Best picks

11 Best Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tools (November 2026)

Updated on · By the TrueTumbler team

The best cordless oscillating multi-tools include the DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool for speed control, the DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit for a ready-to-use kit, and the Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool for dial-based speed control.

On this page (5 sections)
  1. Which cordless oscillating multi-tools suit different jobs?
  2. How did we choose the best cordless oscillating multi-tool?
  3. What should you compare before buying a cordless multi-tool?
  4. What can a cordless oscillating multi-tool do?
  5. Which cordless oscillating multi-tool should you choose?

The best cordless oscillating multi-tool for most users is the DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool, with a brushless motor, 3-speed selector and quick-change accessories. Choose the DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit if you need a battery and charger, or the Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool if you prefer a speed dial.

Cordless tools are useful when you need to cut, sand or scrape in a tight spot without managing a power cord. The right choice depends on your battery system, the kind of speed control you prefer and whether you want a tool-only model or a kit.

Start with our guide to choosing an oscillating multi-tool for more on tool features. For a broader comparison, see our best oscillating multi-tool guide.

Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool
    Best for speed control

    DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool

    9.4/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit
    Best for a ready-to-use kit

    DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit

    9.2/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool
    Best for dial-based speed control

    Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool

    8.9/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  1. 4Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 Multi-Tool

    Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 Multi-Tool

    Best for M18 tool owners
    Check it
  2. 5Milwaukee 2526-20 M12 Multi-Tool

    Milwaukee 2526-20 M12 Multi-Tool

    Best for M12 battery owners
    Check it
  3. 6Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool Kit

    Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool Kit

    Best for adding an M18 battery
    Check it
  4. 7Craftsman V20 Oscillating Tool Kit

    Craftsman V20 Oscillating Tool Kit

    Best for a broad accessory set
    Check it
  5. 8Ryobi ONE+ Multi-Tool

    Ryobi ONE+ Multi-Tool

    Best for ONE+ battery owners
    Check it
  6. 9WORX Sonicrafter WX696L

    WORX Sonicrafter WX696L

    Best for a complete 20V set
    Check it
  7. 10WORKPRO 20V Multi-Tool Kit

    WORKPRO 20V Multi-Tool Kit

    Best for six speed choices
    Check it
  8. 11AVID POWER 20V Cordless Multi-Tool

    AVID POWER 20V Cordless Multi-Tool

    Best for included scraping accessories
    Check it

Which cordless oscillating multi-tools suit different jobs?

The DeWalt DCS356B ranks first for its combination of speed settings, trigger control and quick changes. The other picks focus on included batteries and chargers, a specific battery system or accessories.

1

DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool: Best for speed control

DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
9.4/10Our score
  • Brushless motor
  • 3-speed selector
  • Dual-grip variable-speed trigger
  • Quick-change accessory system
  • LED light

Three selectable speed ranges and a variable-speed trigger give you two ways to control the cut. It comes with 2 wood cutting blades, but no battery or charger.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Brushless motor
  • 3-speed selector and variable-speed trigger
  • Quick blade changes

Cons

  • Battery and charger sold separately

The DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool is the top pick if you want both selectable speed ranges and finer trigger control. Its 3-speed selector offers ranges of 0 to 13,000, 0 to 17,000 or 0 to 20,000 OPM, while the dual-grip variable-speed trigger lets you adjust speed as you work.

The brushless motor and quick-change system suit projects that involve switching between cutting and sanding. A bright LED helps light the work surface, and the universal adapter fits most oscillating accessory brands.

This is a tool-only model. It includes 2 wood cutting blades, but the battery and charger are sold separately.

Choose it if you already have a compatible DeWalt 20V battery or want the added control. If you need a battery and charger in the same kit, compare the DCS356C1 below.

DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-ToolCheck it on Amazon
2

DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit: Best for a ready-to-use kit

DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit, cordless oscillating multi-tools
9.2/10Our score
  • Brushless motor
  • 3-speed selector
  • Battery and charger included
  • Universal accessory adapter
  • LED light

The kit includes a battery, charger, 2 blades, an adapter and a kit bag. Its 3-speed selector and variable-speed trigger match the control features of the tool-only DCS356B.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Battery and charger included
  • Brushless motor
  • Quick-change accessory system

Cons

  • Less useful if you already have compatible batteries and a charger

The DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit keeps the DCS356's brushless motor and speed controls while adding a battery, charger, blades and a kit bag. It suits someone starting a DeWalt 20V setup who also needs cutting accessories.

Its quick-change accessory system needs no wrench, and the universal adapter works with most accessory brands. The included blades cover wood and wood/metal cutting, while the selector gives 3 speed settings.

Pick this version when you need the included battery and charger. If you already own compatible batteries and a charger, the DCS356B tool-only option may fit your needs better.

DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool KitCheck it on Amazon
3

Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool: Best for dial-based speed control

Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
8.9/10Our score
  • Variable-speed dial
  • 3.2° oscillation angle
  • Adapters for most competing accessories
  • Barrel grip

A variable-speed dial lets you set a rate from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM. The XMT03Z is tool-only, and its barrel grip is 2-3/8 in in diameter.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 6,000–20,000 OPM speed range
  • Adapters fit most competing accessories
  • Lock-on button

Cons

  • Battery and charger sold separately

The Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool suits users who want to set speed with a dial. It adjusts from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM, so you can match the rate to cutting, sanding or scraping tasks.

It has a 3.2° oscillation angle and a 2-3/8 in diameter barrel grip. Makita includes adapters for most competing accessories, plus a plunge blade.

The tool is sold without a battery or charger. Choose it if you have a compatible Makita 18V battery with a Star symbol and prefer a dial over a trigger; see our Makita XMT03Z review for more detail.

Makita XMT03Z Multi-ToolCheck it on Amazon
4

Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 Multi-Tool: Best for M18 tool owners

Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
8.7/10Our score
  • 12 speed settings
  • Rubberized grip
  • LED light
  • All-metal gear case

The M18 tool-only option offers 12 speed settings and includes a wood cutting blade, sanding pad, sheets and adapter. Its rubberized grip helps you hold the tool, while an LED lights the work area.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 12 speed settings
  • Sanding accessories included
  • All-metal gear case

Cons

  • Battery not included

The Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 Multi-Tool is a tool-only M18 option with 12 speed settings between 11,000 and 18,000 OPM. Those settings let you adjust the rate for different materials and accessories.

It includes a wood cutting blade, sanding pad, sanding sheets and an adapter. The tool also has a rubberized grip, an all-metal gear case and an LED to light the work area.

You need a separate M18 battery. If you need a battery too, compare the Milwaukee kit below, which pairs this multi-tool with a 1.5Ah battery.

Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 Multi-ToolCheck it on Amazon
5

Milwaukee 2526-20 M12 Multi-Tool: Best for M12 battery owners

Milwaukee 2526-20 M12 Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
8.3/10Our score
  • Variable-speed dial
  • Brushless motor
  • LED light
  • Vibration-dampening technology
  • Tool-free blade changes

This M12 tool-only model has a variable-speed dial, vibration-dampening technology and tool-free blade changes. It includes a wood blade and sanding accessories, but not a battery.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Brushless motor
  • Tool-free blade changes
  • Sanding accessories included

Cons

  • Battery sold separately

The Milwaukee 2526-20 M12 Multi-Tool uses the M12 battery platform and has a variable-speed dial. Its brushless motor, LED and tool-free blade changes round out the main features.

Milwaukee includes vibration-dampening technology, though that does not remove the need for breaks during use. A wood blade, sanding pad and sanding sheets come with the tool.

Choose it if you already use compatible M12 batteries and want tool-free blade changes. The battery is sold separately.

Milwaukee 2526-20 M12 Multi-ToolCheck it on Amazon
6

Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool Kit: Best for adding an M18 battery

Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool Kit, cordless oscillating multi-tools
8.1/10Our score
  • M18 multi-tool
  • 1.5Ah battery included
  • Tool-free blade changes
  • LED light
  • All-metal gear case

This M18 kit pairs the 2626-20 multi-tool with a 1.5Ah battery. Its speed range is 11,000 to 18,000 OPM, and it has tool-free blade changes and a built-in LED.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Battery included
  • Tool-free blade changes
  • All-metal gear case

Cons

  • Confirm charger inclusion before buying

The Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool Kit pairs the 2626-20 with a 1.5Ah battery. Its tool runs from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM and has a built-in LED, tool-free blade changes and an all-metal gear case.

This is the M18 pick to consider if you want a battery in the box. Confirm charger inclusion before buying if you don't already have a compatible one.

Choose the tool-only 2626-20 if you already have an M18 battery and want its included sanding accessories. This kit suits someone who needs the tool and a 1.5Ah pack together.

Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool KitCheck it on Amazon
7

Craftsman V20 Oscillating Tool Kit: Best for a broad accessory set

Craftsman V20 Oscillating Tool Kit, cordless oscillating multi-tools
7.9/10Our score
  • Variable-speed dial
  • Battery and charger included
  • Universal tool-free attachment
  • LED light
  • Storage bag

This kit includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger, storage bag, wood blade, wood/metal blade, sanding platen and 4 sheets of sandpaper. The variable-speed dial and tool-free attachment help with changes between common tasks.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Battery and charger included
  • Blades and sanding supplies included
  • Storage bag

Cons

  • Less useful if you already have compatible batteries and a charger

The Craftsman V20 Oscillating Tool Kit includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger and storage bag, along with blades and sanding supplies. Its variable-speed dial helps you adjust the tool for the task, and its tool-free universal attachment makes accessory changes simpler.

The kit contains a wood blade, a wood/metal blade, a sanding platen and 4 sheets of sandpaper. An LED work light helps illuminate the work area.

Choose it if you want cutting and sanding accessories in a V20 starter set. The included battery and charger save you from arranging a separate power setup.

Craftsman V20 Oscillating Tool KitCheck it on Amazon
8

Ryobi ONE+ Multi-Tool: Best for ONE+ battery owners

Ryobi ONE+ Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
7.7/10Our score
  • Variable-speed dial
  • Up to 20,000 OPM
  • Lock-on button
  • On-board accessory storage

The Ryobi PCL430B is a tool-only option for the ONE+ battery system. Its variable-speed dial reaches up to 20,000 OPM, and on-board accessory storage keeps attachments with the tool.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Up to 20,000 OPM
  • On-board accessory storage
  • Lock-on button

Cons

  • Battery and charger sold separately

The Ryobi ONE+ Multi-Tool is a tool-only option with a variable-speed dial that reaches up to 20,000 OPM. The PCL430B also has on-board accessory storage and a lock-on button.

It runs on an 18V ONE+ battery, and both the battery and charger are sold separately. Its interchangeable accessories support cutting, sanding and scraping tasks.

Choose it if you already have compatible Ryobi ONE+ batteries and want to add an oscillating tool to that system. If you need a battery and charger included, look at the WORX or Craftsman kits.

Ryobi ONE+ Multi-ToolCheck it on Amazon
9

WORX Sonicrafter WX696L: Best for a complete 20V set

WORX Sonicrafter WX696L, cordless oscillating multi-tools
7.4/10Our score
  • Battery and charger included
  • Universal Fit System
  • 2 speed settings
  • On-board blade-changing wrench

The WX696L comes with a 2.0Ah battery, charger, woodcutting blade, sanding pad, 20 sanding sheets and a carry bag. Its two speed settings are 5,000 and 20,000 OPM.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Battery and charger included
  • Sanding supplies and carry bag included
  • Universal Fit System

Cons

  • Two speed settings
  • Blade changes require the included wrench

The WORX Sonicrafter WX696L is a 20V kit with a 2.0Ah battery and charger. It has 2 speed settings, 5,000 and 20,000 OPM, and includes a woodcutting blade, sanding pad, 20 sanding sheets and a carry bag.

Its Universal Fit System accepts blades from most major brands. Blade changes require a wrench that stores on the tool, so you have a place to keep it between changes.

Choose it if you want a battery, charger and sanding supplies together. Its two speed settings offer fewer adjustment steps than the models with a dial or multiple speed choices.

WORX Sonicrafter WX696LCheck it on Amazon
10

WORKPRO 20V Multi-Tool Kit: Best for six speed choices

WORKPRO 20V Multi-Tool Kit, cordless oscillating multi-tools
7.3/10Our score
  • Brushless motor
  • 6-speed selector
  • Tool-less blade changes
  • Universal accessory fit
  • LED light

The WORKPRO kit has a brushless motor, 6 speed settings and a tool-less blade change system. Its top speed is 19,000 OPM, and a battery is included.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Brushless motor
  • Six speed settings
  • Tool-less blade changes

Cons

  • Confirm charger and accessory inclusion before buying

The WORKPRO 20V Multi-Tool Kit offers a brushless motor and 6 speed settings, with a top speed of 19,000 OPM. Its universal interface works with most accessory brands, and blade changes need no spanner.

The tool has an LED to light the work surface and a top-mounted on/off switch. A battery is included, so you don't need to buy that separately.

Choose it if multiple speed choices and brushless operation matter to you. Confirm charger and accessory inclusion before deciding whether it covers everything you need for your first project.

WORKPRO 20V Multi-Tool KitCheck it on Amazon
11

AVID POWER 20V Cordless Multi-Tool: Best for included scraping accessories

AVID POWER 20V Cordless Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
7.1/10Our score
  • Variable speed from 8,000–18,000 OPM
  • 2.0Ah battery and charger included
  • Cutting, scraping and sanding accessories
  • Front LED

This kit includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger and cutting, scraping and sanding accessories. AVID POWER recommends light to medium household jobs and a 15-minute rest after no more than 30 minutes of continuous use.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Battery and charger included
  • Cutting, scraping and sanding accessories included
  • Six variable speed settings

Cons

  • AVID POWER says it is not for heavy-duty jobs
  • Battery charging takes 4–5 hours

The AVID POWER 20V Cordless Multi-Tool includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger and cutting, scraping and sanding accessories. Its 6-speed dial adjusts from 8,000 to 18,000 OPM, and a front LED lights the work area.

AVID POWER recommends this model for light to medium household jobs and says it is not suitable for heavy-duty work. It also advises no more than 30 minutes of continuous use, followed by a 15-minute rest.

Choose it if you need a scraper, cutting blades and sanding pads for household repairs. Allow for the 4–5 hour charging time when planning work that may need more than one battery charge.

AVID POWER 20V Cordless Multi-ToolCheck it on Amazon
1

DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool: Best for speed control

DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
9.4/10Our score
  • Brushless motor
  • 3-speed selector
  • Dual-grip variable-speed trigger
  • Quick-change accessory system
  • LED light

Three selectable speed ranges and a variable-speed trigger give you two ways to control the cut. It comes with 2 wood cutting blades, but no battery or charger.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Brushless motor
  • 3-speed selector and variable-speed trigger
  • Quick blade changes

Cons

  • Battery and charger sold separately
2

DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit: Best for a ready-to-use kit

DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit, cordless oscillating multi-tools
9.2/10Our score
  • Brushless motor
  • 3-speed selector
  • Battery and charger included
  • Universal accessory adapter
  • LED light

The kit includes a battery, charger, 2 blades, an adapter and a kit bag. Its 3-speed selector and variable-speed trigger match the control features of the tool-only DCS356B.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Battery and charger included
  • Brushless motor
  • Quick-change accessory system

Cons

  • Less useful if you already have compatible batteries and a charger
3

Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool: Best for dial-based speed control

Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
8.9/10Our score
  • Variable-speed dial
  • 3.2° oscillation angle
  • Adapters for most competing accessories
  • Barrel grip

A variable-speed dial lets you set a rate from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM. The XMT03Z is tool-only, and its barrel grip is 2-3/8 in in diameter.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 6,000–20,000 OPM speed range
  • Adapters fit most competing accessories
  • Lock-on button

Cons

  • Battery and charger sold separately
4

Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 Multi-Tool: Best for M18 tool owners

Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
8.7/10Our score
  • 12 speed settings
  • Rubberized grip
  • LED light
  • All-metal gear case

The M18 tool-only option offers 12 speed settings and includes a wood cutting blade, sanding pad, sheets and adapter. Its rubberized grip helps you hold the tool, while an LED lights the work area.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • 12 speed settings
  • Sanding accessories included
  • All-metal gear case

Cons

  • Battery not included
5

Milwaukee 2526-20 M12 Multi-Tool: Best for M12 battery owners

Milwaukee 2526-20 M12 Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
8.3/10Our score
  • Variable-speed dial
  • Brushless motor
  • LED light
  • Vibration-dampening technology
  • Tool-free blade changes

This M12 tool-only model has a variable-speed dial, vibration-dampening technology and tool-free blade changes. It includes a wood blade and sanding accessories, but not a battery.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Brushless motor
  • Tool-free blade changes
  • Sanding accessories included

Cons

  • Battery sold separately
6

Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool Kit: Best for adding an M18 battery

Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool Kit, cordless oscillating multi-tools
8.1/10Our score
  • M18 multi-tool
  • 1.5Ah battery included
  • Tool-free blade changes
  • LED light
  • All-metal gear case

This M18 kit pairs the 2626-20 multi-tool with a 1.5Ah battery. Its speed range is 11,000 to 18,000 OPM, and it has tool-free blade changes and a built-in LED.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Battery included
  • Tool-free blade changes
  • All-metal gear case

Cons

  • Confirm charger inclusion before buying
7

Craftsman V20 Oscillating Tool Kit: Best for a broad accessory set

Craftsman V20 Oscillating Tool Kit, cordless oscillating multi-tools
7.9/10Our score
  • Variable-speed dial
  • Battery and charger included
  • Universal tool-free attachment
  • LED light
  • Storage bag

This kit includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger, storage bag, wood blade, wood/metal blade, sanding platen and 4 sheets of sandpaper. The variable-speed dial and tool-free attachment help with changes between common tasks.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Battery and charger included
  • Blades and sanding supplies included
  • Storage bag

Cons

  • Less useful if you already have compatible batteries and a charger
8

Ryobi ONE+ Multi-Tool: Best for ONE+ battery owners

Ryobi ONE+ Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
7.7/10Our score
  • Variable-speed dial
  • Up to 20,000 OPM
  • Lock-on button
  • On-board accessory storage

The Ryobi PCL430B is a tool-only option for the ONE+ battery system. Its variable-speed dial reaches up to 20,000 OPM, and on-board accessory storage keeps attachments with the tool.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Up to 20,000 OPM
  • On-board accessory storage
  • Lock-on button

Cons

  • Battery and charger sold separately
9

WORX Sonicrafter WX696L: Best for a complete 20V set

WORX Sonicrafter WX696L, cordless oscillating multi-tools
7.4/10Our score
  • Battery and charger included
  • Universal Fit System
  • 2 speed settings
  • On-board blade-changing wrench

The WX696L comes with a 2.0Ah battery, charger, woodcutting blade, sanding pad, 20 sanding sheets and a carry bag. Its two speed settings are 5,000 and 20,000 OPM.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Battery and charger included
  • Sanding supplies and carry bag included
  • Universal Fit System

Cons

  • Two speed settings
  • Blade changes require the included wrench
10

WORKPRO 20V Multi-Tool Kit: Best for six speed choices

WORKPRO 20V Multi-Tool Kit, cordless oscillating multi-tools
7.3/10Our score
  • Brushless motor
  • 6-speed selector
  • Tool-less blade changes
  • Universal accessory fit
  • LED light

The WORKPRO kit has a brushless motor, 6 speed settings and a tool-less blade change system. Its top speed is 19,000 OPM, and a battery is included.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Brushless motor
  • Six speed settings
  • Tool-less blade changes

Cons

  • Confirm charger and accessory inclusion before buying
11

AVID POWER 20V Cordless Multi-Tool: Best for included scraping accessories

AVID POWER 20V Cordless Multi-Tool, cordless oscillating multi-tools
7.1/10Our score
  • Variable speed from 8,000–18,000 OPM
  • 2.0Ah battery and charger included
  • Cutting, scraping and sanding accessories
  • Front LED

This kit includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger and cutting, scraping and sanding accessories. AVID POWER recommends light to medium household jobs and a 15-minute rest after no more than 30 minutes of continuous use.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Battery and charger included
  • Cutting, scraping and sanding accessories included
  • Six variable speed settings

Cons

  • AVID POWER says it is not for heavy-duty jobs
  • Battery charging takes 4–5 hours
ProductBest forSpeedMotorPowerOur score
DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Toolspeed control0–13,000, 0–17,000 or 0–20,000 OPMBrushless20V battery, sold separately9.4
DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kita ready-to-use kitUp to 20,000 OPMBrushless9.2
Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tooldial-based speed control6,000–20,000 OPM18V battery, sold separately8.9
Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 Multi-ToolM18 tool owners11,000–18,000 OPMM18 battery, not included8.7
Milwaukee 2526-20 M12 Multi-ToolM12 battery ownersM12 battery, sold separately8.3
Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool Kitadding an M18 battery11,000–18,000 OPM18V8.1
Craftsman V20 Oscillating Tool Kita broad accessory set20V7.9
Ryobi ONE+ Multi-ToolONE+ battery ownersUp to 20,000 OPM18V battery, sold separately7.7
WORX Sonicrafter WX696La complete 20V set5,000 or 20,000 OPM20V7.4
WORKPRO 20V Multi-Tool Kitsix speed choicesUp to 19,000 OPM20V battery included7.3
AVID POWER 20V Cordless Multi-Toolincluded scraping accessories8,000–18,000 OPM20V, 2.0Ah battery included7.1

How did we choose the best cordless oscillating multi-tool?

We compared speed controls, motor types, accessory changes, included items and battery requirements. Our score weighs specs, features and fit for the job, including whether a tool is a bare unit or comes with a battery and charger.

Battery compatibility can matter as much as the tool itself. A tool-only model can make sense if you already own its battery platform, while a kit may be a simpler start if it includes the battery and charger you need.

The DeWalt DCS356B leads because it combines a brushless motor, 3 selectable speed ranges and a variable-speed trigger. The DeWalt kit ranks next with the same types of controls plus a battery, charger and accessories.

What should you compare before buying a cordless multi-tool?

Compare the battery system, speed control and accessory change method before choosing a cordless multi-tool. These details affect setup and how easily you can switch between cutting, sanding and scraping.

Does the cordless oscillating multi-tool fit your batteries?

Choose a tool that accepts your existing batteries if you want to keep using the same charging setup. The DeWalt DCS356B, Makita XMT03Z, Milwaukee 2626-20, Milwaukee 2526-20 and Ryobi ONE+ are tool-only models here.

If you're starting fresh, the kits from DeWalt, Craftsman, WORX and AVID POWER include a battery and charger. The Milwaukee M18 and WORKPRO kits also include a battery, but confirm charger inclusion before buying either one.

Which speed control do you prefer?

Choose a dial for setting the speed before a cut, or a variable-speed trigger for adjusting it as you work. The Makita XMT03Z has a dial from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM, while the DeWalt DCS356B combines a 3-speed selector with a variable-speed trigger.

The WORX model uses 2 fixed settings, while WORKPRO has 6 speed choices. Match the setting to the accessory and material rather than treating the highest OPM as the right choice for every job.

How often will you change accessories?

A tool-free or quick-change system saves you from reaching for a wrench when switching blades or pads. The DeWalt DCS356B and DeWalt kit have quick-change systems, while the Milwaukee M12 and Craftsman models have tool-free changes.

Accessory fit varies across tools. Check whether your existing blades need an adapter before relying on them with a different brand.

What can a cordless oscillating multi-tool do?

A cordless oscillating multi-tool can cut, sand and scrape in places where a larger saw or sander may not fit. Use an accessory intended for both the material and the task, and follow the tool's instructions.

For a practical overview of tasks, read what an oscillating multi-tool is used for. If you need help with technique and setup, follow our guide to using an oscillating multi-tool.

A multi-tool is also different from a reciprocating saw in how it moves and the jobs it suits. Our reciprocating saw vs oscillating multi-tool comparison explains when each tool makes more sense.

Which cordless oscillating multi-tool should you choose?

Choose the DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool if you already have a compatible battery and want selectable speed ranges, trigger control and quick accessory changes. Pick the DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit if you need its battery and charger too.

For dial-based control, choose the Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool if you have its battery platform, or the Milwaukee 2526-20 M12 Multi-Tool if you use M12 batteries. If you're comparing cordless and corded options, see our best corded oscillating multi-tools guide.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

  1. 1 DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool
    Best for speed control

    DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool

    9.4/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit
    Best for a ready-to-use kit

    DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit

    9.2/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool
    Best for dial-based speed control

    Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool

    8.9/10 our score

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best cordless oscillating multi-tool?

The DeWalt DCS356B XR Oscillating Multi-Tool is our top pick because it combines a brushless motor, 3-speed selector, variable-speed trigger and quick-change accessories. Choose the DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit if you need a battery and charger, or the Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool if you prefer a speed dial.

Do cordless oscillating tools come with batteries?

Some include batteries, while tool-only models need a separate one. The DeWalt, Milwaukee M18, Craftsman, WORX, WORKPRO and AVID POWER kits here include a battery.

The DeWalt DCS356B, Makita XMT03Z, Milwaukee 2626-20, Milwaukee 2526-20 and Ryobi ONE+ are tool-only options, so plan for a compatible battery.

Can oscillating multi-tool blades fit different brands?

Some tools include adapters or universal-fit systems for accessories from other brands. DeWalt's adapter works with most accessory brands, and Makita includes adapters for most competing accessories.

Check that a blade fits your tool before buying, since compatibility varies by tool and accessory.

What should I look for in a cordless oscillating multi-tool?

Start with the work you do most, then compare speed control, accessory changes and what comes in the box. A variable-speed dial or trigger helps adjust the rate, while a kit with a battery, charger and blades can reduce the number of separate items you need.