An oscillating multi-tool is useful for drywall cutouts around outlets, pipes, and other tight spots where a larger saw may be awkward. The best choice depends on how often you work away from an outlet, whether you already own compatible batteries, and how much speed control you want. Below, we compare five options and explain what to look for before making a cut.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Power | Speed control | Notable feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool | 20V cordless | 3-speed selector and variable-speed trigger | Brushless motor, LED, quick-change system |
| ENERTWIST 4.2 Amp Oscillating Multitool Kit | 4.2-amp corded | 6 speeds, 8,000–16,000 OPM | 33-piece accessory kit |
| DEKOPRO 20V Cordless Oscillating Tool | 20V cordless with battery | 6 speeds, 5,000–18,000 OPM | LED and included battery and charger |
| DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Tool Kit | 20V cordless | 3-speed selector and variable-speed trigger | Brushless motor, LED, included blades |
| RYOBI RMT18-0 18V ONE+ Multi-Tool | 18V cordless, bare tool | 6-position speed wheel | Universal accessory adapter and LED |
Our Picks: Best Oscillating Tool For Cutting Drywall reviews
DEWALT 20V MAX XR: Best for Cordless Control
This DEWALT is a cordless brushless oscillating tool with a three-speed selector and a dual-grip variable-speed trigger. Its listed speed range reaches 20,000 oscillations per minute, giving you several settings to work with when switching between careful cutouts and faster tasks.
The built-in LED can help illuminate a dim work area, while the quick-change system is designed for blade and attachment changes without a wrench. A universal accessory adapter supports most oscillating-tool accessory brands, which is useful if you already have compatible blades on hand.
For drywall, the cordless design is convenient when working in a room without easy access to an outlet. The tool’s speed controls can help you adjust your approach, but the right drywall-cutting blade and a steady hand still matter. The supplied information does not specify a battery or charger in the package, so check the listing details if you need a complete setup.
Pros:
- Brushless motor is listed as delivering up to 57% more run time than brushed models
- Three speed settings plus a variable-speed trigger
- LED helps light the cutting area
- Quick-change system and universal accessory adapter
Cons:
- Battery and charger are not specified in the supplied product details
- May be more tool than needed for occasional small cutouts
Verdict: Choose this DEWALT if you want cordless flexibility, fine speed control, and a brushless motor, especially if you already have compatible batteries.
ENERTWIST 4.2 Amp: Best Corded Kit for Versatile Projects
The ENERTWIST is a corded oscillating tool with a 4.2-amp motor and six speed settings from 8,000 to 16,000 OPM. For drywall work, the adjustable speed gives you room to slow down near an edge or work more quickly when the cut allows it. A cord does limit how far you can move from an outlet, so plan the work area accordingly.
The package includes 33 pieces, including wood-cutting blades, a semi-circle blade, a sanding pad, scraper, and assorted sanding sheets. It also comes with an accessory adapter and an auxiliary handle. The included assortment makes it a broader home-repair kit, though the product details do not identify a dedicated drywall blade in the box.
Its tool-less accessory system is designed for changes without a wrench. The listed 5-degree oscillation angle is presented as a balance of cutting speed and control, but a larger angle does not replace careful handling on delicate drywall. If drywall is your only task, consider whether you need the extra accessories and corded format.
Pros:
- Six speed settings for different materials and tasks
- Accessory kit includes blades, sanding items, and a scraper
- Tool-less accessory change system
- Corded power avoids battery-runtime concerns during a job
Cons:
- Cord can restrict movement around a room
- Dedicated drywall blade is not specified among the included accessories
Verdict: The ENERTWIST is a practical option if you prefer corded power and want an accessory-rich kit for drywall and other home-repair tasks.
DEKOPRO 20V: Best Complete Cordless Set
This DEKOPRO set is a 20V cordless oscillating tool supplied with a 4Ah battery and charger. Its six speed settings cover a listed range of 5,000 to 18,000 OPM, so you can select a slower setting for controlled work or a higher one for more demanding cuts.
The tool has an LED, a soft-grip handle, and a tool-free blade-change system. The package includes wood and metal cutting blades, scraper blades, a sanding pad, and a triangle saw. The supplied details do not name a specific drywall blade, so check the accessory type and use a blade suited to drywall before starting.
This is a self-contained option for someone who does not already own a compatible battery platform. Its included battery and charger are a notable convenience, while the 20V platform and accessories make it suitable for more than one kind of repair. Compared with the DEWALT options, it offers more speed settings but does not list the same brushless-motor claim.
Pros:
- Battery and charger are included
- Six speed settings across a broad listed OPM range
- LED and soft-grip handle
- Tool-free blade changes and a mixed accessory set
Cons:
- A dedicated drywall blade is not identified in the package details
- May be less appealing if you already own batteries from another tool platform
Verdict: Pick the DEKOPRO if you want a cordless starter set with its own battery and charger, and you are comfortable confirming the right blade for drywall.
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Kit: Best for a Brushless Tool with Blades
This DEWALT kit combines a 20V cordless brushless tool with blades. It has a three-speed selector, a variable-speed trigger, and a quick-change accessory system. The LED is useful when you need a clearer view of a cut line in a shadowed corner or inside a cabinet.
The universal accessory adapter is designed to work with most oscillating-tool accessory brands, which adds flexibility when replacing or expanding the blade set. The supplied description does not list the included blade types or state whether a battery and charger are included. Confirm those details before buying, particularly if this would be your first tool on the 20V platform.
In function, it shares key controls with the other DEWALT brushless model in this guide. Its main distinction is that the product is presented as a kit with blades, while the other listing emphasizes the tool itself. For drywall cutouts, blade choice is central; do not assume the supplied blades are drywall-specific without checking the package details.
Pros:
- Brushless motor with three speed settings
- Variable-speed trigger for added control
- Quick-change system and universal accessory adapter
- LED helps illuminate the work surface
Cons:
- Included blade types are not specified in the supplied details
- Battery and charger are not identified as included
Verdict: Consider this kit if you want DEWALT’s brushless controls and prefer a listing that includes blades, but verify the accessories and power components before ordering.
RYOBI RMT18-0: Best for Existing ONE+ Owners
The RYOBI RMT18-0 is an 18V ONE+ cordless multi-tool sold as a bare tool. It is described as suitable for cutting drywall along with metal, wood, plastic, and composite materials. That makes it a flexible choice for repair work where you may switch between materials.
A six-position speed wheel helps you adjust the tool for different applications, and the LED lights the work area. The quick-change attachments and included universal adapter make it easier to switch accessories and use compatible brands. Since this is a bare tool, you will need a compatible battery and charger if you do not already have them.
The RYOBI’s main advantage is platform convenience: it makes the most sense if you already use compatible ONE+ tools and batteries. If you are starting from scratch, compare the added battery and charger cost with a kit that includes those parts. You will also need to make sure the chosen accessory is appropriate for the drywall cut you plan to make.
Pros:
- Product details specifically list drywall cutting
- Six-position speed wheel and LED
- Universal accessory adapter supports a range of brands
- Useful for cutting and detail sanding across several materials
Cons:
- Bare tool; battery and charger are not included
- Included blade types are not specified in the supplied details
Verdict: The RYOBI is a sensible pick if you already own compatible ONE+ batteries and want a multi-tool the product description identifies for drywall cutting.
How to Choose an Oscillating Tool for Cutting Drywall
Choose a blade suited to drywall
The tool is only part of the cutting setup. Use an accessory intended for the material and the shape of cut you need, and check whether it is included or must be purchased separately. The product details for several options here do not specify a dedicated drywall blade, so confirm the accessory list rather than assuming every included blade is right for wallboard.
Decide between corded and cordless power
A corded model can run without a tool battery, but the cord may limit where you can work and how you move around a room. A cordless tool is easier to carry to different areas, though runtime depends on its battery. If you already own compatible batteries, a bare tool or tool-only listing may suit you. If not, look for a package that clearly includes a battery and charger.
Look for useful speed control
Adjustable speed can help you approach a cut more carefully and adapt the tool to different materials. Some models use a speed wheel or selector, while others also have a variable-speed trigger. For drywall cutouts, control matters: make a measured cut and avoid forcing the blade through the panel.
Check blade changes and accessory fit
Quick-change systems can save time when you switch blades or move between cutting and sanding. A universal adapter can also make it easier to use accessories from different brands, but compatibility should still be checked for the specific blade and tool. Confirm that the accessory is firmly attached before operating the tool.
Consider visibility and handling
An LED can help you see the work area, especially in a dark corner or behind a fixture. Handle shape, grip, and vibration can also affect comfort during longer tasks. For a small cutout, a compact setup and clear view of your marked line may matter more than having the most accessories.
Plan the cut before starting
Measure and mark the opening, then check for wiring, pipes, or other hidden obstructions before cutting into a wall. Use suitable eye and respiratory protection, since cutting drywall can create dust. Start carefully and keep the cut within the marked boundary to reduce patching work.
FAQs
Can an oscillating tool cut drywall?
Yes. The product information for the RYOBI specifically lists drywall cutting, and the ENERTWIST description also lists drywall cutouts among its uses. Use an appropriate blade and work carefully around the cut line.
Which tool in this list comes with a battery and charger?
The DEKOPRO listing specifies a 20V tool with a 4Ah battery and charger. The RYOBI is explicitly a bare tool, while the supplied details for the DEWALT options do not confirm whether a battery and charger are included.
Is a corded or cordless oscillating tool better for drywall?
Neither is best for every person. A corded model avoids battery-runtime concerns but ties you to an outlet. A cordless model is easier to move around, especially if you already own compatible batteries.
Do these tools include a drywall blade?
The supplied product details do not clearly identify a dedicated drywall blade for most of these options. Check the current accessory list and choose a blade made for the material and cut you need.
What does OPM mean?
OPM means oscillations per minute. It describes how quickly the tool’s head moves back and forth. A higher setting is not always the right choice; use the speed that gives you control for the task.
What should I check before cutting into a wall?
Mark the opening and check for hidden wiring, plumbing, or other obstacles. Wear suitable eye and respiratory protection, and do not cut until you are confident the area behind the drywall is clear.
Final Recommendation
For a cordless tool with a brushless motor, LED, and several speed controls, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR models are strong options—just confirm whether the package includes a battery, charger, and the blade you need. The ENERTWIST stands out as a corded kit with a broad accessory assortment, while the DEKOPRO is the clearest choice if you want a cordless package that includes a battery and charger. If you already own compatible ONE+ batteries, the RYOBI is a convenient platform match. In every case, choose the right blade and check the wall for hidden hazards before cutting.
