๐ง Product Review
Best Cordless Multi-Tools UK 2026
We compared five cordless and corded oscillating multi-tools for UK workshops. From the DeWalt brushless to budget picks under 50, these are the ones worth buying.
Key Takeaways
- The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ is the best all-round cordless multi-tool: brushless motor, quick-release blade change, and 0-22,000 OPM for fast cuts through wood, plastic and metal.
- The Makita DTM52Z is the premium pick with the smoothest vibration control and a tool-less blade system that swaps blades in under 5 seconds.
- The Ryobi RMT1801M is the budget cordless winner if you already own Ryobi ONE+ batteries, at under 70 body-only.
- For occasional use on a tight budget, the Einhell TC-MG 250 CE corded unit at around 35 does the job without the battery platform commitment.
- Cordless multi-tools have caught up with corded for power. A brushless 18V unit handles most home renovation tasks without the trailing cable.
Suggested reading: Best Cordless Drills UK ยท Best Circular Saws UK ยท Best Impact Drivers UK
Quick Picks
Best Overall
Best Premium
Best Budget Cordless
Best Budget Corded
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Rating | Type | Speed (OPM) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCS355N-XJ | ~130 (body) | 4.7/5 | Cordless 18V | 0-22,000 | Best all-rounder |
| Makita DTM52Z | ~150 (body) | 4.8/5 | Cordless 18V | 6,000-20,000 | Premium finish |
| Ryobi RMT1801M | ~65 (body) | 4.5/5 | Cordless 18V | 0-20,000 | Budget cordless |
| GALAX PRO 400W | ~45 | 4.3/5 | Corded 400W | 15,000-22,000 | Budget corded |
| Einhell TC-MG 250 CE | ~35 | 4.2/5 | Corded 250W | 11,000-22,000 | Starter kit |
In-Depth Reviews
1. DeWalt DCS355N-XJ 18V Brushless Multi-Tool
~130 (body only) | 18V Brushless | 0-22,000 OPM | 1.8kg
The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ has been the benchmark for cordless multi-tools since it launched, and nothing in 2026 has dethroned it. The brushless motor delivers consistent power across the full speed range, and the quick-release accessory system means you swap blades without an Allen key. For cutting door frames, trimming pipework flush to a wall or removing old grout lines, it handles everything a home workshop throws at it.
An Amazon reviewer noted: "Brilliant tool. The quick-release blade change is a game changer compared to my old screw-on system. Cuts through skirting boards and copper pipe like butter." The variable speed dial gives you control for delicate sanding work on furniture, while the full 22,000 OPM at top speed powers through hardwood.
Pros
- Brushless motor for longer runtime and less maintenance
- Quick-release blade change, no tools needed
- Part of the DeWalt 18V XR battery platform
- Compact and well-balanced at 1.8kg
Cons
- Body only, no battery or charger included
- Higher price than budget alternatives
- Vibration can feel harsh on long sanding sessions
2. Makita DTM52Z 18V Brushless Multi-Tool
~150 (body only) | 18V Brushless | 6,000-20,000 OPM | 1.6kg
The Makita DTM52Z is the tool you buy when you want the smoothest oscillating multi-tool on the market. At 1.6kg it is lighter than the DeWalt, and the anti-vibration body design makes a real difference during extended sanding or cutting. The tool-less blade change uses a lever system that genuinely works one-handed, and the speed dial sits where your thumb naturally rests.
An Amazon reviewer noted: "Makita quality as usual. Low vibration compared to my old Ryobi, and the LED light at the front is surprisingly useful in tight spaces." The soft-start feature prevents the blade jolting when you switch on, which matters when trimming a door frame with the blade resting against painted wood.
Pros
- Lowest vibration of any multi-tool compared
- Lightest at 1.6kg, reduces fatigue
- LED work light for dark corners
- Soft-start prevents blade jolt
Cons
- Premium price for body-only
- Top speed slightly lower than DeWalt (20,000 vs 22,000 OPM)
- Makita battery platform is expensive to enter
3. Ryobi RMT1801M ONE+ 18V Multi-Tool
~65 (body only) | 18V | 0-20,000 OPM | 1.5kg
The Ryobi RMT1801M is the multi-tool for anyone already in the ONE+ ecosystem. At under 65 body-only, it is less than half the price of the DeWalt or Makita and covers every job a home DIYer is likely to need. The variable speed dial and lock-on switch reduce hand fatigue during long sanding sessions, and the tool-less blade change is quick enough not to slow you down.
An Amazon reviewer noted: "For the price, you can't beat it. I use it for trimming door frames and sanding furniture corners. It does everything I need without the premium price tag." The 1.5kg weight makes it comfortable for one-handed work overhead, and the Ryobi ONE+ battery platform has over 280 tools, so if you are already invested, this is a no-brainer addition.
Pros
- Excellent value, under 65 body-only
- Lightest cordless option at 1.5kg
- Part of the massive Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem
- Variable speed with lock-on switch
Cons
- Brushed motor, not brushless
- More vibration than premium options
- Blade change is slower than DeWalt quick-release
4. GALAX PRO 400W Oscillating Multi-Tool
~45 | Corded 400W | 15,000-22,000 OPM | 30 pieces included
The GALAX PRO 400W is a corded multi-tool that punches above its price. The 400W motor delivers 22,000 OPM at full tilt, and the 6-speed dial lets you dial back for sanding or delicate cuts. It comes with 30 accessories in the box, including sanding pads, plunge cut blades and a rigid scraper, so you can start working straight away without buying extras.
At around 45, it is the cheapest way into multi-tool ownership. The trade-off is the cord, which limits mobility, and the build quality is noticeably below the big brands. For a first-time buyer who wants to try a multi-tool before committing to a battery platform, it does the job. If you only use it occasionally, there is no reason to spend four times as much.
Pros
- Incredible value at around 45
- 30 accessories included in the box
- 400W motor matches cordless tools for power
- 6-speed variable control
Cons
- Corded only, limits mobility
- Build quality below big-name brands
- Heavier than cordless options at 1.7kg
5. Einhell TC-MG 250 CE Oscillating Multi-Tool
~35 | Corded 250W | 11,000-22,000 OPM | Includes sander pad + 9 discs
The Einhell TC-MG 250 CE is the cheapest multi-tool on this list and comes with everything you need to get started: a plunge saw blade, a delta sander pad and 9 sanding discs. The 250W motor is adequate for light tasks like trimming laminate flooring, cutting plastic pipe and sanding tight corners, though it will struggle with extended hardwood cutting.
The speed dial goes from 11,000 to 22,000 OPM, and the soft-grip body is comfortable enough for short jobs. At 35, this is a "buy it and find out" price. If you discover you use a multi-tool regularly, upgrade to a cordless brushless model. If it sits in the cupboard between occasional jobs, you have spent the right amount.
Pros
- Cheapest multi-tool on the market
- Includes sander pad and sanding discs
- Soft-grip body for comfort
- Good first tool to try the format
Cons
- 250W motor struggles with tough materials
- Build quality is entry-level
- Corded only
How to Choose a Cordless Multi-Tool
An oscillating multi-tool is one of the most versatile power tools you can own. It cuts, sands, scrapes and trims without changing the tool, just swap the blade. Here is what matters when choosing one.
Battery Platform vs Corded
If you already own cordless tools from DeWalt, Makita, Ryobi or another 18V system, a body-only multi-tool is the cheapest way in. You use the batteries you already have. If you have no battery platform yet, a corded unit at 35-50 gets you started without the upfront cost of batteries and chargers. Cordless freedom matters most when working on a site without easy access to a plug socket.
Brushless vs Brushed Motor
Brushless motors run cooler, last longer and squeeze more runtime from each battery charge. They cost more upfront but save money over time. For a tool you use occasionally, a brushed motor is fine. For regular use, brushless is worth the premium. See our guide to drill motor types for more on how motor design affects performance.
Blade Change System
The speed at which you swap blades matters more than you think. Quick-release systems (DeWalt, Makita) let you change blades in under 5 seconds with one hand. Screw-on systems (budget tools) need an Allen key and take 30-60 seconds. If you switch between cutting and sanding frequently, the quick-release system saves real time.
Oscillation Speed (OPM)
OPM (oscillations per minute) determines cutting speed. Most tools range from 6,000 to 22,000 OPM. Higher is faster for cutting but worse for control on delicate work. Variable speed is essential, not optional. Look for a tool with at least 6 speed settings.
Weight and Ergonomics
You hold a multi-tool in one hand, often at awkward angles overhead or in tight corners. Weight matters. Anything under 1.7kg is comfortable for extended use. Over 2kg and your wrist will complain after 20 minutes. Check that the speed dial and power switch are reachable without repositioning your grip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Verdict
The DeWalt DCS355N-XJ is the best cordless multi-tool for most UK workshops. It balances power, speed and build quality at a price that makes sense if you are already in the DeWalt 18V ecosystem. The quick-release blade system and brushless motor mean less downtime and more getting-on-with-the-job.
If vibration control matters most, the Makita DTM52Z is the premium choice with the smoothest operation and lightest weight. For budget buyers, the Ryobi RMT1801M at under 65 is hard to beat if you own ONE+ batteries already.
Whatever you choose, an oscillating multi-tool earns its space in the workshop faster than almost any other power tool. The first time you trim a door frame flush, sand a furniture corner or cut a pipe without firing up a circular saw, you will wonder how you managed without one.
Last reviewed: August 26, 2026 ยท Evidence-based review ยท Contains affiliate links