The Best Cordless Oscillating Multi Tool — Buyers Guide, Review, and Comparison

Oscillations Per Minute (OPM)

Where drills are measured in rpm, rotary hammers in bpm, cordless multitools are defined in terms of OPM — or oscillations per minute.

This describes the frequency at which the motor head vibrates every sixty seconds. And, in theory, the higher the OPM, the more rapid the machine at sanding and cutting.

Precise cutting and honing applications usually require a slower speed — around 8000 OPM — whereas rust removal and timber smoothing typically demand a more intense output — about 17000 OPM. What’s ideal for you depends on the nature of your projects.

OPM Range and Control

In my opinion, the best battery powered multi tool will have an expansive OPM range — increasing the scope of applications the machine can deal with. Units such as the Makita XMT03Z offer a spectrum of 6000-20000 OPM, making the tool ideal for both steady accuracy-demanding jobs and high-velocity repetitive work.

Furthermore, also consider how the speeds are selected. Some units, for example, the Porter Cable PCC710, have factory set intensity levels — adjusted by rotating a dial. Other models — like the DeWalt DCS355B — boast a throttle, permitting you to select a virtually infinite number of velocities from 0-20000 OPM depending on how tightly you squeeze the trigger.

Brushed or Brushless Multi Tool

The internal powerhouse of every oscillating multitool will either be brushed or brushless. For an in-depth examination of these two motor formats, check out my ultimate Brushed Vs Brushless Motor Battle.

In brief, the difference is one of efficiency, with the brushless format having less energy wastage through heat and friction than its brushed counterpart. This is a crucial factor when looking at battery-driven machines — as the lower volume of power input the motor requires, the longer the cell will last off a single charge.

Therefore, I would always recommend opting for a multi tool brushless format — as exemplified by the DeWalt DCS356B — over its less efficient sibling. However, bear in mind that they are somewhat tougher on the wallet.

Included Accessories

Always investigate what additional accessories are included in your chosen cordless multi tool kit.

Some units arrive with nothing more than a cutting blade. Other machines, such as the Porter Cable PCC710, come with a plethora of extras such as universal tool adapter, sanding plates, and sanding sheets. Choosing wisely for your initial purchase can save money in the long run.

Perhaps most importantly, check whether your item is a cordless multi tool with battery and charger. The common trend is for retailers to market their machines as tool-only — without the crucial cell and charging unit.

Discovering upon opening the box that your machine lacks these two components is not only severely disappointing — but also means further expense.

LED Lamp

Many battery oscillating multi tool machines, like the DeWalt DCS355B, boast an integrated LED lamp.

Mounted on the tool head, they can provide welcome illumination in poorly lit areas such as in attics, beneath floorboards, and between drywall slats — negating the requirements for a torch or secondary work lamp.

And, using LED tech, they are low on power demands, having little effect on the running time of the battery.

Size and Weight

Consider the demands of your projects. If you often find yourself working in confined spaces, a shorter unit — such as the 10.9-inch Makita MT01Z — will provide more straightforward use than a longer machine.

Furthermore, a lighter weight tool is crucial for projects that are heavy on time — preventing the onset of fatigue. That said, battery-powered models are usually heftier than their corded counterparts — as you’re wielding a battery as well as the multitool itself.