4 |
Threaded Rod | DNF | 8 |
Vibration | 3 out of 5 | 3 (tie) |
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2836
- Oscillating Angle: 4.2°
- Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM
- Interface: OIS
- Bare Weight: 2.6 lbs
- Length w/Battery: 14.5 inches
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent performance
- Very good vibration control
- Professional quality build
- Extensive range of compatible tools
Reasons to Consider Another Model
- You prefer a variable speed trigger
- Expensive
Milwaukee made huge improvements from its previous oscillating multi-tool efforts when it launched its brushless models. The M18 Fuel model has excellent performance and finished third overall in our latest round of testing. Its vibration control is also noteworthy, though its M12 Fuel counterpart is even better in that category.
From a design standpoint, there isn’t much to dock it for unless you’re dead-set on a Starlock accessory interface. The one thing is that Milwaukee uses a threaded pin to secure accessories. Even though it’s tool-free, it’s not as convenient as other interfaces.
As we expect from a premium professional brand, this model is more expensive than most. However, Milwaukee’s M18 battery system is massive and enjoys constant expansions and upgrades with many tools that push boundaries or open up new battery-powered possibilities.
Price: $229 bare, $329 kit with a 5.0Ah battery and accessory set
Test | Time | Ranking |
---|---|---|
Yellow Pine | 2.96 seconds | 2 |
Red Oak | 8.26 seconds | 7 |
Nail-Embedded Pine | 5.55 seconds | 7 |
CPVC | 1.11 seconds | 4 |
Copper Pipe | 9.85 seconds | 2 |
EMT Conduit | 7.48 seconds | 3 |
Threaded Rod | 36 seconds | 2 |
Vibration | 3 out of 5 | 3 (tie) |
Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLMT51
- Oscillating Angle: 3.8°
- Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM
- Interface: OIS
- Bare Weight: 2.0 lbs
- Length w/Battery: 14.0 inches
Reasons to Buy
- Slim handle is comfotable
- More affordable than premium brands
- Extensive range of compatible tools
Reasons to Consider Another Model
- More vibration than other models we tested
- You prefer a slide switch
Ryobi’s oscillating multi-tool upgrade to the HP Brushless part of the 18V One+ line came with a jump in performance. In our tests, it finished mid-pack overall, a result we wouldn’t have expected from previous models.
The slim handle makes for a comfortable grip, but vibration control is an area this model struggles with. It’s fine under light loads but kicks up when it’s working hard. Don’t let that scare you away, though. We’ve used a ton of multi-tools, including many that rate far worse.
Unsurprisingly, this is the most affordable of the models we tested. Plus, the 18V One+ battery system now has more than 300 power tools and lifestyle products that all work on the same batteries.
Price: $129 bare, $189 kit with a 2.0Ah battery and accessory set
Test | Time | Ranking |
---|---|---|
Yellow Pine | 4.27 seconds | 4 |
Red Oak | 7.49 seconds | 6 |
Nail-Embedded Pine | 5.46 seconds | 6 |
CPVC | 1.59 seconds | 8 |
Copper Pipe | 14.05 seconds | 4 |
EMT Conduit | DNF | 9 |
Threaded Rod | 42 seconds | 3 |
Vibration | 5 out of 5 | 9th |
Best Budget Oscillating Multi-Tool
Skil PWRCore 12 Brushless OS592702
- Oscillating Angle: 3.6°
- Speed: 11,000 – 18,000 OPM
- Interface: OIS
- Bare Weight: 2.3 lbs
- Length w/Battery: 14.0 inches
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent performance for the 12V class
- Affordable
- Excellent value
- Slim handle is comfortable
- Lighter than most 18V/20V max models
Reasons to Consider Another Model
- PWRCore 12 line is limited
- Not as powerful as 18V/20V max models
Skil’s PWRCore 12 oscillating multi-tool is a solid value if you’re looking for a brushless package on a budget. For just under $100, you get a brushless tool with a 2.0Ah battery, an upgraded PWRJump charger, and a nice blade/sanding set to get you started. Even though it doesn’t have the strength of the PWRCore 20 brushless model, the price is right, and it’s a lighter package than most of the 18V/20V max models.
You can spend more and get a more powerful model with less vibration. However, the Skil OS592702 strikes a nice balance of performance, weight, and price. This is an easy choice for those looking to pick up a tool for repairs and weekend projects.
Price: $99 kit with a 2.0Ah battery and accessory set
Best Corded Oscillating Multi-Tool
Fein Multimaster MM 700 Series
- Style: Starlock
- Max OPM: 19,500
- Oscillation Angle: 3.4°–4.0°
- Variable speed: Dial
- Warranty: 3-year limited
While I greatly prefer cordless oscillating multi-tools, I certainly acknowledge that corded models still play a huge role in this tool class. If corded is what you’re after, there isn’t a more capable and versatile oscillating multi-tool than the Fein MultiMaster MM 700 series.
Fein set the benchmark for vibration control with the MultiMaster line, and it’s taken many years for anyone to come even close. While there’s certainly competition, MultiMaster OMTs remain outstanding in this category. The line has three key products—the MM 300, 500, and 700 models. The MM 700 line represents the best possible performance for the MultiMaster line.
Fein also offers particular accessories and oscillating angles specifically for construction, caulking/concrete, and automotive applications. That means that, regardless of your desired use, Fein is better equipped than most to offer a solution that better optimizes your tool for the application. While most manufacturers offer a single oscilating multi-tool, Fein offers an entire suite of products for you to choose from.
Best Oscillating Multi-Tool Blade Change System
Starlock (Multiple Brands and Models)
There are no surprises in our blade change evaluation, as Starlock still dominates in speed and ease. Simply pressing the interface into the blade snaps it in place, and you’re ready to go. When it’s time to change it out, the release ejects it from the tool without any additional help.
Bosch and Fein collaborated to create the Starlock interface and use it extensively. We also see it on the Festool Vecturo, Flex 24V oscillating multi-tool, and Makita 18V Sub-Compact multi-tools.
Even though Starlock has a significant advantage, Craftsman and DeWalt have a clamping-style interface that’s also very easy to use with slotted OIS accessories.
Best Oscillating Multi-Tool Blades
Imperial Blades OMT Blades and Accessories
We use several brands of blades and accessories, but if we had to pick just one, it would be Imperial Blades. They carry an extremely wide range of options and cover both OIS and Starlock interfaces. Whether you’re after long-lasting carbide, fast-fast-cutting Japaneses tooth, basic bi-metal, or a host of niche problem-solvers, chances are, if you need it, they make it. In our experience, the products are high-quality, high-performance enhancements for your osciallting multi-tool.
Curious about other options? Here are a few other brands we use and recommend:
More Recommendations from Brands We Trust
Festool 18V Vecturo Oscillating Multi-Tool OSC 18
When Festool made a cordless version of the Vecturo multi-tool, the product team made a great move by shifting from a proprietary accessory interface to StarlockMax. The rest is classic Festool. As we expect from Festool, this is a highly refined system that goes beyond the tool. It starts with an ergonomically sound physical design with the performance and life of a brushless motor.
From there, you have accessories for dust collection, precise positioning, a depth stop, and the OSC-A adapter that they connect to.
Price: $399.00 bare, $635.00 with accessories, $799.00 with accessories and batteries (2 x 4.0Ah)
Kobalt 24V Oscillating Multi-Tool KMT 224B-03
Lowe’s has an update to Kobalt’s cordless model with some changes worth considering. It’s still brushless, but the top speed downshifts from 20,000 OPM on the previous model to 18,000 OPM on this one. Speed control shifts from a speed dial to an electronic 3-speed switch and variable speed trigger plus a loc-on button. The oscillating angle remains at 3.6°.
So if the top speed is down, why buy this instead of the previous model? Vibration control. It’s significantly better in this model and well worth a little lower top speed to get.
Price: $99.00 bare, $149.00 kit with a 1.5Ah battery and charger
Metabo HPT 18V Oscillating Multi-Tool CV18DBLQ5
Metabo HPT has a few noteworthy items on their CV18DBLQ5 brushless oscillating multi-tool. Using the variable speed dial, you can set the speed from 6000 to 20000 OPM, giving you a lower slow speed than most when you need the best control. There’s also an auto mode that adjusts the speed based on the load the tool senses. The downside is that its 3.2° oscillating angle makes the cutting a little slower than some of its competition.
Keep in mind Metabo HPT backs this and other lithium-ion tools with a lifetime warranty.
Price: $99.00
Greenworks 24V Oscillating Multi-Tool MTG305
If you’re looking for a high-value cordless option, Greenworks has an option to consider. With adjustable speeds up to 18,000 OPM, a 3.2° oscillating angle, and a comfortable, slim handle, it’s perfect for those DIY projects and home repairs. Best of all, you can get the tool with a battery for just under $120.
Price: $79.99 bare, $119.99 kit with a 2.0Ah battery
Craftsman V20 Oscillating Multi-Tool RP CMCE565
Craftsman’s latest cordless multi-tool is very different from its predecessor. While it maintains the same basic form factor, slim handle, and clamping accessory system, there are some big upgrades.
The first is that as part of the Brushless RP system, it now sports a brushless motor and is capable of 19,000 OPM. That’s lower than the 22,000 OPM top speed of the CMCE501, but the brushless motor offers more power to keep the tool from bogging down. Another big change is that it changes from a slide switch and speed dial to a variable speed trigger.
Overall, this is a significant step forward for Craftsman’s oscillating multi-tool game.
Price: $99.00 bare
Testing Methods and Results
To take as much human error as possible out of the equation and ensure our results are repeatable, we built a rig to test oscillating multi-tools.
One end holds the material we’re cutting in place. The tool secures to a sled that’s pulled forward by a weight, applying even pressure for each test. The amount of weight we use varies based on what we’re cutting, but every tool uses the same amount of weight as the others for each test.
The rig is adjustable, and we use a level to ensure that the blade is cutting completely horizontally, no matter what tool we’re using.
Vibration Score (1 – 5)
We don’t have a vibration meter, so our vibration assessment is subjective. We use each tool side-by-side with the others and rate it on a scale of 1 – 5, with 1 having the least amount of vibration.
Even though we could distinguish between five rating levels, the top four levels are legitimately low-vibration. Looking back 5 years, Fein would have been the only one that stood out. It’s a big development for this tool class.
Model | Score |
---|---|
Makita XMT04 | 1 |
Bosch GOP18V-34N | 2 |
DeWalt DCS356 | 3 |
Fein AMM700MAX | 3 |
Hilti SMT 6-22 | 3 |
Milwaukee 2836 | 3 |
Flex FX4111 | 4 |
Ridgid R86242 | 4 |
Ryobi PBLMT51 | 5 |
Yellow Pine
To get things warmed up, we made a single cut through 1x yellow pine on our test rig. Yellow pine is soft, it’s a common material you need to cut through, and every oscillating multi-tool should be able to make this cut easily.
Model | Time |
---|---|
Flex FX4111 | 2.95 seconds |
Milwaukee 2836 | 2.96 seconds |
Ridgid R86242 | 3.30 seconds |
Ryobi PBLMT51 | 4.27 seconds |
Hilti SMT 6-22 | 5.52 seconds |
Makita XMT04 | 6.01 seconds |
Fein AMM700MAX | 6.77 seconds |
Bosch GOP18V-34N | 7.72 seconds |
DeWalt DCS356 | 8.13 seconds |
Red Oak
Moving on to the kind of hardwood you might find on high-end trim, we made three cuts through 3/4-inch red oak and averaged the results.
Model | Average Time |
---|---|
Ridgid R86242 | 4.49 seconds |
DeWalt DCS356 | 4.50 seconds |
Flex FX4111 | 4.74 seconds |
Hilti SMT 6-22 | 6.77 seconds |
Fein AMM700MAX | 6.88 seconds |
Ryobi PBLMT51 | 7.49 seconds |
Milwaukee 2836 | 8.26 seconds |
Makita XMT04 | 11.23 seconds |
Bosch GOP18V-34N | 12.78 seconds |
Nail-Embedded White Pine (4 x 18-gauge Nails)
To test how these tools fare when nails are involved, we made three cuts through 3/4-inch white pine with four 18-gauge nails in it. The result is the average of those three runs.
Model | Average Time |
---|---|
Ridgid R86242 | 2.99 seconds |
Flex FX4111 | 3.12 seconds |
DeWalt DCS356 | 4.44 seconds |
Bosch GOP18V-34N | 5.28 seconds |
Fein AMM700MAX | 5.28 seconds |
Ryobi PBLMT51 | 5.46 seconds |
Milwaukee 2836 | 5.55 seconds |
Makita XMT04 | 9.93 seconds |
Hilti SMT 6-22 | 14.86 seconds |
1/2-Inch CPVC Pipe
Representing one of the easiest materials oscillating multi-tools are called on to cut, we made three cuts in 1/2-inch CPVC and averaged the results.
Model | Average Time |
---|---|
Flex FX4111 | 1.04 seconds |
Fein AMM700MAX | 1.06 seconds |
Ridgid R86242 | 1.10 seconds |
Milwaukee 2836 | 1.11 seconds |
Hilti SMT 6-22 | 1.17 seconds |
DeWalt DCS356 | 1.55 seconds |
Bosch GOP18V-34N | 1.56 seconds |
Ryobi PBLMT51 | 1.59 seconds |
Makita XMT04 | 1.97 seconds |
1/2-Inch Type L Copper Pipe
Sometimes you need to cut copper pipe in awkward spaces, so we made three cuts in 1/2-inch Type L copper pipe. The results are the average of those three tests.
Model | Average Time |
---|---|
Ridgid R86242 | 8.18 seconds |
Milwaukee 2836 | 9.85 seconds |
Flex FX4111 | 12.07 seconds |
Ryobi PBLMT51 | 14.05 seconds |
Hilti SMT 6-22 | 14.16 seconds |
Fein AMM700MAX | 15.76 seconds |
Makita XMT04 | 16.23 seconds |
Bosch GOP18V-34N | 22.72 seconds |
DeWalt DCS356 | 46.05 seconds |
1/2-Inch EMT Conduit
Electricians, we’re thinking about you, too. We averaged three runs cutting through 1/2-inch EMT conduit.
Note: Despite multiple efforts and methods to tightly secure Ryobi’s multi-tool in our rig, its vibration kept fouling up its attempts to cut in this test. It’s capable of making the cut, but we weren’t able to get an objective time using the same method as the other models.
Model | Average Time |
---|---|
Ridgid R86242 | 6.36 seconds |
Flex FX4111 | 6.68 seconds |
Milwaukee 2836 | 7.48 seconds |
Hilti SMT 6-22 | 8.21 seconds |
Fein AMM700MAX | 9.03 seconds |
Bosch GOP18V-34N | 9.52 seconds |
Makita XMT04 | 12.10 seconds |
DeWalt DCS356 | 17.32 seconds |
Ryobi PBLMT51 | DNF |
1/2-Inch All Thread Rod
There’s not usually a reason you’d need to cut threaded rod with an oscillating multi-tool. However, we wanted to see which models could prove their mettle by cutting through this tough metal. We didn’t take the results into consideration of overall performance, but they were eye-opening nonetheless.
Model | Time |
---|---|
Ridgid R86242 | 31 seconds |
Milwaukee 2836 | 36 seconds |
Ryobi PBLMT51 | 42 seconds |
Flex FX4111 | 60 seconds |
Bosch GOP18V-34N | 65 seconds |
Makita XMT04 | 69 seconds |
Fein AMM700MAX | 72 seconds |
DeWalt DCS356 | DNF |
Hilti SMT 6-22 | DNF |
What to Look When You’re Shopping for an Oscillating Multi-Tool
Everyone has different priorities when searching for the best oscillating multi-tool. Some Pros just want the fastest performance, while others might value vibration control the highest. Regardless, my team and I look for the following characteristics and rate tools accordingly.
Cutting and Sanding Speed: Higher oscillation rates and oscillation angles tend to cut and sand faster. Look for a model with speeds over 18,000 OPM and an arc higher than 3.2° for cutting and sanding that’s faster than average.
Pro Tip: Cordless OMTs with brushless motors tend to keep their oscillation rate up better under load and make more efficient use of your battery.
Vibration Control: The lower the vibration, the easier it is to control your cuts, and you’ll have less hand fatigue at the end of your project.
Blade Changes: While Starlock dominates the fast and easy blade change category, some tool-free systems take just one more step. The only deal-breaker interface for us is one that requires a tool to change blades.
Weight: Since OMTs frequently make awkward cuts in tight places, having less weight makes the tool easier to control. Some people may prefer a 12V tool that cuts slower but has significantly less weight.
Length: If you’re going to be cutting in tight spaces, you may want a more compact tool. Because you can install blades at various angles, this tends not to be as big of a deal as other characteristics.
Handle design: Check the size and shape of the handle. Many OMTs have a large diameter grip that people with smaller hands might not like, while others may be too small for folks with large hands.
Powering the tool: Most OMTs either have an on/off switch or a variable speed trigger. Both styles have a speed control dial or electronic speed modes if it’s a Pro model. One is not necessarily right for everyone—it’s primarily about what you prefer.
Common Questions
What is an Oscillating Multi-Tool Used For?
Oscillating multi-tools take care of some of the most awkward cuts that other power tools can’t make. With the blade extending below the housing, it can make true flush cuts for trimming baseboards on flooring installation, trimming exposed conduit in electrical boxes, and many others.
Because you can also install the blade at a wide variety of angles, an OMT can also make cuts in awkward spaces where other saws can’t reach or might damage surrounding material.
By switching out for a sanding pad, they make highly effective detail sanders, though they don’t remove material as efficiently as dedicated orbital or belt sanders.
As you look around at the available accessories, you’ll find many more applications as well. You can remove grout, sealant, and caulk, as well as scrape adhesive and cut through many materials such as wood, metal, PVC, PEX, drywall, cement board/Hardieboard, and more.
Can an Oscillating Multi-Tool Cut Through Drywall?
OMTs are exceptional at cutting through drywall. Their plunge cutting ability makes them adept at cutting out holes for outlets, switches, and more. Look for a blade with a wide arc to start the cut and follow your cutlines.
Can an Oscillating Multi-Tool Cut Through a 2×4?
OMTs aren’t the number one choice for cutting through 2×4 lumber, but it’s possible. Using a blade that’s at least 1 inch long, you can plunge through the wood. Grab a Japanese tooth blade for a fast cut.
Cross cutting a 2×4 is a different story. You could make a series of plunge cuts or possibly use a wide arc blade. Either way, it’s tough to keep a straight line and would take significantly longer than using a circular saw or reciprocating saw.
Can an Oscillating Multi-Tool Cut in a Straight Line?
You can cut straight lines with an OMT. The trick is to keep your hands steady and ensure that you’re moving the blade in a straight while also keeping the blade perfectly perpendicular to the material as you cut. Having a model with low vibration helps keep your hands from becoming overly fatigued during longer cuts.
Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews
Pro Tool Reviews has been reviewing tools and reporting on industry news in the construction, automotive, and landscaping industries since 2008. Our Pro reviewers work and have extensive experience in the trades and have the skills and knowledge to know whether tools can perform well in the field.
I won’t recommend anything unless I’d use it myself and don’t really care who the primary retailer is. It’s all about giving you a legitimate recommendation and my honest opinion of each product.
Each year, we bring in and review hundreds of tools and accessories. Our team will put our hands on hundreds of additional tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year.
We consult with innovators in the technology and design of tools to gain a broader grasp of where these products fit and how they work. The result is information you can trust because of the editorial, scientific, and real-world professional experience we collectively utilize each and every time we pick up and test a tool.