What Is an Oscillating Tool?
An oscillating tool, also known as an oscillating multi-tool, is a versatile power tool that accepts a variety of blades and other attachments to cut, scrape, grind and sand. An oscillating tool works by moving the attachment side to side thousands of times a minute. The compact size and oscillating motion of this power tool make it perfect for quick, detailed cutting, scraping and sanding jobs.
Power tool combo kits that include an oscillating tool let you quickly build out a set of tools that all run on the same type of battery.
Oscillating Tool Blades and Accessories
Small oscillating tool accessories give the tool its versatility and let you work in areas other saws and sanders can’t reach:
- Cutting blades work with materials like wood, plastic, fiberglass, nails, screws, copper and steel.
- Plunge-cut blades let you start a cut in the middle of a workpiece.
- Grout removal blades and rasps grind away old grout.
- Scraping blades and rasps remove paint, adhesives and other coatings.
- Sanding pads, sandpaper and rasps smooth materials and prepare them for finishes.
Learn how to choose other types of handheld saws and sanders with our guides to reciprocating saws, circular saws and power sanders.
Oscillating Tool Uses
While an oscillating tool won’t replace a full-size reciprocating saw or power sander, there are many things an oscillating tool can do. With an oscillating tool and the right accessories you can:
- Undercut door moulding and other trim for a laminate flooring project.
- Cut away damaged drywall before making wall repairs.
- Remove old grout when replacing tile grout.
- Cut away caulk before recaulking a tub or shower.
- Scrape away paint and rust when repainting metal outdoor furniture.
- Sand hard-to-reach areas when refinishing wood furniture.
- Cut away damaged or rotted wood before repairing windows.
- Cut away rusted or damaged fasteners.
How to Choose an Oscillating Tool
Learn about common features and specifications to compare different oscillating tools and find the right one for your work.
Corded vs. Cordless Oscillating Tools
Cordless oscillating tools offer the best mobility, but corded oscillating tools offer consistent power levels during large projects or heavy-duty use.
Oscillating Tool Power
Tools with higher-voltage batteries or higher-amp motors on corded models give you more power for cutting, grinding and scraping.
Oscillations per Minute
Oscillations per minute (OPM) measures the speed the tool moves the attachment. A larger OPM measurement means the tool cuts or scrapes faster, while lower measurements give you better control for precise work. Variable speed settings let you control the OPM.
Oscillation Angle
Oscillation angle measures how far the attachment moves side to side. As with oscillations per minute, larger angles mean faster, more aggressive cutting and lower angles give you more precision.
Brushless Motors
Cordless oscillating tools with brushless motors make the best use of battery power for longer runtimes. See our guide to brushless and brushed motors for a full comparison.
Battery Included or Tool Only
Not all oscillating tools come with a battery and charger. If you already have power tools with batteries and a charger, check if they will work with the oscillating tool you’re considering. Buying just the tool can save you money.
Other Features
- Oscillating tools often come in kits with a tool bag, a battery, a charger and a set of attachments, so you have what you need to start working.
- A work light helps you see the workpiece in dark or tight spaces.
- Universal attachment systems and adapters make it easy to find attachments for the tool.
- Tool-free attachment mechanisms speed up attachment changes.
- Vibration control features make the tool more comfortable to use.
Like an oscillating tool, a rotary tool is a compact device that can handle many different tasks, depending on the attachments you use. However, these tools are different. Look at our rotary tool guide to see what a rotary tool is and the work it’s suited for.
Oscillating Tool Safety
Read and follow the instructions and safety precautions for using your oscillating tool. In general:
- Turn off and disconnect the tool from power before changing accessories and before adjusting or cleaning the tool.
- Wear safety glasses when using an oscillating tool.
- Depending on the work, you might need a respirator and hearing protection.
- Avoid loose-fitting clothing and jewelry and tie back long hair.
- Attachments get very hot during use and can be sharp, so wear work gloves when handling them.
- Make sure the accessory you use is right for the material and application.
- Use only the battery and charger set or extension cord that meets the tool manufacturer’s specifications.
Key Points for Choosing an Oscillating Tool
If you regularly work on home improvement and repair projects, take advantage of the versatility an oscillating tool offers by adding one to your tool kit. An oscillating tool is a great complement to full-size saws and sanders, letting you tackle detail cutting, scraping, sanding and work in tight spaces. These are the key points you need to remember:
- Oscillating tools use a quick back and forth motion to cut wood, plastic and metal, sand wood and metal, and scrape away paint and adhesives.
- Oscillating tool accessory kits let you take on a variety of projects.
- Higher oscillations per minute and greater oscillating angles work aggressively while lower OPMs and smaller angles give more control.
- Full-featured oscillating tool kits give you everything you need to start using the tool.
- Wear eye protection when using an oscillating tool and follow the tool manufacturer’s instructions.
Oscillating Tool FAQ
Answers to these questions can help you choose the best tool for your projects.
Should I Get an Oscillating Tool or Reciprocating Saw?
Choose an oscillating tool if you need to make quick cuts in tight spaces or do detailed sanding and scraping. If you often do rough, heavy-duty cutting or demolition work, choose a reciprocating saw. Owning both tools keeps you ready for large and small cutting jobs.
Can an Oscillating Tool Cut Metal?
With a carbide or bi-metal blade an oscillating tool can cut some metals, including copper pipe, sheet metal and steel, as well as nails, screws and bolts. Check the specifications for your blade to make sure it’s right for the material you need to cut.
What’s the Difference Between a Multi-Tool and an Oscillating Tool?
The terms multi-tool and oscillating tool can refer to the same power tool. Oscillating tools are sometimes called oscillating multi-tools or simply multi-tools because they work for so many different tasks. However, the term multi-tool can also refer to any tool that has multiple features, including small, pocket-sized hand tools with blades, screwdrivers, bottle openers, etc.