Best Oscillating Tool Reviews

Why don’t you have an oscillating tool yet? This is a tool that does a myriad of work including trimming, cutting, grout removal, sanding, window repair, paint preparation, and drywall cutting, to name a few.

It is hard to top its versatility, which is why it is super useful for contractors, handymen, and anybody doing DIY reno.

We’ve got for you here 7 oscillating tool reviews and an overview of what to look for when choosing what to buy.

Scroll down for the best oscillating tools that you can rely on for a whole lot of tasks.

OUR TOP PICK

The Bosch GOP40-30C is our pick for the best oscillating tool. This heavy-duty professional model has an impressive 4-amp motor with a variable speed ranging from 8,000 to 20,000 OPM. It is comfortable to handle and comes as a kit with blades, a sanding pad and a carrying case.

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The Best Oscillating Tools Are:

Product	Details
1. Bosch GOP40-30C	1. Bosch GOP40-30C Top Pick	- Speed: 8,000 – 20,000 OPM - No. of Accessories: 30 - Power: 4 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 3.3 pounds	Check Current Price
2. Genesis GMT15A 1.5-Amp Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool	2. Genesis GMT15A 1.5-Amp Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool	- Speed: 21,000 OPM - No. of Accessories: 19 - Power: 1.5 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 2.75 pounds	Check Current Price
3. Rockwell RK5151K 4.2-Amp Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool	3. Rockwell RK5151K 4.2-Amp Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool	- Speed: 10,000 – 19,000 OPM - No. of Accessories: 10 - Power: 4.2 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 4 pounds	Check Current Price
4. DeWALT DCS355B 20V Max XR Oscillating Tool	4. DeWALT DCS355B 20V Max XR Oscillating Tool	- Speed: 20,000 OPM - Power: 20-Volt Battery - Power Source: Battery-Powered - Weight: 2.73 pounds	Check Current Price
5. Porter-Cable PCE605K52 Oscillating Tool Kit	5. Porter-Cable PCE605K52 Oscillating Tool Kit	- Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM - No. of Accessories: 52 - Power: 3 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 7.65 pounds	Check Current Price
6. DeWALT DWE315K Oscillating Tool Kit	6. DeWALT DWE315K Oscillating Tool Kit	- Speed: 0 – 22,000 OPM - No. of Accessories: 29 - Power: 3 Amps - Power Source: Electric-Powered - Weight: 3.1 pounds	Check Current Price
7. Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool	7. Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool	- Speed: 6,000 – 20,000 OPM - No. of Accessories: None - Power: 18V Battery - Power Source: Battery-Powered - Weight: 4.9 pounds	Check Current Price

1. Bosch GOP40-30C: Best Oscillating Multi-Tool

This Bosch StarlockPlus tool is a reliable kit for professionals and serious DIYers.

Its variable speed runs from 8,000 to 20,000 oscillations per minute. The Starlock interface transfers torque well, so sanding, cutting and scraping take less effort.

Its 3.0-degree oscillating arc balances cutting speed and control.

And even when you demand more from it, its intrinsic Constant Response Circuitry feature will ensure that it will keep up with your rigorous demands.

This multi-tool has everything you need for all-around construction or renovation work. Aside from the multi-tool, it also comes with a carbide plunge blade, an extra clean plunge blade, a rigid scraper blade, a segment blade, sanding pad, sanding sheets, an accessory box, and a carrying case.

Its 4.0-amp motor is among the strongest here.

You can adjust the speed through its variable-speed dial. You can go as slow or as fast as you want, depending on what your project needs. Even when it is loaded, it still maintains a uniform speed with its Constant Response Circuitry.

At 3.3 pounds and 11.4 inches long, it is compact and comfortable for long sessions. Vibration is low, which reduces hand strain.

It also comes with a flexible accessory orientation feature, which means you can customize the position of the accessories to get optimum results. And since the cord has a ball joint swivel function, you can get the angle you need.

Changing accessories is simple: pull the release lever, remove the old blade and press in the new one. Unplug the tool first.

Specs

Speed: 8,000 – 20,000 OPM
Power: 4 Amps
Power Source: Electric-Powered
Weight: 3.3 pounds

Pros

Comes with virtually everything you need for all-round renovation and construction work
Very powerful motor
Variable speed dial to adjust the speed
Lightweight and very easy to use

Cons

Starlock accessories cost more than universal-fit blades

Verdict

Great for Professional Use: If you are a professional in need of a reliable oscillating tool that you can use for a variety of purposes, this is a good choice. It is made for heavy-duty jobs and has easy-to-use functionality that will make this an indispensable tool in your arsenal.

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2. Genesis GMT15A 1.5-Amp Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool

This budget oscillating tool still comes with a useful kit: a 3-inch delta sanding paper, a few sandpapers, a scraping blade, a saw blade, a segment saw blade, and an Allen wrench.

It is comparatively lower in power with only 1.5 amps under its belt, but it can provide up to 21,000 oscillations per minute.

Its die-cast aluminum gear housing helps shed heat. You can be assured that all accessories are held in place with its four-pin flange design.

With this tool, you should be able to do a multitude of things including using it as a power scraper, as a grout remover, a detail sander, and as a close-quarter saw.

This oscillating tool will not break the bank, and it still covers the basic jobs. Its small motor runs at a single speed, so it works best on light cutting and sanding.

It is a flexible product as well. It comes with an adapter that will allow you to use blades from other manufacturers, so you are not restricted to the ones produced by this company. This product is backed by a 2-year warranty.

Specs

Speed: 21,000 OPM
No. of Accessories: 19
Power: 1.5 Amps
Power Source: Electric-Powered
Weight: 2.75 pounds

Pros

Not expensive
Lightweight
Accepts other brands' blades with the adapter
Comes with many accessories

Cons

It is not ideal for heavy-duty projects because of the weaker motor power

Verdict

For the Home Renovator: If you do not want to break the bank buying an oscillating tool that you probably will only be able to use a few times, this should be a good candidate. It is not as powerful, but it should suffice in doing all-around jobs in the house.

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3. Rockwell RK5151K 4.2-Amp Sonicrafter F80 Oscillating Multi-Tool

When the manufacturers designed this tool, they had the comfort and the needs of users in mind. It has two oscillating angles: 5.0 degrees and 3.4 degrees. Most tools offer only one.

The former allows you to become more aggressive in creating those cuts while the latter affords the user more precise control over what they are cutting.

The user-friendliness of this tool does not just end there. It also features a Hyperlock Blade changing system, which means you can change your blades without the need for another tool. Rockwell rates the clamp at 1 ton of clamping force, which keeps the blade in place.

It comes complete with everything you need in a cutting tool. This product includes a sanding pad, 6 different kinds of blades and sanding sheets.

Rockwell markets it under its ZeroQuit durability line, and it accepts blades from most other manufacturers.

It has a variable speed setting. You can set it to go as slow as 10,000 oscillations per minute to as fast as 19,000 oscillations per minute. Rockwell lists a maximum cutting load of 35 pounds, meaning it keeps cutting under heavy feed pressure. It comes with a box that will hold all the tools and accessories and keep them organized.

Specs

Speed: 10,000 – 19,000 OPM
No. of Accessories: 10
Power: 4.2 Amps
Power Source: Electric-Powered
Weight: 4 pounds

Pros

Delivers quicker and more aggressive cuts
Comes with everything you need in a cutting tool
Two oscillating angles
Highly versatile, as it accepts blades from other manufacturers

Cons

Some users said it is a bit loud

Verdict

Most User-Friendly: The ability to change the cutting angle of this oscillating tool makes this a great choice for professional contractors who might benefit from its angle flexibility. It is very powerful although it still affords you a lot of control as to how fast and aggressive you want the cutting to get.

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4. DeWALT DCS355B 20V Max XR Oscillating Tool

This is a bare tool: the battery and charger are sold separately, which suits you if you already own DeWALT 20V batteries. Its brushless motor runs cooler and lasts longer than a brushed motor.

Through its universal accessory adaptor, you can use whatever blade you have in your tool kit. It also features a Dual-Grip Variable Speed Trigger that allows users to control how fast or slow they want the oscillating tool to go.

It has a built-in LED light and is compact but strong. You can get a 3-year limited manufacturer’s warranty with your purchase.

Specs

Speed: 20,000 OPM
Power: 20-Volt Battery
Power Source: Battery-Powered
Weight: 2.73 pounds

Pros

Durable tool
Comes with an adapter that allows you to install your existing blades
More maneuverability
Inbuilt LED light

Cons

Kinda noisy
Battery and charger sold separately

Verdict

Most Reliable and Durable: The brushless motor reduces wear and extends the tool's life, and it has plenty of power for sanding, scraping and cutting.

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5. Porter-Cable PCE605K52 Oscillating Tool Kit

Porter-Cable has made power tools for more than a century. The PCE605K52 kit stands out for its large accessory set.

This oscillating tool comes with a powerful 3.0-amp motor with variable speed control. The oscillation per minute of this tool ranges from 10,000 to 20,000. It is corded, and the full kit weighs about 7.65 pounds.

It handles a wide range of everyday projects. The power cord of this tool is 10 feet long, and this gives you a degree of freedom when using.

This tool offers enough control and power to cut, scrape, grind, or sand a wide range of materials. It is very easy to use despite its weight. It is also very easy and fast to change accessories.

You do not need any tool to change the accessories, thanks to its tool-less change system. It comes with a removable depth guide that allows you to control the cutting depth of the tool. You can also remove it in a matter of seconds when you do not need it.

This tool also features a three-position over-mold grip that makes it very comfortable to handle. With this feature, you can hold the back, middle, or front, providing you with better precision and stability.

It comes with 52 accessories that cover most common jobs.

Specs

Speed: 10,000 – 20,000 OPM
No. of Accessories: 52
Power: 3 Amps
Power Source: Electric-Powered
Weight: 7.65 pounds (kit)

Pros

Very long power cord for easy movement
You can change accessories in second without any tools
52 accessories to handle a variety of projects
Variable speed control

Cons

It is a bit weighty

Verdict

Impressive Power: If you are looking for the best oscillating tool that delivers impressive power, simple operation, and reliability, then this is the tool you need. It comes with a 3-amp motor and 52 accessories for most jobs around the home and workshop.

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6. DeWALT DWE315K Oscillating Tool Kit

This is another very powerful oscillating tool from DeWALT. The DeWALT DWE315K Oscillating Tool Kit is a corded tool that comes with an impressive 3-amp motor. The motor delivers great performance for sanding and cutting. It also offers a variable speed ranging from 0 to 22,000 oscillations per minute. The variable speed settings allow you to customize the speed of the tool to suit your application. With such a speed range, you can handle a variety of tasks with ease.

It has a rugged design for daily shop use. It is ideal for trimming, sanding, cutting, and scraping.

This unit comes with 29 pieces of DeWALT accessories, and it includes all the popular sanding and cutting accessories that you need. It also comes with a box to help you store, organize, and transport your accessories.

It also allows you to change the accessories quickly and easily without wrenches. It also comes with an inbuilt LED light to illuminate your workpiece in poor light conditions. This tool features an oscillating tool guide system, and this allows you to customize the depth or height for accurate repeatability.

It is also lightweight, as it weighs only 3.1 pounds. The lightweight and compact design allow for prolonged use without getting fatigued quickly.

Specs

Speed: 0 – 22,000 OPM
No. of Accessories: 29
Power: 3 Amps
Power Source: Electric-Powered
Weight: 3.1 pounds

Pros

Powerful motor to handle a variety of applications
Tool-less accessory change system
It allows you to adjust the depth and height of your cut
An inbuilt LED light to illuminate your workpiece

Cons

A longer power cord would have been better

Verdict

Value for Money: This tool is well built. It comes with many great features such as an LED light, a tool-free accessory changing system, a tool guide system, a variable speed control, and more.

It also offers added versatility, providing you with faster and cleaner results. It comes with 29 accessories that you can use to handle a wide range of projects with ease.

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7. Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool

And for our last oscillating tool review, If you are looking for a highly versatile oscillating tool, you might want to consider this Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool.

One of the most outstanding features of this tool is its cordless nature and this makes it highly portable. This means you can use the tool anywhere without looking for a power source. It runs on Makita 18V LXT batteries, which are sold separately.

Like all oscillating multi-tools, it handles more than cutting, including scraping and sanding. It also comes with an ergonomic design that makes it very comfortable and easy to handle. You can use it to work for long without feeling fatigued.

It features a 3.2-degree oscillation angle for more aggressive, faster sanding and cutting. This multi-tool also comes with a variable speed dial, with speed ranging from 6,000 to 20,000 oscillations per minute.

Variable speed gives you more control. For convenience, this tool comes with a large on/off slide switch with lock-on button.

The tool-free clamp system allows you to swap out accessories easily and quickly. The motor stops automatically when the battery needs recharging, which protects the battery. The soft-start feature is also there to provide you with smooth start-ups. With the battery in it, this tool weighs 4.9 pounds.

Specs

Speed: 6,000 – 20,000 OPM
No. of Accessories: None
Power: 18V Battery
Power Source: Battery-Powered
Weight: 4.9 pounds

Pros

A sharp 3.2-degree oscillation angle for aggressive cutting and sanding
Ergonomic design
Great at sanding, scraping, and cutting
Highly versatile and multifunctional tool

Cons

You have to purchase the battery and charger separately

Verdict

Most Versatile: If you are looking for a highly versatile oscillating tool, you should consider this option. As a cordless tool, it offers more maneuverability and freedom, and it handles cutting, scraping and sanding jobs.

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Tips In Buying An Oscillating Tool

Craftsman oscillating multi-tool

Photo by Charles & Hudson, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Here are a few more things you need to consider to avoid spending too much on your oscillating tool:

Consider How Much Power You Need For The Job

For construction work, choose a higher-amperage corded tool or a brushless cordless model. However, if you only need one for some simple DIY projects at home, something cheaper and with less power might suffice.

Choose Something That Allows You To Change The Blade Easily

It should have a toolless mechanism that will allow you to change blades easily. If you still need to use tools, that can be a big hassle. Also, make sure it is compatible with different kinds of blades unless you want to spend more money on new blades.

It Should Last For A Long Time

Check the build and the casing. Look for a metal gear housing that stands up to heat and wear and tear.

The More Accessories, The Better

You should go for an oscillating tool that comes with basic and most commonly used accessories. The more the accessories, the better, as they allow you to handle a variety of projects straight out of the box.

If you are buying a tool that does not come with accessories, you need to make sure the tool can work with the accessories you already have.

Choose A Highly Versatile Tool

Versatility is very important when buying an oscillating tool. Versatility determines the number of functions you can use the tool for. This factor is also tied to the type of accessories the tool comes with.

The kind of accessories it comes with determines the kind of function it can perform. As such, we recommend a versatile tool that accepts a wide range of accessories.

Work Safely

Unplug the tool or remove the battery before changing blades. OSHA says to disconnect tools when changing accessories such as blades. Blades get hot, so let them cool first.

Wear safety glasses. Removing grout or cutting mortar creates silica dust, and OSHA warns that respirable crystalline silica is created when grinding mortar and can cause incurable lung disease. Use a vacuum attachment and a properly fitted respirator.

In homes built before 1978, test old paint for lead before scraping or sanding it. The EPA notes pre-1978 homes are more likely to have lead-based paint.

Conclusion

Our top pick is the Bosch GOP40-30C Power Tools Oscillating Saw because its 4-amp motor and variable speed handle a wide range of projects, and the Starlock interface makes blade changes quick.

Sources

Silica, Crystalline: Overview, Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Reduce the Risk of Lead Exposure at Home, U.S. EPA
Hand and Power Tools (OSHA 3080), Occupational Safety and Health Administration