ESENDE

18V Best by platform

18V oscillating multi-tools

A multi-tool handles the cuts nothing else can: trimming a door frame, cutting skirting on the wall, opening a hole in plasterboard. My pick: the Makita DTM52, with a Starlock mount.

Reviewed on 5 November 2026 · Data from the official spec sheets, linked on each model · As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Generic cordless oscillating multi-tool next to a skirting board with a cut-out
Illustrative image: it isn’t any of the models compared.

It cuts, trims, sands and scrapes just by changing the accessory. It isn’t fast, but it reaches where no saw can.

The accessory mount matters: Starlock (Bosch, Makita) swaps the blade in a second, but old-style blades don’t fit.

What to look for before you buy

  • Oscillation angle: 3° or more cuts faster.
  • Tool-free accessory change.
  • Mount: Starlock if you want speed; universal if you already have blades from other brands.
  • Low vibration: you’ll notice it on long jobs.

Makita 18V LXTMy pick

Makita DTM52Z

Brushless, with anti-vibration and a Starlock Max mount. The most comfortable for long sessions, according to owners.

Oscillations10,000-20,000 opm
Angle3.6° in total
MountStarlock Max (takes Starlock and Starlock Plus), tool-free
Weight1.7-2.0 kg with battery
MotorBrushless
  • Comfortable, with little vibration on long jobs
  • Old-style (OIS) blades don’t fit: you need to buy Starlock
Check the price on Amazon

Official spec sheet for the Makita DTM52Z · Sold without battery or charger

DeWalt 18V XR

DeWalt DCS356NT

With a three-speed selector and an adapter for other brands’ accessories. Comes in a TSTAK case.

OscillationsUp to 20,000 opm (3 speeds)
MountQuick change + universal adapter
ExtrasLED light and dust extraction adapter
MotorBrushless
  • You can cap the top speed and squeeze the trigger fully on long cuts
  • Closed-ring accessories need the adapter
Check the price on Amazon

Official spec sheet for the DeWalt DCS356NT · Sold without battery or charger

The pros and cons summarise opinions that come up again and again in the reviews and forums linked in the sources. I haven’t tested these tools in person.

What about Milwaukee?

I don’t include it with an Amazon link: its extended guarantee only covers purchases from an authorised distributor. If you already have M18 batteries, look for this model with the official dealer locator.

My pick

Makita DTM52 or Bosch GOP 18V-34 if you want Starlock. If you already have old-style blades, Ryobi or DeWalt, which take them.

Sources

Specs checked on the manufacturers’ websites on 5 November 2026. I don’t publish prices because they change every day.

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