Milwaukee 2626-20 Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool Review Top Features and Performance

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Milwaukee 2626-20 18V Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool immediately impressed me with its rugged all-metal gear case. This thing feels like it can take a beating, and I don’t say that lightly. The red exterior is striking, but it’s not just about looks—it’s built to last. Weighing in at only 3 pounds, it struck a great balance between being lightweight and durable. I found the ergonomic design comfortable to hold during extended use, and trust me, I’ve had my fair share of long projects. The tool-free blade change system? A game-changer. No more fumbling with tools mid-project; swapping blades was quick and mess-free.

Performance and Versatility

What really stood out to me was the 11,000–18,000 OPM (oscillations per minute) range. The 12-setting dial allowed me to fine-tune the speed for different tasks, whether I was cutting wood, scraping glue, or sanding surfaces. The performance was smooth across all tasks, and it didn’t bog down even with tougher materials. The built-in LED light was another standout feature. Working in dimly lit corners of my garage became a lot easier with the added visibility. This multi-tool handled sanding, cutting, and grinding with impressive precision and speed. I even used it to make some intricate cuts in drywall, and it handled like a champ.

Advantages

The key benefits of this oscillating tool are hard to ignore. Here’s what I found particularly impressive:

• Tool-free blade change system saves time and effort.
• Wide speed range (11,000–18,000 OPM) suits various materials and tasks.
• LED light ensures visibility in poorly lit spaces.
• Lightweight yet durable design makes it easy to handle for long periods.
• The all-metal gear case adds to its longevity and reliability.

Drawbacks

While the tool performed exceptionally, there were a few areas of concern that caught my attention:

• Battery not included. You’ll need to purchase one separately, which adds to the cost.
• Noise levels can be a bit high, especially on the higher speed settings.
• The sanding pad wasn’t as durable as I hoped—it wore out after a few vigorous uses.

These aren’t deal-breakers, but they’re worth keeping in mind if you’re considering this tool.

Target Audience and Practical Use

This multi-tool seems tailor-made for remodelers, flooring contractors, repair technicians, and electricians. I personally used it for some home renovation projects, and it was incredibly versatile. Whether sanding down rough edges on furniture or making clean cuts through wood and PVC piping, it delivered consistently. I could see this being a lifesaver for contractors who need to carry out precision work in tight spaces. That said, even DIY enthusiasts like myself can get a lot of value from it.

Other Options

In comparison to DeWalt’s DCS356B Oscillating Tool, the Milwaukee model offered better speed control with its 12-setting dial, while DeWalt’s three-speed selector felt more limited. However, the DeWalt model includes a battery, which is a clear advantage if you’re starting from scratch. On the other hand, brands like Makita and Bosch also have oscillating tools, but their blade change systems aren’t as intuitive as Milwaukee’s tool-free feature. Additionally, the LED light on the Milwaukee is a feature I found myself relying on more than I initially anticipated, something lacking in similar models from competitors.

Quality for Price

From a value proposition perspective, this tool strikes an excellent balance. While you do need to factor in the cost of a battery, the durability, performance, and versatility make it a worthy investment. Many tools in this price range don’t offer features like the all-metal gear case or LED light, both of which enhance user experience significantly. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a weekend DIYer, this multi-tool feels like a smart purchase for what it delivers.

Additional information