Home repairs can be tricky and complicated. However, with the right tools, it can be quick and easy. One of the must-have tools you should have in your home is an oscillating power tool. While the oscillating tool is not as common as a hammer, saw, or screwdriver, there are various uses for an oscillating tool.

The oscillating power tool is a multi-tool that can perform many tasks such as trimming pipes and screws, trimming woods and floorboards, and cutting out openings in your drywalls. This makes it a handy tool to have with quick and simple home repairs.  

And if you are tired of always relying on a handyman (and being charged a great sum of money) for quick and simple home repairs, an oscillating tool is for you. That is why our team of experts has curated the best power oscillating tools available in the market. Also, to have a more detailed perspective, feel free to click on the buttons below to check out their best deals on Amazon.

Best Power Oscillating Tools Comparison & Rating

Power Oscillating Tools

Features

Genesis GMT15A 1.5 Amp Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool and 19-Piece Universal Hook-And-Loop Accessory Kit with Storage Box
  • 22,000 OPM
  • 2.5 amp motor
  • die-cast aluminum housing
Avid Power Oscillating Tool, 3.5-Amp Oscillating Multi Tool with 4.5°Oscillation Angle, Variable Speeds and 13pcs Accessories
  • 6 speed levels
  • 4.5 oscillation angle
  • quick-change accessory system
PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Oscillating Tool with 11-Piece Accessories, Tool Only (PCC710B)
  • 8,000 to 18,000 OPM
  • two-finger tool-free system
  • 11-piece accessory set
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool, Variable Speed, Tool Only (DCS356B)
  • brushless motor
  • dual-grip variable speed trigger
  • universal accessory adapter
Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool, Tool Only
  • 6,000 to 20,000 OPM
  • 18 V LXT lithium-ion battery
  • 3.2 oscillation angle

1. Genesis 1.5 Amp Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool

Genesis GMT15A 1.5 Amp Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool and 19-Piece Universal Hook-And-Loop Accessory Kit with Storage Box
Specifications:
97% Overall

Brand

Genesis

Weight

2.75 pounds

Voltage

120 volts

Material

Die-Cast Aluminum

97%
reliability
98%
ease of use
96%
durability
95%
features
Pros:
  • Boasts of a powerful 22,000 OPM for fast and efficient use, perfect for scraping, grinding, and cutting.
  • Powerful 30 mm flush cutting saw blade for accuracy.
  • Heavy-duty 2.5 amp motor for maximum power.
  • Includes a reliable die-cast aluminum housing for better durability.
  • Features a 6-pin flange design to hold accessories in place firmly.
  • Comes with a 3-inch Delta sanding pad, scraping blade, sandpaper, 30 mm E-cut saw blade, Allen wrench, and an HSS segment saw blade.
  • Equipped with a tool-free quick-change accessory system for added convenience.
Cons:
  • Has a limited variable speed. However, the power tool works great and can still provide accurate and excellent results. Also, extending the variable speed is being considered in future models.
  • Batteries are not included.
Final Take:

For a cost-efficient price, the Genesis power oscillating tool packs a punch. You do not have to worry about efficiency because it features a powerful 22,000 OPM, a 30 mm cutting saw blade, and a 2.5 motor amp. It also includes a reliable aluminum housing and multiple bonus accessories to boot! It also features a 6-pin flange that holds accessories firmly in place to ensure safety. This power tool is excellent for trimming door jambs, removing gunk, chiseling door hinges, and many more!

2. Avid Power Oscillating Tool

Avid Power Oscillating Tool, 3.5-Amp Oscillating Multi Tool with 4.5°Oscillation Angle, Variable Speeds and 13pcs Accessories
Specifications:
96% Overall

Brand

Avid Power

Weight

5.54 pounds

Voltage

120 volts

Material

Metal

95%
reliability
98%
ease of use
96%
durability
94%
features
Pros:
  • Boasts of a 4.5 oscillation angle for more efficient work.
  • Includes a quick-change accessory system that no longer needs additional tools to change blades.
  • Consists of 6 speed levels that vary on the type of repair work.
  • The auxiliary handle is designed ergonomically for user ease of use.
  • The toolset includes five sanding paper pieces, two carbon brushes, a sanding pad, a rigid scraper blade, a semicircle saw blade, a wood/ plastic plunge blade, and a plunge saw blade.
  • It is 4 to 5 times efficient in cutting wood and 2 to 3 times efficient in cutting metal tubes.
  • Features a locking level that allows blades and other attachments to be changed without a wrench.
  • Excellent for cutting, scraping, sanding, cleaning, polishing, and many more.
  • Equipped with a universal fit system that matches most blades and accessories in the market.
Cons:
  • The power tool is larger and heavier than others.
Final Take:

The Avid Power Oscillating tool has all the features that DIY home repair users can ever dream of. First, its 4.5 oscillation angle enables users to be more efficient in their repair work. Other features also include a toolless quick-change accessory system, an impressive 6 change speed levels, and an auxiliary handle specifically designed for users to be ergonomically safe! Unlike other power tools, the Avid brand also provides users with a whopping 13 piece-bonus accessory set.

3. Porter Cable Max Oscillating Tool

PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Oscillating Tool with 11-Piece Accessories, Tool Only (PCC710B)
Specifications:
95% Overall

Brand

Porter Cable

Weight

0.16 ounces

Voltage

20 volts

Material

Plastic 

96%
reliability
94%
ease of use
95%
durability
93%
features
Pros:
  • Provides a quick and easy accessory change with its two-finger tool-free system.
  • Includes LED lights for added illumination.
  • Offers a variable speed dial (from 8,000 to 18,000 OPM) for users to control based on the type of repair work.
  • Uses a high-performance cordless platform for portability and convenience.
  • An 11-piece accessory set is included to provide the ability to cut, sand, scrape, and grind all in one tool.
  • Comes with a three-position over-mold grip that offers comfort and reduces vibration.
Cons:
  • An adapter needs to be purchased separately to utilize the different attachments. 
Final Take:

The Porter-Cable Max Oscillating Tool provides many essential features that power tools should have, including a quick accessory change system, LED lights, variable speed dial, and yes – even a cordless platform! What more, the toolset also includes 11 different accessories. Aside from that, it has a two-finger tool-free system that makes adjusting and changing accessories quick and easy. Plus, it offers maximum control of 18,000 OPM maximum control across a variety of applications.

4. DeWalt Max XR Oscillating Multi-Tool

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool, Variable Speed, Tool Only (DCS356B)
Specifications:
93% Overall

Brand

DeWalt

Weight

2.4 pounds

Voltage

20 volts

Material

Composite

92%
reliability
94%
ease of use
93%
durability
91%
features
Pros:
  • Users have the option of choosing three-speed settings depending on the type of repair.
  • A quick-change accessory feature is included to change blades efficiently.
  • LED light features are included to illuminate dark places.
  • Consists of a brushless motor that provides up to 57% run time as compared to other tools.
  • Speed and application control is easily controlled through a patented dual grip variable speed trigger.
  • Features a dual-grip variable speed trigger that allows ultimate speed and application control.
  • Includes a universal accessory adapter compatible with most oscillating tool accessory brands.
  • Comes with a quick-change accessory system that permits the blades and attachments to be changed quickly without wrenches.
Cons:
  • The depth guide is sold separately. Even so, it is readily available via Amazon and other online selling platforms.
Final Take:

You will get value for your money with the DeWalt Max XR Oscillating Multi-Tool. Customers are guaranteed ease of use as they have three different speed settings to choose from, depending on the type of home repair they need. This oscillating power tool also features a quick-change blade accessory that no longer needs additional screws and wrenches for a hassle-free experience. What more is that it includes a brushless motor that provides up to 57% run time than other tools.

5. Makita Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool

Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool, Tool Only
Specifications:
91% Overall

Brand

Makita

Weight

4 pounds

Voltage

18 volts

Material

Plastic

91%
reliability
92%
ease of use
90%
durability
90%
features
Pros:
  • Offers a variety of speeds (from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM) for users to select from.
  • Has an 18 V LXT lithium-ion battery that provides efficient power management that can last up to 20 minutes of continued usage.
  • Improved handling experience with its small diameter barrel grip.
  • Features an improved 3.2 oscillation angle for better tool performance.
  • Includes a large on and off slide switch with a lock button for operator convenience.
  • Comes with a tool-less clamp system for fast accessory installation.
Cons:
  • The oscillating power tool is slightly heavier than others, and the device is recommended more for heavy-duty construction.
Final Take:

The Makita Oscillating tool offers a wide range of speeds to match the users’ needs depending on the repair they want to do. This handy tool is also reliable as it boasts efficient power management that can last up to 20 minutes! Other features that improve the overall user experience and efficiency are improved handling experience, fast accessory installation, and better tool performance with its 3.2 oscillation angle.

Best Power Oscillating Tools - Buyer's Guide

power usage

Many users debate on whether to get a corded or battery-powered power oscillating tool. The answer is, it depends as both have pros and cons. If you prefer mobility, then go for the battery-powered tool. However, note that there may be limitations (and expenses) when it comes to battery life. If you need a heavy construction tool, opt to buy a corded one but note that there may be mobility limitations.

replacement parts

In any tool, keep in mind that there will always be parts that need to be replaced. For the power oscillating tool, the blades and grinders are the ones that you typically have to replace. Check if the device you are purchasing has available replacement parts, or if not, if you can easily purchase replacement parts at a lower cost.

variable speed control

Another important feature you should look out for is if it offers various speeds. Especially for DIY home improvement activities, you do not necessarily need a power tool with maximum voltage all the time. Consider buying a tool that offers a variety of speeds for different home repair work.

price

Of course, as is with any item you purchase, the price may be an influencing factor. Ensure that your purchasing tool is well within your price range, but do not skimp on the quality!

bonus tools and attachments

Some tools can be more expensive, but make sure you are also looking at the total package. While others are cheaper, you will notice that batteries are not included to purchase an adapter for the blades. Better opt to buy for tools which come in a complete package.

Best Power Oscillating Tools - FAQs

What is the power oscillating tool used for?

The power oscillating tool is used for various DIY home improvement activities and repair, including sawing, polishing, cutting, sanding, scraping, and grinding.

What makes this tool better than other tools?

Because the power oscillating tool is a multi-tool in one handy tool. You can have multiple benefits from one single device while saving money and space because you do not have to buy various tools.

What are the materials that you can use an oscillating tool for?

Power oscillating tools can work in various materials such as wood, tiles, metals, plastic, cement, and drywall.

What are the advantages of cordless tools versus corded ones?

Cordless power oscillating tools have an advantage over your mobility. You do not have to worry about getting in a tangled mess when working in a tight space. At the same time, you also do not have to worry about looking for a power source if you need immediate repair and the power is out.

Author

Jimmy Black started his career as a construction and carpenter foreman. After years of hard work, he decided to go on his own. Now, Jimmy is one of the trusted experts at SolidSmack who knows at first glance whether your hammer would do a great job or not. He still involves himself in various construction projects and works for individual clients. Behind formalities, he enjoys being a father to two lovely kids who keep on asking him why they can’t quit school and travel the world like Dora The Explorer.