Professional Guide

Best Oscillating Multi Tools for Kitchen Fitting: 2025 Expert Review

DJ

DR Joinery

Expert Joiner & Kitchen Fitter

Published 16 December 2025

If you are fitting a kitchen, the oscillating multi tool is arguably one of the most vital pieces of kit in your toolbox. Whether you are undercutting door architraves to slide flooring underneath, cutting access holes in the back of cabinets for pipework, or trimming an oversize filler panel in situ, this tool does what a circular saw or jigsaw simply cannot.

Working in York, where many properties date back to the Victorian era or earlier, we rarely find a square wall or a level floor. This means a lot of on-site adjustment and scribing. A reliable Multi Tool (often called a 'fein' saw by the older tradesmen) is essential for those precision cuts where space is tight.

In this review, I've categorised three tools suitable for kitchen installation: a budget-friendly option for light DIY, a quality brushless cordless model for professional daily use, and a powerful 300W corded version for heavy-duty problem solving.

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Specs vs. The Real World

The Spec: "Quick-Change Blades"

The Theory

"You can swap blades in seconds without any tools."

The Reality

Whilst 'tool-free' levers are brilliant, grit and sawdust often jam the mechanism over time. Keep the locking mechanism clean and lubricated, or you'll be fighting it.

The Spec: "Dust Extraction"

The Theory

"Attachments allow for dust-free sanding and cutting."

The Reality

In practice, multi tools are messy. The erratic vibration makes extraction difficult. Always wear a mask, especially when cutting plasterboard or old painted skirting in pre-1980s houses.

My Top 3 Recommendations

Three options to cover different needs and budgets

GALAX PRO 180W Oscillating Multi Tool

Budget Pick
GALAX PRO 180W Oscillating Multi Tool

GALAX PRO

This is a basic, no-nonsense entry-level tool. At 180W, it hasn't got the grunt of the professional models, but for trimming soft skirting boards or cutting thin plasterboard for socket boxes, it does the job. It uses an Allen key for blade changes, which is slower but secure.

Price£23.87 (at time of writing)
Power180W Motor
Speed22,000 OPM
Blade ChangeAllen Key (Hex Key)
The Good
  • Incredibly affordable option for occasional use
  • Compact body is easy to handle in tight cupboard spaces
  • Comes with a basic set of blades and sanding pads
The Bad
  • 180W motor struggles with hardwoods like Oak or Beech worktops
  • Allen key blade change is fiddly compared to quick-release levers
  • Vibration can be quite high during prolonged use

Installer Tip:

Since this has lower power, let the blade do the work. Do not force it into the timber or the motor will overheat. It's perfect for cutting pine skirting blocks, but take your time.

Priced at £23.87 at the time of writing

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Enventor Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool 20V

Quality Choice
Enventor Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool 20V

Enventor

For kitchen fitting, going cordless is a massive advantage. You are often working inside cupboards or under worktops where trailing leads are a nuisance. This Enventor model features a brushless motor, which means it runs cooler and lasts longer than standard brushed motors—vital for professional longevity.

Price£59.49 (at time of writing)
Motor TypeBrushless 20V
Speed12,000-19,500 RPM (6 Speed)
Blade ChangeTool-Free Quick Change
The Good
  • Brushless motor offers better efficiency and lifespan
  • Cordless freedom—essential for complex kitchen layouts
  • Quick-release lever makes swapping accessories instant
The Bad
  • More expensive than corded counterparts
  • 2.0Ah battery is decent, but you might want a spare for all-day use
  • Battery charging indicator is basic

Installer Tip:

Use the variable speed control wisely. Lower the speed when cutting plastics (like plumbing pipes) to prevent melting, and increase it for timber cuts. The cordless nature makes this brilliant for snagging lists.

Priced at £59.49 at the time of writing

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DEWINNER Oscillating Multi-Tool 300W

Problem-Solver
DEWINNER Oscillating Multi-Tool 300W

DEWINNER

When you encounter a tough problem—like cutting through old Victorian nails hidden in door frames or removing stubborn tile grout—you need raw power. The 300W motor on this DEWINNER unit offers significantly more torque than the budget options, making it the problem-solver for difficult renovations.

Price£32.29 (at time of writing)
Power300W Motor
Speed0-23,000 RPM
Universal FitYes
The Good
  • 300W motor powers through tough materials and metals easier than 180W models
  • Quick blade change system saves frustration
  • Excellent price-to-performance ratio
The Bad
  • Heavier than the smaller budget units
  • Corded design means you are tethered to a socket
  • Can be noisy at full speed (wear ear defenders)

Installer Tip:

If you are removing an old kitchen and need to cut through grout or adhesive to salvage tiles, this is the tool to use. The extra power maintains oscillation even under load. Always hold it with two hands for precise cuts.

Priced at £32.29 at the time of writing

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary use of a multi tool in kitchen installation?
We primarily use them for 'plunge cutting' and undercutting. Plunge cutting allows us to cut precise square holes in cabinet backs for plumbing pipes. Undercutting involves slicing the bottom off door architraves so tile or laminate flooring can slide neatly underneath for a seamless finish.
Do I really need a brushless motor?
For occasional DIY, no. However, for a professional or a large renovation project in York, a brushless motor (like the Enventor) runs cooler, is more energy-efficient (longer battery life), and generally has a longer service life because there are no brushes to wear out.
Are the blades universal?
Mostly, yes. The 'OIS' (Oscillating Interface System) is the standard for most brands available in the UK. However, some newer rapid-change systems from big brands have unique stars. The DEWINNER and Enventor models reviewed here accept most standard universal blades you'd find at a local hardware store.
Can I sand a whole floor with this?
Definitely not. The sanding pad is triangular and small, designed for corners and details (like sanding the internal corners of shaker doors). attempted to sand a large area will result in an uneven finish and a worn-out tool. Use a belt or orbital sander for large surfaces.
Why is my blade burning the wood?
This usually happens if the speed is too high or the blade is dull. It can also happen if you aren't moving the tool slightly. Even though it vibrates, a slight sweeping motion helps clear the sawdust and prevents heat build-up which scorches the timber.
Can DR Joinery install my kitchen if I buy the units?
Absolutely. We specialise in the installation of custom and flat-pack kitchens. We bring the tools and expertise to ensure even awkward spaces in older properties are fitted to a high standard. Check our services page for more details.

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