Oscillating Tool

The Best Oscillating Tool Units in Australia — Information, Buyer’s Guide, Comparisons, and Reviews

An oscillating tool (also known as a multi-function tool, or multi-tool) uses small, rapid vibrations to power an assortment of accessories to saw, polish, grind, cut, sand, and scrape a variety of materials. Available as both corded and cordless machines, they can replace a plethora of power tools in your kit with a single, versatile machine.

Best Oscillating Multi Tool Product Comparison Table

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
  • Speed: 20000 OPM
  • Power: 18-volt cordless
  • Weight: 1.59 kg
  • Quick Tool change: Yes

Features

  • In-built LED lamp.
  • Brushless multi tool.
  • Variable speed trigger.

Product Rating: 4.8/5

Check Price at Amazon Dewalt DCS356N Review Dewalt DCS356N Review
WORX SoniCrafter
  • Speed: 20000 OPM
  • Power: 20-volt cordless
  • Weight: 1.28 kg
  • Quick Tool change: No

Features

  • Slim build.
  • 3.0-degree oscillation angle.
  • Variable speed control.

Product Rating: 4.7/5

Check Price at Amazon WORX SoniCrafter Review WORX SoniCrafter Review
Makita DTM51Z
  • Speed: 20000 OPM
  • Power: 18-volt cordless
  • Weight: 1.86 kg
  • Quick Tool change: Yes

Features

  • Battery warning lamp.
  • Accidental start-up prevention.
  • 12-angle settings.

Product Rating: 4.7/5

Check Price at Amazon Makita DTM51Z Review Makita DTM51Z Review
Milwaukee M18FMT-0
  • Speed: 20000 OPM
  • Power: 18-volt cordless
  • Weight: 1.2 kg
  • Quick Tool change: Yes

Features

  • REDLINK tech for improved battery life.
  • 10 speed settings.
  • Anti-vibration system.

Product Rating: 4.7/5

Check Price at Tools Warehouse Milwaukee M18FMT-0 Review Milwaukee M18FMT-0 Review
Metabo MT18 LTX Kit
  • Speed: 18000 OPM
  • Power: 18-volt cordless
  • Weight: 1.8 kg
  • Quick Tool change: Yes

Features

  • Extra-bright LED lamp.
  • Comprehensive cordless multi tool kit.
  • Non-slip grip.

Product Rating: 4.6/5

Check Price at Tools Warehouse Metabo MT18 LTX KitReview Metabo MT18 LTX Kit Review
HiKOKI CV12DA(H4Z)
  • Speed: 20000 OPM
  • Power: 12-volt cordless
  • Weight: 1.2 kg
  • Quick Tool change: No

Features

  • Includes battery.
  • Anti-restart.
  • Lightweight.

Product Rating: 4.6/5

Check Price at Amazon HiKOKI CV12DA(H4Z) Review HiKOKI CV12DA(H4Z) Review
Makita TM3010CK
  • Speed: 20000 OPM
  • Power: 320-watt corded
  • Weight: 1.6 kg
  • Quick Tool change: Yes

Features

  • Dust extraction compatible.
  • Includes carry case.
  • Lever-lock system.

Product Rating: 4.6/5

Check Price at Tools Warehouse Check Price at Tools.com Makita TM3010CK Review Makita TM3010CK Review
Metabo MT 400
  • Speed: 18500 OPM
  • Power: 400-watt corded
  • Weight: 1.4 kg
  • Quick Tool change: Yes

Features

  • Non-slip grip.
  • Includes carry case.
  • Starlock and OIS compatible.

Product Rating: 4.5/5

Check Price at Tools Warehouse Metabo MT 400 Review Metabo MT 400 Review

Best Oscillating Tool Buying Guide

Delivering the capabilities of numerous power tools in a single unit — the best oscillating tool machines in Australia can tackle a plethora of home-improvement and trade jobs.

Powered either by mains cords or lithium cells, these multi function tool units can sand, grind, shear, polish, and saw. It doesn’t matter if you’re fitting shelves, installing doors, or trimming mouldings — you can do it all with a single machine.

Utilising either a wrench or toolless system — you switch the attachment head depending upon your current job. And, although all units feature an oscillating movement — they differ in grunt, rapidity, weight, and included accessories.

When picking your ideal vibrating tool, consider:

  • Mains-driven or a battery-powered machine.
  • Motor.
  • Speed.
  • Accessory change system.
  • Oscillations per minute (OPM).
  • Handle.
  • Attachments.
  • Dust extraction.

Uses for an Oscillating Multifunction Power Tool

The ultimate pro and DIY tool for versatility — these units are more than just a vibrating cutter. Whether you’re building, demolishing, fixing, upgrading, repairing, or crafting — they can tackle the job. 

While by no means exhaustive, the most common applications for a multi purpose oscillating tool include:

  • Installing skirting boards.
  • Fitting flooring.
  • Trimming pipes.
  • Finishing and polishing.
  • Removing grout.
  • Removing screw and nail heads.
  • Hanging gates and doors.
  • Removing oxidation.
  • Forming electrical socket cavities.
  • Removing mortar.
  • Trimming plastic crafting sprues.
  • Removing old glue.

Oscillating Multi Tool Blades and Accessories

To fulfil the above applications — you need a suitable attachment. 

Some are supplied with the machine, others are obtained by making an additional purchase from the manufacturer or third parties. However, not all oscillating tool accessories are compatible with every make and model.

The two most common formats are Starlock and OIS (oscillating interface system). Many machines include adaptors allowing you to use both systems — so always check the particular requirements of your unit before purchasing attachments.

Accessories can become extremely hot after use, and it’s therefore recommended you wear gloves when removing them. Always ensure the tool is disconnected from the power source before changing accessories. 

Here are the most common multitool attachments:

Oscillating Tool Saw BladesSawing

Oscillating tool blades are generally capable of cutting through plastics, fibreglass, plasterboard, wood, putty, aluminium, copper, and sheet metal up to one millimetre thick. These capabilities depend on what kind of steel the blade is made out of (high-speed steel, high carbon steel, or bi-metal), and the style of teeth on it.

Vibrating saw blades are available in circular, segmented, and plunge-cutting designs.

Oscillating Tool Scraper BladeScraping

Scraper blades are thin, smooth, angled pieces of metal that can be used to remove silicone, stickers, glues (including tile adhesives), and carpets.

It’s recommended you put a bit of petroleum jelly on the scraper blade if it’s collecting too much adhesive during use.

Cutting/Grinding

Oscillating Tool Diamond Blades

Some saw blades are tipped with diamond fragments, enabling them to remove grout and mortar, and occasionally cut materials like soft ceramic tiles. There are also carbide-tipped variations.

Oscillating tools fitted with a diamond saw blade create far less dust than an angle grinder. When used over long periods, they wear down very quickly.

For the rough sanding of concrete, stone, wood, tile adhesives and filler, carbide rasps are available for purchase. They come in two main styles — triangular and finger-shaped.

Sanding/Polishing

Oscillating Tool Sanding Sheets and Polishing Pads

Oscillating power tool machines can also utilise delta hook-and-loop (Velcro®) sanding pads. These are the same pads that are found on small detail sanders. Using the correct hook-and-loop sanding sheets, they’re capable of sanding a range of materials, including wood and metal.

Polishing pads are also available. These also fit onto the delta hook-and-loop sanding pad, and can be used on chrome, stainless steel, aluminium, and copper.

The above accessory images remain the property of Fein.

Operating Multi Cutting Tool Tips, Hints, and Hacks

The following tips will help to preserve the life of your oscillating tool, increase your efficiency, and, most importantly, keep you safe.

  • Move the tool from side to side with gentle and uniform forward pressure to ensure optimum working performance.
  • Plunge cuts can only be performed in soft materials like wood and plasterboard.
  • Always check your work for nails, screws and the like, and make certain the accessory you have equipped is capable of cutting through them.
  • When sanding, always apply gentle, uniform pressure to the sanding plate. This will ensure the velcro doesn’t wear out prematurely and that the desired finish is obtained. More pressure does not equate to more efficient sanding.
  • If a sanding sheet has been used for metal, it should not be used again on other surfaces.
  • When scraping, select a high oscillation rate and apply only light pressure at a very flat angle.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) must always be worn when operating power tools.

How To Choose the Best Oscillating Tool

Although all oscillating tools boast multifunction capabilities — their versatility, output, accessories, and suitability for your experience and projects vary.

Here’s what you should consider when selecting your ideal unit:

Bosch PMF 180 E Oscillating Tool

Oscillating Tool Power Source

Power – Corded or Cordless Oscillating Tool

The power source is the component that provides the tool with electricity. On oscillating tools, this is done through a wired connection to a mains power supply or a lithium cell. In Australia, the corded oscillating tools operate off mains power (240 volts) through a 10-amp socket.

Cordless oscillating tools that are powered by a battery and a charger are generally not as powerful as their corded equivalents. And, while they require regular charging, they’re usually considerably light in weight and have unmatched portability.

Motor

Motors are the main component of all power tools, and the component responsible for converting electricity into motion. The power that motors produce is measured in watts for corded and volts for cordless. 

Generally speaking, the greater the power input, the faster and more grunty the tool. In electric corded models, look for machines that offer 300 watts or more — and in battery-driven units, opt for tools that deliver 18 volts or greater.

Speed

The gearbox (transmission) dictates the speed range (oscillations per minute, or OPM)  an oscillating tool operates at, and the power it will produce.

Oscillating Tool Speed Control Dial

These tools commonly produce anywhere between 5000 to 20000 OPM. With each oscillation, the blade only moves about three degrees, allowing for precise work without kick-back.

Usually, velocity is controlled via trigger and dial combination. The dial sets the maximum attainable speed, while depressing the trigger builds up the rapidity to that limit.

Accessory Change System

The blade clamp is the component of the oscillating tool that secures the blade in place.

On most oscillating tools, this is a circular row of notches, a locking system, or aOscillating Tool Blade Clamp hex drive bolt. The blade or attachment fits into the notches at any given angle, and the bolt is tightened with the supplied Allen key to keep it in place.

On more expensive models, the blade clamp is sometimes a keyless system, which enables a blade to be changed in seconds without tools. Always check whether your machine uses a Starlock, OIS, or alternative system — and that your attachments are compatible with this feature.

Handle

The handle is the component of the tool that you hold with one or two hands and is what you use to guide the tool along the cut. Oscillating Tool Clamshell Housing

Virtually all oscillating tools have a barrel grip handle, which gives you unrivalled control over the tool for use in many different applications. Look for machines with a rubberised or textured grip that improves comfort and tool stability.

Attachments

Check whether your corded or cordless oscillating multi tool arrives with attachments — allowing you to operate the machine straight-outta-the-box without having to make additional purchases.

Oscillating Tool Dust Extraction Port

Dust Extraction

Many vibrating cutting tool machines incorporate a dust extraction port — permitting you to connect the unit to an extraction system (basically, a vacuum cleaner) to control the removal of waste material.

Our Top Picks of the Best Oscillating Multi-Tools

The multi-tool category includes a variety of different makes and models — choosing the perfect unit to suit your preferences and the requirements of your projects is tough.

To make the process straightforward, I’ve selected my top machines — with a tool suitable for every job, budget, and experience level.

Boasting effortless operation, hailing from a respected manufacturer, and providing impressive output — I consider the DCS356N from DeWalt to be the best cordless oscillating tool on the market. Knocking out a rapid 20000 OPM and driven by its reliable 18-volt cell, this brushless tool offers extended running times from a single charge.

An in-built LED lamp delivers welcome illumination — crucial when working inside cupboards or beneath floorboards. Furthermore, its generously rubberised and ribbed handle promises comfortable and secure operation. This cordless vibrating cutting tool arrives with two blades, sanding pads, and an Allen key — although it doesn’t include a battery or charger.

Pros

N

Variable speed trigger control.

N

Soft-start function for safety and motor longevity.

N

Universal adaptor for third-party accessories.

N

Weighs 1.59 kg.

N

Reliable tool manufacturer.

Cons

N

Requires additional purchase of cell and charger.

Incorporating a pleasingly slim-build construction, the cordless SoniCrafter from WORX is ideal for accessing confined spaces — crucial if you work behind drywall, beneath floors, or inside closets. Its in-built wrench holder allows you effortless key access for attachment exchange, while multi-angle adjustment permits you to sand, cut, and grind in the most awkward of spaces.

Offering variable speeds from 5000 to 20000 OPM through its handle-mounted speed dial, this oscillating cutter can wield third-party accessories with its included universal adaptor. And, driven by a powerful 20-volt cell (additional purchase) it can drive through pipes, architrave, and grout. 

Pros

N

Compact build.

N

Effortless one-handed operation.

N

Includes blade wrench.

N

Lightweight — just 1.28 kg.

N

Durable build.

Cons

N

Bare tool — no battery or charger.

N

Requires a wrench to change attachments.

Boasting a welcome anti-restart feature shielding against accidental activation — the DTM51Z cordless oscillating tool from Makita offers reassuring safe operation. Its vast 12-angle address system enables effortless cutting and grinding in the awkwardest of spaces, while its toolless accessory system permits speedy attachment exchange — crucial for trade pros working against costly downtime.

A handle-mounted speed control dial allows you to adjust the output intensity from 6000 to 20000 OPM to suit the demands of your target material. Driven by an 18-volt LXT cell (not included), it incorporates a low-battery warning feature to enable timely cell exchange. And, in addition to accepting Makita and Bosch tool attachments, this machine can also utilize OIS accessories.

Pros

N

Premium price for a premium machine.

N

Rubberised head.

N

Reliable and durable.

N

Pro-grade tool.

N

Well-balanced.

Cons

N

Heavy at 1.86 kg.

N

Cell and charger not included.

N

Lacks comfort handle.

Backed by Milwaukee’s renowned REDLINK intelligence system that provides proactive communication with cell and tool — the M18FMT-0 cordless oscillating unit offers exceptional battery longevity and life. An effective anti-vibration system increases your hand comfort and promises enhanced accuracy, while its durable brushless motor provides 10 variable speeds from 10000 to 20000 OPM.

The tool delivers a seriously aggressive 4.2-degree oscillating angle — making it a powerful oscillating saw to drive rapidly through dense materials. For low-light conditions, the tool boasts a flexible 180-degree rotating LED lamp — ideal for working inside closets. Furthermore, its tool-free accessory head allows for speedy exchange of attachments.

Pros

N

Soft start-up to protect the motor.

N

Lightweight at 1.2 kg.

N

Includes sanding sheets, blade, and adaptor.

N

Five-year warranty.

N

Fatigue-busting anti-vibration.

Cons

N

Charger and battery are not included.

Arriving with a plethora of accessories — the MT18 LTX from Makita could be the best cordless oscillating multi tool kit on the market. In addition to the tool, it arrives with 10 sanding sheets, a sanding plate, plunge blade, multi-adaptor, and suction adaptor. This makes it ideal if you’re an oscillating novice with no existing accessories.

Compatible with additional Metabo, OIS, and Starlock attachments, it features a bright double LED lamp for poor light conditions. The 18-volt motor knocks out 7000 to 18000 OPM, while incorporating a non-slip handle to enhance your precision and comfort. Top-mounted ventilation slits protect the motor from overheating, and its head offers a pleasing 3.2-degree oscillation angle.

Pros

N

Accessory-packed multi tool set.

N

Tool-holder.

N

Quick-change attachment system.

N

Constant speed under heavy load.

N

Slim design.

Cons

N

Loud operation.

N

Requires additional purchase of charger and battery.

Providing impressive performance yet light on your wallet — the cordless CV12DA(H4Z) from HiKOKI is an excellent machine for serious DIYers on a budget. Despite its modest 12-volt motor, the tool still delivers 6000 to 20000 OPM — while a welcome anti-restart system increases user safety. And, with a white LED lamp, provides substantial illumination in poor light conditions.

The tool promises fatigue-free operation, weighing just 1.2 kg. And, although not arriving with any attachments, this cordless machine is compatible with both OIS and Starlock accessories. However, a welcome inclusion is a 12-volt battery — allowing you to use the machine straight after unboxing without making an additional purchase.

Pros

N

Cordless multi tool with battery.

N

Anti-restart protection.

N

Fatigue-busting lightweight design.

N

Compact build.

N

Three-year warranty.

Cons

N

Requires a tool to change accessories.

With a mighty output and driven by a mains cable — the TM3010CK from Makita is perhaps the ultimate corded oscillating multitool on the market. It delivers a rapid 6000 to 20000 OPM from its grunty 320-watt motor — allowing you to grind, sand, and cut the stubbornest of materials. Its generous five-metre cord delivers welcome operational freedom, while a lever-lock system allows you to change accessories without an Allen key.

Able to utilise all OIS attachments, this machine boasts a soft start-up feature to protect both you and its brawny motor. At the base of the tool, lengthy ventilation slits keep the internal powerhouse cool — while dust extraction connectivity keeps detritus and dirt away from your workspace. And, although the unit doesn’t arrive with any accessories, it does come with a carrying case.

Pros

N

12-angle settings.

N

Double-insulated for electrocution protection.

N

Efficient cooling system.

N

Effortless lever-lock accessory exchange.

N

Arrives with a case.

Cons

N

Lacks rubberised or textured grip.

Delivering everything you need to cut, scrape, and sand in a single box — except the cell and charger — the corded MT400 from Metabo is an ideal multi tool starter kit for DIY. The unit arrives with a carry case, accessory box, sanding sheets, plunge blade, segment saw, scraping knife, and suction adaptor. Furthermore, with its universal adaptor, the machine can also be used with Starlock and OIS attachments.

This machine knocks out 11000 to 18500 OPM from its grunty 400-watt motor, while a soft-textured grip promises you reassuring hand stability. Twin LED lamps boost work area illumination, while trademarked intelligent VTC Electronics ensures consistent oscillations even under heavy loads.

Pros

N

Tool-free accessory exchange.

N

3.2-degree oscillation angle.

N

Slim build for tight space access.

N

Can connect to a vacuum cleaner.

N

Weighs just 1.4 kg.

Cons

N

Lacks cell and charger.

Conclusion


If you’re a serious DIYer or trade pro — an oscillating multi-function unit is essential for your toolbox.

Fusing the capabilities of a multitude of machines in a single unit, these phenomenal tools allow you to remove grout, sand, saw, trim, and buff — just by swapping out the attachment head.

First, I recommend choosing whether you need a corded or cell-powered unit, then, think about the features that are important to you and your project — including OPM, tool-less or tooled accessory exchange, and size.

Admittedly, they may lack the grunt and adaptability of project-specific tools such as an orbital sander or saw — but for unmatched convenience and flexibility, I’d recommend getting your hands on an oscillating tool.

Oscillating Multi-Tool Australia FAQs


What Is an Oscillating Multitool?

An oscillating multitool is a flexible machine that can perform a plethora of DIY and trade tasks, including buffing, sawing, grinding, and sanding through its interchangeable heads. 

The tool oscillates rapidly, up to 20000 times per minute, and can be driven by a lithium-ion cell or mains power.

Can I Use Any Type of Blades With My Oscillating Multi-Tool

Most multitools are compatible with OIS and Starlock accessories — or arrive with a universal adaptor that permits the use of third-party attachments. Always check with the manufacturer’s guidelines before buying differently branded accessories.

Is a Dremel an Oscillating Tool?

No. While a Dremel is a multi tool with a variety of interchangeable accessories, the head doesn’t oscillate — instead, it rotates. This is why they’re more accurately known as rotary multitools.

Can I Remove Grout With a Multitiool?

Yes. Oscillating multitools are excellent at grout removal. Always use a specific grout removal accessory, and ensure you don’t scratch the surface of the tiles when removing the material.

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