We liked the toolless blade-change system that allowed us to swap blades and sanding pads without using a wrench or a hex key. We used the lower speeds for cutting through sheet metal and the highest speed for cutting through wood-the Bosch excelled at both. This tool has a 4-amp motor and an adjustable speed range between 8,000 and 20,000 oscillations per minute (OPM) to suit cutting different materials. If shoppers are looking for a quality oscillating tool, the Bosch StarlockPlus should be on their list of models to consider. After testing, we added and averaged the points and used them along with our notes to help determine the best use and category for each tool. The better the performance, the higher the points. For example, some of the devices came with grout-removal blades, which we tested on some old tiles that are slated for replacement.Īs we put the oscillating tools through their paces, we noted how well they performed each task, awarding points based on a rubric. We also tried out each type of accessory included with the tool to see how well it performed. We paid attention to the tool’s design and ergonomics, and then we tested each device for 1 hour by cutting wood and sheet metal as well as sanding. When it came to the actual testing, we first charged batteries (if necessary) and then noted how easy it was to install/change blades on the tool. Still, we didn’t automatically eliminate tools from smaller or niche brands if they were well made and highly rated by consumers. We gave some preference to well-known brands, such as DeWalt, Bosch, and Dremel, since they’re known for making high-quality tools. When gathering our list of oscillating tools to test, we extensively researched more than 25 different models. Photo: Glenda Taylor How We Tested the Best Oscillating Tools

BEST FOR METAL: DeWalt DWE315K Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit.

BEST FOR INDOORS: Dremel Multi-Max MM20V-02 Oscillating Tool Kit.

BEST FOR SANDING: Rockwell Sonicrafter 4.0 Amp Oscillating Multi-Tool.

BEST CORDLESS: DeWalt 20V MAX XR Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Black+Decker 2.5 Amp Electric Oscillating Multi-Tool.

RUNNER-UP: Porter-Cable 3.0 Amp Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit.

Keep reading to learn more about how to choose the best oscillating tool for your needs and to find out why each of the following models earned a spot on our lineup. We gathered the highest-rated oscillating tools and used them in several ways: sawing, sanding, and even grinding out old grout. Some of the top power tool manufacturers, such as DeWalt, Bosch, and Dremel, are producing oscillating tools, and we wanted to know which ones lived up to the hype. Plus, its compact design lets it fit in tight and awkward spaces to tackle jobs bulkier power tools can’t manage. While it’s not as powerful as a large circular saw or drum sander, its ability to tackle multiple light-duty tasks makes it a popular choice with remodelers and DIYers. The action, a combination of vibration and sawing, works well for cutting materials like metal, wood, and drywall and, with the right attachments, can also sand and file. It features a small blade that’s fixed at one end while the other end moves rapidly back and forth in an arcing motion that mimics a pendulum swing.

While there are many other chainsaws in the same price bracket, they don’t have the same all-round features.When it comes to popular power tools, the oscillating tool is the new kid on the block. It won’t annoy the neighbors and you wont have to pop out for more gas.

It is both easy to start and easy to hold up while cutting. This Kobalt chainsaw has a great mix of power, portability and safety features which has resulted in many excellent reviews. Should you buy the Kobalt KCS 120-07 Cordless Electric Chainsaw? Users also mentioned the weight of the chainsaw, saying how light it was, and when combined with its low noise, which was less intimidating, and push button start, recommended it for first time users who may not have the upper body strength for a gas-powered saw. Typically, users were surprised with the staying power of the chainsaw, saying that it lasted a lot longer than they expected a cordless electric chainsaw to last and that it had plenty of power to cut through 8 - 12” branches. The Kobalt KCS 120-07 cordless electric chainsaw scored an average of 4.5 / 5 from the user reviews on sites such as Lowes, Google and Amazon, with Lowes saying that 90% of users would recommend the chainsaw, based on 444 responses. A Kobalt KCS 120-07 40 Volt Cordless Electric Chainsaw in action (Image credit: Kobalt)

Kobalt multi tool weight