Compact 300w motor delivers 0-20,000 oscillations per minute, providing faster completion of the most demanding tasks Sanding right into corners is a difficult task at the best of times and is extremely tiring when you have lots of them to do in one go. The hook and loop sanding pad you can attach to the front of the oscillating tool are ideal for these situations. You’re not going to use the tool to sand down a whole floor, but when you need to get into a tight spot, the multi tool is unbeatable. Next up are cutting blades – there are tons of different types of cutting blades available but the one that changed the way I work the most is the straight cutting blade. It lets you plunge cuts directly into the workpiece like a chisel, but without using much effort at all, and they’re available in a whole host of widths. A tool-free blade change system is a really handy feature with an oscillating tool as there is a huge array of accessories that is available.

The brushless motor of the DCS355 runs with less friction making it more efficient than a motor with brushes. According to DeWalt, this tool has 57% more run time compared to a brushed motor, allowing you to use it for a longer time before having to recharge the battery. While not the fastest-cutting multi-tool, at a top speed of 20,000 OPM and an oscillating angle of 1.6° (3.2° L/R combined), the DeWalt Cordless Oscillating Tool runs properly. Battery Indicator and LED Light The oscillating multi tool’s unique selling point is in its name – its ability to oscillate. When you hold the body of the tool and switch it on, the head of the tool moves from side to side in a narrow arc at a very rapid rate. The oscillation rate (which can be over 20,000 opm), is usually controlled using a speed dial or a variable speed trigger. If you compare two of the best multi tools I’ve tested out – the DeWalt DCS355N-XJ and DWE315KT – they’re almost identical. Both DeWalt multi tools put out the same excellent range of oscillations per minute (opm). They also have a similar weight and grip shape. The most common multi tool accessories are blades, scrapers, cutting discs and sanding pads, and these are often included with the tool itself.

Battery Indicator and LED Light

Really, it’s down to your own personal preference. Cordless models are great if you’re working up a ladder, but if you do most of your work indoors you just don’t need one. If you’ve already bought into a major brand of battery-powered tools, just get a “bare” multi tool and save a few quid. Types of Multi Cutters This Bosch multi tool comes with an auxiliary handle that can be fitted to either side of it. This makes it steadier to control and absorbs more vibration when faced with those longer jobs. A soft start and variable speed setting with 6 speeds control the oscillation rate (max 20,000 opm). The truth is oscillating tools haven’t been around that long in the UK, maybe 10 years or so. They in fact derive from a power tool designed and developed by the Fein manufacturing company in the US to remove plaster casts from hospital patients! Cordless versions are safer than corded ones because there is no lead, and they are more portable too. The DeWalt DCS355 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi Tool delivers up to 57% more run time over brushed motors. This tool would be used mainly by trade professionals and some home DIY users. The DeWalt DCS355, a cordless Multi-Tool system, is designed for intricate jobs that require power and precision. Its compact but powerful Brushless 300W motor delivers 0-20,000 oscillations per minute for fast and exact cutting requirements and also makes for a slimmer, more balanced tool, making it easier to handle and control. Its ergonomic contoured rubber handle ensures it is comfortable to hold, even during prolonged use.

This Makita multi tool is incredibly versatile. Its rotating head can swivel through 360 degrees with 12 stops at 30 degrees apart, so pretty much any nook or cranny is in reach. Plus, its Oscillating Interface System (OIS) accommodates accessories (secured using a hex wrench) from both Makita and other brands. Taking the cost of batteries and charger into account, the DWE315KT sells for close to half the price of one of the best cordless multi tools, the DeWalt DCS355D2 XR! If you’ve never used one before, you’re in for a treat. The oscillating tool is one of those bits of kit that will make you wonder how you ever got by without one. Being able to cut by pushing into a piece of wood, metal or plastic is almost impossible with a traditional saw. I think this is the best oscillating multi tool for professionals because you can change speeds on the fly without fiddling with a speed selection wheel. And the LED light means you can use this cordless multi tool in the tightest gaps without searching for a torch.Now that all the patents have run out, all major power tool brands offer a range of oscillating multi tools. They’ve developed into a very versatile, sophisticated and pretty much essential piece of equipment for both professionals and DIYers. How Oscillating Multi Tools Work Variable speed control and dual grip position. Allows for a simple soft start function, and better application control The best cordless multi tools come with a brushless motor. Brushless versions reduce the friction between the motor’s components and thus increase the life of the motor.

This is a well-engineered versatile power tool with a 250 Watt motor and an aluminium gearbox, yet it weighs just 1.45 kg. This combination gives this oscillating tool a better power-to-weight ratio than many of its competitors. Alongside this is the dual grip soft handle that ergonomically enhances handling and control. DeWalt DCS355NT 18v Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool Body Only with Accessories in TSTAK II Carry Case with InlayIf you want one of the best budget oscillating multi tools, made by a name you recognise, you should take a close look at the Draper 20987 Oscillating Tool. For a fraction of the price of a premium multi tool, you get a powerful 400 Watt motor. And the rubberised barrel grip is easy to hang on to as well. DeWalt’s batteries have indicator lights to show how much charge is left in the battery. By pressing the button, all three green lights mean full charge. Two lights signal between 50 and 75%, and one light means less than 50%. The DCS355 is equipped with a LED light, which allows illuminating the work area, making it easier to see what you are cutting. What's Included? If the tool is faulty within 30 days of buying it, we will arrange for its collection at no cost to you and supply a replacement.