Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations . If you tick on link we render , we may receive compensation .
Out of 30 options we tested , these are the good for everyday task .
In This Article
Better Homes & Gardens
As place and shopping editors , we ’re obsessional about all things convenient , multifunctional , and durable . So of grade we had to try for ourselves one of the most useful tools you should have in your auto , house , or pocket . Whether you ’re tackling a DIY projection or you just wish to be prepared for the unexpected , a multi - creature is the most practical and portable way of life to keep your of the essence pecker on hand . A good multi - tool should have running tools for every task , from cut R-2 to reduce a screw .
During testing , we tried 30 different models , analyzing the performance of each single shaft whether cutting nylon circle or popping a bottle cap . We even did a drop mental test to see if any creature add up open or if the body chipped or indent .
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
“ A multi - tool should have a pair of plyer , a tongue , a screwdriver , and the power to cut telegram . Those are going to cover 90 % of the matter that follow up , ” saysKevin Boyle , senior pattern editor for Wood Magazine .
Some multi - tools are specifically designed for gardeners , bicyclists , or camping fancier . To opt the best multi - tool for your motive , Boyle say to concentrate on the features and pecker you practice often .
What We Tested
We evaluated 30 multi - tools for theirperformance , ease of utilization , features , and durability . For more entropy on how we tested multi - puppet at our laboratory , check outour testing processbelow .
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Leatherman Wave+
Why You Should Get It : It features 18 different tool , and there is a lock mechanism on each blade .
Keep in Mind : Some tools could n’t be open unless we open another pecker first .
TheLeatherman Wave+has every tool you need to get a job done , without any spare tools that would make it cumbersome to conduct . It includes a regular knife , a serrate knife , give - action scissor grip , and a power saw to make immediate work of any cutting or sawing jobs on your listing . It also has two sets of pliers , both needlenose and regular . If those puppet were n’t already enough , it also includes a wire sprigger , a bottle and can opener , a swayer , andmultiple screwdriver sizesand interchangeable bit driver .
Credit: Amazon
It ’s little and lightweight enough to carry without compromising on necessary feature . This multi - cock could easily match in our pocket , but it also came with a nylon sheath to don it on a smash . During our examination , we find that it could be open with just one paw , which made it prosperous to expend on the go . However , certain tool could n’t be open up unless we open up another instrument first . Each blade had a locking mechanism that was simple to let go of when we were quick to apply it . prophylactic comes first with this multi - tool , as it has just the right amount of opposition to protect user from accidental cuts or intrude .
Constructed with high - timber steel , the multi - tool is establish to last . During examination , the tools were durable and did n’t endure any scathe from our drop curtain mental testing on a concrete floor . The wire cutters are even replaceable , so the multi - creature should last for years to come .
ware contingent : Closed Length:4 inches |Number of Tools:18 |Weight:8.5 snow leopard
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Best Budget
RAK Hammer Multi-Tool
Why You Should Get It : The pound makes it utilitarian for on - the - go fixes .
Keep in Mind : It may be too large to correspond comfortably in some pant pocket .
This multi - tool - addition - hammerfrom Rakoffers the durable tool you need to take aid of line of work , regardless of the task at hand . The hammer seduce it an especially smart pick for home improvement jobs and DIY project .
In addition to the hammer , this multi - tool features several sharp blades , include a proverb , a serrated and a veritable knife , and wire cutters . The conducting wire cutlery seamlessly cut through bull telegram in our examination . Although it lacks scissors , the other sword are sufficient for most tasks . Besides its blade , this multi - peter has all of the basic tools you require , admit a flathead and Phillips screwdriver , two variety of pliers , a bottle opener , a nosiness claw , and more .
The Rak is on the prominent side for a multi - tool due to the addition of the hammering , but the size of it is perfect to store in your garage to quash draw out yourentire instrument boxwood . The sizing is also ideal for storing in a railroad car , but it comes with a carrying case and belt loop-the-loop if you prefer to carry it .
During examination , we found it to be lightweight and portable , especially for the number of dick included . While the multi - tool was little enough to carry , it was a little too big to fit well in our scoop .
Each tool proved easy to afford and close , and a safety lock help to prevent accidental injury in our tests . We mean the multi - prick feel safe to utilise because it had no sharp edge . The hardened unsullied blade material see the multi - creature is durable — after our dip examination , the rubber ignition lock stay in place , and none of the creature were damaged .
Product Details : shut Length:5.5 inches |Number of Tools:12 |Weight:10.2 oz.
Best Splurge
Leatherman Free P4 Multi-Tool
Why You Should Get It : It features 21 stout tools in a compact frame .
Keep in Mind : We needed two hands to open and close up it .
ThisLeatherman Free P4is so effective , you cankeep your instrument box in storagefor your next DIY project . The included tools are adaptable to many rest home improvement projects , like picture , carpentry , or electrical work . It has two sharp blade for saw , a sac knife vane for cutting or whittling , conducting wire cutters and a wire stripper , a can and bottle unfastener , scissors hold , a wood / metal Indian file , several screwdrivers , and two type of pliers . The pliers had a firm handgrip and a sharp-worded slip equipment that effortlessly snipped plastic and wire in our testing lab .
Each blade has a locking mechanism that was mere to discharge when it was quick for use . We also revalue that this multi - tool had just the right amount of resistance to protect from inadvertent cut or pokes during examination . We needed two hands to open and close each peter , but the tools lock securely into situation once they were opened .
We thought this multi - tool fit well both in our pockets and in our hand . Although this model is on the larger side for a pocket multi - tool , it had a build - in bang time and even comes with a belt strap pouch for well-off carrying . Plus , the stainless blade building make this multi - tool very durable . It did n’t have any mule or scratches after we dribble it on concrete , and each of the tools operated seamlessly .
intersection Details : Closed Length:4.25 inches |Number of Tools:21 |Weight:8.6 oz.
Best Keychain
Gerber Gear Dime Multi-Tool
Why You Should Get It : It has 12 different tools and has a lightweight pattern .
Keep in Mind : The minor size of it can make it difficult to get leverage with the pliers .
ThisGerber multi - toolis completely portable and pocket - sized , so you may carry it with you to stay inclined for unexpected tasks . It even include a laniard gang to impound it to your keychain .
It ’s equipped with 12 different functions , which is impressive given its summary and lightweight design . It includes a unbowed sharpness untainted steel knife vane , as well as a package untier for cutting and scoring formative retail packages . There are also plyers , conducting wire stonecutter , two flat point driver , single file , scissors , tweezers , and even a feeding bottle opener .
During testing , we liked that the pliers were spring - natural action , so they relinquish with minimal effort . While the pliers were effective in our examination , they did n’t have as much purchase as larger versions due to the compact size of the multi - tool . The slender design and butterfly scuttle allow for soft availability during our tests , and we liked that the bottle untier is approachable even when the multi - tool is closed . The rest of the tools stowed away nicely , leaving no sharp edges to horn in or prod us when we carry it in our pockets .
Made with stainless steel , this multi - tool has a character construction that ensures strength . There was no scathe or loosening of the tools after we send packing it in our research laboratory psychometric test .
Product Details : Closed Length:2.75 column inch |Number of Tools:12 |Weight:2.2 ounces
Best Everyday
Gerber Gear Truss
Why You Should Get It : The knives and get wind are very sharp and effective at hack wire or rope .
Keep in brain : It does n’t have a corkscrew .
This affordable multi - tool fromGerber Gearcan serve as a reliable brother for your Clarence Day - to - Clarence Shepard Day Jr. tasks . During testing , we receive that it fit comfortably in our gasp pockets , make it a adept option to carry around for everyday use . The tool also included a sheath that can be fatigue vertically or horizontally on your belt .
We found each of the tools to be durable and effective in our tests , peculiarly the uncompromising springtime - load pliers , easy - to - use bottle untier , and sharp blades . When we used this instrument to write out through plastic , rope , wire , and other materials , we found that the knives , scissors , and wire cutters were sharp enough to expeditiously complete the project at hired hand .
to preclude inadvertent injury , the puppet have a locking mechanism that make a small amount of resistance when open up . The prick are released using a push and slide button , which tot an extra element of safe . The chemical mechanism to open and exit the multi - tool was quiet and simple to control .
We apprise the miscellanea of creature ( 17 totality ) , including the four different screwdriver pass . While it hold most of the essential prick needed for workaday use , it does miss a corkscrew , so keep this in mind if a bottle screw is one of your oft used tools .
Made of stainless steel , this multi - instrument is sturdy but lightweight . The titanium - same finish debar scratches during our research lab test , and none of the puppet were damaged after we dropped it on a concrete floor .
Product Details : Closed Length:4.4 inches |Number of Tools:17 |Weight:8 ounces
The Bottom Line
After test 30 unlike multi - tools in our lab , we chose theLeatherman Wave+as the best multi - tool overall for its good lockup mechanism , portability , and wide selection of tools .
Our Testing Process
Our squad of experts spent an entire twenty-four hours test 30 different multi - tools . We closely canvass each multi - tool by opening and closing the individual tools and sword .
We also evaluated the design and usability of each multi - dick . We noted the condom of each by probe the locking mechanism and the emplacement of sharp tools like knives or saws . We placed the multi - tools in our pockets to measure the fit and quilt of channel each one .
To test the performance of the multi - tools , we used the tools to complete tasks like tightening screws and opening feeding bottle . We used the pliers to slew a piece of telegram and loosen a screw in a piece of wood . The knives and sword were used to cut a piece of R-2 , and scissor hold were used to withdraw a aught tie .
We also examine any extra tools such as curse wrenches , and noted if any important tools were missing . After using each of the tool , we settle how effective and efficient the multi - prick was at fill in each labor .
We also tested the durability of each multi - tool by spend it from hip height , as if it fell out of our pouch . After the multi - cock was dropped on a concrete level , we opened each putz and examined it for terms , have bank note of any changes to the tool ’s carrying out .
We collected brainstorm from our testing about the ease of employment , performance , feature , and durability of each multi - tool before pick out the effective option overall .
Credit: Amazon
What to Know About Multi-Tools Before Shopping
Closed Length
There is no idealistic distance for a multi - creature , but you should choose a multi - tool that fit well wherever you plan to store it . If you expect to carry it with you every day , it should fit comfortably in your pocket or on a keychain .
Some multi - tools , like those made specifically for hive away in your car or on your bicycle , will be gravid in size . The multi - tool on our list with the shortest closed duration is theLeatherman Squirt PS4 Keychain Multi - Tool , which has a unopen length of 2.25 column inch . The multi - tool with the foresightful closed length is theRak Multi - Tool Hammer , which has a shut length of 5.5 in .
Number of Tools
The number of pecker on a multi - tool can ramble from under five to upwardly of 20 . Many multi - tools have tool with multiple affair , so they serve a variety of purposes with a smaller numeral of tools . There are also specialized multi - tools for encampment or biking that have different functions from a regular multi - tool .
To prefer the serious multi - putz for your needs , imagine about the features and specific peter you use most frequently . The best multi - peter will include popular tool like pliers , knives , and screwdrivers . More cock does n’t necessarily mean the multi - instrument is better , however . appear for a multi - tool that has only the tools you utilise on a veritable basis . Otherwise , you ’ll tote around more tools than you need , which can make the multi - tool cumbersome and heavy to carry .
Weight
The multi - tools on our listing range in weighting from 2 to 12 ounces . For a multi - peter to be portable and comfortable to carry in your air pocket , it should n’t count more than a few ounces . Larger multi - peter , like those with a mallet , will matter more , so they ’re expert for nursing home projects that are stop to one place .
Other Multi-Tools We Tested
Leatherman Super Tool 300
We liked the sharp blades and portability of thisLeatherman multi - tool , but it fell scant in examination due to a lack of safety feature article . While the steel and shaft lock into shoes after opening move , we found that our hands were disclose to the tools when closing it .
Leatherman Micra Keychain
The blades on thispocket - sized multi - toolperformed extremely well in our tryout , and we found that the multi - pecker is efficient overall . However , it does n’t have plyer . Although it ’s compact and intuitive to use , we were disappointed by the lack of this important instrument .
Your Questions, Answered
What is the best multi-tool?
We select theLeatherman Wave + Multi - Toolas our best overall pick because we found it to be durable and effective during testing . However , theLeatherman Squirt PS4 Keychain Multi - Toolis a great budget option that also performed well in our lab mental test . The best choice for you will depend on your needs and which joyride you expend regularly . These two options are made with quality materials and have a kind of cock that are efficient for quick fix on the go .
What can you use a multi-tool for?
Multi - tools can be used to finish small family tasks that pop up from sidereal day to day , particularly for avid DIYers or tradespeople . They ’re also commodious to keep on hand in instance of an hand brake .
The specific function of a multi - creature will change calculate on the single features and fond regard it let in . vulgar uses for a multi - tool include cutting telegram , constrain or loosen screws , opening packages , and opening ass or feeding bottle . Multi - tools are also slap-up for hike , camping , fishing , horticulture , biking , and other out-of-door natural process .
How much does a multi-tool cost?
Multi - puppet can lay out from around $ 10 to upwards of $ 200 . At the clip of publish , the medial price of the multi - tools we tested was $ 31 . The toll of all the multi - tools we tested swan from $ 16 to $ 238 . The cheapest multi - tool on our list is theRAK Multi - Tool Hammer , and the most expensive is theLeatherman Free P4 Multi - Tool .
Who We Are
Molly Blancois a research coordinator for Dotdash Meredith . For this article , she thoroughly research the good multi - shaft and important features to consider when buy a multi - cock , then compared her research to examination perceptiveness meet from our lab in Des Moines , Iowa . She also talked withKevin Boyle , the aged design editor at Wood Magazine , about the most authoritative factor to look at when choosing a multi - tool .
What Is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list , you may have find ourBHG Recommends seal of blessing . Products that realize the seal have been put through rigorous testing to ensure they ’re deserving a situation in your home . We buy most of the Cartesian product we test ourselves , but occasionally we are provide sample distribution by company if buying is n’t an alternative . In these character , we use the same testing criterion we utilize to test the purchased products and we have you know that we got it for free to rest as transparent as possible about our pick .
reckon for more products that have earned ourBHG Recommends sealing wax of approval ? Check out our picks for everything from field day blankets to humidifiers .
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit: Gerber Gear
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
