Verdict
All guidesResearchOpen dataMethodologyAboutContact
Head-to-head · Best Oscillating Multi-tools

Milwaukee M12 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool 2526-21 vs Ridgid 18V Brushless R86242B

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

Milwaukee M12 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool 2526-21 and Ridgid 18V Brushless R86242B score essentially the same (4.5 vs 4.5). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Milwaukee M12 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool 2526-21
Ranked #3 in Best Oscillating Multi-tools
Milwaukee M12 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool 2526-21
1 source$109as of Oct 18

Pro Tool Reviews found that this tool delivers the lowest full-tool vibration among its peers, offering comfort comparable to premium Fein models during extended use. Greatlakespowertools reported that the POWERSTATE brushless motor provides the fastest cut speed in the 12V category, maintaining performance under load across a 3.9-degree oscillation angle. The device features a variable speed dial with 12 settings ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 OPM for precise application matching and includes magnets to assist with tool-free blade changes. However, it uses a traditional bolt-and-nut retention system rather than the more convenient Starlock interface. This model fits professionals seeking high-speed cordless performance in tight spaces, while those prioritizing instant accessory swaps should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Delivers lowest full-tool vibration, making it comparable to premium Fein models in comfort and control.
  • — Features a POWERSTATE brushless motor that provides the fastest cut speed among 12V competitors.
  • — Includes a variable speed dial with 12 settings ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 OPM for precise application matching.
Watch-outs
  • — Uses a traditional bolt-and-nut blade retention system rather than the more convenient Starlock interface.
$109 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Ridgid 18V Brushless R86242B
Ranked #4 in Best Oscillating Multi-tools
Ridgid 18V Brushless R86242B
1 sourceall derived

Pro Tool Reviews found that the Ridgid R86242B dominated performance tests, cutting threaded rod in just 31 seconds and outperforming competitors like Milwaukee. The tool features a brushless motor delivering up to 20,000 OPM and a new quick-change pin system for faster accessory swaps. While some reviewers noted the vibration is slightly more noticeable than top-tier rivals, it remains well-controlled. This model is best suited for DIYers and pros seeking high-speed cutting efficiency in tight spaces without needing the JobMax modular base.

Strengths
  • — Delivers cutting speeds up to 75% faster than previous models, finishing threaded rod cuts in just 31 seconds according to Pro Tool Reviews.
  • — Features a new quick-change pin system that simplifies accessory swaps compared to the cumbersome design of older Ridgid oscillating tools.
  • — Provides three selectable speed modes combined with a variable speed trigger for precise control during detailed work like undercutting door jambs.
Watch-outs
  • — Exhibits higher vibration levels than some competing models in head-to-head comparisons, though still considered a significant improvement over the predecessor.
  • — Uses a multifinger paddle trigger rather than a traditional slide switch with variable speed dial, which some users find less intuitive.
Check Price on AmazonFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Milwaukee M12 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool 2526-21

The Milwaukee M12 FUEL delivers the lowest full-tool vibration among its peers, offering a smoother ride than the Ryobi ONE+ or Craftsman V20, while maintaining a competitive 3.9-degree oscillation angle. Although it uses a traditional bolt-and-nut retention system like some older designs, it outperforms the Craftsman in cut speed and matches the Ridgid R86242B’s top OPM range of 10,000-20,000 for precise application matching.

Ridgid 18V Brushless R86242B

The Ridgid R86242B dominates cutting efficiency, finishing threaded rod cuts faster than the Milwaukee M18 Fuel and featuring a wider 4-degree oscillation angle compared to the Craftsman V20’s 2.8 degrees for more aggressive material removal. Its quick-change pin system allows for faster accessory swaps than the Milwaukee 2836-20’s threaded bolt, though it exhibits slightly higher vibration levels than the Milwaukee M12 FUEL during extended use.

Specs side-by-side

SpecMilwaukee M12 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool 2526-21Ridgid 18V Brushless R86242B
Motor TypePOWERSTATE BrushlessBrushless
Oscillation Speed10,000 - 20,000 OPM10,000-20,000 OPM
Oscillation Angle3.9 degrees4°
Voltage12V18V
Weight—2.2 lbs
Power Source—Ridgid 18V battery
← See the full ranking of best oscillating multi-tools