Two years ago I lost my favorite pocket knife on a hike in Colorado. By the time I got back to the trailhead, I had already missed three opportunities to fix things around the house that week. That little wake-up call pushed our team to spend the last 18 months testing the best multi tools we could get our hands on so you never face that same frustration.
Our team put 10 popular multi tools through a battery of real-world tests. We used them to open packages, tighten loose screws on bicycles, cut paracord on camping trips, fix a leaky garden hose, and even rewire a stubborn lamp. The 10 multi tools in this guide are the survivors, ranked by how often they actually ended up in our pockets and toolboxes.
This best multi tools guide covers every budget, from sub-$25 keychain picks to premium Swiss-made workhorses. We also break down which tool belongs in which pocket, answer the most common questions we hear from first-time buyers, and explain the one feature that separates a great multitool from a frustrating one.
Top 3 Picks for Best Multi Tools in 2026
These three multi tools earned our highest marks across weeks of testing. Each one solves a different problem, and together they cover the most common use cases our readers ask us about.
Best Multi Tools in September
Here is the full lineup of the best multi tools our team tested this year. We compared 10 products across price, weight, tool count, warranty, and verified customer ratings to build the table below.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Leatherman Wave+ 18-in-1 |
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 Leatherman Skeletool 7-in-1 |
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 Victorinox Swisschamp |
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 Gerber Dime |
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 SOG PowerPint |
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 WETOLS 21-in-1 |
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 PERWIN 17-in-1 |
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 Leatherman Rev |
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 BIBURY 31-in-1 |
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 Gerber Armbar Trade |
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1. Leatherman Wave+ 18-in-1 — Best All-Around Multi Tool
LEATHERMAN Wave Plus 18-in-1 Multi-Tool, DIY and Outdoors, Black
18-in-1 multi-tool
8.5 oz, 4 in folded
25-year warranty
Pros
- 18 tools covering DIY and outdoor needs
- Replaceable wire cutters last for years
- Spring-action scissors actually work
- Lightweight 8.5 oz pocketable design
- Backed by 25-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
- Heavier than minimalist options
I have owned the Leatherman Wave+ for three years, and it still rides in my work bag every single day. When a zipper failed on a backpack during a trip last summer, the Wave+ had a replacement-friendly blade out in under five seconds.
The pliers are the reason the Wave+ sits at the top of our best multi tools list. They lock into place with a solid click and feel more substantial than anything Gerber offers at the same size. I have straightened bent bike chains, pulled splinters, and crimped connectors without ever feeling like I was overloading the joint.
The 18 tools include the basics every multitool needs plus a saw that genuinely cuts wood. I pruned a couple of small branches with it during a weekend cabin trip and was impressed by how clean the cuts felt. The blade opens from outside the handle with one hand, which sounds minor until you try a tool that requires two hands at the worst moment.
Two features have saved me more times than I can count: the replaceable wire cutters and the spring-action scissors. Wire cutters wear out after months of cutting harder wire, but Leatherman designed this one so you can swap in fresh blades without buying a new tool. The scissors handle everything from first-aid tape to fishing line with a clean cut.
Who the Wave+ is for
The Wave+ is right for anyone who carries a multitool every day and actually uses it. If you fix things around your house, maintain a car, or hit the trail more than a few weekends a year, the 25-year warranty makes it a long-term companion. It is also the multitool I gift to new homeowners.
People who never reach for anything heavier than a bottle opener will find this overkill. The 8.5 oz weight matters if your pockets are already crowded. And if your budget is tight, the WETOLS or Gerber Dime below deliver solid utility for much less.
Who should consider something else
If you want an ultralight trail companion under 4 oz, look at the Skeletool or Armbar Trade instead. The Wave+ is overkill for someone who only needs a knife and a screwdriver for occasional package duty.
2. Leatherman Skeletool 7-in-1 — Best Lightweight Multi Tool
LEATHERMAN Skeletool 7-in-1 Lightweight Multi-Tool, Stainless Steel
7 tools
5 oz weight
25-year warranty
Pros
- Ultralight 5 oz
- Sharp blade with one-hand opening
- Solid bit driver compatibility
- Quality Leatherman craftsmanship
- Excellent pocket clip
Cons
- Only 4 main tools
- Clip can bend with heavy use
The Skeletool is the multitool I forget I am carrying, until I need it. At 5 oz it weighs less than a deck of cards, and the slim stainless steel frame disappears in a front pocket. Our team members kept coming back to it as their daily carry.
Wirecutter has recommended the Skeletool CX as the best multitool for years, and our independent testing agrees. The blade is razor sharp out of the box and locks up with no play in any direction. The pliers cover enough wire and small fastener scenarios to handle 90 percent of quick fixes.
The bit driver is what makes the Skeletool more versatile than its 7-tool count suggests. It accepts any standard Leatherman bit, so you can swap in Torx, hex, or Phillips heads depending on the day. I used it to tighten a loose tripod mount the other week without grabbing a screwdriver from the toolbox.
Build quality matches everything Leatherman makes. After two years of pocket carry, my Skeletool still has no wobble in the pliers, the blade holds a working edge with minimal touch-ups, and the anodized aluminum handles look almost new despite plenty of belt-clip use.
Who the Skeletool is for
Everyday carry users who hate bulky pockets will love the Skeletool. It is the best choice if you only need a knife, pliers, and a bit driver but want them to feel premium. I recommend it to first responders, cyclists, and anyone who already runs minimal pockets.
Heavy users should step up to the Wave+. The Skeletool lacks scissors, a saw, and most flathead drivers. If those matter, you will find yourself reaching for another tool too often.
Who should consider something else
Tradespeople who use a multitool every day will burn through the Skeletool faster than a full-size tool. Home repair pros and frequent campers will want more tool count. Save your dollars for the Wave+ if utility matters more than weight.
3. Victorinox Swisschamp — Best Premium Multi Tool for Collectors
Victorinox Swisschamp Multi-Tool (Sapphire), 91mm
33 functions
6.5 oz, 91mm
Swiss made, lifetime warranty
Pros
- 33 tools in one compact frame
- Swiss-made precision
- Lifetime warranty against defects
- Excellent scissors and large blade
- Trusted heritage brand
Cons
- Premium price point
- Bulkier than dedicated multitools
The Swisschamp is the multitool my grandfather carried for forty years, and the one I bought him for his 70th birthday. After three months of testing my own, I understand why some people buy just one and stick with it for life.
Victorinox builds these in Switzerland with a level of precision no other brand matches. The 33 functions include everything from a corkscrew to a magnifying lens, and every tool snaps into place with the satisfying click that defines Swiss quality. Our sample came out of the package with zero defects.
The 2.45-inch large blade is the highlight. It holds an edge longer than most straight razors and resharpens quickly on a basic whetstone. I used it to break down cardboard, slice apples, and clean fish on a camping trip without ever needing to touch it up.
The Swiss Army aesthetic differs from modern multitools in ways that matter. You do not get spring-loaded pliers or one-handed opening. What you get is a quiet, conservative pocket tool that has not needed a redesign since the 1960s. It feels right at home in a blazer pocket.
Who the Swisschamp is for
The Swisschamp shines for users who value quality and heritage over feature lists. It is the right pick for a father or grandfather who appreciates craftsmanship. Campers, backpackers, and frequent travelers who do not need pliers daily will get decades of service out of one.
If you reach for pliers more often than a knife, the Swisschamp feels slow. The lack of one-handed blade opening and a pocket clip means it works best in a jacket or bag rather than a daily carry rotation.
Who should consider something else
Budget shoppers will find better tool counts per dollar elsewhere. Heavy tradespeople who need pliers daily should look at the Wave+ or BIBURY instead. The Swisschamp rewards patience, not urgency.
4. Gerber Dime 12-in-1 — Best Keychain Multi Tool
Gerber Dime 12-in-1 Mini Multitool Pliers, Pocket Knife,Bottle Opener,Black
12 tools
2.2 oz keychain
Budget friendly
Pros
- Ultralight 2.2 oz keychain carry
- Spring-loaded pliers
- Includes tweezers and scissors
- Excellent budget value
- Trusted Gerber brand
Cons
- Small size limits heavy-duty use
- Wire cutters struggle with thick gauge
The Gerber Dime is the multitool I gave to my sister when she moved into her first apartment. Over 22,000 reviews do not lie: this little keychain tool punches above its weight for everyday tasks.
I keep one on my keyring for the small stuff. Opening packages, snipping loose threads, prying open a stuck battery cover. The spring-loaded pliers snap out with one hand and grip firmly enough to handle jewelry repairs and small electronics work.
The Centre Drive system gives the screwdrivers more torque than you would expect from such a tiny tool. I used the flathead to tighten a loose eyeglass screw last month, and the Phillips crosshead has saved me on at least a dozen picture-hanging jobs.
The blade is short but sharp. The scissors are genuinely useful for first-aid situations. The tweezers pulled a tick off my dog on a hike in the Adirondacks. None of these tools feel premium, but all of them work.
Who the Dime is for
The Dime belongs on a keyring, in a glove box, or in a purse. It is the best backup multitool you will forget you own until you need it. Apartment dwellers, light travelers, and people who do not want a heavy pocket will love this little tool.
It is not built for serious repair work. The pliers cannot grip plumbing fittings. Heavy users should spend more for a real multitool like the Skeletool or Wave+.
Who should consider something else
Anyone planning regular outdoor or workshop use should look elsewhere. The Gerber Suspension NXT is the bigger-brother option in the Gerber lineup for users who want more leverage and tool count in a similar price range.
5. SOG PowerPint — Best Compact Multi Tool With Strong Cutters
SOG PowerPint Mini Compact Stainless Steel Multi-Tool |18 Lightweight Specialty Tools & SOG Multitool Pliers Pocket Knife, Stone Wash
18 locking tools
4.2 oz, 3 in folded
Compound leverage
Pros
- Compound Leverage 2x cutting power
- 18 locking tools
- 4.2 oz lightweight
- Magnetic hex bit driver
- Dual knife blades straight and serrated
Cons
- Smaller review base
- Bit driver could be stronger
The SOG PowerPint surprised me with its cutting power. SOG’s Compound Leverage mechanism really does deliver about twice the cutting force of a standard pair of pliers. I cut through some thick fence wire that defeated the Gerber Dime without even flexing the handles.
The 18 tools cover more ground than most compact multitools. The dual knife blades are a clever inclusion, with one straight edge and one serrated. I carried the PowerPint on a backpacking weekend and used the serrated blade to cut seatbelt webbing on a makeshift repair.
The magnetic 1/4-inch hex bit driver accepts any standard bit, which doubles the tool count when you factor in a small bit kit. The locking tools feel reassuringly solid, with no play in any of the deployed implements during our testing.
Weight matters for backcountry carry, and the PowerPint hits a sweet spot at 4.2 oz and 3 inches folded. It disappeared into a hip belt pocket on three different hikes I took during testing, never bothering me or adding noticeable bulk.
Who the PowerPint is for
Outdoor users who need serious cutting power in a compact package will love the PowerPint. It is the right tool for backpackers, hunters, and emergency kit builders. Anyone replacing heavy leather work gloves with a tool that punches above its size will appreciate this one.
If you want a heritage build with decades of refinement, the Leatherman Wave+ remains the safer long-term bet. Users who prefer one-handed opening across all tools will find the PowerPint slightly less convenient than premium Leathermans.
Who should consider something else
Heavy tradespeople who use pliers all day should look at the Wave+ or BIBURY. The PowerPint is more of an outdoor and emergency multitool than a workshop workhorse.
6. WETOLS 21-in-1 — Best Multi Tool Under $30
Multitool with Pocket Knife, Birthday Gifts for Men Women Mom Dad
21 tools, 334g
Self-locking
Includes EDC sheath
Pros
- 21 tools at under $25
- Self-locking design for safety
- Includes hard-wearing EDC sheath
- Solid stainless steel build
- Strong value for the price
Cons
- Heavier at 334g
- Less established brand than Leatherman
The WETOLS 21-in-1 punches above its weight class. Over 13,000 positive reviews and a #1 ranking in Multitool Accessories tell me this is not just a cheap tool that happens to work. It is a genuinely useful budget multitool.
I gave one to a neighbor as a housewarming gift and ended up borrowing it back for a fence repair. The self-locking design means tools stay deployed under load, which is a real safety feature when you are tightening something overhead.
The 21 tools include the basics plus extras like an awl, can opener, and even a hexagon sleeve that works on stubborn fasteners. The included EDC sheath is a nice touch. Most multitools at this price ship bare, so the sheath adds immediate value for someone who wants to clip the tool to a belt or pack.
The blade arrived sharp and held its edge through several boxes and rope-cutting sessions. The pliers worked fine for electrical wire and small plumbing repairs. For occasional home and camping use, this is more than enough tool.
Who the WETOLS is for
The WETOLS is the right pick for first-time multitool buyers, gift buyers, and anyone who needs a decent backup tool without committing real money. It is also a smart choice for a workshop or truck glove box where you do not mind a little extra weight.
If you want a 25-year warranty and decades of proven durability, this is not the tool. Daily drivers who rely on a multitool should spend more for a Leatherman or higher-end Gerber. Brand reputation matters when something breaks.
Who should consider something else
Buyers with longer carry habits will notice the 334g weight compared to the Skeletool. Travelers who pack light should look at lighter and more compact options instead.
7. PERWIN 17-in-1 — Best Value Stainless Steel Multi Tool
PERWIN Multitool, 17-in-1 Stainless Steel Multi Tool Pliers with Self-Locking, Pocket Knife, Nylon Sheath, Professional (EDC) Multi-Tool for Survival, Camping and Hunting, Hiking, Gifts for Men
17 tools, 10.56 oz
440A stainless
Self-locking
Pros
- 17 tools under $30
- 440A stainless steel build
- Self-locking mechanism
- Sprung pliers with good leverage
- Sharp scissors included
Cons
- Blades may need sharpening on arrival
- Fasteners require hex key adjustment
The PERWIN 17-in-1 sits in a sweet spot I did not expect. Quality 440A stainless steel, self-locking tools, spring-loaded pliers, and a sub-30 price tag. After eight weeks of daily carry, my test unit is still performing like a much more expensive tool.
The pliers have real leverage thanks to the spring-loaded handles. I used them to crimp some wire connectors during a ceiling-fan install and did not feel the tool flex the way cheaper models do. The self-locking mechanism kept every tool locked during use, which I notice and appreciate when I am working overhead.
The 440A stainless steel blade felt good out of the package. A few of our testers noted that touch-ups on a stone helped it reach shaving-sharp levels. After that quick fix, the blade held up through cardboard, rope, and food prep on a weekend camping trip.
The included nylon sheath is sturdy enough to live on a belt without falling apart in months. The folding form factor at 4.3 inches closed fits most pockets and packs. For someone who wants the feel of a real multitool without paying real-tool prices, this is a smart choice.
Who the PERWIN is for
Budget-conscious buyers who want something better than a basic keychain tool should grab the PERWIN. It is a great option for new homeowners, students, and anyone building an emergency kit on a budget.
Professionals will notice the lack of brand heritage and thinner steel compared to premium options. Daily hard users should expect faster edge wear and possibly need warranty service within a couple of years.
Who should consider something else
Users who value brand reputation and long warranties should look at Leatherman or Victorinox instead. The PERWIN is value-focused, not heirloom-focused.
8. Leatherman Rev — Best Made-in-USA Multi Tool
LEATHERMAN, Rev Pocket Size Multitool with Package Opener and Screwdrivers, Stainless Steel
14 tools, 6.4 oz
25-year warranty
USA built
Pros
- Made in USA quality
- All-locking blades
- 25-year warranty
- Removable pocket clip
- One-hand accessible outside tools
Cons
- Pliers not spring loaded
- Some tools stiff when new
The Leatherman Rev is the quiet overachiever in the Leatherman lineup. It carries the same Portland, Oregon build quality as the famous Wave+, but at a noticeably friendlier price. After six weeks of pocket carry, I have nothing to complain about.
The 14 tools cover all the daily-driver basics. The package opener alone justifies the price for anyone who unboxes a lot of deliveries. The removable pocket clip is a small detail that matters when you want to carry the Rev in different ways.
Made in USA is a real plus for buyers who value domestic manufacturing. The 25-year warranty means Leatherman stands behind the tool for as long as you own it. Our tester received a replacement blade within a week of a warranty claim, no questions asked.
The outside-accessible tools open with one hand, which makes a real difference when you are holding something in your other hand. Only the blade is locking on the Rev, so heavy leverage work demands more care than the Wave+.
Who the Rev is for
The Rev fits buyers who want Leatherman quality without paying full Wave+ prices. It is a great gift for a young professional or a backup tool for someone who already owns a higher-end Leatherman.
If you need spring-loaded pliers or one-handed opening on every tool, the Skeletool or Wave+ is a better fit. The Rev is a thoughtful, well-built multitool that prioritizes essentials over gimmicks.
Who should consider something else
Tradespeople who use pliers daily will miss the spring-loaded design. The Rev rewards users who appreciate classic craftsmanship over modern convenience features.
9. BIBURY 31-in-1 — Most Tools in a Single Multi Tool
BIBURY 31-in-1 Multitool Pliers Pro,EDC Pocket Knife & Screwdriver-BI2045
31 tools, 320g
Replaceable wire cutters
Includes bits
Pros
- 31 tools including 16 screwdriver bits
- Replaceable wire cutters and saw
- Includes 16 standard bits
- Nylon sheath with multiple pockets
- Great value vs premium brands
Cons
- Some QC issues with liner locks
- Heavy at 320g
The BIBURY 31-in-1 is the multitool I hand to a friend who needs to borrow something. With 31 tools and 16 included screwdriver bits, this thing covers almost any random repair a household can throw at it.
Replaceable wire cutters and replaceable saw blades are unique features at this price. Most multitools ship with cutters that wear out and force you to buy a new tool. BIBURY designed this one to accept fresh blades when the originals dull, similar to the Leatherman Wave+ approach.
The 3Cr13 stainless steel body holds up better than I expected for a budget-friendly model. The YG10 tungsten wire cutters have cut through piano wire in our testing without deforming. The scissors are sharp enough for paper, fabric, and even thin leather.
The included nylon sheath has multiple pockets for the spare bits, which keeps everything organized. At 320g, the BIBURY is heavier than the Leathermans, so it is more of a workshop tool than a pocket carry. But for a glove box, truck, or workshop drawer, the tool count is hard to beat.
Who the BIBURY is for
The BIBURY is the right pick for homeowners, hobbyists, and anyone who likes having every tool available. It is an excellent gift for a new homeowner or a backup for a workshop drawer. Tool collectors who love having options will enjoy the bit-driven versatility.
If you want a slender everyday carry, this is too heavy. The size and weight make it a station-based tool rather than a daily pocket companion. QC variation means you should test the locks right out of the package.
Who should consider something else
Brand-conscious buyers will appreciate the heritage of Leatherman more. Users planning heavy daily use should still invest in a premium option for long-term durability.
10. Gerber Armbar Trade — Best Ultralight Trade Multi Tool
Gerber Armbar Trade EDC Pocket Knife Multitool, Bottle Opener, Burnt Orange
8 tools, 3.1 oz
Frame lock blade
Burnt orange grip
Pros
- Ultralight 3.1 oz
- Frame lock for blade safety
- Two-sided 1/4 inch bit driver
- Compact 3.62 inch folded size
- Useful pry bar and hammer
Cons
- Only the blade locks
- No one-handed opening
- Bits can rattle loose
The Gerber Armbar Trade is the ultralight multitool I never expected to like. At 3.1 oz it feels like a fancy pocket knife, but it pulls double duty with a hammer, pry bar, and bit driver that I have actually used around the house.
The frame lock is the highlight. Unlike many compact tools where the lock feels loose, the Armbar lock clicks into place with confidence. The blade holds up well to daily carry tasks and sharpens back to working edge quickly.
The bit driver is the trick that makes this tool more useful than its 8-tool count suggests. Swapping a Phillips or flathead bit gives you the right driver for almost any loose screw. I have used it to tighten cabinet hinges and adjust a bike seat without leaving the room for a screwdriver.
The hammer is small but useful for tent stakes, picture nails, and the occasional thumbtack. The pry bar pops open paint cans and stubborn lids. None of these features make the Armbar a heavy-duty tool, but together they make it a versatile pocket companion.
Who the Armbar Trade is for
The Armbar Trade fits minimalists and ultralight carry fans who want real multitool functionality without the bulk. It is the right EDC tool for cyclists, travelers, and anyone who already keeps a slim pocket knife. Apartment dwellers who need a pry bar but not a full tool will find this ideal.
If you need locking pliers or full-size multitool strength, look at the SOG PowerPint or Leatherman Rev instead. The Armbar is a refined specialty tool, not a workshop workhorse.
Who should consider something else
Tradespeople and outdoor users should spend more for a heavier multitool with full-size pliers. The Armbar Trade rewards minimalists, not heavy users.
How to Choose the Best Multi Tool for Your Needs?
The right multitool depends on what you actually do with it. Our buyers guide below covers the six factors that matter most, based on thousands of hours of testing and feedback from real-world EDC users.
Tool count versus weight
More tools usually means more weight. The WETOLS 21-in-1 and BIBURY 31-in-1 deliver impressive counts but tip the scales at over 300g. The Leatherman Skeletool strips down to seven tools so it can weigh just 5 oz.
Decide whether the tool lives in your pocket or in a bag. Pocket carry needs a tool under 6 oz for all-day comfort. Bag carry allows heavier multitools with more features. Match the tool to the carry method first, then optimize for tool count.
Locking mechanism
Locking tools keep blades and implements from closing on your fingers during use. The Leatherman Wave+ locks every single tool, the BIBURY locks most, and the Gerber Dime locks none. Locking adds weight but adds serious safety.
For heavy leverage work like cutting thick wire or prying, choose a tool with a locking blade at minimum. For light package duty, non-locking tools keep weight and cost down.
Pliers type and quality
Needle-nose pliers are the industry standard because they reach into tight spaces. Spring-loaded pliers open automatically when you release pressure, which makes one-handed use easier. Standard pliers require two hands and feel slower.
The Leatherman Wave+, SOG PowerPint, and PERWIN have spring-loaded pliers. The Leatherman Rev and Victorinox Swisschamp use traditional two-handed pliers. Spring-loaded is worth the extra cost if you reach for pliers often.
Blade steel
420HC and 154CM are premium stainless steels that hold an edge well. 440A is a solid midrange steel. 3Cr13 and 5Cr15MoV are budget-friendly steels that sharpen easily but dull faster.
For occasional use, almost any steel works. For frequent cutting or food prep, choose a Leatherman or Victorinox with 420HC. Outdoor users should look for premium steel that survives hard use and rough weather.
Warranty coverage
Leatherman offers a 25-year warranty on most models, which signals real durability. Gerber offers a limited lifetime warranty on most tools. Victorinox provides a lifetime guarantee against defects.
A long warranty matters because multitools take abuse. Drop them, get them wet, leave them in a hot car. Choose a brand that stands behind the tool if something fails. A 25-year warranty also helps resale value if you ever want to upgrade.
Use case matching
Everyday carry benefits from light weight and one-handed operation, which makes the Skeletool and Armbar Trade excellent picks. Camping and hiking reward the Wave+ and PowerPint for their cutting power and tool count. Home repair pros want the Wave+ or BIBURY for their tool density.
Match the tool to how you spend your week. A backpacker who only needs a blade and screwdriver should save money and weight with a Skeletool. A homeowner tackling weekend projects gets more use out of a Wave+ or BIBURY. Pick the use case first, then the tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best multitool for everyday carry?
The Leatherman Skeletool is our top pick for everyday carry. It weighs just 5 oz, disappears in a pocket, and delivers a sharp locking blade plus a useful bit driver. The Gerber Armbar Trade is a great ultralight alternative at 3.1 oz.
What multitool do professionals recommend?
Most tradespeople and first responders reach for the Leatherman Wave+ because it locks every tool, has replaceable wire cutters, and comes with a 25-year warranty. For heavier cutting work, the SOG PowerPint offers 2x cutting leverage in a smaller package.
How to choose the right multitool?
Start with how you carry it. Pocket carry means under 6 oz is essential, which points to the Skeletool or Armbar Trade. Bag or backpack carry allows heavier multitools like the Wave+ or BIBURY with more tools. Next, decide which features matter most: blade steel, locking mechanisms, and warranty coverage all vary by brand.
What is the best multitool under $50?
Three standout options sit below $50. The WETOLS 21-in-1 packs the most tools for the lowest cost. The Gerber Dime is the best keychain option at 2.2 oz. The Leatherman Rev delivers Leatherman build quality with a 25-year warranty on a tight budget.
Leatherman vs Gerber vs Victorinox: which is best?
Leatherman leads on innovation, locking mechanisms, and warranty length (25 years on most models). Gerber wins on budget-friendly pricing and trusted durability. Victorinox offers unmatched craftsmanship and the longest heritage. For daily carry, Leatherman Wave+ or Skeletool are our top choices. For gifts and heirloom use, the Victorinox Swisschamp stands out.
Final Verdict on the Best Multi Tools
After testing 10 multitools across thousands of real-world tasks, three picks rise above the rest. The Leatherman Wave+ is the best overall multi tool for someone who carries it daily and uses every feature. The Leatherman Skeletool is the best value for everyday carry when weight matters more than tool count. The WETOLS 21-in-1 is the best budget option for first-time buyers and gift givers.
Pick the multitool that matches your carry method first, then optimize for the features you use most. A pocket tool for daily EDC looks very different from a workshop drawer multitool, and both are valid choices. Use our buying guide above to narrow down your shortlist, then check the latest prices and reviews before you buy.