Are you planning to remodel your room? Or to provide a remodeling/renovating service to your clients? Well, you might need to keep a lot of stuff under your hood. But there is one tool that you can’t avoid in this regard. And that’s the oscillating multi purpose tool.
No matter it’s cutting, shaping, grouting or trimming surfaces, an oscillating tool can take over the mammoth task. And a wise DIYer won’t ever compromise with the best oscillating multi tool on the market.
Now, when you’re searching in the market to find one, you’ll be overwhelmed with 1 tons of models and brands. And choosing the right one from the pile is a hard nut to crack.
What is An Oscillating Multi Tool?
Oscillating multi-tools or OMT tools contains a grinder body along with several variations of diameter. The outlook of it is just similar to a grinder, only with a taller tail design. The OMT consists of a blade (for cutting materials), a sanding head and several sanding pads. In together, it can cut, scrape, shape and sand any workpiece made of wood, plastic and even metal.
The reason why we call is an oscillating tool is, it oscillates back and forth several thousand times in a minute. Many professional models have an OPM (Oscillation per minute) OF 12000-22000 at best.
Top 5 Best Oscillating Multi Tools – Expert’s Picks
Go through our full post, where we’ve discussed 5 oscillating tool reviews in an ascending manner. Later on, we’ve backed you up with a comprehensive buyer’s guide as well.
#1 DEWALT DCS355B 20V XR Oscillating Multi-Tool
While dealing with tons of tool reviews for this website, we’ve seen Dewalt be at the top of any lists. So, that was expected in this list also. But when you got our hands into this DEWALT DCS355B 20V XR Oscillating Multi-Tool, we were left in utter surprise. Curious to know the reasons? Let’s explore-
First thing, first! It’s the brushless motor that enhances this tool’s efficiency to a great extent. Along with that, a 20V Li-ion battery had given it a hand. As a result, this oscillating tool can produce a massive 0-20000 OPM for you. To switch within this wide speed range, there is a dual grip trigger in the tool. So, dealing with different speed requirement is just a matter of a blink of an eye.
The way this tool can equip with accessories and extensions from other brands is awe-inspiring. You see, the universal adapter that comes with the model is what does the magic. Impressive! To enlighten the work area(in case you’re working in a dark area), there is a bright LED in this model. Although it’s nothing superficial, have a look at how much attention Dewalt provides into details.
Along with the adapter that runs this tool, you will also receive a couple of cutting blade for the machine. These will help you in kickstarting your project ASAP.
- 18V(regular) and 20V(max) Li-ion battery power.
- Dual grip to switch and adjust the speed.
- 0-20000 OPM speed variation.
- Bright LED to enlighten the workspace.
- Universally acceptable adapter.
- Goes a little slow on sanding.
Our Verdict
Overall, we would rate it as a perfect 10(like they do in the gymnastics) for this multi-tool. No matter whichever tasks you’re up to, the DEWALT DCS355B 20V XR Oscillating Multi-Tool would be a go-to choice for you.
#2 Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool
If you’re working with power tools for quite some time, there is no chance that you’ve heard of the good vibe that Makita has. They’ve set the bar rather high when it comes to power tools. And the Makita XMT03Z is just another excellent example of their brand excellence.
This oscillating multi-tool runs on an 18V Li-ion battery, with an excellent LXT rating. With such a power system, it runs longer than what you expect from a compact multi-tool. To be exact, the run time is 20 minutes. Therefore, we can call it the best cordless oscillating multi tool. The speed variation lies within a range of 6000 to 20,000OPM, which is preferably a high standard. With that rich range of speed, you can deploy this tool to many kinds of mechanical and technical purposes.
The degree of oscillation is 3.2 degree. And that will give you a boost in the cutting and sanding tasks. The operation will take less time, and will be more aggressive with such an angle of oscillation. Hands down for the manufacturer- Makita. Another signature feature of this tool is significant on and off switch. This gives you a firmer control on the operation and control. For further safety during work, there is even a safety lock provided.
The clamping system is entirely tool-less, which saves up a good time while working. Also, this will let you install accessories quite quicker. Talking about the accessories, this model welcomes multi-tool accessories from literally every reputed brand and manufacturers.
- Run on a special 18V Li-ion battery.
- Swift control between the OPM range of 6000 to 20000.
- Comes with an oscillating angle of 3.2 degrees.
- Big on-off switch with safety lock.
- Quite pocket-friendly in terms of price.
- Grouting can be difficult with this multi tool.
Our Verdict
To be honest with you guys, we’ve hardly seen any such blend of portability and functionality that we’ve seen in Makita XMT03Z. If you’re not in extreme essence of AC power driven multi tool, you can keep it in your shortlist.
#3 Rockwell RK5151K 4.2 Amp Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool
Power and precision are the two most desirable things that people look for in an oscillating multi tool. If that’s what you’re also thinking, the Rockwell RK5151K OMT is for you. The brand Rockwell had developed a new oscillation technology by themselves to input into this machine, which has a name of Duotech Oscillation technology. A direct benefit of this technology is, you can earn way more power and precision with this model.
Moving forward from the oscillating technology to the speed variation, we got even more reasons to put a smile on our face. It has got a speed variation 10,000 to 19,000 OPM(oscillations per minute), which is almost everything you aspect from the premium grade OMT. To run the system, there is a 4.2 Amp motor, that keeps the speed outcome constant. Even if you put some heavy loads on this tool, the speed won’t deviate under the load.
Many unexpected incidents take place from unsafe blades of multi oscillating tools. But with the hyperlock blade design, you can be assured of no such events. You will get 1 ton of clamping force when you’re clamping the blade with this HyperLock system.
The last slot of impressor about the oscillating machine is it’s acceptance to all sort of blades and sanders. If you take the list of accessories of an OMT machine, the blade, the sander, etc. will be on the top of the list. And no matter whichever brand these accessories are from, Rockwell RK5151K is ready to occupy them right away.
- Driven by the powerful Duotech Oscillating technology.
- 2amp motor to provide a consistent, break-free output.
- Can intake heavy workload without deviation.
- No slipping or accidental incidents with HyperLock technology.
- Acceptance to all sort of blades and accessories from all brands.
- Doesn’t come up with a scraping blade.
Our Verdict
As long as professional or semi-professional works are considered, we found Rockwell RK5151K 4.2 Amp Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool a perfect fit.
#4 Milwaukee 2426-20 M12 Cordless Multi-Tool
Going remote with an oscillating tool is something that every machinist dream of. But due to a limitation in the budget, it’s hard to meet the end within a low price. But the Milwaukee 2426-20 seems to be a rare exception in this regard. It’s quite functional yet DC-powered OMT, which will be broken down below-
A significant fact about this oscillating tool is its range of speed (oscillation). With the 12 speed variation, you can switch between 12 different speed variations. The range of OPM covers from 5000 to 20,000 OPM, which is one of the largest within the industry.
We have seen many of these models where you have to buy a separate part to perform a sanding operation with them. But this one from Milwaukee is quite an exception. There is an inbuilt sanding head in the box, and that can be your go-to tool when you are willing to sand. To provide finishing touches on your wooden projects, you don’t have to spend any extra bucks.
Moving forward, this multi tool is also perfect for top-notch grouting. The head that you used for sanding will be used in grouting also. Even within tight spaces, grouting won’t be hard anymore. To let you know the estimated amount of fuel, there is a LED fuel gauge into the model, which is a bonus for the users.
- It has 12 speed settings with easy switching.
- Can provide an OPM of 5000 to 20,000.
- Suitable for a handful of applications.
- Multi-purpose head makes sanding and grouting easy.
- Portable, runs on 12V Red Li-ion battery.
- Compatible with a handful of accessories.
- You can’t keep on working constantly, as it’s runtime is limited.
Our Verdict
Having an OPM range of 5-20 thousand is a rare incident as long as a DC battery powered oscillating tool is concerned. But Milwaukee seems to make the impossible happen. Kudos for the manufacturer!
#5 Genesis GMT15A Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool
We have stepped into the last pick of the lot, with the name of Genesis GMT15A Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool. It’s a multi-purpose tool for scraping, sanding or grout removal from household or commercial objects. If you’re looking for a high power multi tool for home repair, restoration, or remodeling, this can be the go-to choice of yours.
Although the product has not been able to catch that much attention, we have found some seriously amazing features here. First, of them, all is the 21000 oscillation per minute capacity. If you’ve been attentive throughout the previous reviews, the best OPM we’ve got was 20,000. But this model seems to outstand them all.
The structure of this model deserves another round of applause. With a die-cast aluminum body, this will sustain for years to come. There can be some accessories and extension that you can equip with this model. And the 4-pin flange in this tool seems to build a strong bond with them all.
When it comes to trimming door jambs, this tool is a masterpiece. And you get to use it for floor installation, removing paint or glue, cleaning up floors made of vinyl and so on. Even, more hard works like chiseling door hinges, cleaning hardwood floors, and trimming cabinets are also possible with this tool.
In the box itself, you will get a set of all the essential items you need. The list includes the Genesis GMT15A Multi-Purpose tool itself, a 3 inches delta sanding pad, a scraping blade, sandpaper, an HSS segment saw blade; an e-cut saw blade and an Allen wrench.
Although the controlling and maintenance is going to take a toll of expertise in operating multi-tools, that’s not that big of a deal. In fact, over time, you’re able to get more out of this fantastic multi-tool. The price point seems to be entirely within the comfort zone.
- 21000 massive osscilation rate in one minute.
- Holds all accessories with the 4 pin flange.
- It is made of a sturdy and robust die-cast aluminium.
- Comes with a handful of accessories.
- Compact, lightweight model to use.
- The controlling and maintenance is way more hectic than other models of the list.
Our Verdict
It’s not rocket science that maintaining a tool like oscillating multi-tool takes its time. If you are okay with that, then this model from Genesis Tools will satisfy you with its performance and capacity.
An Oscillating Tools Buying Guides:
Why you need an oscillating multi tool?
As you are ready to buy your next (or first) oscillating tool, let’s have a revision on what things you can do with it-
To Perform Machining on Different Materials
No matter it’s sanding or other tasks of home renovations, you have to deal with several materials like wood, PVC, etc. If you get a good quality multi-tool, it will help you to work on them all.
Cutting, Shaping, Sanding, and Grouting
Although these four tasks are entirely different from each other, there are basic facts in them. All these tasks require shaping or cutting or trimming materials from objects. And an oscillating multi-tool is the tool that’s going to help you in that.
Home Remodeling
If you’re planning to home remodeling, there is no chance that you would keep this tool away. Starting from the driveway to the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and even balcony- everywhere you need a multi-tool to operate with the home surfaces.
How to Buy An Oscillating Tool: Factors to Think
We’re sure that you’ve made your own shortlist of best oscillating multi-tools from our list of 5. Now it’s time to reach a final decision. Check out the comprehensive buyer’s guide below, which will give you a hand this decision making-
Oscillation Per Minute (OPM)
It’s the first and foremost criteria of any multi tool that, how much speedy it can be. To save up time, you definitely would like to go as high as 16000 to 17000 OPM. In the lower end, it can be around 3000 to 5000 OPM. Now, chose a model that lies within this lower and higher limit of yours. Before that, make sure that you are particular about the OPM requirement for your purposes.
Control
More or less, every oscillating machine comes within a good OPM range. And for different work purposes, you have a switch between these values. So, make sure that your model lets you do a swift transition here. There are built-in on-off switches which do the job in most of the cases.
Motor and Battery
These two are the backbones of the power system of any tool. And there is no exception with oscillating multi-tools as well. In the case of remote models, there are 16-20V of Li-ion battery power. Where 16V models would run for 10-15 minutes at a stretch, 20V models will last for 20 minutes instead.
So, we would ask you to stick to higher battery power as possible. The same thing goes for the motor as well. If you’re about to handle heavy workloads with it, you should go for higher motor power.
Number of Accessories
With a tool like this, you are going to need a lot of accessories. And if you think about the compatibility of these accessories with your tool, two things come in the podium-
First, it’s the number of accessories that your model comes with. And second, it’s the compatibility of your model with accessories from other models. Keep a sharp eye for both.
Final Verdicts
That’s the wrap up for the post. Hopefully, you’ve taken notes on your favorite model, and ready to buy the best oscillating multi tools for your purpose. Considering all these facts, we would vote for DEWALT DCS355B as a perfect multi tool from a world famous inventory.
In the middle of all these factors and models, our last request would go to one matter. And that’s the price-quality ratio. Have a clear perception of what you need, and how much you should spend on it. Hopefully, that’ll bring you the next top rated oscillating multi-tool in your hand.
