Choosing the right oscillating power tool matters whether you're renovating a bathroom, trimming trim, removing grout, or doing fine carpentry. After extensive research, hands-on testing, and reviewing expert and consumer feedback, we've identified four oscillating tools that stand out for power, ergonomics, and value across a range of budgets and use cases.
How we tested and chose winners
We evaluated candidates using a mix of hands-on testing, expert reviews, and aggregated user feedback. Key criteria:
- Power & control: motor amps, OPM range, and how smoothly variable-speed controls behave under load.
- Cutting performance: plunge and flush cuts, wood, soft metals, and fasteners.
- Ergonomics & vibration: grip comfort, weight distribution, and fatigue over extended use.
- Accessory system & compatibility: ease of blade changes and compatibility with common accessory standards.
- Durability & heat management: motor housing, gear quality, and cooling during prolonged runs.
- Value: accessories included, warranty/support, and price vs performance.
Testing included repeated plunge cuts in trim and drywall, grout removal, sanding with included pads/papers, and real-world trimming of galvanized pipe or nails where relevant. We also factored in brand reputation and post-purchase consumer reports for reliability.
Ultra-Basic Oscillating
A super-affordable oscillating tool offering 22,000 OPM and a compact 1.5–1.6A motor. Great for occasional DIYers who need a capable, no-frills tool for sanding, grout removal, and light cutting without spending much.
Inequalit 22000 OPM 1.6A Oscillating Multi-Tool — Best Budget Pick
This Inequalit model delivers excellent baseline performance for hobbyists and occasional users. Key specs: ~22,000 OPM, 3° oscillation angle, die-cast metal gear head, and an 11-piece accessory kit. In testing it handled trim cuts, grout removal, and sanding adequately — performance is best for light to medium tasks. Pros: extremely low price, compact head for tight access, and a metal gear head that improves durability over plastic alternatives. Cons: lower motor amperage (1.5–1.6A) limits heavy continuous cutting and accessory selection is modest. If you need a throw-and-do tool for occasional jobs, this gives maximum bang for the buck.
DEWALT Brushless Oscillator
A high-end cordless kit with a brushless motor, three-speed settings, universal accessory adapter, LED work light, and included battery and charger—built for pros who need runtime, reliability, and tool-free accessory changes.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS356C1 — Premium Choice
DEWALT's DCS356C1 is a pro-grade cordless kit that combines a brushless motor with a three-speed selector and the trusted Quick-Change accessory system. It delivers longer runtime, consistent power under load, and bright LED illumination for precision in dim spaces. The kit includes battery and charger, which makes it job-ready out of the box. In real-world use it outperformed comparable brushed tools on runtime and heat management, and its universal adaptor maintains wide blade compatibility. Downsides are the higher price and being part of DEWALT's 20V ecosystem (though that’s also a benefit if you already own other 20V tools). Ideal for professionals and serious DIYers who want cordless freedom without sacrificing runtime.
Accessory-Rich Multitool
A corded multi-tool with a 3.2A motor, wide 10,000–22,000 OPM range, tool-free blade changes, and a 26-piece accessory set—an excellent balance of power, convenience, and affordability for regular DIY and light professional use.
ZKH Oscillating Tool — Best Value for Money
ZKH packs a surprising amount into a modest price: a 3.2A motor, 3.5° oscillation angle, 6-speed control spanning ~10,000–22,000 OPM, tool-free blade changes, and 26 accessories including sanding pads and multiple blades. In hands-on tests it handled plunge cuts, fast screw/nail trimming, and sanding with ease; the stronger motor made short work of tasks that weaker budget tools struggled with. The 10 ft cord and included tool bag add convenience. Trade-offs: corded operation limits mobility versus cordless options and build refinement falls short of premium brands. For most homeowners and weekend pros this is the best balance of kit, power, and price.
M18 Pro Oscillating
Milwaukee's M18 oscillating multi-tool offers 11,000–18,000 OPM, an all-metal gear case, LED lighting, and Redlink battery integration for smart thermal protection—great for pros invested in the M18 platform.
Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 — Editors Choice
The Milwaukee M18 multi-tool is the pick for professionals who value durability and system integration. It offers 12 speed settings (11,000–18,000 OPM), an all-metal gear case for impact resistance, a rubberized grip for handling, and LED lighting for precision. When used with M18 batteries it benefits from Redlink communication that helps manage thermal stress and prolong battery/tool life. Performance-wise it’s reliable for heavier tasks while remaining comfortable for extended use. The primary considerations are cost (battery not included in this SKU) and the need to be in the M18 battery ecosystem for maximum convenience. For pros and serious renovators who want a dependable day-in/day-out tool, this is the best overall choice.
Comparison at a Glance
Quick differences:
- Inequalit (Best Budget Pick) — Lowest cost, compact head, best for light occasional work. Limited continuous power.
- DEWALT DCS356C1 (Premium Choice) — Brushless motor, included battery & charger, best cordless runtime and refinement.
- ZKH (Best Value for Money) — Strong corded motor (3.2A), broad speed range, large accessory kit; excellent for most homeowners.
- Milwaukee M18 (Editors Choice) — Durable, pro-grade build and battery-smart protection; top choice for professionals.
Which is best overall? For day-to-day professional reliability and balanced performance, the Milwaukee M18 is our pick. It mixes durability, proven brand support, and electric protection features that extend tool life.
Best alternatives for specific needs:
- On a tight budget or for infrequent use: choose the Inequalit.
- Want cordless convenience and premium runtime with accessories included: DEWALT DCS356C1.
- Need the most accessories and power for the price (corded): ZKH.
Final recommendation
All four tools above earned placement by combining measured performance with real-world usefulness. If you are a pro or heavy user who values durability and system batteries, choose the Milwaukee 2626-20 M18. If you want the highest-end cordless kit ready to work out of the box, go with the DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS356C1. For most homeowners and weekend renovators seeking maximum utility per dollar, the ZKH corded multitool is hard to beat. And if price is the primary constraint while still getting a usable multitool for occasional tasks, the Inequalit budget option delivers solid value.
These recommendations are based on structured hands-on testing, cross-referenced expert reviews, and aggregated consumer feedback. Match your final pick to the type of work you do (light occasional, regular DIY, cordless pro work, or heavy/professional use) and prioritize battery ecosystem and accessory needs when applicable.