The 5 Best Cordless Oscillating Tools – [Reviews & Rankings]

A cordless oscillating tool, also known as a cordless oscillating power tool, or cordless multi-tool, is a power tool that oscillates (vibrates) to cut, or grind, among many other functions. The best cordless oscillating tool will feature a brushless motor, will be lightweight, and will have speed controls.

Cordless oscillating tools can get into some really tight spaces. They can help you sand, cut, scrape, and grind in areas that are difficult to reach with traditional power tools. In fact, there are some jobs that simply can’t be done without a cordless oscillating tool, because no other tool will be able to fit into the area that needs work (Source).

Cordless oscillating tools don’t have to spin in order to cut. They work by vibrating a blade or other tool at a high frequency. The vibrating tool, while moving side to side a small amount at high speeds, quickly removes material from the object being worked on (Source).

With the overwhelming number of cordless oscillating tools on the market, it can be hard to find the one that most properly fits your needs. Before buying a cordless oscillating tool, consider battery life, price, and available attachments. It’s also important to consider it’s warranty, and whether or not it features a built-in LED flashlight.

In this article, we will pour over the top rated cordless oscillating tools. All of these tools will be able to get some serious work done in hard to reach places, whether you are a construction worker looking to make your job easier, or you spend a lot of time working on DIY projects in your garage.

Who Makes The Best Oscillating Tool?

Bosch makes the best Oscillating Tool with an 18v and 12v option. Bosch Oscillating Tools are lightweight, easy to grip and have best-in-class torque transfer. They’re capable of a variety of tasks including sanding, grinding, plunge-cutting and flush-cutting. These oscillating tools are also cordless for maximum portability.

What is a Cordless Oscillating Tool?

Cordless oscillating tools are versatile power tools which can be used for a wide variety of tasks. Typically, they are used for grinding and sanding but can also be used for making cuts and various other tasks with the right attachments.

Due to their portability and wide range of potential features, cordless oscillating tools are common power tools to have in your workshop.

Are Oscillating Tools Worth It?

Oscillating tools are a worthwhile investment if you’re looking for versatility. Oscillating tools are often called oscillating multi-tools because they’re capable of performing a number of functions. With various attachments, an oscillating tool can be used to cut, drill, sand, and grind.

Comparing The Best Cordless Oscillating Tools

1. Bosch MXH180BN 18-Volt Multi-X Brushless Oscillating Tool – Best Overall

The Bosch is very popular with DIY enthusiasts and pros alike due to its best feature – the fantastic efficiency and great power of the motor. Its speed ranges from 8,000 to 20,000 oscillations per minute (OPM) and it is very adept at grinding, sanding, and scraping surfaces made from several kinds of materials.

Moreover, it is specifically designed to excel at flush cutting, plunge cutting, and removing grout. Unlike many analogical products, this model does not include a charger or battery. The user-friendliness and quality of its design have more than made up for this downside.

3D Interface

The Bosch features next-generation 3-D tool-accessory interface. This contoured, cupped 3-D tool-accessory connection ensures greater torque transfer. The efficient brushless motor delivers top speed and great runtime. The tool comes with a 2.8° oscillating arc for outstanding productivity. Users can set and adjust the speed depending on the task via the variable-speed dial.

The compact, light, and ergonomic tool reaches practically inaccessible spaces. It utilizes the many trademark Starlock accessories to handle all types of DIY tasks. It’s the perfect tool to flush-cut doorjambs.

Outstanding Features

This top-rated oscillating multi-tool comes with a 1-1/4“ plunge blade, a hex wrench, accessory mounting screw, and an accessory box. It is a very squared-off and well-built tool that feels really big and robust in the hand. It is one of just two brushless models, the second being our third pick in this review, and it boasts one of the easiest blade and accessory changes on the market.

The product uses a “spreader” instead of a threaded rod or retaining pin. As a result, it is the fastest tool when it comes to changing blades. You can also use Porter-Cable’s clamp system with the Bosch. On the downside, there’s no LED on this tool, so keep that in mind if you will need to work in a dimly-lit area.

2. FEIN AFSC18QSL – Best Oscillating Tool For The Money

The FEIN AFSC18QSL is a top-rated oscillating tool. Albeit being somewhat pricy, we find it’s well worth the money. One of its best features is the fact that it utilizes the new StarLock mounting system, which makes it easy and fast to change blades with its “snap-in” tool-free accessory switch technology.

The tool also has a long battery life, which offers the benefit of causing fewer interruptions during working hours.

This is a product of exceptional quality that will last for many years. It is extremely durable, features a dust extraction to connect a vacuum cleaner, and is easy to manage. There is great control on the cut and very limited handle vibration.

3. DEWALT DCS355D1 20V XR Lithium-Ion Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit – The Best Cordless Multi Tool Kit

This top-rated cordless oscillating tool comes with a storage box, 28 accessory pieces, a full array of cutting and sanding attachments, and a vast variety of other features, which make it perfect for homeowners who don’t have any other multi-tool equipment.

It’s a great choice for pros as well. You can rely on this versatile tool for many different types of remodeling projects.

Features

With a voltage of 20, you can be sure that you can get lots done in one session as there is enough power from the battery at all times. It will never die on you and cause inconvenience.

What is more, a lot of clients appreciate its being an XR tool, which means that it is more efficient in the long run and creates less friction.

Lengthy Battery Life Cycle

Gone are the days when your cordless oscillating tool would not last 40 minutes on a job. We all recall the horror of having the battery die during an important and urgent project. No need to keep replacing or charging the battery and suffering from frustration that’s getting more intense by the minute. What a relief!

The DEWALT DCS355D1 oscillating tool will change your opinion of cordless oscillating tools for the better because its battery lasts practically forever. It can be used on a daily basis, and it lasts for multiple hours on a single charge even after cutting through drywall, performing several plunge cuttings, and slicing through nails.

Save Time And Money

The tool saves a lot of time and money. It comes with a 20V MAX battery and ensures up to 20,000 oscillations per minute. You don’t need any tool to change the blade. The angle of oscillation is 1.6 ° x 2. The product is conveniently equipped with an LED light and a variable speed function, meaning you can adjust the speed by simply gripping the handle. This is a great extra because different tasks will require different speeds.

Universal Adapter

The tool’s universal adaptor makes it possible to use the blades and accessories of other oscillating tool brands. This means that if you have some old tools, you can use the blades on this device by screwing them down using the hex screw shipped with the product.

Variable Speed Dual Grip Trigger

The variable speed dual grip trigger allows the user to control and adjust the speed. We love the comfort of the rubber grip. The speed can be adjusted from 0 to 20,000 OPM depending on the application. This feature comes in real handy when making a straight cut.

On the downside, the tool is a tad heavy at 3.22 lbs.

4. PORTER CABLE PCC710B Bare Oscillating Tool, 20-Piece – The Most Portable

The Porter Cable PCC710B cordless oscillating tool is shipped with 20 accessories (hence the name of the product), a LED work light for those dark spaces and poorly lit rooms, and a storage box. First-time users will find it easy to replace accessories and learn how to use this product in a number of different ways thanks to the 2 Finger Tool-Free system.

We love the fact that there is a variable speed range, albeit more limited that the ranges of our first three choices. The range of the Porter Cable is from 8,000 to 18,000 OPM.

On the plus side, the product is very well priced in comparison with analogical ones. It’s a great package considering it comes with so many extra pieces.

5. Makita XMT03Z 18V Multi-Tool – The Most Affordable

This is the best budget oscillating multi tool, bar none. It is a particularly excellent choice if you already have a kit and extra accessories. The tool is very affordably priced and its quality is excellent. On the downside, it does not come with any extras.

Makita features a powerful 18-volt lithium-ion battery that ensures uninterrupted work for up to 20 minutes. Its speed can be adjusted using the variable speed that ranges from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM.

Furthermore, the durability of this product proves it to be ideal for anyone who has to do repairs, home improvement projects, or construction on a regular basis.

Low Vibration

We are amazed at how good this tool is. Most other tools have roughly twice as much vibration. It was a pleasure to test and work with. What is more, the battery charges in less time than any other 18V tool, which we find is really great because the producer does not add a battery level meter to its tools.

Fastest Cutting Speed

The cutting speed of this tool is remarkable – it was easily the highest cutting speed of all tools tested. It can also stand upright – one of just four cordless oscillating tools on the market that are able to do this (the others being the 20V Max PCC710, the Porter-Cable PCCK510, and the DeWalt DCS355).

Most Common Issues People Have with Cordless Oscillating Tools

• No LED Light: One of the reasons that people use cordless oscillating tools is so that they can fine-tune difficult spots. In some cases, having some extra light on your workspace is really useful. If you think you will need some light, make sure the model you purchase has an LED light.
• Replacing Parts: The blades and grinders which you first use on a cordless oscillating tool will wear away and need to be replaced. If you don’t keep this in mind, you can end up with a model that has a monopoly on the part size, forcing you to spend more than you expected on replacement parts.
• Battery Life: Using a cordless power tool means that you need to use a battery. If you don’t check the battery life and recharging process, you can easily purchase a model which doesn’t last long enough for your needs. Or, one that doesn’t even include a battery in the first place.

Features of the Best Cordless Oscillating Tools

Purchasing a power tool usually implies that you will value quality over the price. After all, people often expect a power tool to last for several years. If you want to get the best cordless oscillating tool to suit your needs on your first attempt, we are here to help.

Here are some of the most important features that you should look for if you want one of the best cordless oscillating tools:

Lots of Included Attachments

Oscillating tools are inherently supposed to be used for a wide array of potential jobs. Without all the necessary attachments, though, they are just another power tool with minimal versatility.

Consider what types of jobs you want your oscillating tool to handle and find a manufacturer which includes each of the attachments to handle these jobs.

Connects to Attachments from Other Manufacturers

The last thing you need is an oscillating tool which is made by a manufacturer who monopolizes the attachments. Look for an oscillating tool which comes with a universal adapter like the DEWALT DCS355D1 if you want to compare prices and use attachments from other manufacturers.

Comes with a Battery and Charger

Unless you intend on purchasing a battery and charger separately or already have ones ready that fit onto your new oscillating tool, make sure that the model you choose comes with both of these things. This way, you will be able to use it right out of the box.

Long Battery Life and Quick Recharging

In order to have a cordless oscillating tool, the device needs to receive power from a battery. Unless you already have a rechargeable battery and charger which will work with your new oscillating tool, make sure that your top choice comes with both of these things.

Also be sure to check how long the battery will last with a full charge, and how long it will typically take for it to recharge. This way, there will be no surprises for you as you start putting your new oscillating tool to use.

Minimal Noise & Vibration

The noise and vibration levels of oscillating tools are something which is commonly complained about. If you get one of the best oscillating tools, neither of these things should be an issue.

The level of noise should be comparable with what you experience with other power tools. If you avoid the cheapest models and buy a high-quality oscillating tool, the vibration won’t be a concern or affect the quality of your work.

What To Look For When Purchasing A Cordless Oscillating Tool

So you’ve decided to buy one of the tools reviewed in this article. Is there anything else you need to know? Below are some more useful details.

Blades

Different tools require different types and shapes of oscillating tool blades and accessories, as our review has made known. Among these are various wood-cutting and metal-cutting blades, carbide- and diamond-edged blades for cutting masonry, triangular-shaped sanding pads that hold adhesive-backed sandpaper of varying grits, and more.

The choice of blade will depend on the type of project or work you need to get done.

Grinders

When you buy a cordless oscillating tool, most companies include a few basic grinders, as well as a hard case or cloth tool bag for holding the tool and its accoutrement.

This is why our choices are the best – they come with many useful accessories, including grinders. Cutters, blades, and grinders in particular can wear out easily. This is why it is important to consider the ability to easily and affordably buy replacements.

Several major companies use either adapters that allow mounting other brand blades, grinders, cutters, and other accessories or a standardized mounting system. Moreover, many toolmakers manufacture after-market grinders, cutters, and blades.

Please keep in mind that some saw blades don’t spin even though they have a semi-circular shape. This shape simply makes oscillating cuts possible from a number of different directions.

Power Capacity

Battery-operated cordless models use lithium batteries for greater power and extended life. Another advantage of these is that you can use the tool anywhere. Keep in mind that cordless tool batteries stop charging after several years of use and need to be replaced. Replacement batteries cost in the range of $20 to $75 each.

Corded oscillating multi-tools don’t run out of power (unless they’re not plugged in or you have a power cut) and are generally more powerful. A cordless oscillating tool is still a better option where it would be hard to plug a corded one in.

This would be the case if no electrical outlet is reachable in the place where you need to do work.

Ready To Buy The Best Cordless Oscillating Tools?

We hope you enjoyed our list of the five best cordless oscillating tools this year. Each of the products reviewed here will suit your home improvement needs.

Read our review carefully and make an informed purchase. We wish you luck, and don’t forget to share your experience here with us in the comments section down below!