To get your job done well (and efficiently), your tools must be able to do serious work. A quality oscillating multi-tool isn’t starter pack stuff, but once you have one, you’ll probably find it difficult to imagine being without it. The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Oscillating Multi-Tool uniquely offers auto-loading, the fastest speed, and the OPEN-LOK feature. Conversely, the 18V LXT® Lithium‑Ion Sub‑Compact Brushless Cordless StarlockMax® Oscillating Multi‑Tool provides a better battery, less vibration, and a StarlockMax interface.
Oscillating tool basics
An oscillating multi-tool, also known as an “oscillating tool” or “multi-tool,” is often recognized for having a long, grinder-like body with a cordless, hand-held frame. As the name suggests, it’s a multi-tool—it can complete a variety of tasks.
Oscillating tools are often used to cut wood, PVC, metal, or other materials. They can also scrape, sand, and support several tool heads for various jobs. While handy, oscillating tools aren’t known for doing the best job in terms of quality and efficiency. People typically opt for them because they’re convenient, compact, and affordable compared to their full-sized counterparts.
Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ Oscillating Multi-Tool vs. Makita 18V LXT® Brushless Cordless StarlockMax® Oscillating Multi-Tool
Performance
Both oscillating tools stand out for their performance. They’re both powered by 18V battery systems that offer batteries in various ampere-hour sizes. Both the Makita and Milwaukee contain high-powered motors for increased productivity and precision. Their performance is matched with around 20,000 Oscillations Per Minute (OPM) and a speed control dial. Here’s where they differ:
Milwaukee: The M18 FUEL offers the top speed plus the most effortless control. This may be your best option if you’re looking for fast, detailed cutting. This tool can cut through nail-embedded wood, oak, grout, vinyl, copper, and PVC. Its operating angle is 4.2 degrees.
Makita: Users cite the 18V LXT as not quite as fast in action, but it’s lightweight and has a lower vibration for less fatigue while handling. The Makita also offers a slightly longer battery life, up to 20 minutes of continuous work. It does, however, only offer up to a 3.2-degree oscillation angle.
Design
Oscillating tools look similar across the market, but a few small things can make or break a buyer’s decision. Here are the critical differences between Milwaukee and Makita.
Milwaukee: The most notable difference is that Milwaukee still uses the outdated open-lok style accessory change system. This will slow you down if you use multiple accessories on your tool for a single job. Fortunately, Milwaukee is known for giving better visibility. The tool head has an over-molded surface that gives your hand a comfortable rest, giving you better control and eyes on the details.
Makita: Makita uses the StarlockMax interface accessory changing on its oscillating multi-tool, which offers greater efficiency and convenience. This tool also has a large on/off switch and a lock-on for ease of use. The adapters it comes with fit most competitor accessories, and the small barrel grip gives users the most handheld comfort.
Connectivity
With both tools, you’d be stuck with their ecosystem of batteries and chargers. Some users prefer Milwaukee’s M18 battery system, which also has better trade-specific tools for electricians. Others prefer Makita’s StarlockMax system of lithium-ion batteries and more extensive cordless range.
Milwaukee: Compatible with all M18 batteries, which users cite can be trusted in more varying temperatures, Milwaukee has been a top brand for years. They use REDLINK PLUS intelligence, which promises unmatched performance levels, compatibility, and protection.
Makita: The 18V LXT® StarlockMax® multi-tool features the StarlockMax interface, meaning it’s compatible with Starlock, StarlockPlus, and StarlockMax accessories. Starlock accessories are designed to be locked into place securely, quickly, and easily, making Makita the winner in terms of connectivity options.
The original creators of the lithium-ion cordless tool category in 2005, the Makita brand has the world’s most expansive cordless range and upgrades its product lines more frequently. If you’re looking for quality performance with more frequent innovation, the Makita LXT model is your best bet.
Price
The Milwaukee and Makita Oscillation Multi-Tools are likely available in most tool stores, but here’s how the prices compare prices between some retailers.
Home Depot
- Milwaukee (tool only): $229 USD
- Makita (tool only): $159 USD
Waysource
- Milwaukee (tool only) $165 USD
- Makita (tool only) $159 USD
Amazon
- Milwaukee (tool only) $178 USD
- Makita (tool only) $155.99 USD
UTHH pick: The Makita 18V LXT® StarlockMax® Brushless Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel and Makita 18V LXT® StarlockMax® Oscillating Multi-Tool are both reliable, world-class products with decades of brand trust behind them, making the choice challenging. The Milwaukee has undeniable power and a bit more speed, but overall, the Makita takes the cake.
The lithium-ion system, StarlockMax integration, frequent updates, and extensive cordless lineup make the Makita multi-took a no-brainer. While Milwaukee offers exceptional performance and capability, Makita’s multi-tool focuses more on innovation and less on smaller performance details, making it the perfect fit for any job.
