Oscillating tools are an essential part of many woodworkers and DIYers’ toolboxes. Not only can they be used to make some of the most precise cuts you can make with a power tool, but they can also be used to clean up, smooth and polish surfaces as well as mill small circles out of wood.
Because of their versatility, today we’re going to take a look at a few of the best oscillating tools on the market today (in 2019). We’ll take a look at the new tools that have emerged in the last year or so, and we’ll look back to some of the old standbys that have been used for years to give you a complete picture of what’s available in the world of oscillating tools.
1. Rockwell RK5151K 4.2 Amp Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool
Pros:
- Ideal for longer cuts
- Dual compound blade stays sharp even after continuous use
- Compound range is 0-50 degrees for smoother results
- 0.8 mm stroke
- Angled oscillation
- Flexible shaft
- Swivel design for greater versatility
- Precision trimmer for detailing work around edges
- Universal fit
- Adjustable speeds
Cons:
- No batteries included
- Choking hazard
- Brush attachments are not included in the set of 12 accessories
- Tends to get hot a few minutes after continuous use
- On/off switch is slightly inconvenient to use
This excellent oscillating tool from Rockwell has great functionality and versatility with a myriad of features. It’s a lightweight and compact tool, making it the preferred choice for many craftsmen and DIY enthusiasts.
The Rockwell RK5151K Sonicrafter boasts a dual compound blade made of durable steel for greater strength. Plus, it can be adjusted for cutting at a 0-50 range. Oscillation angle technology, on the other hand, has a flexible shaft and a swivel design for easier performance, making it ideal for anyone who do not have a lot of experience when it comes to using an oscillating tool.
2. Dremel MM50-01 Multi-Max Oscillating DIY Tool Kit
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- 6-speed
- Easy chord length
- Easy to change accessories
Cons:
- Might not be a good option for beginners
- Maintenance can be very time-consuming
- The dim light below the wall attachments can be a distraction when working in dark areas
This Dremel oscillating tool comes with an innovative cordless and on-board accessory change option that is known as Tool-Less Accessory Change. It has an automatic setting that allows the different accessories to change into the tool when it is plugged into the charger. The tool comes with a one-hour charger to help with faster charging.
The tool comes with multiple accessories and attachments that can help with a variety of jobs. It is used by the contractor workmen to help with such tasks as involving the use of sanding, grinding, cutting, and polishing. This is a versatile item that can be used for a wide range of applications.
3. Bosch Power Tools Oscillating Saw
Pros:
- Comes with a magnesium shoe with anti-slip switch cover
- Makes for easy cutting and fast working on multiple surfaces including wood, plastics, tiles, laminated, and metal
- Has a universal fit, allowing the use of many accessories that come with it
- Can manage up to 110 mm blades
Cons:
- The blade takes a while to change
- It does not come with a dust collection attachment
- The DLC coating effects the sharpness of the blade
- For left-handers, changing the blade can be a problem
Includes: Blade, Cut-off Wheel, Grout Blade, Diamond Blade and Motor (BCF reflected on blade, may not be actual (20 Vac)
The Bosch oscillating saw is a StarlockPlus 4.0 Amp Oscillating Multi Tool Kit Oscillating Tool Kit that has a no-touch system for changing the blades. It includes a starlock chuck that allows for variable speed and the support of blades of different shapes and sizes.
The Bosch oscillating saw comes with a wireless remote that allows you to manage different features on the saw. It includes 32 settings from the pivot of the motor. It also includes laser lighting that helps you to see where you are cutting and the work surface. In addition, it uses a quick connect system to allow quick blade changes.
4. PORTER-CABLE Oscillating Tool Kit
Pros:
- Cheaper alternative to higher-end brands
- Large range of accessories included
- Great for use in tight spaces
- Reasonably lightweight
Cons:
- Use of plastic parts, especially the guard
- The accessories aren’t as strong as metal ones
Our top choice is the Porter-Cable oscillating tool kit, considering its incredible performance, the fact that it’s made by an established brand, as well as its reasonable price range. The brand has been around for over 100 years now, and it has lasted so long by making quality, reliable products. Their products are also easy to use, which is important to most users.
The oscillating tool kit comes with a wide range of oscillating accessories. There are 52 pieces in total, which allows you to carry out a plethora of jobs. They are stored in a toolbox with moveable sections, so it’s easy to find what you’re looking for. The pieces include oscillating discs, grinding and cutting accessories, sanding accessories, scraping accessories, fasteners, and much more.
5. 15 Wood/Metal Professional Oscillating Multi Tool Quick Release Saw Blades
Pros:
- For both wood and metal
- Quick-release mechanism allows for rapid attachment and removal
- Washable and reusable
- Well-made and professionally designed with perfect teeth angles for better cutting
Cons:
- Quite pricy
- Quick-release mechanism is made of plastic, rendering it non-adjustable and prone to wear and tear
- Blades are too wide for the Quick-Release mechanism and don’t snap in right away
- Blades are too thin for the Quick-Release mechanism, especially if you’re going to use them on hard wood floors
The Infinity Saw Blades from Rockwell are our best pick for oscillating multi-tools. These saws are made of hardened steel, so they can get the job done on both wood and steel. They can fit virtually any tool that accommodates a t-shank saw blade that has a distance of 1 3/8 in. or more from blade to motor.
There are eight random-position guide holes in the blades, which helps you to create pinpoint and accurate cuts of any shape and size. A cool feature about these blades is their quick-release mechanism, which allows for rapid attachment and detachment of the blade according to your needs.
Each blade comes with a full 1-year limited warranty.
6. Ryobi P340 One+ 18V Lithium Ion JobPlus Cordless Multi Tool
Pros:
- Quality construction with a good battery life
- Affordable considering the available features
- Can cut, sand, skim, grind, saw, scrape, and buff
- Very useful for woodwork
Cons:
- Feels a bit flimsy
- Poor attachment design
- Motor tends to get hot after a while
Oscillating tools are pretty cool. They are basically small reciprocating saws that make easy work of cutting wood, plastic, and metal. They can be used for cutting construction materials, molding, or for drilling holes for electrical cables.
The Ryobi P340 is one of the most popular oscillating tools available in the market, and for good reason too. It comes with three attachment heads – a drywall saw, a grout saw, and a scraper. You can switch between them with ease, thanks to the quick-change tool. You can also adjust oscillation as you go.
Of course, you don’t just use these for cutting. The tool allows you to sand, scrape, and saw. It also makes for a very useful countertop tool, as it can skimp and grind too. It’s also very quiet, and vibration is kept to a bare minimum, which means you don’t get tired out while using it.
7. Rockwell RK5142K 4.0 Amp Sonicrafter F50 Oscillating Multi-Tool
Pros:
- Easy to use and control
- Precise cuts that don't tear
- Puts out a decent amount of power
- Long battery life
- Foldable blade guard
Cons:
- When fully extended, the saw handle is quite heavy to hold
- The sanding attachment doesn't fit snuggly into the saw blade
Our top pick, the Rockwell RK5142K Sonicrafter, puts out a nice amount of power and is capable of handling a variety of tasks. It's easy to use, and the design makes it easy to control while you're cutting.
It's available in three different kits – one with the saw attachment only, one with the saw, sanding attachment, and a grout removal tool, and one with all three attachments. This model also comes with a one-year warranty so you can be confident it will last.
The Rockwell Sonicrafter has a Hyperlock clamping system that allows you to get it tight in seconds without risking damage to the workpiece. Plus the unique design makes for a fast, easy blade change. This saw comes with a powerful 4.0 Amp motor that’s capable of cutting metal and wood quickly and easily.
8. BLACK+DECKER Oscillating Multi-Tool
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Lightweight design
- Extremely versatile
- Great price point
- Great choice for DIYers
Cons:
- Noise levels are high
- Not ideal for regular woodworking
BLACK+DECKER is one of the best brands in the oscillating tool market, and the fact that this model is so affordable doesn’t hurt either. This is a great choice for first-time oscillating tool buyers who don’t want to break the bank but find vast utility and value in these tools.
The BD200MTB comes with a 3.0 Amp 2-speed design for maximum power and performance. It offers 10 different speed settings for versatility and works with a wide variety of attachments to further expand usability. With variable speed and torque, you have all the control you need to fix, grind, sand, carve, and cut.
The lightweight design and rubberized grip makes it easy to handle and comfortable to use. It is also flexible, meaning that you can access tight spaces and get the job done in no time. It comes with a one-year limited warranty and only weighs about 1.4lbs.
9. Genesis GMT15A 1.5 Amp Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool and 19-Piece Universal Hook-And-Loop Accessory Kit
Pros:
- Wide compatibility
- Very durable
- Accommodates large blades and attachments
- Easy blade replacement
- Maximum power output
- Variety of speeds/feeds for a range of applications
- Comes with a long power cord
- Tool-free blades insertion
- Variety of accessories included
- Very reasonably priced
Cons:
- Not suitable for cutting metal
- No dust extraction
Genesis GMT15A is certainly one of the best oscillating tool kits around. The tool offers a number of features that make your work easier and more precise. For example, the open-close switch, which is located at the base of the device, allows for convenient operation.
The tool comes with an adaptable control mode for a wide variety of projects. The tool includes a provision to adjust the speed and feeds of the device to match the project requirements.
The Genesis GMT15A is armed with a durable 15.8-volt lithium-ion battery which is a feature that makes the tool more powerful and durable. The Genesis GMT15A also comes with an additional power source of a 1.5-amp universal motor.
10. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Tool Kit
Pros:
- The price
- The lithium battery for long-lasting power
- 28 accessories included
- Has a metal gear housing
- Can cut through a variety of materials
- Lightweight and compact
- Two-year warranty
Cons:
- Plastic handle
- Switch can be jammed
- No carry case
If you’re looking for a cordless Dewalt oscillating tool for all your light-duty projects, then you can’t beat this package. The kit includes a variety of accessories and will be useful for both DIYers and seasoned professionals. The brushless motor performs well and there’s little maintenance needed to keep your tool working.
Lightweight and compact, you can easily carry it in your toolbox and maneuver it into any tight space. This item comes with a two-year warranty, and the lithium-ion battery is also guaranteed for life.
11. Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool
Pros:
- Tool-free blade changes
- Quick and easy blade changes
- Pre-drilled holes for easy accessory changes
- 16 position angle blade screw
- Includes 22 accessories
- Can cut wood, metal, and plastic
- 16 position orbital setting to speed up the process and reduce hand fatigue
- Well-balanced and lightweight cordless tool
- 6 amp motor to enhance cutting performance
- 13-piece accessory kit that includes 1 blade, 1 battery, and 12 sanding discs, cutout discs, sanding drums, and grinding wheels
Cons:
- Higher battery cost per charge
- Relatively expensive for a cordless tool
The Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool features a built-in LED light that makes working on small, tight, or odd spaces easier. It has a very constant speed and an impressive amount of torque for an oscillating tool.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is the best oscillating tool?
After reading through hundreds of oscillating tool reviews, we can comfortably say that we have found the best oscillating tool on the market. It comes from DEWALT.
The DEWALT DWE402 rating averaged out to 4.7 out of 5 stars, and it was by far the best reviewed on the market. The tool is corded, which adds to its power and functionality, and a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of applications.
When you look at all the factors that matter in an oscillating tool, such as comfort, versatility, and functionality, the DEWALT DWE402 has them all. The tool, also battery-powered, comes with a 30-pieces accessories kit. It comes with a dual-speed switch, a variable universal fit system, and a rubberized grip for optimal comfort.
What are the best oscillating tool blades?
Besides the blades, the oscillating tool also needs to have a proper speed. In fact, its speed has a great impact on the quality of the machine.
Also, it should have an insulated grip. The grip should be made of fiberglass, plastic or wood.
What Is An Oscillating Tool?
Oscillating tools are also called multi-tool. Number of features make it different from the other hand-held power tools. The most important feature is the blade at the end. The blades can oscillate in an oscillating pattern. The oscillation allows for a cutting or grinding wheel to move forward. The tool allows for a more efficient use of the blades.
In some cases, the blades don’t oscillate at all. Instead, the oscillating tool is used as a sander tool only. But generally, they oscillate.
What can an oscillating tool do?
An oscillating tool (or an OSL we should better say) is an all purpose power tool which can be used for a variety of tasks including cutting, scraping, polishing, sanding, and routing. Its name originates from the oscillating motion the tool makes when turned on.
The particular movement is achieved by a round grinding disk with a symmetric round hole in the middle. The tool spins itself around its axis and oscillates from side to side. Taking advantage of this circular motion, these power tools can do a lot of work very fast and efficiently.
They are our favorite multi-taskers to have around on a daily basis, and it is safe to say that we are not alone in this opinion since these tools are extremely popular.
Are oscillating tools worth it?
If you are a DIY homeowner and handyman, then a good oscillating tool is a must. They are an excellent tool for drywall, woodworking, general repair work, and a host of other applications.
With that in mind, let's get into the details of oscillating tools so that you can buy the best one.
Conclusion
Today, there are a ton of oscillating tool brands and models out there. This makes it slightly difficult for consumers to pick the right one. In order to help you make an informed decision, we sat down to do a few hours of research and checked out five models. We defined the best oscillating tool based on power, versatility, comfort, cost and accessories, and each of these models featured at least three of these defining characteristics. We believe that the Dremel 3200 is the best oscillating tool in the market today.