Craftsman Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool Makes the Cut
The Craftsman V20 cordless oscillating multi-tool sits at a tempting price point with a minimalist design that’s appealing to a lot of users. We tested it side by side with the best multi-tools in the industry to see if it’s a good fit for your next project.
Pros
- Compact design
- Small diameter handle is easier for folks with smaller hands to use
- Lightweight
- Fast and easy clamp-style blade change system
- Good value at $79 bare and $119 for the kit
Cons
- Cuts and sands on the slower side
- Vibration control can use an upgrade
Craftsman V20 Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool Performance
The Craftsman V20 Oscillating Multi-Tool operates on the brand’s 20V Max battery platform. It features a lock-on switch and a variable speed control wheel to dial in your speed anywhere between 8,000 and 18,000 oscillations per minute.
We’ve seen more aggressive oscillation angles from other cordless oscillating multi-tools. Most professional models go with a 3.6º oscillation angle and the fastest cutting ones are closer to 4.0°. Craftsman sticks with a 2.8º angle. Between that and the slightly slower oscillating rate, Craftsman fell a little behind everyone else in our speed testing.
On the other hand, the lighter performance does keep the vibration down a little more than more aggressive designs. It lacks a refined vibration control system as we see on Milwaukee and Fein, and you can certainly feel it while you’re cutting.
Craftsman V20 Oscillating Multi-Tool Blade Change System
The Craftsman V20 Oscillating Multi-Tool holds your blades and sanding accessories in place with a secure, spring-loaded clamp. You can easily swap out accessories by squeezing on the lever and fitting your blade into the jaws. It’s really very simple and very quick to use.
The system requires that you use accessories with a rear cut-out and nearly every universal accessory fits that requirement. If you happen to run into a fully enclosed interface, Craftsman includes an adapter that comes with the tool.
As simple as it is to swap blades, it’s possible to clamp it without the pins fully seating in place. Just be sure to give it a quick visual check before you turn it on.
Compact, Lightweight Design
One of the biggest draws to the Craftsman V20 cordless oscillating multi-tool is its size. It’s one of the most compact cordless models we’ve tested and has a smaller diameter than most. Combined with generous overmolding, it’s comfortable and one of the best options if you have smaller hands.
It’s also light. Bare, the tool weighs just 1.9 pounds and a 2.0Ah battery only brings it up to 2.7 pounds.
Craftsman Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool Price and Warranty
You can pick up the Craftsman V20 Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit for $119 or as a bare tool for $79. The kit comes with a 2.0Ah battery and 20V charger, as well as a wood and bi-metal blade, sanding pad and assortment of sandpapers, and a scraper.
Craftsman warranties the tool for three years against defects in materials or workmanship.
The Bottom Line
The beauty of the Craftsman V20 cordless oscillating multi-tool is in its simplicity and ease of use. It’s compact, lightweight, fits smaller hands well, and capable of performing all of the cuts and sanding we asked it to. However, its lower performance level makes it best suited for occasional use.
Craftsman V20 Oscillating Multi-Tool Specs
- Model: Craftsman CMCE500D1
- Voltage: 20V Max
- Oscillations per Minute: 8,000-18,000 OPM
- Oscillating Angle: 2.8º
- Variable Speed: Yes
- Tool-Free Accessory Change: Yes
- LED Light: Yes
- Weight: 2.7 lbs with battery
- Warranty: 3 years
- Kit Price: $119
