Best Oscillating Tool – Reviewing 15 Popular Models
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Updated: 17-December-2022
Oscillating multi tools are extremely handy pieces of equipment with the ability to replace much heavier power tools such as circular saws and reciprocating saws for a wide variety of jobs. From making square holes in drywalls for installation of electrical sockets to grout removal from tiles in a home renovation project, oscillating tools can be a life saver in a multitude of applications.
Our today’s post is about finding the best oscillating tool for your particular application. We have researched the market and compared popular models to find pros and cons of each tool and find their suitability for different applications. So without further due, let’s begin.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Cordless – DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Oscillating Tool Kit Model DCS356
Best for Cutting Metal – Fein MultiMaster Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Model FMM350QSL
Best for Cutting Drywall – Rockwell Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Model RK5151K
Best for Cutting Nails – Avid Power Oscillating Tool Model ADMT146
Best for DIY – Ryobi Cordless Multi Tool Model P340 One+
Best for Home Use – Genesis Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool Model GMT15A
Best under $100 – Rockwell Sonicrafter F30 Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Model RK5132K
Best Oscillating Tool
(For Each Application)
We have compared popular models of oscillating tools on their performance, specifications, ergonomics, flexibility in usage in different applications and manufacturer support in the form of warranty. We also compared the user feedback, both positive and negative, to find the strong and weak areas of each tool under different scenarios. So let’s begin.
Best Cordless Oscillating Tool
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Oscillating Tool Kit Model DCS356
Our Rating: 9.7 / 10
This Dewalt oscillating tool DCS356 features a brushless motor that powers the tool up to 20,000 OPM (oscillations per minute) controlled by s 3 speed settings selector that lock the top speed at 13000, 17000 and 20000 OPM while a large dual grip variable speed trigger further gives a very precise control in each of these 3 speed ranges.
Dewalt provides a universal accessory adaptor with the tool that makes the tool compatible with blades and accessories of many other popular brands as well. It removes the restriction of sticking just to Dewalt for blades and accessories.
We found the tool to have the highest positive feedback in competition when used for sanding; second highest for cutting drywall and comparatively good feedback for grout removal, cutting through nails and nail embedded wood as well as various around the house jobs. The tool has returned some complaints of noise.
It serves a wide variety of applications from cutting 3/4″ trim, cutting squares in sheet rock for installing new electrical outlets, cutting holes in subfloor, removing drywall, cutting notches in 2×4’s, cutting PVC and copper pipes for sprinkler and water lines, making precise adjustments to crown molding and baseboards, cutting wall board or maybe sanding a cedar Adirondack chair. Whether it is a general home repair, flooring or remodeling project or something like installing new drawers under a staircase, this tool will add tremendous value to your toolbox.
The overall performance, ergonomics and excellent manufacturer’s support in the form of a 03-Year Warranty, 01-year free service and 90 days money back guarantee makes this Dewalt DC356 the best cordless oscillating tool on our list as well as our recommended pick for sanding applications.
Pros
Cons
Best Oscillating Tool for Cutting Metal
Fein MultiMaster Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Model FMM350QSL
Our Rating: 9.5 / 10
Fein does not need any introduction in oscillating tool industry because it is the inventor and pioneer of the oscillating multitool. This Fein multitool, the FMM350QSL is powered by a 3.6 amp motor controlled by a variable speed dial running the tool between 10,000 to 19,500 OPM.
The feature that stands out on this model is the Starlock Plus System of accessory and blade fitment. While many models can have a tool-free accessory and blade change, Fein allows you to change blades without ever touching them. With its innovative Starlock fitment design, accessories and blades snap on to the tool with a gentle press and fall off with the release of a lever.
While the Fein multimaster is great at all jobs, we found it to have the best feedback in metal applications. From cutting a steel exhaust pipe, notching aluminum angles and removing rust from wrought iron railings to plunge cutting through sheet metal, Fein 350QSL will get the job done with ease.
Whether it is cutting new holes through sheetrock, studs and joists to install electrical boxes and ceiling fans or cutting anything from 1/2″ plywood, copper pipe, flooring, subflooring, this tool has got you covered. From the general tasks like trim work, cutting FRP panels or removing glue residue from laminate backsplash to sanding a door that’s not closing properly and cutting off a rusty faucet without damaging the sink, this tool will be your faithful companion.
With this kit, Fein has packaged 5 saw blades for wood and metal, 1 scraper blade, 1 carbide rasp, 1 backing pad and 12 sanding sheets of different grit ratings in a hard storage case with very well organized pockets that will keep your tool and accessories safe and convenient to carry around. On top of all these perks is a 3-year warranty to keep your investment into a premium tool risk free.
Pros
Cons
Tidbit
We used the term FRP Panel above. FRP stands for Fiber Reinforced Polymer (or Plastic). It is generally used for interior paneling in buildings. It provides scratch free surface and also resists water and moisture better than wood.
A Great All Rounder
Dewalt Oscillating Tool Kit Model DWE315K
Our Rating: 9.3 / 10
This Dewalt oscillating tool is powered by a 3 amp motor driving the tool at an impressive 22,000 OPM – the highest speed in competition. It doesn’t have a variable speed dial but features a large dual grip variable speed trigger that gives good control over the speed proportionate to the pressure applied on the trigger. It has an oscillation angle of 1.6 deg. that allows cutting with precision and accuracy with some compromise on aggressiveness.
Whether you are removing grout in tile replacement as a general contractor, cutting out electrical outlets in drywall or pine wall as a master electrician, cutting PVC pipes as a master plumber, removing kitchen counter tops and backsplash in kitchen remodeling project or replacing sheet rock in a weekend project, this tool will get the job done.
The DWE315K kit comes packed with 3 saw blades, 1 sanding pad with 25 sanding sheets all stored in a bag with an additional small storage box for accessories. It also includes a depth guide attachment which is a lifesaver in many applications. It allows you to perform cutting at a distance fixed by the depth guide attachment to improve accuracy and reduce chances of error.
Pros
Cons
Best Oscillating Tool for Drywall
Rockwell Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Model RK5151K
Our Rating: 9.2 / 10
Rockwell features again on our list with its F80 oscillating multi tool kit RK5151K. Powered by an impressive 4.2 amp motor, the tool runs between 10,000 and 19,000 OPM controlled by a variable speed dial. The universal fitment design is similar to the F30 that accepts tools and accessories of many other brands as well.
The feature that sets this tool apart is its dual oscillation angle. You can set the oscillation angle at 3.5 deg. when your application requires more precision and you can change it to 5 deg. when aggressive raw cutting is required. This is the only tool in competition to feature such a flexibility.
The power this tool possesses makes it the best option for tough cutting applications such as cutting through drywall and metal sheets. We found the tool to have the best user feedback in competition for plunge cutting through drywall for applications such as making holes for installation of electrical outlets.
Whether you are cutting off the stuck screws in your deck replacement project or cutting door moldings to fit the flooring, this tool will get the job done. From cutting pine door jambs to installation of laminate flooring, Rockwell Sonicrafter F80 will perform great for cutting a wide variety of stuff ranging from carpets to wood, drywall and galvanized steel.
Rockwell packs the R5151K with 6 different types of saw blades, 1 sanding pad with 3 sanding sheets in a hard storage case to keep your tool and accessories well organized and easy to carry.
Pros
Cons
Most Compact Oscillating Tool
Milwaukee Cordless Oscillating Tool Model M12 2426-20
Our Rating: 8.9 / 10
The Milwaukee 12V oscillating tool 2426-20 runs between 5,000 and 20,000 OPM controlled by a 12 speed variable speed dial. The specialty of the tool is its compact design. At a tool length of merely 10-1/4” and a weight of only 1.63 lbs., it is the most compact and light weight tool in competition.
It features a universal fitment design that accepts accessories and blades from many other brands. Moreover, the fitment mechanism is tool free for convenient blade changes. This particular package is a tool only configuration and you would have to buy blades and accessories separately.
Whether you are a remodeling contractor removing a rotted facia board, a weekend handyman cutting door jambs for LVT floating floor installation or a plumber cutting drywall to reach a leaking pipe, this tool will fit your needs.
Pros
Cons
Tidbit
We used the term LVT Flooring above. LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tiles. LVT flooring is considered to be the highest quality flooring material for homes. It is preferred over laminate flooring especially if you are mopping your floor frequently or spilling liquids.
Best Oscillating Tool for Cutting Nails
Avid Power Oscillating Tool Model ADMT146
Our Rating: 8.8 / 10
A 3.5 amp motor powers this Avid oscillating tool from 15,000 OPM to an impressive 22,0000 OPM controlled with 6 speed settings through a variable speed dial. The top speed of this tool sits at the top of the competition on our list. With this speed, it features an oscillation angle of 4.5 deg. giving it an aggressive cutting action that cuts through nails and nail embedded wood like a knife through butter.
From trimming door jambs, cutting floor boards, removing sheet rock, cutting flooring transitions to your kitchen remodeling project, this oscillating tool has got you covered.
However, we found the greatest positive feedback of this oscillating tool in cutting through nails and nails embedded wood. It will cut off nails from wooden decorative pieces as well as those sticking out on your door’s brick bolding. From the 18-gauge trim nails to thicker nails, it will cut like a champion.
Apart from being praised for cutting through nails, it has received positive feedback for sanding as well as cutting through metals in general. There is one drawback to the aggressive oscillation angle and high speed – noise that was frequently reported for the tool.
This kit packs the tool, 4 different types of sawing blades and 1 sanding pad with 5 sanding papers in a storage bag for convenience.
Pros
Cons
Best Oscillating Tool for DIY
Ryobi Cordless Multi Tool Model P340 One+
Our Rating: 8.6 / 10
The Ryobi P340 One+ runs at a fixed maximum speed of 20,000 OPM controlled by a variable speed trigger that changes the speed proportional to the pressure applied on the trigger. Ryobi has a universal accessory adapter that allows the tool to accept accessories and blades of many other brands as well.
The tool has some unique safety features not present in competition. These include a thermal protection device that cuts the power to the motor if the tool is overheating due to misuse or overload. It shuts the tool to protect the motor from a burnout. Secondly, the trigger does not work unless blade or accessory is attached.
We found the tool to have the highest positive feedback in competition for DIY applications such as installation of laminate flooring in your house, cutting outlets into a drywall or sheetrock, cutting nails and nail embedded wood, cutting PVC and light sanding jobs as well.
Whether it is a tile patch job in your living room, making a hole in a drywall in your bedroom for an electrical outlet, cutting out door frames while laying down bathroom vinyl flooring, installing a recessed medicine cabinet in your daughter’s bathroom, fixing your deck, building a summer house, cutting through floor timbers in house renovation project, restoring your old grandma house or building cupboards around the house, this oscillating tool will be your handy companion in all of your DIY jobs.
This particular kit packs 1 semi-circular blade, 1 wood blade, 1 sanding pad and 5 sanding sheets. A storage case or bag is missing in the kit.
Pros
Cons
Best Oscillating Tool for Home Use
(Great for Grout Removal)
Genesis Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool Model GMT15A
Our Rating: 8.4 / 10
This Genesis oscillating multipurpose tool is a corded model powered by a 1.5 amp motor that drives the tool at a single top speed of 21,000 OPM. It has a universal fitment design that allows you to use blades and accessories of many other brands as well.
We found the Genesis GMT15A to have the highest positive feedback in competition for home-based applications especially grout removal. It has performed excellently in removing grout from tiles, vibrating the tiles free and scraping off remaining adhesive left on the floor or wall making it the best choice for tile replacement or renovation projects. Apart from grout removal, it takes care of majority of around the house jobs such as notching, cutting and trimming moldings and wood panels, plunge cutting drywall and sanding and de-burring tight areas.
This particular package comes packed with 3 blades, 1 sanding pad with 12 sanding sheets of different grit ratings and a universal accessory adapter.
Storage case or bag is missing and it is a bit loud, however, at a cost of less than $40 at the time of this review, it is the best oscillating tool for the money with so much to praise and not much to complaint about at such an economic price point.
Pros
Cons
Best Oscillating Tool under $100
Rockwell Sonicrafter F30 Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Model RK5132K
Our Rating: 9.5 / 10
This Rockwell Sonicrafter oscillating tool is powered by a 3.5 amp motor powering the tool up to 20,000 OPM controlled by a variable speed dial and an on/off switch. The accessory fitment is universal allowing you the flexibility to use blades and accessories of many other brands as well.
We found the tool to have second best user feedback on our list for applications involving sanding, grout removal, metal cutting and various home uses with comparatively less complaints of noise and vibration in competition. The feedback for cutting through drywall and nails was not bad as well.
This tool is great for any novice woodworker or weekend woodworker. Whether you are cutting protruding brads and screws, cutting notches in 2×2’s and 2×6’s, cutting wood lattice, cutting rotten wood from door frame, installing vinyl laminate flooring in bathroom remodeling project or working with treated wood, composite decking and laminate flooring around the house, this tool will not disappoint you.
The RK5132K is a kit that includes 2 blades for wood, 1 semi-circular blade, 1 sanding pad with 26 sanding sheets all stored in a bag for convenience. The kit is complete for various applications and costs less than $100 at the time of this review. Its all rounded performance, plentiful accessories at economic price and a lengthy 3-year warranty makes it the best oscillating tool under $100 on our list.
Pros
Cons
Runner up under $100
GALAX Pro 2.4 Amp Oscillating Multi Tool Kit
Our Rating: 9.0 / 10
The Galax Pro oscillating multi tool kit is powered by a 2.4 amp motor driving the tool in 6 speed ranges stating from 11,000 OPM to an impressive 21,000 OPM. The built-in fitment design accepts blades and accessories from many other brands to increase flexibility of the tool.
This particular kit includes 17 different types of blades of different types including triangular carbide blade, semi-circular carbide blade and bi-metal saw blade. It also packs 1 sanding pad with 9 sanding papers. The tool along with accessories are stored in a bag for convenience in transport.
From cutting anchor bolt on toilet to fixing Parquet flooring in your house as well as removing or rebuilding decks, this tool has got you covered. It is great for edging wood and cutting through drywall and screws.
The tool has received good feedback for sanding applications and cutting through metal in general and nails in specific. Backed by a 2-year warranty and costing less than $70 at the time of this review, it is worthy of a recommendation.
Pros
Cons
Other Notable Mentions
Makita Cordless Multi-Tool Model XMT03Z 18V LXT
Our Rating: 9.1 / 10
This Makita oscillating tool runs at 20,000 OPM controlled by a variable speed dial to fix top speeds between 6,000 and 20,000 OPM as well as a variable speed trigger to further control the speed in each speed range proportionate to pressure applied on the trigger.
Two features that separate the Makita XMT03Z from competition include Star Protection Technology that shuts the tool in case of overload or overheat to prevent permanent damage in the form of motor burnout. Secondly, it has a motor soft start that prolongs tool life by reducing jerks at motor startup.
Makita has also made the too compatible with dust extraction systems such that you can hook the tool up with a vacuum hose to prevent dust from messing up your workplace – a feature great for sanding.
From removing kitchen soffits, cutting through drywall and wood framing and trimming doors bottoms to maybe fit bamboo floor, this tool is a great option for any DIY application. It is also a handy tool for electricians for cutting through drywall and wood trim.
This model is a tool only package that comes with a 1-1/4” Plunge Blade and a universal accessory adapter. You will have to buy other accessories and blades separately.
Pros
Cons
DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX Cordless Oscillating Tool Model DCS354B
Our Rating: 8.8 / 10
The Dewalt atomic DCS354B is powered by a brushless motor that powers the tool up to 18,000 OPM controlled by a variable speed trigger. Dewalt does make a universal accessory adapter to allow compatibility with blades and accessories of other brands, however, it is not included in this package as it is a tool only package.
It features an electronic overload protection that shuts the tool off in case of overload or overheat to prevent permanent damage. Backed by Dewalt’s superior support in the form of 3-year warranty, 1-year free service and 90 days money back guarantee, it certainly is a great option.
This tool cuts through plastics, metal or drywall without bogging down. It will cut through 2×4’s with nails as well as help you in removing baseboard from difficult places. Whether it is home renovation or bathroom remodeling, it will assist you in all DIY and home projects.
Pros
Cons
Milwaukee Cordless Orbiting Multi Tool Model M18 2626-20
Our Rating: 8.6 / 10
The Milwaukee 18V oscillating tool 2626-20 runs between 11,000 OPM and 18,000 OPM controlled by a 12 speed variable speed dial giving great control over the adjustment of cutting speed for different applications.
The built-in universal fitment design accepts accessories and blades of other brands as well. The fitment is a tool less design to allow easy blade changes.
Whether you are making straight cuts for door molding and door stops, removing glued on wood planks or trimming door frames, this tool will give a decent performance. It is great for a DIYer looking for an oscillating tool for something like oak hardwood floor project or around the house repair and remodeling work. It is equally good for someone like an electrician working in construction looking to cut outlet openings in plywood sheathing.
This kit includes 1 wood cutting blade, 1 sanding pad with 5 sanding sheets but does not include any bag or case for storage. With a 5-year warranty, it is not a bad option for anyone who already has other Milwaukee 18V tools allowing this oscillating tool to fit into the family.
Pros
Cons
PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Cordless Oscillating Tool Model PCC710B
Our Rating: 8.6 / 10
Porter-Cable PCC710B runs between 8,000 and 18,000 OPM controlled by a 6 speed variable speed dial. Its fitment design is universal and accepts blades and accessories of many other brands.
To give a few examples of its utility, you can use this tool for cutting door frames, cutting socket holes out of plywood, cutting nails in between boards, trim molding when installing flooring, peeling up VCT flooring and flush cutting shims off a window buck along with other similar tasks on wood, sheet rock and plank flooring.
It is a tool only package with 1 precision wood blade, 1 bi-metal blade, 1 sanding pad with 8 sanding papers. Bag or case for storage are not included. Porter-Cable supports the tool with 3-year warranty, 1-year free service and 90 day money back guarantee making it a safe investment.
Pros
Cons
Tidbit
We used the term VCT Flooring above. VCT stands for Vinyl Composite Tile. It is a composite tile having around 10% vinyl by composition. VCT flooring is preferred over the normal laminate flooring due to its better water resistance, durability and lifespan.
How Oscillating Tools Offer Unprecedented Versatility – Probably the Most Modified Power Tool
Can you believe that people are using oscillating tool for lock picking also?
Oscillating tools have gained tremendous popularity over time owing to their versatility. At first, oscillating tools were used as handheld small power tools used for small cutting and sanding applications.
However, over time manufacturers have developed a wide variety of accessories to perform a wide variety of jobs. Today, oscillating tools are used for cutting, grinding, sanding, scraping and polishing.
Check out this multi-knife oscillating tool attachment that can be used for cutting carpets with ease. It has a hook shaped knife that clings on to the carpet and cuts it so smoothly.
Oscillating tool may also be easily one of the most modified and customized tool. People have been developing all sorts of customized accessories and attaching them with the oscillating tool.
For instance, check out this guy who attached a toothbrush to his oscillating tool to make it a scrubbing tool:
(Video Credit: Gregor Watson on YouTube)
Or check out this guy who developed a custom made attachment for his oscillating tool for sanding a circular piece of wood:
(Video Credit: Dr Tool Hacker on YouTube)
Or check our this guy who modified his oscillating tool attachment for lock picking (did you expect that?):
(Video Credit: Billshowto on YouTube)
Buyer’s Guide Questions
What do you use an oscillating tool for?
An oscillating tool is used for a wide variety of small cutting, trimming, sanding and grinding applications. Let us describe some of the scenarios to give you a better idea,
1. Cut through laminate without damaging the layers underneath. Use the tool as an undercut saw to cut the door mountings for sliding fresh flooring underneath during installation of laminate flooring.
2. Make cut outs for light switches and outlets in drywall and sheetrock in DIY or contractor electrical works.
3. Remove old grout from between tiles as well as scraping off adhesive from tiles, walls or floor in your home or bathroom renovation and remodeling projects.
4. Cut and trim screws, nails and nail embedded wood.
5. Cutting PVC pipes in plumbing projects.
6. Trim wood panels and moldings.
7. Sanding hard to reach areas in wooden or metal workpieces or furniture.
8. Remove rust from iron railings and different types of metal workpieces.
9. Make plunge cuts in sheet metal ducting in HVAC projects.
10. Trim printed circuit boards in electronics DIY projects.
Check out the video demonstration below for an even better understanding.
(Video Credit: “Oscillating Tool Guide” YouTube Channel)
Can an oscillating tool cut drywall?
An oscillating tool can be used for making plunge cuts into drywall for installation of switches and sockets and many other electrical wiring jobs. You would need a plunge cut saw blade for that purpose. Some manufacturers have even launched special blades and attachments for oscillating tools to make cuts in drywall for retrofit electrical boxes of standard sizes. One of such tools is the Q-bit attachment. You can check the demonstration of how to use it in the video below.
In our review, we found Rockwell Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Model RK5151K to be the best oscillating tool for cutting drywall.
(Video Credit: “Discount Low Voltage” YouTube Channel)
In our review, we found Rockwell Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit Model RK5151K to be the best oscillating tool for cutting drywall.
Are oscillating tools good for sanding?
Oscillating tools are not good for major sanding jobs, however, they perform great for sanding in tight spaces. The best oscillating tool for such sanding jobs that we found in our market survey is DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Oscillating Tool Kit Model DCS356.
Can oscillating tool cut 2X4?
An oscillating tool can cut a 2×4 occasionally. However, if you need to cut 2x4s repeatedly, it is better to use a reciprocating saw (check out our list of best reciprocating saws). Since the blade of an oscillating tool is small, it will cut 2×4 but wear out quickly if used repeatedly for splitting 2x4s. Reciprocating saws are better for that job.
Will Dremel or Bosch oscillating blades fit Dewalt?
Dremel and Bosch makes many different types of oscillating tool blades and accessories, and Dewalt makes many different models of oscillating tools. Therefore, we don’t think there is a simple Yes or No answer to that. It is advisable to check the compatibility between oscillating tools and blades or accessories in product literature, reviews and FAQs before making a purchase.
Can oscillating tool cut laminate flooring?
Yes. An oscillating tool can be used for cutting laminate flooring without cutting the layers underneath.
How long do oscillating tool blades last?
How quickly the blades wear out depend on the type of application, hardness of material being cut, speed setting of oscillating tool during cutting operation and the material and strength of the blade itself. These factors are the underlying determinants of blade life. For example, if an oscillating tool is being used to cut through 2x4s, the blade might not last even a single day because of the heavy usage it is going through. The same blade may last a week for trimming mouldings. So there cannot be a single definite answer to the life of oscillating tool blades as there are too many factors involved.
If you like our post and the information we have presented, please do give your valuable feedback and share this article with your friends.
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