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Last updated on May 3, 2022 5:09 am by the writer.
A Multi-tool or an oscillating tool saves a lot of time and frustration for DIY and building work.
The best oscillating tool is cordless for convenience, brushless, variable speed for different sanding, and cutting jobs, and is compatible with cheaper aftermarket attachments.
Consider Dewalt and Makita for a cordless option, or a corded Dremel if you want more power.
Worksite DMT123 11 pcs, up to 23,000 opm, 1.6 amp oscillating multi-tool kit
The most affordable tool on this list.
Also the lightest.
Has the highest oscillations at low power.
Durability is questionable.
How the use of oscillating tool evolved?
The oscillating multi-tools legacy began in the 1960s when German hardware manufacturer FEIN invented as a medical plaster removal tool.
When the woodcutting industry boomed, Fein decided to improve on the concept of the plaster tool [1] and produced the 1st line of oscillating power tools for builders and DIYers, and man can it save some time doing awkward cuts.
Since then, modern oscillating tools have evolved.
Drawing in those who are part of the skilled and unskilled market alike, offering convenience, efficiency, and versatility.
Homeowners, DIYers, professionals, and even amateurs can all attest to the viability and utility of these essentially must-have power tools.
With competition rife, we’ve created a guide to help you identify your ideal oscillator.
Features to consider when buying oscillating multi-tool
Power. Depending on what you are to use it on and if it’s a cordless or corded model, this typically ranges between 12V to 20V, or 250 watts to 5.5 amps respectively.
Handling. The tool has to feel “right” when you hold and use it. Easy-to-handle models are those that work cleanly and are easily maneuvered.
Ergonomics. Size and weight must be relative to each other. The tool should feel light in-hand and still be powerful enough to go through various materials without causing strain and fatigue.
Accessories. The more the merrier in this case – tools with a wide assortment of accessories are more versatile and can take on more applications.
Reasons to buy an oscillating multi-tool
Versatility.
Oscillating tools are capable of a range of functions including cutting, grinding, sanding, scraping, and sawing.
These are basically hybridized power tools; doing the job of several others on their own.
Efficiency.
Tying in with versatility, oscillating tools are manufactured in a way that their performance and handling compliments the range of tasks that they are intended to perform.
These tools were made to take on a variety of jobs without necessarily requiring more from the user.
Convenience.
Most oscillating tools are lightweight and compact, allowing you to tote them around practically anywhere. If convenience is a big factor for you, then look no further because these tools are both fully functional and travel-ready.
Before you buy an oscillating multi-tool
1. Know your brands.
There are a lot of names in the power tools industry.
Knowing which are among the top brands will not only save you valuable resources but also time should you consider purchasing another product from them in the future.
Some of the well-known brands that offer superior-quality products are Makita, DeWalt, and Milwaukee.
While there are affordable tools in their catalog, their premium products are guaranteed to serve and last you a lifetime.
2. Check the durability.
Durability will depend on work and frequency of use.
Generally, corded variants are relatively sturdier than their cordless counterparts, and are built to withstand more demanding work.
This isn’t to say that cordless models are not durable.
While there are certain models that can compete with the longevity of corded variants, cordless oscillating tools are designed for more mobile use and are very handy as a standalone.
3. Cross-compatibility.
Tools like the Ryobi P340 One+ may not have a lot of accessories on their own, but the fact that it is cross-compatible with most accessories from other brands evens this out.
For one who enjoys more versatility, checking for cross-compatibility definitely helps and saves time on preparation and/or replacement.
4. Think about the price.
Price is always a big factor to consider before making a purchase.
Unless under extreme budget constraints, always go for the more expensive models pound-for-pound.
While the initial cost appears heavy, the durability that should be commensurate with the amount will save you tons in terms of repairs and parts replacements in the future.
Cordless vs. Corded oscillating tool
Fundamentally, there is very little difference in terms of functionality and operation between corded and cordless oscillating tools.
Corded variants are more powerful, given that they need power sources and support larger motors.
Corded oscillating tools are also designed for more heavy-duty applications and can handle tougher, thicker material, including but not limited to metal and grade-A ceramics.
Newer models of cordless oscillators are slowly catching up to the performance and reliability of corded ones, slightly closing the gap between them.
This doesn’t mean that they’ll be totally better but does give off the idea that they are at least becoming more viable.
No type of tool is completely more dominant than the other.
Corded and cordless variants both have their advantages and disadvantages. It all boils down to reason.
Based on what you’ll use them for and how, either might be the better choice; for regular clients within the residential areas, you can opt to get a corded tool.
Otherwise, if you service multiple small tricky jobs a day and are mostly out and about, then a cordless one might serve you better.
8 Functions of an oscillating tool
An oscillating tool is highly versatile and benefits from an assortment of accessories. Some of its other functions include:
Sanding. With a sanding attachment head, you can use an oscillating tool to even out and smoothen rough wood edges and surfaces. This is not limited to wood, as you can use the tool to practically smoothen out any jaggedness in metal and other similar materials.
Grinding. You can use an oscillating tool for abrasive cutting. Similar to sanding, you can use a grinding attachment to finish rough edges of metals, smooth welds, or even create and form sharp edges for specific metal fabrications. This is an important function as it basically allows you to engage in light manufacturing and toolmaking.
Scraping. Scraping is part of the machining process and basic sanitation. An oscillating tool can also function as a scraping tool, helping you remove very small amounts of metal from a precision surface to allow for mounting or to scrape away dried glue and other debris when cleaning.
Trimming. You can also add new trimmings or modify old ones in interiors with the help of an oscillating tool. You can practically make an insertion anywhere, like when your door is jammed, without the need to call in a professional or have an entire area renovated just for a small alteration.
Cutting. With the oscillating tool’s impressive rate, cutting is one of the best things it can do. It plunges into the wood, making intricate square cuts. Especially when cutting at angles, an oscillating tool can reach where other cutters wouldn’t be able to. For spots that are easy to reach, consider using cordless Festool cordless jigsaw tools. For cutting metal sheets, check out my recommended best metal cutter.
Flooring. Use the oscillating tool if you want to install or modify flooring pieces. Plunge cut at thin floor planks and make cutout registers easily and sequentially. When you have swollen laminated flooring, this function eliminates the need for total floor replacement and can work on other similar flooring materials.
Grout removal. Easily cut away at the grout in your bathroom area. You can use the tool’s carbide-grit head attachment to remove soiled and unwanted grout in preparation for either a major bathroom remodel, layout alteration, or simply apply new grout to refresh its appearance.
Plumbing. Use the oscillating tool to work with the components of interior plumbing systems. You can cut, scrape, grind, and trim at both the pipes and fittings in order to make necessary repairs or adjustments. This basically limits the number of tools needed and allows you to focus on handling and workmanship.
Best attachments for your oscillating tool
1. Allen wrench
The Allen Wrench is already a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to screws and bolts.
This attachment transforms your oscillator into a power-wrench, allowing you to work with bigger fasteners.
2. Three to four types of blades
If you want to achieve real versatility, then the best attachments are multiple blade types.
Cut, grind, trim, or remove grout by equipping the necessary blade to achieve professional results.
You want fine-toothed blades for cutting metal and nails behind weatherboards and slightly bigger toothed blades for cutting wood.
3. Sanding pad
If you have many sanding projects or want to smooth out tight spaces for a better-looking finish, then a sanding pad makes for the best attachment.
It makes the tool especially useful for sanding narrow edges.
4. Sanding sheets
These attachments are almost corequisite with the sanding pad.
Sanding sheets give you additional grit levels and offer a better quality finish and more materials to be able to work with.
5. Scraper
If you’re more into material removal, renovations, and retouching interiors, then the scraper is your best bet.
This attachment allows you to easily remove caulk, dried glue, and paint from non-damage surfaces.
Choosing the top oscillating tool
#1 Best value cordless oscillating multi-tool
The DeWalt DCS356D1 tops the cordless list due to its balanced combination of price, performance, and utility.
With around 30 included accessories, versatility and scope are no problem for the DeWalt.
It can easily take on a range of tasks with surprising ease and efficiency, thanks to its 3-speed selector, while maintaining ease-of-use given the fact that it weighs only around 2.33lbs.
At less than $200.00 and with a brushless motor that allows it to operate up to 57% longer, coupled with the fact that it’s cross-compatible with accessories from other brands, cements this tool’s rank as #1.
If you’re looking into the best buy from Makita oscillating tools in the cordless category, Makita XMT035 wins best-value in the same category simply because of how cost-effective its kit is.
It comes with a measly amount of accessories, but more than makes up for it with its variable speed control dial that allows users to work with a rate anywhere from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM.
Work fast and clean by utilizing its 3.2-degree oscillation angle and ignore tiring, despite being heavier at 4.9lbs (with battery), with its small-diameter barrel grip.
A decent tool with a more-than-acceptable price tag, the Skil PWR Core 20 adequately meets a DIY’ers needs.
It’s a wide assortment of accessories that allow you to take it on a wide range of jobs from trimming to cutting while doing away with operational worries thanks to its PWR core 2.0 lithium battery.
The Skil works well with most light materials like wood and plaster and is ideal mainly for small-scale jobs and regular use.
#1 Best corded oscillating tool for the most power
Hands down, the best corded oscillating tool, across all factors, is the Dremel MM50-01. Dremel’s unique design nearly eliminates vibration and focuses on control.
Its powerful 5-amp motor, along with its compact head design, allows it to reach tight spaces and offers some herculean performance at a variable speed that’s from 10,000 to 21,000 OPM.
As if its sheer power and engineering weren’t already enough, this Dremel oscillating tool comes with 30 included accessories, giving you access to a multitude of applications from home modifications to shop repairs.
The biggest downside to this tool, however, is blade replacement – they are expensive and hard to come by. Other than that, it’s a spectacular tool.
The Makita TM3010CX1 is ideal for all-around use and is evenly squared around all specifications in terms of performance, convenience, and price.
It’s not the strongest, but the 3-amp motor is more than powerful enough to push through tiles and walling effortlessly.
The variable speed dial and electronic speed control on this Makita oscillating tool means you can expect fluid use without worrying about a gradual speed increase or fall-off.
Complemented with a decent load out of attachments, this tool makes for a lasting, everyday staple for your cutting and sanding needs.
When we talk about affordability, you can’t deny that the Porter Cable PCE605K52 is the top contender.
With a budget-friendly price tag and a mind-boggling 52-piece accessory assortment, you definitely get a bang for your buck.
The Porter-Cable oscillating tool is no less capable despite its low cost.
A 3-amp motor is more than sufficient power to allow you to work fast and clean and a tool-free system allows for quick and easy blade changes to fit specific applications.
You can use an oscillating tool for cutting, especially if done going forward. You can cut into existing trims and checkouts where other saws wouldn’t normally fit.
The other alternative for cutting metal with nearly the same reach is with a pair of tin snips.However, it cannot get into tight spots as a multi-tool can.
For narrower pieces with tight corners, an oscillating tool doubles as the ideal sander.
Smoothen outdoor edges and wooden trusses easily or even at an angle where other conventional sanders would find it difficult.
Use an oscillating tool to dismantle old weatherboards while keeping them intact – cut up the nails from behind.
By traditional means, you usually change blade attachments by loosening a bolt that fastens an accessory adapter with an Allen wrench.
Once the bolt is off, insert the new attachment and then re-fasten the bolt.
Make sure it is held firmly and that all connection points are correctly in place, some models have a quick-release feature that can save a lot of time.
Sanding sheets
Changing sanding sheets requires you to 1st attach a sanding pad. Attaching a sanding pad works similarly to how you attach blades. The flat surface of the pad is called a Platen and it’s where the sanding sheet attaches to.
Align the sheets with the platen then firmly press into place, allowing the sheet’s adhesive to bond.
An oscillating tool doubles as a dedicated detail sander for tighter corners.
Tips for using an oscillating multi-tool
Dos
Use on lighter applications and materials such as interior remodeling and plumbing.
Use as an alternative to other power-tools that you would use for jobs involving cutting, sanding, grinding, etc. – And in areas, these bigger tools cannot reach.
Don’ts
Do not apply excessive pressure or force the tool against material that it initially struggles against.
Do not do tasks if you are not equipped with the right attachment, doing so can damage both the tool and the accessory.
Don’t run the tool on full tit if you don’t need to, these tools have extremely fast cutting action, extended periods on full speed with no resistance can cause the tool to burn out.
Always apply pressure and only enough power to stop the tool from struggling when going past the 50% power/speed threshold.
Safety concerns
Do not operate for an extended period of time. This tool primarily functions using vibration, which can end up seriously injuring your hands and fingers if you use for a long time without a break.
Use insulated hand wraps as much as possible to avoid accidental grounding, especially when working in an environment where the tool might likely contact hidden wiring.
Always ensure that the device is completely off when set-down or firmly held and stable when in-use; improper handling or striking obstructed surfaces can cause kickback and potentially injure yourself or others.
The DeWalt DCS356D1 wins the best cordless oscillating tool. This DeWalt oscillating tool is light-weight, has a ton of accessories, and is efficient and easy to handle. The long battery and affordable price are welcomed bonuses.
The Makita XMT035 is a close second, and is the best value for a cordless oscillating tool, combining efficiency and prestige, with only slightly fewer included accessories.
The Skil PWR Core 20’s versatility and affordability make it a great entry-level choice for amateurs and DIY-ers at a low price point.
Heading on to the corded variants, the Dremel MM50-01 should be the top choice for those who are particular with raw power and maximum control.
The Makita TM3010CX1 is a good alternative to the Dremel as it’s commendable all around and benefits greatly from its electronic speed control.
Lastly, not only is the Porter-Cable PCE605K52 the most affordable corded oscillating tool, it’s the most affordable tool on this list period!
Not to mention having the widest assortment of accessories.
These are but our recommendations, ultimately, what you choose is what ‘vibes’ with you the most, get it?
What matters, in the end, is which tool fits your particular need and work ethic.
If you’ve found this guide helpful and engaging then be sure to check out our recommendation on the best stud finders before you start cutting holes in your walls.
DeWalt DCS356D1 review
Pros:
A 3-Speed selector can be used for different applications.
About 28 accessories and attachments to help you with your job.
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