As any woodworker knows, having a solid suite of power tools helps enhance your craft in many ways. You can get things done quicker and with far less effort while also achieving generally superior results.
Today, we’ll walk you through 5 of the best oscillating tool reviews so you can decide for yourself whether one of these multi-purpose beasts would make a worthwhile addition to your arsenal.
Maybe you’re stuck for ideas completely or perhaps overwhelmed by the seemingly endless selection of oscillating tools to choose from? If so, we’re here to save the day.
Before we kick off, here’s a snapshot of 5 of the very best oscillating tools up for grabs.
Check them out before exploring further. Any one is worthy of a place on your shortlist…
We’ve gone out of our way to select a wide array of OMTs for all budgets and requirements so we’ll get things started with an extremely inexpensive oscillating tool from Genesis.
Unlike some of the other OMT kits with a staggering range of accessories, Genesis keeps things simple. This oscillating tool is absolutely ideal for anyone who wants to try their hand with an OMT but doesn’t want the overkill of a million little pieces to bewilder them.
We’ll outline the main features so you can see at a glance how this nifty little unit can transform your home repairs without costing you a fortune…
Although this oscillating tool comes in at an incredibly keen price point, build quality is rock solid. Whether you want to press it into action around the house for remodeling or for occasional work in a small cabinet shop, the rugged die-cast aluminum gear housing and overall construction means it won’t give up the ghost and will serve you for years.
The capable 1.5-amp motor will rotate the blades at 21,000 OPM. The motor runs on 120 volts and it’s not just powerful but highly dependable into the bargain.
Since it’s encased in die-cast aluminum, heat coming from the motor is rapidly dispersed meaning your OMT won’t run too hot and it will last you longer to boot.
A simple but effective 4-pin flange ensures attachments are securely kept in place.
You’ll be able to confidently tackle a nice spread of projects with this oscillating tool whether you want to build things, repair them or otherwise enhance their appearance…
Whack on the flush cutting blade and trimming away or cutting in confined areas is a breeze. The flat saw blade is ideal if you need to make cut-outs in wood or plastic, even in drywall. If you want to rip up some old flooring or perhaps prep for painting by chiseling away the exisiting layers, attach the rigid scraper blade for a quick, hard finish. For anyone interested in detail sanding, the
sanding pad is a cinch to use and you’ll even get some sandpaper thrown in. You’ll also get an Allen wrench included so you’ve got everything you need to get going right out the box.
If you prefer a flexible scraper blade or you need to tackle some grouting, these attachments are available but need to be purchased separately.
Although, as you can clearly see, you get genuinely impressive performance and flexibility from this oscillating tool, it weighs in at just over 3 pounds. You’ll be able to use the Genesis GMT15A for extended periods without any kind of strain. The compact nature of its design also lends well to working in hard-to-reach areas of any description.
One serious drawback with the Genesis is that you’ll need to stick with the manufacturer’s own attachments. While this is understandable, it’s also limiting so make sure you’re aware of this before steaming in. Finding the blades is not straightforward so don’t expect to find them on the shelves of a random hardware store.
The other common negative thread in user reviews and feedback is the noise. The Genesis is certainly not quiet but we think this is a pretty small price to pay considering the price point.
We’ll highlight now the principal advantages and downsides of this neat little corded oscillating tool. Make up your own mind if it offers what you’re looking for…
With some of the oscillating tools we review, you’ll be served up with such a range of accessories and attachments it might leave you scratching your head and wondering where on earth to start. With the Genesis OMT, on the other hand, you’ll get a bare bones kit which nevertheless offers you incredible scope for all your remodeling, restoration of home repair needs.
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable oscillating tool at a pocket-friendly price, we can’t recommend the Genesis strongly enough. If you’re looking for something with more add-ons and a resultantly higher price tag, check out some of our other oscillating tool reviews…
The 2-year limited warranty affording you access to a comprehensive level of friendly customer service and savvy technical support is the finishing flourish with the Genesis. Check one out today and start ripping things up tomorrow. What have you got to lose?
Next up in our look at the best oscillating tool reviews is a more expensive offering from the industry colossus Dremel.
This American company was founded close to a century back and, while primarily known for its rotary tools, the MM40-05 is a superb oscillating tool to complement their range. Whether you’re a home hobbyist or a hardcore professional, Dremel’s tools are dependable in the extreme and build quality is first-rate.
We’ll summarize the main features of the Dremel MM40-05 then dig a little deeper so you can see what you think of this awesome OMT…
While they might well specialize in rotary tools, Dremel wasted no time in joining the rush to market when oscillating tools started to gain currency about a decade back. As you’d expect from a brand like Dremel, the MM40-05 delivers in fine style while being sold at an affordable price point.
The ruthlessly efficient 3.8-amp motor punches harder than any other OTM in this class. Whatever the material or application, however demanding or inflexible, you’ll have more than sufficient power at your disposal to work with speed and accuracy all day long.
Unlike many of its competitors, the Dremel comes packing a variable speed motor. You can tweak the OPM from as slow as 10,000 oscillations per minute right up through to 21,000 at the upper end. You fine-tune the speed using a simple switch so you’ll be perfectly placed to deal with every project according to its demands rather than relying on a potentially inappropriate speed.
The 3.2 degree oscillation angle is wider than found on many OMTs which further boosts its impressive speed of operation.
In spite of this jaw-dropping performance, the Dremel is no heavyweight at just 3 pounds. Its size and compact nature means you can beaver away even in tight or hard-to-reach areas without fatigue setting in. You should note that there’s no LED light on the MM40-05 so take this into account if you plan to remodel a dark basement or attic.
You’ll get a grand total of 36 accessories with this OMT…
For cutting, there’s a pair of flush cutting blades, a combined wood and drywall blade as well as a drywall jab saw. A grout blade comes in handy for all your tiling needs. A flexible scraper is the only scraping attachment you’ll get so think about this if you need a rigid scraper as there is not one included. With the hook and loop pad and sandpaper sheets for wood and paint, your bumper pack is completed. If you’re looking at that list and wondering how Dremel arrive at the figure of 36 accessories, they have counted 15 wood sanding sheets and 14 paint sanding sheets which, in our opinion, is a pretty cheap marketing trick. Nevertheless, you’ve got all main bases covered with those attachments.
While you’ll undeniably get turbo-charged power from the corded Dremel, it’s worth being aware of the fact the cord is a scant 7 foot long. Only you know if this will give you enough latitude so think about it and the logistics of using an extension cable so you don’t end up disappointed.
Another minor grumble is that the MM40-05 will only accept Dremel attachments. You will not have the same breadth of choice or ability to price-shop so be on your guard if you think this will prove problematic.
Overall, the disadvantages of the Dremel MM40-05 are dramatically outweighed by its plus points so check out our breakdown of the pros and cons then work out for yourself if this is the oscillating tool you’ve been waiting for…
Not everyone is looking for the cheapest oscillating tool on the market and the Dremel MM40-05 represents the perfect happy medium if you want a truly multi-purpose piece of kit without needing to bankrupt yourself into the bargain.
The MM40-05 has an exceptional selection of attachments meaning whatever projects you have in mind, from remodeling through to hardcore renovation, this OMT will have you covered.
With all those accessories, a super-powerful motor, variable speed and even a carry case thrown in, you really can’t ask for much more. The Dremel MM40-05 is a serious contender for the best oscillating tool on the market today. It deserves a place on any shortlist so try one out today! There’s a 2-year limited warranty for additional peace of mind.
DeWalt is a household name in the power tool space and when you buy into this brand you know exactly what you’re getting… Top-notch tools at a reasonably affordable price all covered by DeWalt’s rock solid warranty.
It’s no surprise that DeWalt make a number of oscillating tools and we narrowed things down to make your life easier by bringing you what we consider the best of the bunch, the DWE315K.
You’ll get the standard oscillating tool kit along with a bonus 5-piece accessory pack known as the DWA4216 so you get plenty of value for money without being swamped by an excess of superfluous attachments.
We’ll show you the main features then examine this nifty OMT in more detail…
While the DeWalt’s motor might not have quite the punch of the Dremel, the 3-amp unit serves up more than enough grunt for even demanding applications. While the DWE315K is primarily for home use, it certainly wouldn’t feel out of place in a contractor’s toolkit.
Oscillating at a maximum of 22,000 OPM, you’ll also be able to embrace the variable speed trigger to bring this speed down when required. One thing we would point out is that there’s a body of feedback suggesting the DeWalt runs hot at lower speeds. If you plan to carry out most of your work at the lower end of the speed spectrum, you might want to rethink.
The angle of oscillation is fairly narrow. This means you’ll get a great deal of accuracy combined with very little vibration, a winning combo. What vibration you do experience is mainly dampened down and absorbed by the OMT rather than the end user.
An LED light is a luxury not included on many oscillating multi-tools so it’s particularly welcome to see DeWalt paying attention to this important detail. Much renovation and remodeling is done in dingy areas and, with this OMT, you’ll be able to see your way clearly as you beaver away.
In common with most OMTs, you’ll get heavyweight performance without the corresponding bulkiness so the DeWalt is perfect for extended spells of work. Everything feels comfy and balanced as you would expect from this brand.
As well as a soft carrying bag, you’ll also get a handy little box in which to stash away your accessories and keep everything close at hand.
Like most oscillating tools, DeWalt markets this as a 29-piece kit, 25 of which are pieces of sandpaper. You’ll also get a fast-cut wood blade and a multi-purpose wood and nails blade. Besides this pair of beauties, there’s also a semi-circle blade and a sanding pad. When it comes to sanding, don’t expect to power through large areas although, for smaller projects, you’ll be able to work with precision. Also, the sandpaper attaches with Velcro which can heat up and melt, a very poor element of design we’re quite surprised at. This might not be the broadest overall range of attachments but you’ve got more than enough to get you up and running…
From this baseline, universal fitment means you can choose from any attachments rather than being restricted to DeWalt’s own accessories. This is a selfless gesture and highly appreciated. Changing attachments is quick, easy and tool-free.
The DeWalt guide system means you can easily set the height or depth of cut. This allows you to make even and accurate trim cuts with no damage to the underlying drywall.
Take a quick look at the upsides and drawbacks of the DeWalt before we give our parting shot about this fine oscillating tool…
Buying the best oscillating tool is often a case of rolling with a brand you implicitly trust. The familiar black and yellow power tools from DeWalt are tried and true solutions for the home woodworker and professional alike.
This oscillating tool is not flawless but, if you take the attractive price into account and consider the shower of benefits you’ll receive, the gripes about the trigger and vents are not really deal-breakers simply issues worth looking into.
For an efficient and versatile oscillating tool that won’t let you down, the DeWalt DWE315K merits a place on any shortlist. We have no interest in urging you to buy any particular product but we have to say this OMT is certainly a worthy candidate for the best oscillating tool around.
Rockwell makes a number of oscillating tools and we’ve selected the Sonicrafter RK5121 as the best of the bunch. Like all our chosen OMTs, the Rockwell is a corded tool meaning you’ll get a great deal of power on tap even though you’ll be tethered to an outlet.
This is a facelift model boasting 3.2 degrees of oscillation and you’ll get a bumper selection of accessories for an extremely reasonable cost.
We’ll run down the Sonicrafter Universal Fit System and much more after a quick look at the main features of the Rockwell RK5121…
A combination of a 3-amp motor generating adequate power for most refurbishing and restoration work in the home and the variable oscillating speed makes the Rockwell a pretty competent OMT.
One of the key attractions with the RK5121 is the Universal Fit System. Unlike some oscillating tools that lock you into proprietary attachments, you’ll be able to avail yourself of accessories from any brand putting you in the driving seat.
While received wisdom might have you believing that a wider oscillating angle leads to more vibration, Rockwell has included a nifty counterweight system. This means you can cut with more speed and less tiresome vibration for the double win.
This is another variable speed oscillating tool so you can get started slowly and work your way up to 20,000 oscillations per minute with ease. This gives you a nice degree of control leading to a great finish whatever the application. You’ll get an exceptional 21 pounds of force packed behind each cut so, while not an industrial power tool, for the home user that’s more than enough oomph.
If you need to strip away paint or adhesive, the scraper blade is ideal. Your sanding needs are dealt with thanks to the sanding pad and sheets. As with all oscillating tools in this class, sanding is better pegged to smaller finishing projects. You’ll get some wood end cut blades as well as the F30 Sonicrafter. It’s the 26 sanding sheets that bump the kit up to 31 pieces. This is an almost universal marketing ploy to boost perceived value so don’t kid yourself into thinking you get 31 discrete attachments!
Blades are expressly designed not to slip whatever angle you use and the Hyper Lock system in place ensures that swapping accessories out is a cakewalk.
Despite the significant grunt behind the Rockwell, it’s light enough that you won’t feel uncomfortable wielding it for lengthy stretches. The OMT is comfy in your hand and very nicely balanced into the bargain.
As an added extra, you’ll get a decent 1-year limited warranty so you can buy without a headache.
Before we wrap up with our overall verdict on this cheap but effective oscillating tool, a shotgun summary of where it stands and falls…
When you’re looking at oscillating tools, it’s essential to think about intended use. It’s pointless to invest in a hard-hitting professional tool if you’re a casual home DIY-er who’s going to use it twice a year. Equally, if you work long hours on the job site, you’ll need a rugged high performer…
The Rockwell flatters to deceive in the sense you might check out its powerful motor and variable speed and mistakenly believe it’s cut out for ongoing industrial use. While we won’t knock it’s overall performance, don’t expect this OMT to last for a decade or to serve as a daily contracting tool. For home use, though, it’s more than good enough for a wide number of applications.
If you are operating on a limited budget but you want a nimble and versatile oscillating tool, give the Rockwell a shot.
Keep your expectations reasonable and you might be very pleasantly surprised!
Last but by no means least in our best oscillating tool reviews is the PCE605K from the highly reputable PORTER-CABLE.
As with anything you buy from this manufacturer, you’re treated to a nice mix of top-tier functionality without the eye-watering price tag you might expect. PORTER-CABLE power tools are ideal for the home DIY-er as well as smaller contractors looking for great functionality at an affordable price point.
Before looking at where this OMT excels, here’s what you’ll get in the package…
This variable speed oscillating tool from PORTER-CABLE rotates at anywhere from 10,000 OPM on up to an extremely impressive 22,000 oscillations per minute to best cope with any project or material. There are 6 settings on the user-friendly dial.
The 3-amp, 120-volt motor has a 2.8-degree oscillation angle. Although this angle might seem a little on the low side, in return you’ll get a nice tight cut you can control with ease. There’s also very little by the way of vibration.
Whether you want to undertake some cutting or sanding, scraping or grinding, the attachments make all of these applications a breeze. The depth-cutting guide helps you to exercise maximum control at all times. There’s a wood end cut blade and a wood/metal end cut blade in line with most similarly-priced oscillating tools. The flush cut blade is perfect for tighter cuts. For sanding purposes, you’ll get a platen and a fairly standard 25 sheets of sandpaper. A flexible scraper completes the ensemble.
Comfort should always be uppermost with power tools you’re likely to use for extended times. The innovative grip is labeled a 3-position overmold and it certainly feels great. We will point out that unless you’ve got very large hands, operating it one-handed is a bit of a stretch. It’s far bulkier and a little more unwieldy than much of the competition.
The 10-foot power cord is a decent length and you should be able to work without feeling shortchanged or restricted in your movements.
The PORTER-CABLE is not without its flaws. If you intend to work the OMT hard, you’ll find it can get quite hot. This can be easily mitigated by taking plenty of short breaks.
If you plan to carry out large volumes of sanding, keep your eye on the pad which can melt if put through its paces too vigorously.
Another tedious limitation is the need to use PORTER-CABLE blades. We always prefer manufacturers that leave the choice in your hands but this is by no means a deal-breaker. None of these drawbacks are reason enough not to buy the PCE605K when you contrast them with the myriad advantages.
We’ll rattle off a summary of the good and bad elements to this outstanding oscillating tool now before we round out our reviews and move on to a handy, concise oscillating tool buying guide…
If you have some remodeling or repair jobs at home, the PORTER-CABLE is a wonderful way to grab all the kit you need for your project without spending thousands on a full range of power tools that may never again see the light of day. If you’re a small contractor looking for a dependable, no-nonsense oscillating tool that won’t let you down, it’s an equally smart choice.
The 90-day money back guarantee shows clearly the confidence PORTER-CABLE has in its OMT. Simply give it a road test and, if you find it’s not for you or disappoints in any way, send it back for a no-quibbles refund. Beyond that, you’ll get a great 3-year warranty partnered with a year-long service contract so you’re covered in all senses.
That said, we firmly believe if you try the PORTER-CABLE, you won’t be returning it in a hurry!
Check out this great value oscillating tool right now since you’ve got absolutely nothing to lose.
Interested to learn more in-depth details about selecting the right tool for your needs? Read our Informational Buyer Guide and Frequently Asked Questions sections on this topic for more details.
WHY USE AN OSCILLATING TOOL? Oscillating tools come into their own for a wide range of applications. Here are just a
We very much hope you’ve found this exploration of the best oscillating tools useful and informative.
If you take on board some of the above advice to simplify your buying decision and consider the 5 options we’ve presented as a workable shortlist, getting down to business and finding the best oscillating tool for your requirements needn’t be either tough or time consuming.
Come back next week for our next in-depth guide to milling machines.
Reach out any time with your queries or feedback. We’re very responsive and we’ll always get back to you in a timely fashion.
Now break out that oscillating tool set, fire up the attachments and get down to business!
Before we wrap for the day, we culled through the most frequently asked questions about these invaluable power tools so you can see at a glance some of the common issues…
1 thought on “Best Oscillating Tools Reviews”
Check out Dewalt oscillating tool that has the 3 speed on it. I purchased one from Lowe’s a few days ago and it’s pretty cool. I have both styles but I like the 3-speed model. It’s nice when you need to control the speed. It takes some time to get used to it but then you say