We love a good multi-tool because they are designed to take on just about any task and often outperform many other single-use tools.
You’ll generally catch these hard workers down at the construction site grinding, sanding, sawing, and scraping. But let’s not undercut their value because they’re also very effective at jobs that require more finesse than force, such as plunge cuts and working in tricky spaces.
So if you’re searching for a tool that can tackle any task, then look no further than our reviews of the top three multi-function tools.
Bosch Oscillating Multi Tool PMF 220 -min
The Bosch PMF 220 can do just about anything, and we’d go as far as to say it only stops short at minding the kids and cooking a three-course meal. It can saw, scrape, cut, sand, polish, rasp and route.
Best Oscillating Multi Tool Australia – Buying Guide
Want to know something interesting about the oscillating multi-tool? In 1967, it was patented by a German manufacturer for use in hospitals to cut off plaster casts, and it wasn’t until 1985 when the first oscillating tool was used in the automotive industry. Skip forward to 2008, and the original patent expired. This opened the market for other manufacturer’s to develop their own oscillating multi-tools for use within the tool shed and construction site [1].
Ok, interesting backstory aside, what else do you need to wrap your head around before buying an oscillating multi-tool? First, we explore the ins and outs and then cut out the top four products from the competitors.
Image | Name | Features | |
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Bosch Oscillating Multi Tool PMF 220 |
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see on amazon | |
WORX 18V Sonicrafter Oscillating Multi Tool-min |
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see on amazon | |
Bosch Cordless Oscillating Multi Tool AdvancedMulti 18-min |
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see on amazon |
What to look for in the best oscillating multi tool Australia?
Oscillation per minute (OPM) – Oscillation refers to the motion of a mechanical system repeatedly moving back and forth between two positions [2]. The OPM refers to how many times this movement occurs within the space of a minute. A good oscillating multi tool will usually run at variable speeds of anywhere between 11,000 to 20,000 OPM. The higher the OPM, the higher the cutting speed.
Angles – The oscillation angle is just as crucial as the OPM, and it refers to the angular distance an attachment can move sideways. This angle varies between 1.8 and 3.2 degrees. However, the higher the angle, the more effective the tool will be [3].
Check our article about corded vs cordless oscillating tool to know which will work for you.
Motor and battery – These two things are fundamental for a good multi-tool; motors are more powerful than battery-operated tools. If you’re looking for high performance, then an electric multi-tool will be best. However, if you need some easily portable for light jobs, a cordless multi tool with at least an 18 to 20 V battery would be a good option.
Accessories – Consider what accessories come in the box with your new oscillating multi tool; a good set of accessories usually includes a saw blade, plunge cut blade, and a sanding plate.
Best Oscillating Multi Tool Australia – Reviews
What makes a great oscillating tool, and which model is the best? We’ve reviewed the three best oscillating multi tools and explain the features and benefits of each model.
1. Bosch Oscillating Multi Tool PMF 220 – Best Overall
Why we love it:
The 4-stage depth stop function is incredibly useful for precise and exacts cuts, plus the left/right angle of 2.8 degrees offers a great range.
This power tool is a sure winner. It’s well priced and backed by the standard Bosch 2-year warranty, plus an additional year if you register your product online.
The Bosch PMF 220 can do just about anything, and we’d go as far as to say it only stops short at minding the kids and cooking a three-course meal. It can saw, scrape, cut, sand, polish, rasp, and route.
Considering the power behind the tool it’s surprisingly lightweight and easy to handle, the 220W motor has a good amount of grunt, and the variable speed preselection allows for material-specific work.
The no-load speed runs between 15,000 and 20,000 OPM, ensuring even the most aggressive sub straights can be cut or ground down. The Bosch MagnetHold system allows for easy accessory changes; a magnet holds the accessory in place while the holding screw is inserted or removed.
It comes complete with a segment saw blade for wood and metal, delta sanding plate, delta sanding sheet set, plunge-cutting saw blade for wood, 4-stage depth stop for segment saw blades, a hex key for changes, and all packaged in the usual Bosch plastic case.
2. WORX 18V Sonicrafter Oscillating Multi Tool
Why we love it:
A tidy, well-priced oscillating multi-tool that is versatile enough for any home DIY project. While the flexibility of having a cordless multi-tool is great for working across large areas, you’ll need to factor in downtime for when the battery is recharging.
The WORX Sonicrafter is a cordless multi-tool capable of cutting architraves, sanding tricky corners, cutting pipes, and removing old grout. It’s the perfect tool for the accomplished DIY pro.
It’s designed with a universal interface that allows the use of any brand of accessories; however, it also comes with 23 different accessories in the box, so you’re ready to rock n’ roll.
The high-frequency oscillating technology allows you to work more efficiently with a more controlled cut, and its new slim-body design makes it easy to handle. The tool runs off a powerful 20V battery that can be easily charged and is also used in other Worx tools. However, the one downside is that the battery and charger are sold separately, and you’ll need to factor this into the overall budget.
3. Bosch Cordless Oscillating Multi Tool AdvancedMulti 18
Why we love it:
Bosch has once again delivered another great renovator tool that is perfect for use around the home. The one unique feature we loved is the dust extraction system for sanding. All you need to do is connect it to a vacuum cleaner to suck up the dust while you’re working.
The 18V battery-operated motor combined with the 2.8° angles means it can cut smooth and fast, although definitely not as fast as its corded cousin.
It’s important to note that this kit doesn’t include the battery or charger, and there’s an additional cost to purchase.
Another excellent option by Bosch, they are ahead of the game with the quality of their power tools. This super versatile and powerful cordless multi-tool does a damn good job of all the usual tasks they are designed to do.
The Bosch AutoClic system enables a 3-second, keyless accessory change. This is an impressive feature and saves so much time when you’re in the middle of a job. Plus, there’s a huge range of optional Starlock accessories that are suitable for a range of applications, so you’ll never be caught short during complex projects.
The electronic speed preselection ensures you can set the tool at a constant speed that’s right for the project you’re undertaking, plus the Bosch Constant Electronic automatically adjusts the tool power, adapting to loads while keeping speed to avoid overload.
The AdvancedMulti 18 operates at a no-load speed of 10,000 to 20,000 OPM and comes with a 180° light band for illuminating the work area, which is a nice touch.
The Verdict
The Bosch Oscillating Multi-Tool PMF 220 is a cut above the rest, it wins out for power, consistently high performance, and the number of accessories that come in the box. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, the quality of Bosch is unrivaled but the 2-year warranty (3 years if you register your product online) really gives peace of mind knowing you’re backed by a super long warranty period.
FAQs
The multi tool has a vast array of attachments suitable for cutting through a number of materials, including plastic, timber, metal and plaster, plus it can sand and scrape. When purchasing a new multi tool it’s important to consider the attachments it comes with and whether they’re correct for your job.
Yes! A variable speed multi tool gives you ultimate control over how and what the tool cuts. Lower speeds are best for cutting through things like metal where you want to reduce heat and friction to minimise wear and tear on the blade. Whereas you can operate at a higher speed when cutting through things like soft wood and plastics.
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