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Multitools have several useful tools built into their lightweight and compact design, allowing you to perform tasks, such as cutting a wire or opening a bottle, on the go.
To decide which type of multitool will work best for your needs, read our review below of today’s best multitools.
Top 5 Multitools
- Most Customizable: LEATHERMAN Skeletool
- Most Comprehensive: Gerber Gear Truss
- Best Hammer Tool: RoverTac Multitool
- Best Pen Tool: RAK Multitool
- Best Snowflake Tool: Desuccus 18-in-1 Snowflake
Compare Top Multitools
| Product | Tool Count | Type | Color | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LEATHERMAN Skeletool | 7 | Pliers head | Multiple | 25 years |
| Gerber Gear Truss | 19 | Pliers head | Gray | Lifetime |
| RoverTac Multitool | 14 | Hammer and hatched head | Multiple | Lifetime |
| RAK Multitool | 8 | Pen | Black | Not listed |
| Desuccus 18-in-1 Snowflake | 18 | Snowflake | Gray | Not listed |
| Product | Tool Count | Type | Color | Warranty |
Most Customizable
LEATHERMAN Skeletool Lightweight Multitool
- $99.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Comes with the option to purchase it with a protective nylon sheath
✔ Weighs five ounces, making it lightweight
✔ Can be opened with one hand
✘ Has the highest price out of the multitools in this review
✘ Offers fewer tools than the other options in this review at seven
Key Features
- Seven tools
- Pliers head
- Multiple colors
- Protective cover
- 25-year warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Many customers noted that this multitool was lightweight and versatile. Reviewers also stated that the lock feature was useful for keeping the tool closed during transportation. However, dissatisfied customers didn’t like that this multitool was stiff and that it didn’t have a straight blade.
Most Comprehensive
Gerber Gear Truss Multitool
- $46.4
- $60
- 23% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Made from strong alloy steel
✔ Can be mounted vertically or horizontally on a belt
✔ Spring-loaded to minimize hand fatigue for the use
✘ Noted by some that it was blocky
✘ Criticized by some customers for having small blades
Key Features
- 19 tools
- Pliers head
- Protective cover
- Lifetime warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Positive reviews noted that this multitool was ergonomic and versatile. Several customers also pointed out that this tool was small enough to carry with them at all times. Negative reviews stated that the blades were smaller than anticipated and that the design was blocky.
Best Hammer Tool
RoverTac Multitool
- $23.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Contains 14 tools
✔ Available in different colors
✔ Comes with a lifetime warranty
✘ Criticized by customers for being smaller than expected
✘ Noted by some that the hatchet was dull
Key Features
- 14 tools
- Hammer and hatched head
- Multiple colors
- Protective cover
- Lifetime warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Positive reviews noted that this stainless steel multitool was durable and versatile. Many said that they used it for hiking and everyday projects. Negative reviews said that the tools were small and that the hatchet blade was dull.
Best Pen Tool
RAK Multitool
- $23.11
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Includes two ink refills
✔ Comes with the needed batteries
✔ Has a built-in LED light
✘ Have to take apart the pen to get to some of the tools
✘ Can’t refill the pen again after using the two included refills
Key Features
- Eight tools
- Pen shape
- Two ink refills
What Customers Are Saying
Satisfied customers said that the flashlight function was one of their favorite parts of this pen multitool. In addition, many reviewers noted that it was sturdier than other pen multitools that they had used in the past. Unsatisfied customers criticized this pen multitool for not having universal ink refills. After they used the two included refills, they couldn’t use the pen again.
Best Snowflake Tool
Desuccus 18-in-1 Snowflake Multitool
- $9.99
- $14.99
- 33% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Has the most affordable multitool price in this review
✔ Built to be small enough to fit in your pocket
✔ Includes a Phillips screwdriver function
✘ Doesn’t have size markings on the tools
✘ May be difficult to grip because of its bulky snowflake design
Key Features
- 18 tools
- Snowflake shape
- One-year after-sale customer service
What Customers Are Saying
Happy customers said that they were pleased with the high-quality material that this multitool was made of. However, some customers complained that this multitool was heavy and bulky, making it difficult to use. Negative reviews also criticized this multitool for not having markings on the tools to indicate their size.
Buying Guide to Multitools
The best multitool for your needs can depend on a variety of factors, so it’s important to be aware of each product before deciding on a purchase. When buying a multitool, you should consider things like its intended use, size, and material before choosing the best option for you.
Designed Use
Because each multitool contains different tools, it’s important to think about what types of tasks you’ll be using yours for. This will ensure that the one you purchase has the tools you need.
Size
Multitools come in three sizes: keychain, pocket-sized, and full-sized.
- Keychain: At around two inches long and a few ounces heavy, keychain multitools are easy to fit on a keychain or in a small bag. They typically have six to 10 tools.
- Pocket-sized: Pocket-sized multitools are usually three to four inches long and weigh between a few ounces and half a pound. They have anywhere from six to 20 tools, but they’re still portable enough to fit into a bag.
- Full-sized: These multitools weigh about one pound and are typically six inches in length or longer. Their main benefit is that they offer numerous tools, with 15 or more being common.
Material
The different parts of a multitool are made of different materials.
- Steel: The tools themselves are typically made of steel. This material is more durable than other alloys.
- Rubber/carbon fiber/titanium: These are the materials most commonly used for multitool handles. Rubber is softer than steel and gives you something to grip onto while using the tools. Carbon fiber and titanium are lightweight, strong, and molded.
Frequently Asked Questions About Multitools
What tools are typically included in a multitool?
Here are a few of the most common tools you’ll find in a multitool:
- Bottle openers
- Knives
- Pliers
- Pry tools
- Scissors
- Screwdrivers
- Toothpicks
- Wirecutters
Who uses a multitool?
Anyone can benefit from a multitool, as it provides you with several tools in a compact shape. However, multitools are commonly used by cyclists, electricians, hunters, mechanics, and campers because they allow for easy repairs on the go without taking up too much storage space.
How do I keep my multitool from closing on me while I’m using it?
Look for a multitool that locks in its in-use position. This prevents knives, pliers, and other sharp tools from injuring your hands.
How We Selected the Best Multitools
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of everyday carry tools with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published numerous tool reviews, from cordless drills and impact drivers to tape measures and laser levels.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
Questions or Comments?
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