An oscillating tool is an extremely versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks. It is a multi tool that can be used as a pre-work tool or a post-work tool for adding final touches. Some of the essential functions that you can perform using this tool include cutting, removing old glue, and carpeting. The device is multi-faceted to enable you to use a wide range of accessories with the equipment to produce different results. For you to know which features are the most important for you in an oscillating tool, you need to know what you will use it for since different tasks require different accessories.
The most common function of an oscillating tool is cutting things that are hard to reach. You can use the tool to cut angles that are hard to handle. This function is most useful when carpeting. The device is used to trim off excess portions of carpets that stick out at the edge, which would be hard to cut entirely with a traditional cutting tool.
An oscillating tool can also be used as a grouting tool to remove grouting around tiles, like a sander that sands across curves and corners, allowing you to choose the degree of smoothness you require and also as a scrapper to remove rust or putty. With advanced skills, you can use this tool for more functions since these are just essential functions. Read this guide for you to know how to choose the best oscillating tool that will suit your needs as well as the best tools in the market.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Oscillating Tool
Once you decide to buy an oscillating tool, you need to research and make critical decisions regarding the features you need the most. We made it easier for you by listing some of the key elements that are critical in an oscillating tool.
- Power
Its power and speed determine the efficiency of an oscillating tool. Power can generally be defined as the tool’s capacity to perform a task. For corded machines, the ability will indicate the amount of current that the device draws from the mains. A 3A device performs most of the primary functions perfectly. For cordless tools, power refers to the battery capacity in terms of voltage and ampere-hour. Voltage determines the power the machine produces while ampere-hour indicates the battery life. For cordless tools, always check out the charging time of the battery and also the weight.
- Durability
You must check how durable an oscillating tool is as this helps you get long service out of a device. The material used for the body will give you a hint on the durability of the tool. The warranty is also another indicator of strength. Most manufacturers provide warranty durations equal to the time the product is likely to last without defects. It is, therefore, safe to say that the more extended the warranty, the more durable the product. It is also essential to read reviews from other customers who purchased a similar tool. This helps you get genuine feedback on what they got and how efficient the oscillating tool is before you buy.
- Performance
Performance is defined as the effectiveness with which a machine translates power to results. For you to choose the best tool, you need to compare the amount of energy the device draws to the output it gives. The speed could also measure the performance it takes to accomplish a task. You don’t want to end up with a machine that uses too much power and is still slow. The variety of functions that an oscillating tool can accomplish is also a great way to gauge performance. Always go for the device that gives you a wide array of tasks to perform.
- Versatility
When choosing an oscillating tool, always look at the different choices of accessories provided. These accessories determine which tasks you can perform using the machine. Some machines come with adapters, and this helps you to use accessories from other brands. It also increases the versatility of the tool. Another essential feature to look at is the angle in which the attachment rests relative to the appliance. You need to have more freedom with the accessory to help you reach even the sharpest of corners.
- Cost
You need to know the current market price of oscillating tools when fixing your budget. You need to compare the price of the machine to the features you get. From there, you can make the necessary adjustments or compromises. It is also essential to make sure you buy a reputable brand that will be relatively expensive. It is better to buy a tool for more and use it for a long time than keep buying cheap tools that keep breaking down and needing replacements.
Top Oscillating Tools In 2020 (Best Picks)
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Summary of the Best Oscillating Tools For 2020
We have researched to make it easier for you to find the best tool for your needs. We have listed the best six oscillating tools that have outstanding features. These have been tried and tested by experts and confirmed to be the best in the market.
| Product name | Key features |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Tool, Brushless, Tool Only (DCS355B) | DEWALT Brushless Motor Has a quick change accessory System that allows changes quickly without wrenches Has a dual grip Variable Speed Trigger Bright LED Light to help you work even in dark spaces. Comes with a universal accessory adapter that accommodates extra accessories Battery & Charger Sold Separately Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20 volts. Nominal voltage is 18 |
| Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool | 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery provides up to 20 minutes of continuous run time Variable speed control dial (6, 000 to 20, 000 OPM) enables the user to match the speed to the application 3.2Degree oscillation angle engineered for faster, more aggressive cutting and sanding Large on/off slide switch with lock-on button for operator convenience Tool-less clamp system for quick accessory installation |
| Genesis GMT15A 1.5 Amp Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool and Accessory Kit with Storage Box | A multifunctional tool for home repair, remodeling, and restoration 21,000 oscillations per minute for fast sanding, grinding, cutting, and scraping Has a 4-pin flange design that holds accessories firmly in place Sturdy die-cast aluminum gear housing for durability Includes 3-inch Delta sanding pad, sandpaper, scraping blade, 30 mm E-cut saw blade, HSS segment saw blade and Allen wrench |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit, Variable Speed (DCS356D1) | Has a 3-speed selector that allows users to choose their speed setting based on application Brushless motor delivers up to 57% more run time over brushed Dual-grip variable speed trigger gives users ultimate speed and application control Universal accessory adapter for use with most oscillating tool accessory brands The quick-change accessory system allows blades and attachments to be changed quickly without wrenches |
| Bosch Power Tools Oscillating Saw – GOP40-30C – StarlockPlus 4.0 Amp Oscillating MultiTool Kit Oscillating Tool Kit Has No-touch Blade-Change System | Easy to attach and remove different blades Accurate cutting, grinding, scraping and sanding due to more contact surface area Powerful oscillating saw with a motor speed of 20,000 oscillations per minute Has a variable speed dial that helps to set optimal speed and maintains the speed under load Includes one oscillating multi-tool, one 1-1/4”inch carbide plunge blade, one 1-1/4” inch plunge blade, one 1-1/4” inch extra-clean plunge blade, one 3-1/2” inch segment blade, one 2” inch rigid scraper blade, one sanding pad, twenty-five sanding sheets, one accessory box, and one carrying case |
| DEWALT Oscillating Tool Kit, Corded, 3-Amp, 29 Pieces (DWE315K) | Has a powerful 3amp motor that provides strong performance for cutting and sanding; Oscillations/min: 0-22,000 OPM Has a quick-change accessory system that allows blades and attachments to be changed quickly without wrenches The dual grip variable speed trigger gives users ultimate speed and application control Has a bright LED light that illuminates dark work surfaces for accurate cutting The 29 piece accessory kit with storage box includes popular cutting and sanding attachments |
Popular Oscillating Tools Reviewed
1.DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Tool, Brushless, Tool Only (DCS355B
This DEWALT tool is sturdy and durable; it is lightweight and easy to work with. It is cordless, thus making it versatile and easy to use in tight spaces and places without a power source.
Features
- DEWALT Brushless Motor
- Has a quick change accessory System that allows changes quickly without wrenches
- Has a dual grip Variable Speed Trigger
- Bright LED Light to help you work even in dark spaces.
- Comes with a universal accessory adapter that accommodates extra accessories
- Battery & Charger Sold Separately
- Maximum initial battery voltage (measured without a workload) is 20 volts. Nominal voltage is 18
Specifications
- Power source: battery powered
- Voltage: 20 volts
- Battery cell type: lithium-ion
2. Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool, Tool Only
This tool is lightweight and easy to use; it has a variable speed trigger that helps you regulate the speed depending on the task at hand. It is easy to change the accessories on this tool due to its clamp system.
Features
- 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery provides up to 20 minutes of continuous run time
- Variable speed control dial (6, 000 to 20, 000 OPM) enables the user to match the speed to the application
- 3.2Degree oscillation angle engineered for faster, more aggressive cutting and sanding
- Large on/off slide switch with lock-on button for operator convenience
- Tool-less clamp system for quick accessory installation
Specifications
- Voltage: 18v
- Power source: battery powered
- Warranty: 3years
3. Genesis GMT15A 1.5 Amp Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool and Accessory Kit with Storage Box
This oscillating tool is perfect for buyers on a budget. It is affordable, powerful, and comes with most of the accessories that you need for any project. To add on all these great qualities is a storage box for secure storage and portability.
Features
- A multifunctional tool for home repair, remodeling, and restoration
- 21,000 oscillations per minute for fast sanding, grinding, cutting, and scraping
- Has a 4-pin flange design that holds accessories firmly in place
- Sturdy die-cast aluminum gear housing for durability
- Includes 3-inch Delta sanding pad, sandpaper, scraping blade, 30 mm E-cut saw blade, HSS segment saw blade and Allen wrench
Specifications
- Voltage: 120v
- Warranty: 2years
4. DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit, Variable Speed (DCS356D1)
DEWALT is a reputable brand in the tools industry for making durable and efficient tools. This oscillating multi-tool stands out due to its brushless motor. It delivers more output due to reduced friction. It has a universal accessory adapter that enables you to use accessories from other brands.
Features
- Has a 3-speed selector that allows users to choose their speed setting based on application
- Brushless motor delivers up to 57% more run time over brushed
- Dual-grip variable speed trigger gives users ultimate speed and application control
- Universal accessory adapter for use with most oscillating tool accessory brands
- The quick-change accessory system allows blades and attachments to be changed quickly without wrenches
Specifications
- Battery cell type: lithium-ion
- Voltage: 20v
5. Bosch Power Tools Oscillating Saw – GOP40-30C – StarlockPlus 4.0 Amp Oscillating MultiTool Kit Oscillating Tool Kit Has No-touch Blade-Change System
This device is powerful, and it comes with most of the accessories you might need. It is fast and has a larger contact surface area giving your work excellent finish.
Features
- Easy to attach and remove the different blade
- Accurate cutting, grinding, scraping and sanding due to more contact surface area
- Powerful oscillating saw with a motor speed of 20,000 oscillations per minute
- Has a variable speed dial that helps to set optimal speed and maintains the speed under load
- Includes one oscillating multi tool, one 1-1/4”inch carbide plunge blade, one 1-1/4” inch plunge blade, one 1-1/4” inch extra-clean plunge blade, one 3-1/2” inch segment blade, one 2” inch rigid scraper blade, one sanding pad, twenty-five sanding sheets, one accessory box, and one carrying case
Specifications
- Power source: corded electric
- Voltage: 120v
6.DEWALT Oscillating Tool Kit, Corded, 3-Amp, 29 Pieces (DWE315K)
The Dewalt tool kit is a powerful and efficient tool that comes with extra accessories and a storage kit. It has a bright LED light that helps you to work efficiently, even on dark surfaces.
Features
- Has a powerful 3amp motor that provides strong performance for cutting and sanding; Oscillations/min: 0-22,000 OPM
- Has a quick-change accessory system that allows blades and attachments to be changed quickly without wrenches
- The dual grip variable speed trigger gives users ultimate speed and application control
- Has a bright LED light that illuminates dark work surfaces for accurate cutting
- The 29 piece accessory kit with storage box includes popular cutting and sanding attachments
Specifications
- Power source: corded electric
- Warranty: 3 years
Top 5 Uses For Oscillating Tools
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Oscillating Tools
Now that you know what to look for in the best oscillating tool and also the best tools in the market, you might have a few questions popping up in your mind. We answered some of the most common questions to help you get answers to questions you might have. Read on:
Q. What is an oscillating multi-tool used for?
An oscillating tool is versatile and is used for multiple purposes. It can be used for polishing, sawing, sanding, cutting, grinding, and scraping. They are popular because they reduce the list of tools that are required to accomplish a task. They are used by professionals in the home repair industries, the construction industry, and also homeowners. These tools are quite adaptable, making DIY project lovers embrace them too. They are handy for almost all projects and help you reduce clutter in your garage by having just one tool that accomplishes practically all tasks for a project.
Q. Can I use an oscillating tool on any material?
Oscillating tools are mostly used on wood, metal, plastic, tile, drywall, and cement. For you to know if you can use the oscillating tool on a particular material, read the instructions on the device. Also, make sure that you use the right blades and accessories for the content you are working with to make sure your tool lasts longer.
Which accessories are the most important in an oscillating tool?
For oscillating tools, there isn’t one blade that can perform all tasks. You need to purchase different accessories for different functions. The type of accessories you need will be determined by the kind of jobs you need to accomplish using the machine. Always check what a kit comes with before buying. This will help you choose one that suits your needs. The more accessories you have, the more tasks you can perform using the oscillating tool. Having the right accessory increases efficiency and accuracy, minimizes breakage, and reduces the chances of low-quality results.
Between a cordless oscillating tool and a corded one, which is better?
Both corded and cordless oscillating tools work perfectly. For you to know which one you should go for, you need to consider your working environment and proximity to the source of power. If most of your tasks will involve spaces that are far from the source of energy, you should get a cordless tool. Cordless tools require batteries, and you need to make sure you purchase it separately if it doesn’t come with a battery. Cordless tools are preferred for tasks that require a lot of precision since you can work as close to the piece of work as possible.
How do I maintain my oscillating tool?
Just like any other tool, you need to practice proper maintenance measures for your oscillating tool to serve you well. Always use the right blade for the task you’re tackling. It is also vital to change blades when changing the material you’re handling. This is because some modules are not strong enough for sturdy materials. Another significant measure is to clean the tool after use. A lot of debris is trapped between the blade and the device when working. Always clean that space after removing the edge. Another excellent maintenance practice is to store the tool properly after use.
Final word
An oscillating multi-tool is a versatile tool that doesn’t limit the tasks you can do with it. You can use the different accessories that come with the device for various tasks to get varying results. For you to choose the best oscillating tool, you have to balance the variables according to your needs. Choosing the best tool can be such a task since you have to look at varied features, the prices, and also different brands that are available in the market. You need to read a guide such as this one to make your search easy and enjoyable.
When choosing the best tool, it is crucial to know the functions that you need to accomplish and what features are required for that. Make sure that the machine you choose comes with the blades you need for your tasks. It is essential to look at the power output of the tool to know which tasks it can accomplish comfortably. You could also consider getting a cordless tool if you will be working in compact spaces or far from power sources.
When choosing an oscillating tool, do not ignore its durability and versatility. Choose a tool whose body doesn’t breakdown easily and can also fit in tight spaces. You should also get a device with several blade options to give you a wide variety of tasks you can accomplish. The battery of an oscillating tool is also another factor that will determine how long you will use the device without interruption. Choose a machine with a durable battery.
You need to have a set budget for buying an oscillating tool. For tools, the better it is, the pricier it will be. Therefore make sure you have enough money to get a device that is versatile and durable. It is wise to buy an oscillating tool with a reasonable warranty and also made by a reputable brand. We hope that this guide will be helpful in your search for the best tool and make it easier for you to access all the information you need. We wish you all the best in your search and future projects.
Last update on 2023-02-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
