Multi-tool vs reciprocating saw

How each tool cuts

An oscillating multi-tool swings its blade through a small arc, often around 3 to 4 degrees, many thousands of times a minute. The blade barely moves, so it is easy to control and you can plunge it straight into a surface. Swap the blade and the same tool sands, scrapes and removes grout. Our explainer what is a multi-tool used for lists the main uses.

A reciprocating saw drives a long blade in and out with a stroke of roughly 20 to 32 mm. It cuts very quickly through timber, nails, plastic and metal pipe, but it is harder to steer precisely and it shakes the work.

Precision and finish

A multi-tool leaves a narrow, controlled cut and can work right up against a floor or wall. That makes it ideal for trimming architrave to fit new flooring, cutting holes for sockets in plasterboard and trimming the bottom of a door lining. Cuts are slower than a saw, and blades wear quickly in hard materials.

A reciprocating saw leaves a rough cut and its blade wanders in thick material. It is not a tool for joinery, but its speed is a huge advantage when the cut will be hidden or thrown away.

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Demolition, pipes and pruning

When you strip out a kitchen, cut old pipework or remove a stud wall, a reciprocating saw is the tool. Bimetal demolition blades cut through timber with nails in it. In the garden, a pruning blade cuts branches quickly, though a pruning saw or chainsaw may be safer for larger limbs.

A multi-tool can cut copper pipe and nails with the right blade, but it is slow work and wears blades. Use it for the occasional flush cut, not a whole strip out.

Note:Check for hidden cables and pipes before cutting into walls and floors. Isolate water and electricity where needed and wear eye protection, gloves and a dust mask.

Blades and running costs

Multi-tool blades come in several fittings: OIS, Starlock, StarlockPlus and StarlockMax. Check which your tool accepts; see are multi-tool blades universal. Blades for hard materials wear quickly, so a multi pack is worth having.

Reciprocating saw blades use a near universal shank that fits most brands. They are sold by material and length, with wood, metal, demolition and pruning types.

Which to buy first

For decorating, fitting floors, kitchens and general home improvement, buy a multi-tool first. It solves awkward cuts that no other tool can make. For renovation work that involves taking things apart, pipework or garden clearance, buy a reciprocating saw first. If you are on a battery platform, both are often available as bare tools; see what body only means.

If you also need straight accurate cuts in boards, neither is the answer; a circular saw is. See circular saw vs reciprocating saw.

Cordless or corded

Both tools are sold in corded and cordless forms. Cordless versions on an 18 V platform are popular because both are often used away from a socket, on ladders, in lofts and under floors. A multi-tool runs a long time on one pack because it draws little power. A reciprocating saw cutting thick timber or steel drains packs much faster, so use a 4 Ah or 5 Ah battery.

Corded reciprocating saws remain common for heavy demolition, where they never run flat. Corded multi-tools, such as the Fein MultiMaster, suit long sanding and grout jobs at a bench or in one room. Choose on where you work and whether you already own batteries.

Frequently asked questions

Can a multi-tool replace a reciprocating saw? Only for small, occasional cuts. For demolition, thick timber and lots of pipe cutting, a reciprocating saw is much faster.

Can a reciprocating saw make flush cuts? Some can with a flexible blade, but the result is rough. A multi-tool is far better for flush cuts.

Which is safer? A multi-tool is easier to control. Both need eye protection, a firm grip and checks for hidden services.

Can a multi-tool cut tiles? With a diamond or carbide blade it can notch tiles and remove grout, but it is slow on full cuts.