Compare multifunction power tools

Makita nailed the vibration control in this model, dropping it to the levels that beat almost all of its competitors. At the same time, they increased the cutting and sanding speed significantly. The big story for Milwaukee is that their design has finally overtaken Fein. It was one of the fastest cutting in our tests and has five electronic speeds to choose from. The ergonomics of the tool are excellent, too.

It has a slimmer handle than many with an overmold that promotes a secure grip and comfort. Add to that a Starlock hands-free accessory interface and you get a compelling package. The best part is the price. Both the cutting speed and vibration control are far better than the brushed model it replaced. The handle fits comfortably in your hand and the variable speed paddle trigger gives you control over both the speed and grip location.

It has three speeds instead of one and a higher top-end speed. There were no surprises in our blade change evaluation as Starlock still dominates in speed and ease. Bosch and Fein collaborated to create the Starlock interface and use it extensively. For our testing, we primarily used Milwaukee oscillating multi-tool blades. They have a very deep line that covers just about anything you need for cutting, scraping, and sanding.

For those models, we turn to Imperial Blades owned by Milwaukee Tool to get corresponding blades with the Starlock interface. Fein has been a favorite multi-tool of ours for a while now. Chances are, these are still among the best oscillating multi-tools available. While its speed is somewhat muted by a 2. Pair this one with a 4. Plus, the blade change system is a clamp style that we like second only to Starlock. A variable speed dial lets you set the range from to OPM.

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. But which one? The best is the cordless MultiMaster The biggest advantage is its brushless motor. The trade-off? The is the largest of the three cordless options, so look at the other models if you want something more compact. Using the dial in front of the trigger, you can set its OPM top speed lower for a more controlled approach when you need it.

Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. No sponsored content. No ads. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. Best Multi-tool of We put the best multi-tools from brands like Leatherman, Gerber, Victorinox and more through a gauntlet of real-world tests.

Photo: Jenna Ammerman. Share this article:. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. Learn more. Related: Best Pocket Knife of Top 21 Product Ratings. Displaying 1 - 5 of Leatherman Skeletool CX. Leatherman Signal.

Leatherman Free P4. Show full specification details Hide full specification details. Functions 9. Sophisticated materials and construction.

See all prices 2 found. Functions 5. See all prices 3 found. Functions 8. Functions 4. Functions 7. Extended, centered bit driver. Functions 3. Score Product Price Our Take Leatherman Surge. SOG PowerAssist. Victorinox SwissTool Spirit X. Havalon Evolve. Gerber Center-Drive Plus. Leatherman Crunch.

Leatherman Wingman. SOG Baton Q4. Gerber Dime. Gerber Crucial. Leatherman Squirt PS4. Gerber Vise. Gerber Suspension Multi-Plier. Irwin 5WR Vise-Grip. Vehicle issues are stressful enough, especially in remote areas. Stack the odds in your favor when any sort of mechanical breakdown is likely and consequential by carrying a multi-tool and just the most rudimentary mechanical knowledge. One-handed, externally accessed blades are the only way to go on a high-end multi-tool now.

The SOG Baton flips the script on typical multi-tool format. The Havalon tool is pretty simple but requires some accessories. Notably, the readily changed blade configuration requires carrying extra blades, a tool to make the change, and cases for all the parts. Yes, this is the very start of a campfire. All that was required was dry grass and the parts of the Leatherman Signal. It didn't even require any special skill or patience.

We shouldn't be surprised when a multi-tool includes a multi-surface blade serrated and straight. We wish these blades were all straight, but we must be in the minority in this desire. Leatherman brand tools, especially their higher-end versions, are works of art in many ways. The construction quality of this Free P4 is near immaculate, making it a joy to use.

We recommend you don't work on the regulator of your backyard propane tank. But if you must, do so with a handy and effective multi-tool, chosen with our advice. Budget choice Leatherman Wingman.

One of the corners-cutting measures they take is to equip it with a blade smaller than would fit. Here you can see the end of the blade and the extra room they leave "on the table". The Gerber Center Drive is innovative but a little rough. The machine-finished edge had a visible line of burrs at initial purchase. This is easily remedied with home sharpening, but shouldn't be necessary. This image shows the proprietary Leatherman bit driver. As new, the blade faced the wrong way.

We took some time and initiative to modify this product and have come up with a much better, more usable, configuration with no conceivable drawbacks. This photo shows the geometry of the Gerber Center Drive bit driver.

It is a subtle thing, but that it aligns with the center of the handle really makes it easier to use. For real handiwork, there is nothing like locking pliers. The Irwin Vise Grip is locking pliers with a knife blade and bit driver integrated. The Leatherman Surge is heavy duty and user-serviceable for extended electrical work. One of the saws of the Leatherman Surge, in action on a plumbing project. We love pocket clipped multi tools.

Havalon came screaming out of the gates with their first product, nailing many of the performance and usability attributes we like best. Some of the "keychain" sized multi-tools we tested. On the left, Leatherman Squirt PS4. On the right, the Gerber Dime. Learn More. Titanium handle, S30V steel blade, modular portability, full functions. Compact, light, with multiple carry options, smart, effective tools.

Comprehensive, well-made, aftermarket accessories and carry options. Versatile and comprehensive outdoor tool kit. Easy tool and plier deployment, Leatherman pedigree. Proprietary bit driver, no pocket clip included. Specialized components, independent parts can get lost. Working on a myriad of feature films , Clint honed his skills as a dialogue editor, foley editor, and sound designer.

After founding the CD Media, Inc. He also heads up the Pro Tool Innovation Awards , an annual awards program honoring innovative tools and accessories across the trades.

Crediting his excellent staff for the success of what is now the largest power tool review publication in the industry, Clint DeBoer hopes to see continued growth for the company as it rapidly expands its reach. Pro Tool Reviews critically reviews hundreds of hand tools, power tools, and accessories each year to help inform users about the best and newest products in the industry.

Reaching everyone from the construction industry professional and tradesman to the serious DIYer, Pro Tool Reviews helps tool consumers shop better, work smarter, and stay aware of what tools and products can help put them at the top of their game.

Fresh off our best inch miter saw reviews article, we wanted to get our readers a more comprehensive guide to the best miter saws…period. While cordless tools may rule the roost in many circles, miter saws largely remain popular as corded solutions. Still, newer cordless models seem like they may start gaining mainstream popularity. They […]. From filling our shop with 50 drills at one time to testing new models as they come out, we constantly have our hands on the latest models.

Choosing the best cordless drill for you depends on your highest priorities: performance, durability, price, value, […]. There are some impressive new players entering the scene that look to challenge the traditional powerhouses. When it was all said and done, the biggest names still stepped up to the plate. Our impact driver reviews […].

Choosing the best oscillating multi-tool used to boil down to just a couple of brands. Not anymore. Advancement in battery, motor, and vibration control technologies offers more viable options than ever.

As we considered the landscape, our team was unanimous in our selection of cordless oscillating multi-tools. Corded models are absolutely relevant and there are […]. I dont understand how the old porter cable model has scores among the best in the specs and features chart but the new model, described as a bit of an improvement, has the worst numbers. It seems like the new model is way worse aside from an ergonomic improvement. Are the numbers in the chart right?

In-depth article! I have many Milwaukee cordless tools and would like to remain that way. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible.

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Calculating the Effort Force on the Tested Multi-tool. Buy Now at Acme Tools. Want more? Join our newsletter and get the latest tool reviews every week! The oscillating action makes it an ideal tool for general-purpose cutting, sanding, and scraping jobs. Can I buy an oscillating multi-tool instead of separate circular saw, disk sander, etc.? It's really a question of having the right tool for the job.

An oscillating multi-tool is superb when you need to cut a hole in drywall for a light fitting, sand around stair rails, or take the corner off a floor tile. But they're not high-productivity tools, and if you've got to saw a load of decking or sand oak flooring, it's quicker and more efficient to use individual tools designed to do those jobs. Some manufacturers do provide adapters, so you can use blades that might not otherwise fit. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.

We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. Read more. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. Bottom Line. Best of the Best. Check Price. Best Bang for the Buck. Multi-Max 3. Click here for testing insights.

Models Considered. Consumers Consulted. Hours Researched. Updated December Written by Bob Beacham. Table of Contents Buying guide for best oscillating multi-tools How an oscillating multi-tool works Power considerations Oscillating multi-tool features Oscillating multi-tool prices Tips FAQ.

Buying guide for best oscillating multi-tools An oscillating multi-tool is one of those devices you didn't know you needed, but once you get one, you wonder how you ever managed without it. Whether you're undercutting door posts to fit flooring, trimming protruding pipe work, or taking on any other flush-cutting task, nothing does the job as easily as an oscillating multi-tool. Other Products We Considered.