Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Oscillating Multi-tools

Milwaukee M12 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool 2526-21 vs Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool (Tool Only)

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

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The short answer

Milwaukee M12 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool 2526-21 and Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool (Tool Only) 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.
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool (Tool Only)
Ranked #2 in Best Oscillating Multi-tools
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool (Tool Only)
1 sourceall derived$51as of Oct 18

Pro Tool Reviews found that the brushless motor and increased oscillation arc deliver faster cutting speeds than the previous generation, making it effective for plunge cutting and grinding. However, vibration control lags behind premium competitors like the Milwaukee M12 or Fein SuperCut, resulting in a rougher ride during extended use. The tool-free blade change system simplifies accessory swaps, though the bare kit omits a carry case for storage. Homebuilding noted that it lacks raw power for dense hardwoods, fitting best for DIYers who already own Ryobi 18V batteries rather than professionals needing heavy-duty performance.

Strengths
  • — Brushless motor delivers faster cutting speeds and improved efficiency over the previous brushed model.
  • — Increased oscillation arc of 3.8 degrees allows for more aggressive cuts compared to the prior 3.6-degree angle.
  • — Tool-free blade change system enables quick accessory swaps using standard multi-tool attachments.
Watch-outs
  • — Vibration control is noticeable and less smooth than premium competitors like the Milwaukee M12 or Fein SuperCut.
  • — Bare tool kit does not include a carry case for storage and transport.

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.

Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool (Tool Only)

The Ryobi ONE+ features a brushless motor and an increased 3.8-degree oscillation angle that provides faster cutting speeds than the Craftsman V20’s 2.8-degree model, but its vibration control is noticeably rougher than the Milwaukee M12 FUEL or Fein SuperCut equivalents mentioned in reviews. While it shares the same top OPM range of 10,000-20,000 as the Ridgid R86242B and Milwaukee M12, it lacks the refined ergonomics and premium dampening found in those higher-tier options.

Specs side-by-side

SpecMilwaukee M12 FUEL Oscillating Multi-Tool 2526-21Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool (Tool Only)
Motor TypePOWERSTATE BrushlessBrushless
Oscillation Speed10,000 - 20,000 OPM10,000 - 20,000 OPM
Oscillation Angle3.9 degrees3.8 degrees
Voltage12V18 V
Weight—1.9 lbs
Power Source—Ryobi 18V Battery
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