The Best Oscillating Power Tools
In the world of multi-function power tools, the oscillating tool is king. An oscillating tool, also known as a multi-tool, is a power tool that provides an oscillating, back-and-forth motion, instead of a rotating movement. With a huge variety of attachments available, the oscillating tool can do the job of at least a half-dozen other tools specifically made for one function. With attachments available for sawing, sanding, rasping, grinding, scraping, cutting, and polishing, a durable oscillating tool covers a lot of bases. But with a ton of options to choose from, how do you know you're getting the right one? Fortunately, we've got the expertise to help you choose from the best of the best.
Avid Power Oscillating Tool
Good Vibrations
Efficiency is Avid’s middle name. When compared to its competitors, this oscillating tool is up to five times more efficient at cutting wood and up to three times more efficient at cutting metal tubes. Its quick-change accessory system allows blades and other attachments to be changed, unlocked, and swapped-out without the need for a wrench. Featuring 6-speed switches, this tool allows you to choose the most appropriate output speed for the type of job you’re doing. That means you can scrape, cut, clean, sand, and polish. Best of all, its universal fit system matches most brands of accessories, making Avid a very versatile tool.
Pros:
- Ergonomic design and stable operation
- 13-piece accessory kit included
- Up to 22,000 OPM (oscillations per minute) for speed and efficiency
Cons:
- The pivot pin is weak
- Best for light-duty work
Porter-Cable 20V MAX Oscillating Tool
The Cableless Cable
If you’re currently an owner of Porter-Cable’s cordless line of MAX power tools, their oscillating tool is the logical addition to your tool chest. Powered by Porter-Cable’s proprietary MAX 20-volt battery – which fits into every one of their power tools – this oscillating tool provides hours of heavy-duty use. Use the variable speed dial to dial-up just the right amount of oscillation for any job, while the high-powered, integrated LED light provides extra visibility where you need it the most. Porter-Cable also uses a unique, “2-finger” tool-free system that allows for easy and quick accessory changes. It’s truly a breeze to use.
Pros:
- Comes with 11 useful accessories
- Easy to keep a strong grip
- Very little vibration
- Saves time when swapping out accessories
Cons:
- Battery not included
DeWalt Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit
The Complete Kit
If it’s your first time in the market for an oscillating tool kit, check out this pick from DeWalt. This tool’s powerful brushless motor provides strong performance for sanding, cutting, and more. Plus, the quick-change accessory system allows for fast changes without a wrench. You can even use this tool with almost any other oscillating tool accessories you might have on hand thanks to the included accessory adaptor. Best of all, the kit comes with 28 sanding and cutting attachments along with a storage box, so you’ll be ready to face any job in front of you.
Pros:
- Includes multiple attachments including two woodcutting blades
- Battery and charger included
- Comes with a rugged vinyl carrying bag
- The LED light provides visibility even when working in the dark
Cons:
- Blades wear quickly
- Handle gets hot after prolonged use
Rockwell AW400 F80 Sonicrafter
You Down With OPM?
The Sonicrafter is not messing around. With a motor that’s 40% more powerful than most of the competition, this oscillating tool is designed to handle the toughest jobs you have. The difference is in Rockwell’s dual oscillation technology, which lets you select the optimum angle for power and precision. For example, the wood setting creates a 5-degree angle for fast, aggressive cuts while the metal setting sits at a 3.4-degree angle for greater precision. Even more impressive, the blade-holding system creates 1 ton of holding force as well as tool-free blade changes.
Pros:
- The variable speed dial can be set from 10,000 to 19,000 OPM
- Available with durable carrying case
- Includes nine quick-change accessories
- The universal fit system accepts most major brands of accessories
Cons:
- The LED light is dull
- Instructions are all pictures, no words
Milwaukee 2626-20 Cordless Oscillating Tool
The Sands of Time
Over the century that Milwaukee has been making top-notch power tools, they’ve developed a reputation for durability and high attention to detail. The Milwaukee 2626-20 is another testament to their legacy. It features an M18 battery with technology that allows it to know when the tool is close to overheating. When it senses this, it’ll ease the amount of power it gives out, prolonging the life of both the motor and the battery. That motor is encased in metal to withstand a normal drop, while the rubberized mold covering that surrounds the grip keeps the tool firm in your hand even during wet conditions.
Pros:
- 12 separate speed settings
- LED light works at any angle
- Six sanding sheets included
Cons:
- Battery sold separately
- Wrench required to change accessories
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a “Master Tool” different from an oscillating tool?
No. A Master Tool, multi-tool, and oscillating tool are all the same thing. Master Tool is a trade name used in North America, which is short for the original tool invented by the Fein company called the Multi-Master. Fein also created the original hand-held electric drill in 1867.
Is an oscillating tool the same thing as a moto tool?
No. Though their head attachments perform many of the same tasks – sanding, edging, cutting, and grinding – the moto tool operates by rotation, whereas an oscillating tool shifts back and forth. They both are small, handheld, corded or cordless, and use detachable tool heads, but they are different in the way that they move.
Should I get a corded or cordless oscillating tool?
There are two significant differences between the corded and cordless options. First, a cordless oscillating tool is generally heavier than its corded counterpart, mostly because of the weight of the battery. Because these tools are created for fine, detailed finishing work, this weight difference could be significant enough to sway your decision. Secondly, if you work offsite frequently and don’t have handy outlets and extension cords, you may need to consider a cordless oscillating tool.
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