Conquer any task, from fixing a flat tire to whipping up a gourmet campsite meal, with the ultimate multi-tool by your side! These versatile companions pack a surprising amount of functionality into a compact, portable package. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or a weekend DIY warrior, there’s a multi-tool out there perfectly suited for your needs. Let’s dive into the top 10 multi-tools of 2024!
We’ve all been there, needing to tighten a bolt or trim a branch without the right tool. That’s where a multi-tool comes in.
These gadgets are popular among tradespeople, outdoor lovers, and grandparents. They offer many functions in one tool. While Leatherman is a key brand, there are other good options.
Multi-tools aren’t meant to replace specialized tools in your workshop. They’re handy for quick fixes when you can’t access those tools. A great multi-tool makes tasks like pulling a nail, stripping a wire, or tightening a bolt on a wiper easy and efficient.
Top 10 Multi-Tools – Test Results
Rank | Multi-Tool | Buy Now | Price (USD) | Overall Score | Star Rating | Pros | Cons | Bottom Line | Rating Categories | Specs |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Leatherman Wave Plus | Buy Now | $100-$120 | High | 4.8 | – 18 tools – Durable – Versatile | – Slightly heavy | A top-rated choice for overall quality and functionality. | Functions (40%) | 18 |
2 | Gerber Center-Drive Multi-Tool | Buy Now | $60-$80 | High | 4.7 | – Smooth operation – 25 tools | – Bulkier design | Feature-rich with a focus on smooth operation. | Functions (40%) | 25 |
3 | victorinox Swisstool Spirit XC | Buy Now | $150-$170 | High | 4.8 | – 29 Swiss Army-style tools – High quality | – Pricey | A feature-packed option from a trusted brand. | Functions (40%) | 29 |
4 | Leatherman Charge TTi | Buy Now | $200-$250 | High | 4.6 | – 19 tools – Lightweight titanium build – Diamond-coated sharpener | – Expensive | Feature-rich with premium materials for professionals. | Functions (40%) | 19 |
5 | SOG PowerPint | Buy Now | $40-$50 | Good | 4.5 | – Keychain-sized – 18 tools | – Limited functionality for larger tasks | Compact and convenient for everyday carry. | Functions (40%) | 18 |
6 | Gerber Suspension NXT Multi-Tool | Buy Now | $40-$50 | Good | 4.4 | – Affordable – 15 tools – Spring-action pliers | – Fewer features compared to some | A well-priced option with essential tools. | Functions (40%) | 15 |
7 | Leatherman Skeletool SX | Buy Now | $70-$80 | Good | 4.3 | – Lightweight – Compact (EDC friendly) – 7 tools | – Limited functionality | Ideal for everyday carry with basic tools. | Functions (40%) | 7 |
8 | victorinox SwissTool Spirit MX | Buy Now | $200-$230 | High | 4.7 | – 29 stainless steel tools – High quality | – Bulky and heavy | Premium option with extensive functionality. | Functions (40%) | 29 |
9 | Nite Ize Doohickey Key Organizer | Buy Now | $10-$15 | Good | 4.2 | – Keychain multi-tool – Bottle opener, box cutter, etc. | – Limited functionality | Handy for everyday tasks on your keychain. | Functions (40%) | 4 |
10 | Leatherman Micra Keychain Multi-Tool | Buy Now | $20-$30 | Good | 4.1 | – Keychain sized – Pliers, scissors, screwdriver | – Very limited functionality | Tiny and convenient for basic tasks on your keychain. | Functions (40%) | 4 |
Leatherman Wave Plus
Number of Functions: 18
Weight: Approximately 8.5 ounces (241 grams)
Reasons to Buy:
- Versatility: It has 18 different functions. The Leatherman Wave Plus offers a wide range of tools, including knives, pliers, screwdrivers, and more. It is suitable for many tasks.
- Durable Construction: The Wave Plus is crafted from high-quality stainless steel. It is built to endure tough conditions and frequent use, ensuring longevity.
- One-Hand Accessibility: Many of its tools can be used with one hand. This makes tasks more convenient and efficient.
- Compact and Portable: Despite its many functions, the Wave Plus is compact and lightweight. This makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
- Trusted Brand: Leatherman is famous for making reliable, durable multi-tools. They have years of expertise and innovation.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Price: The Leatherman Wave Plus offers great quality and functionality. But, its price may be higher than other multi-tools with fewer features.
- Complexity: Some users may find the many functions overwhelming or unneeded. They prefer simpler multi-tools.
Product Details:
- Materials: Stainless steel construction ensures durability and corrosion resistance.
- Functions: It includes needle-nose and regular pliers, wire cutters, and a wire stripper. Plus, knives, a saw, scissors, screwdrivers (including Phillips and flathead), and bottle and can openers. Also, it has files and a ruler.
- Locking Mechanism: Certain tools feature a locking mechanism for added safety during use.
- Carrying Options: The Wave Plus comes with a nylon sheath for convenient carrying and protection when not in use.
- Dimensions: Measures approximately 4 inches (10 cm) when closed, with a blade length of around 2.9 inches (7.37 cm).
- Warranty: Leatherman offers a 25-year limited warranty. This shows confidence in the product’s quality and durability.
Gerber Center-Drive Multi-Tool
Number of Functions: 16
Weight: Approximately 9.5 ounces (269 grams)
Reasons to Buy:
- Center Axis Driver: The Gerber Center-Drive’s key feature is its center-axis driver design. This design boosts torque and alignment. Thus, it makes using screwdriver bits easier.
- Full-Size Tools: Unlike some multi-tools with smaller tools, the Center-Drive has full-size parts. These include a 3.25-inch blade and a full-length bit driver. They give it better function and usability.
- One-Hand Opening: Many tools, including the knife blade, can be opened with one hand. This increases convenience and efficiency during tasks.
- Durable Construction: The Gerber Center-Drive is built from high-quality stainless steel. It is designed to withstand heavy use and tough conditions, ensuring long-term durability.
- Versatility: It has 16 functions. These include pliers, screwdrivers, a saw, and more. The Center-Drive can do many tasks.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Weight: It weighs about 9.5 ounces. This is heavy compared to some other multi-tools. This may worry users who want lighter options.
- Bulky Design: The Center-Drive’s large tools make it bulky. This can make it less comfortable to carry in a pocket or on a belt than smaller multi-tools.
Product Details:
- Materials: Constructed from high-quality stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
- Functions: It includes needle-nose pliers and wire cutters. It also has a partly serrated blade and a full-length bit driver. It has a pry bar, a saw, scissors, and screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead).
- Center Axis Driver: The new center-axis driver design allows for better alignment and torque. It is better than traditional multi-tool screwdrivers.
- Carrying Options: It comes with a nylon sheath. This makes carrying and protecting it easy.
- Dimensions: Measures approximately 4.7 inches (11.9 cm) when closed, with a blade length of around 3.25 inches (8.3 cm).
- Warranty: Gerber offers a limited lifetime warranty. It gives peace of mind about the product’s quality and durability.
Number of Functions: 27
Weight: Approximately 7.4 ounces (210 grams)
Reasons to Buy:
- Extensive Functionality: It has 27 functions. The Victorinox SwissTool Spirit XC offers a wide range of tools, like pliers, screwdrivers, saws, and scissors. It is good for many tasks.
- Swiss Quality: Victorinox is famous for its Swiss-made precision and craft. It ensures high-quality and reliable performance.
- Compact Design: It has many functions. But, the SwissTool Spirit XC has a compact and light design. So, it is easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
- Durable Construction: This multi-tool is made from high-quality stainless steel. It is built to handle heavy use and harsh conditions. This ensures that it will last a long time.
- User-Friendly: The SwissTool Spirit XC has comfortable grips and easily reachable tools. This makes it more comfortable and efficient to use.Reasons to Avoid:
- Price: The SwissTool Spirit XC is Swiss-made and has high quality and many features. But, it costs more than some other multi-tools with fewer features.
- Complexity: Some users may find the many functions overwhelming. They may find them unnecessary for their needs. They prefer simpler multi-tools.
Product Details:
- Materials: Constructed from high-quality stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
- Functions: It includes needle-nose and regular pliers, wire cutters, and crimpers. It has screwdrivers (both Phillips and flathead), a wood saw, metal file, scissors, chisel, crate opener, wire scraper, and more.
- Locking Mechanism: Certain tools feature a locking mechanism for added safety during use.
- Carrying Options: Comes with a nylon pouch for convenient carrying and protection when not in use.
- Dimensions: Measures approximately 4.13 inches (10.5 cm) when closed, with a blade length of around 2.76 inches (7 cm).
- Warranty: Victorinox offers a lifetime warranty. It covers defects in material and workmanship. The warranty reflects the brand’s confidence in the product’s quality and durability.
Leatherman Charge TTi
Number of Functions: 19
Weight: Approximately 8.89 ounces (252 grams)
Reasons to Buy:
- Premium Materials: The Leatherman Charge TTi is made from high-quality materials. It has titanium handles and S30V stainless steel blades. These materials offer great durability and corrosion resistance.
- Extensive Functionality: It has 19 different functions. These include pliers, knives, screwdrivers, saws, and more. The Charge TTi provides a wide range of capabilities for many tasks.
- Replaceable Wire Cutters: The wire cutters are replaceable. They will keep working and lasting long after heavy use.
- One-Hand Accessibility: Many of its tools can be used with one hand. This makes tasks more convenient and efficient.
- Compact Design: The Charge TTi has many functions, yet it is still compact and light. This makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt.Reasons to Avoid:
- Price: The Charge TTi is expensive due to its high-quality construction and many features. This may scare off budget-conscious buyers.
- Complexity: Some users may feel there are too many functions. They might find them overwhelming or unnecessary. As a result, they prefer simpler multi-tools.Product Details:
- Materials: The knife has titanium handles. They are strong and light. They are also durable. It has S30V stainless steel blades. They keep an edge well.
- Functions: It includes needlenose and regular pliers. Plus, replaceable wire cutters, a wire stripper, knives, a saw, scissors, screwdrivers (including Phillips and flathead), can and bottle openers, files, and a ruler.
- Locking Mechanism: Certain tools feature a locking mechanism for added safety during use.
- Carrying Options: Comes with a premium leather sheath for convenient carrying and protection when not in use.
- Dimensions: Measures approximately 4 inches (10 cm) when closed, with a blade length of around 2.9 inches (7.37 cm).
- Warranty: Leatherman offers a 25-year warranty. This shows confidence in the product’s quality and durability.
SOG PowerPint
Number of Functions: 18
Weight: Approximately 4.2 ounces (119 grams)
Reasons to Buy:
- Compact and Lightweight: The SOG PowerPint weighs just 4.2 ounces. It is very light and small. This makes it ideal for everyday carry without adding bulk.
- Versatile Functionality: Despite its small size, the PowerPint has 18 functions. It includes pliers, wire cutters, screwdrivers, scissors, and more. This variety makes it useful for many tasks.
- Compound Leverage: SOG’s Compound Leverage technology increases gripping power and cutting force. It improves the tool’s performance.
- Pocket Clip: The PowerPint features a pocket clip for convenient carry, ensuring easy access whenever needed.
- Affordable: The PowerPint offers excellent value. It has all the features and quality of some similar multi-tools.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited Tool Selection: The PowerPint has many functions. But, some users may find it lacking. Larger multi-tools have more tools and features.
- Less Durability: The PowerPint is small and light. So, it may not be as tough as bigger, heavier multi-tools. This is especially true for heavy or frequent use in tough conditions.
Product Details:
- Materials: Constructed from high-quality stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
- Functions: It includes needle-nose pliers and wire cutters. It also has a gripper, a straight-edge blade, a bottle opener, scissors, screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), an awl, a file, and a ruler.
- Compound Leverage: SOG’s Compound Leverage technology doubles the gripping and cutting force. This is compared to traditional multi-tools. It improves their overall effectiveness.
- Pocket Clip: Features a reversible pocket clip for convenient carry options.
- Dimensions: Measures approximately 5.8 inches (14.7 cm) when open and 4.2 inches (10.6 cm) when closed.
- Warranty: SOG offers a limited lifetime warranty. It covers defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty assures quality and reliability.
Gerber Suspension NXT Multi-Tool
Number of Functions: 15
Weight: Approximately 6.7 ounces (190 grams)
Reasons to Buy:
- Affordable: The Gerber Suspension NXT offers a good balance of features and low cost. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Versatility: It has 15 functions. These include pliers, wire cutters, and screwdrivers. The Suspension NXT is versatile for many tasks.
- Compact Design: The Suspension NXT has many functions. But, it stays compact and light. This makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
- One-Hand Opening: Many of its tools can be used single-handedly. This enhances convenience and efficiency during tasks.
- Durable Construction: The Suspension NXT is built from high-quality stainless steel. It is made to withstand heavy use and tough conditions, ensuring long-term durability.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited Functions: Some other multi-tools have more functions. The Suspension NXT may lack certain tools or features that some users find essential.
- Less Premium Materials: The Suspension NXT multi-tool is tough and practical. However, it doesn’t match high-end tools in quality and lifespan. These tools are made of premium materials like titanium or S30V steel.Product Details:
- Materials: Constructed from stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
- Functions: It includes needlenose and regular pliers, wire cutters, and a wire stripper. It also has screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), scissors, a can opener, a bottle opener, a saw, and a ruler.
- Locking Mechanism: Certain tools feature a locking mechanism for added safety during use.
- Carrying Options: Comes with a nylon sheath for convenient carrying and protection when not in use.
- Dimensions: Measures approximately 4.25 inches (10.8 cm) when closed, with a blade length of around 2.25 inches (5.7 cm).
- Warranty: Gerber offers a limited lifetime warranty. It covers defects in material and workmanship. The warranty gives peace of mind about the product’s quality and durability.
Leatherman Skeletool SX
Number of Functions: 7
Weight: Approximately 5 ounces (142 grams)
Reasons to Buy:
- Compact and Lightweight: It weighs only 5 ounces. The Leatherman Skeletool SX is very light and easy to carry. This makes it perfect for everyday carry (EDC) and outdoor adventures.
- Sleek Design: The Skeletool SX has a sleek, simple design. It has a stainless steel handle and a blade made from high-quality 154CM steel. This steel offers durability and corrosion resistance.
- Versatile Tools: Despite its small size, the Skeletool SX includes essential tools. These include pliers, wire cutters, a knife, a screwdriver, and a bottle opener. They make it versatile for many tasks.
- One-Hand Operation: Many of its tools, like the knife blade and screwdriver, can be accessed and operated with one hand. This enhances convenience and efficiency.
- Attachment Point for Accessories: The Skeletool SX includes a carabiner clip. This clip doubles as a bottle opener. It also works as an attachment point. You can use it for a pocket clip or a lanyard.Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited Functions: It has only 7 functions. The Skeletool SX may lack tools or features that some users need, like scissors or a saw.
- Non-Replaceable Wire Cutters: Other Leatherman multi-tools are unlike it. The Skeletool SX’s wire cutters are not replaceable. This may concern users who expect heavy use of this feature.
Product Details:
- Materials: It is made from stainless steel to last and resist corrosion. It has a 154CM stainless steel blade that retains an excellent edge.
- Functions: It includes needlenose and regular pliers, wire cutters, a knife blade, a big screwdriver, and a bottle opener/carabiner.
- Pocket Clip: Features a removable pocket clip for convenient carry options.
- Dimensions: Measures approximately 4 inches (10.16 cm) when closed, with a blade length of around 2.6 inches (6.6 cm).
- Warranty: Leatherman offers a 25-year limited warranty. This shows confidence in the product’s quality and durability.
victorinox SwissTool Spirit MX
Number of Functions: 24
Weight: Approximately 7.4 ounces (210 grams)
Reasons to Buy:
- Extensive Functionality: It has 24 functions. The Victorinox SwissTool Spirit MX has pliers, screwdrivers, saws, scissors, and more. It is good for many tasks.
- Swiss Quality: Victorinox is famous for its Swiss-made precision and skill. It ensures high-quality and reliable performance.
- Compact Design: It has many functions. But, the SwissTool Spirit MX is still compact and light. So, it is easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
- Durable Construction: This multi-tool is made from high-quality stainless steel. It’s built to withstand tough use and harsh conditions. This ensures long-term durability.
- User-Friendly: The SwissTool Spirit MX has ergonomic handles. The tools are easy to access. This design enhances comfort and efficiency during use.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Price: The SwissTool Spirit MX is Swiss-made. It has great quality and lots of features. But, it costs more than some other multi-tools with fewer features.
- Complexity: Some users may find the many functions overwhelming or unnecessary. They prefer simpler multi-tools.
Product Details:
- Materials: Constructed from high-quality stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
- Functions: It includes needle-nose and regular pliers, wire cutters, and wire crimpers. It also has screwdrivers (including Phillips and flathead), a wood saw, a metal file, scissors, a chisel, a crate opener, a wire scraper, and more.
- Locking Mechanism: Certain tools feature a locking mechanism for added safety during use.
- Carrying Options: Comes with a nylon pouch for convenient carrying and protection when not in use.
- Dimensions: Measures approximately 4.13 inches (10.5 cm) when closed, with a blade length of around 2.76 inches (7 cm).
- Warranty: Victorinox offers a lifetime warranty against material and workmanship defects. This reflects the brand’s confidence in the product’s quality and durability.
Nite Ize Doohickey Key Organizer
Number of Functions: 5
Weight: Approximately 0.5 ounces (14 grams)
Reasons to Buy:
- Compact Design: The Nite Ize Doohickey Key Organizer is compact and lightweight. It is easy to carry in your pocket or attach to your keychain without adding bulk.
- Versatile Functions: Despite its small size, it offers many functions. These include a bottle opener, screwdriver, scoring point, wrench, and ruler. It makes many daily tasks easier.
- Durable Construction: The Doohickey Key Organizer is made from high-quality stainless steel. It is durable and built to withstand regular use and rough conditions.
- Organized Keys: It helps organize your keys in one place. This prevents them from jingling in your pocket and reduces the risk of losing them.
- Affordable: The Doohickey Key Organizer offers great value. It has good functionality and quality. This makes it an affordable option for those looking to streamline their key carry.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited Functions: It has only 5 functions. It may lack tools or features. Some users may find them essential.
- Not Suitable for Heavy-Duty Tasks: It’s great for everyday tasks and emergencies. But, it may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks due to its small size and limits.
Product Details:
- Materials: Constructed from high-quality stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
- Functions: It includes a bottle opener and flathead screwdriver. It also has a scoring point, wrench (in multiple sizes), and ruler (inches and centimeters).
- Attachment Options: Can be attached to your keychain or carried in your pocket.
- Dimensions: Measures approximately 2.6 x 1 x 0.1 inches (6.6 x 2.5 x 0.3 cm).
- Warranty: Nite Ize offers a limited lifetime warranty. It covers defects in materials and workmanship. It gives peace of mind about the product’s quality and durability.
Leatherman Micra Keychain Multi-Tool
Number of Functions: 10
Weight: Approximately 1.8 ounces (51 grams)
Reasons to Buy:
- Compact Size: The Leatherman Micra is very small and light. It is perfect for everyday carry on your keychain or in your pocket.
- Versatile Tools: Despite its small size, it offers 10 functions. These include scissors, a knife, tweezers, a nail file, screwdrivers, and more. They provide convenience for various tasks.
- Keychain Attachment: It is designed to attach to your keychain. This ensures it’s always within reach when needed.
- Durable Construction: The Micra is made from high-quality stainless steel. It is durable and built to withstand regular use and rough conditions.
- Trusted Brand: Leatherman is known for making reliable, durable multi-tools. They have years of expertise and innovation.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited Functions: The Micra offers basic tools for daily tasks. But, it may lack features that some users see as essential.
- Small Size: Its small size may make it hard to use. This is true for people with large hands or for tasks needing more leverage.
Product Details:
- Materials: Constructed from high-quality stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
- Functions: It includes spring-action scissors, a knife, tweezers, a nail file, and screwdrivers. The screwdrivers are flathead and Phillips. Also, a ruler (inches and centimeters), bottle opener, and a medium screwdriver.
- Attachment Options: Designed to be attached to your keychain or carried in your pocket.
- Dimensions: Measures approximately 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) in length when closed.
- Warranty: Leatherman offers a 25-year limited warranty. This shows confidence in the product’s quality and durability.
How we chose the best multi-tools
Personal Testing: I thoroughly tested each multi-tool myself. This ensured my reviews were based on direct experience. Also, for areas beyond my expertise, I checked online reviews by experts. This method let me offer insights from both my tests and expert opinions.
Brand Reputation: To ensure quality and reliability, I only reviewed multi-tools from top manufacturers. These brands are known for their excellent products. Also, my past taught me that tools from trusted brands are crucial. Cheaper tools often disappoint, needing early replacement or donation.
Materials and Durability: I selected multi-tools made from premium, durable materials for this review. They are tough and can handle daily use without breaking easily. This choice ensures our readers get tools that are long-lasting and reliable.
Functionality and Versatility: I selected multi-tools to review. My goal was to balance versatility and practicality. For example, the Leatherman Signal targets outdoor enthusiasts. Meanwhile, other tools cater to both beginners and experienced tradespersons. By considering different needs and preferences, I chose tools with many functions for various uses.
Tips for buying a multi-tool
Features: Some buyers are attracted to multi-tools with many features. However, it’s crucial to assess your real needs. Think about which tools you will use often and which you might not. Choosing a simpler multi-tool often means a lower cost. This way, you avoid paying for features you won’t use.
Cost: Budgets are key in choosing multi-tools. Some people want many features, while others just want something cheap. You can find budget tools under $20, but quality usually costs more. Choosing a trusted brand means more durability and reliability.
Quality: Choosing a multi-tool from top brands like Leatherman, Victorinox, SOG, or Gerber ensures quality and durability. These brands are known for using premium materials and excellent craftsmanship. They include features like locking tools, which improve safety and prevent accidents.
Warranty: A strong warranty shows a company trusts its product. For example, Leatherman offers a 25-year warranty on its multi-tools. Likewise, Victorinox, SOG, and Gerber give lifetime guarantees against material and workmanship defects. This assurance of quality and durability provides peace of mind to consumers.
Frequently asked questions
Quality multi-tools usually start at $50 but can be more expensive based on the brand and features. They are often discounted on Amazon or in specialty stores. High-end models can reach $150 or $200 due to their premium materials and advanced features.
The Leatherman Arc features an outstanding knife blade. It’s made of MagnaCut steel. This steel is sharp, strong, and rust-resistant. It’s ideal for those looking for a reliable cutting tool.
Handymen looking for flexibility and performance should consider the Gerber Dual Force. Its pliers are adjustable and come with large teeth and strong handles, making gripping and turning easier. Moreover, the extending bit driver acts like a regular screwdriver, enhancing its usefulness for different tasks.