8 Best Oscillating Tools for Grout Removal (October 2026)
The best oscillating multi-tools for grout removal include the DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit for cordless control, the DeWalt DCS356D1 Oscillating Tool Kit for a broad accessory set, and the Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool for Makita 18V owners.
On this page (5 sections)
The Makita XMT03Z is the best oscillating tool for grout removal for Makita 18V owners, since grout removal is a stated use and its speed dial ranges from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM. For corded work, the Makita TM3010CX1 also names grout removal as a suitable task and offers variable speed control.
A grout blade matters as much as the tool. Most picks here are multi-tools for broad cutting and sanding jobs, so check blade fit and buy a grout removal accessory separately unless the kit specifically includes one.
For an overview of what else these tools can do, see what an oscillating tool is good for. If your project also involves tile cuts, our guide to cutting tile with an oscillating tool covers a different job and its limits.
Our picks at a glance
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1
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2
Best for a broad accessory setDeWalt DCS356D1 Oscillating Tool Kit
8.9/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
- 4
Check itMakita TM3010CX1 Corded Multi-Tool Kit
Best for corded grout work - 5
Check itDeWalt DWE315SK Corded Multi-Tool Kit
Best for corded speed control - 6
Best for M18 battery usersCheck it - 7
Best for tight work areasCheck it - 8
Check itWORKPRO 400W Corded Multi-Tool Kit
Best for a corded accessory kit
How we chose oscillating tools for grout removal
We compared the stated uses, speed controls, accessory changes, power source and included accessories for each tool. Makita's XMT03Z and TM3010CX1 have grout removal among their stated uses, while the other picks are selected for features such as variable speed control, corded power or access to tight spaces.
A multi-tool does not make every grout joint an easy job. The blade has to fit the joint, and you should work slowly near tile edges to reduce the chance of chipping.
Use the oscillating tool picks page to compare these tools for broader home projects. For a straight cut or controlled edge cut, see how to cut straight with an oscillating tool.
| Product | Best for | Our score |
|---|---|---|
| DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit | cordless control | 9.1 |
| DeWalt DCS356D1 Oscillating Tool Kit | a broad accessory set | 8.9 |
| Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool | Makita 18V owners | 8.8 |
| Makita TM3010CX1 Corded Multi-Tool Kit | corded grout work | 8.7 |
| DeWalt DWE315SK Corded Multi-Tool Kit | corded speed control | 8.6 |
| Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool Kit | M18 battery users | 8.4 |
| Dremel Multi-Max MM50-02 Kit | tight work areas | 8.1 |
| WORKPRO 400W Corded Multi-Tool Kit | a corded accessory kit | 7.4 |
The best oscillating tools for grout removal
These picks are listed by score, with the top spot going to a cordless tool that explicitly includes grout removal among its uses. Pick a corded model if you want to work without managing battery charge.
DeWalt XR Oscillating Tool Kit: Best for cordless control
- 3-speed selector
- Dual-Grip variable-speed trigger
- Quick-Change accessory system
- Battery and charger included
Speed controls and quick accessory changes suit grout jobs that need a careful start and frequent repositioning. The kit includes a battery, charger and universal accessory adaptor.
Pros
- Three speed settings plus a variable-speed trigger
- Quick accessory changes without wrenches
- Battery and charger included
Cons
- Cordless runtime depends on the included battery
- Grout removal blade is not listed among the included blades
The DeWalt XR kit is the strongest all-around pick for a buyer who wants a cordless tool with speed controls and a quick accessory change system. Its 3-speed selector and Dual-Grip variable-speed trigger give you two ways to control the pace while approaching a grout line.
The kit includes a battery, charger, wood cutting blade, wood and metal blade, and universal accessory adaptor. It does not specify a grout removal blade among the included pieces, so budget for a compatible blade before starting tile work.
A bright LED illuminates the work surface, which can help when grout lines sit in a shadow beside a vanity or tub. DeWalt also says its brushless motor provides up to 57% more runtime than a similar brushed tool.
This is a good fit if you want one cordless tool for grout touch-ups and other cutting or sanding jobs. If you have no compatible battery system, the included battery and charger make this kit more complete than a tool-only option.
DeWalt DCS356D1 Oscillating Tool Kit: Best for a broad accessory set
- 3-speed selector
- Dual-Grip variable-speed trigger
- 28 cutting and sanding attachments
- Battery and charger included
This cordless kit includes a depth guide and a range of cutting and sanding attachments. Its speed selector and variable trigger can help you work carefully around tile edges.
Pros
- Includes battery and charger
- Depth guide supports repeatable work
- Universal accessory adapter
Cons
- Grout removal attachment is not specified among the included accessories
- The cordless setup needs charging
The DeWalt DCS356D1 is a useful choice when you want a cordless kit with more accessories on hand. It includes a depth guide, sanding pad, universal adapter, three blades, sandpaper and a 2 Ah battery with charger.
Its 3-speed selector and variable-speed trigger offer control for work along grout lines. The included components are described as cutting and sanding accessories, not as a grout blade, so check the blade you plan to use for compatibility.
The depth guide can help repeat a set depth when making cuts, though grout removal still calls for a careful hand and attention to the tile edge. The LED also helps illuminate a dim work area.
Choose this model if a bundled selection of accessories matters and you want the battery and charger included. If grout removal is the main job, pair it with a blade made for the grout and joint width.
Makita XMT03Z Multi-Tool: Best for Makita 18V owners
- Variable speed dial from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM
- 3.2° oscillation angle
- Adapters fit most competitive accessories
- Tool only
Makita describes the XMT03Z as suitable for grout removal, and its speed dial lets you match the tool to the task. It makes the most sense if you already own a compatible Makita 18V battery.
Pros
- Grout removal is a stated use
- Variable speed control
- Adapters for many competing accessories
Cons
- Battery and charger are not included
- A separate grout removal blade is needed
The Makita XMT03Z is the clearest cordless fit for grout removal because Makita includes that task among its stated uses. Its variable speed dial runs from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM, giving you room to adjust the pace for the material and joint.
The tool is sold without a battery or charger. It includes a plunge blade and adapters, but the included blade is not identified as a grout removal blade, so choose a separate grout accessory.
A small diameter barrel grip is designed for easier handling, and the adapters fit most competing accessories. Those features help if you already own Makita 18V batteries and want a tool that can serve for scraping, sanding and cutting as well.
Choose this model if you have a compatible Makita battery and expect to use the tool for more than one kind of renovation work. For a complete corded kit, the TM3010CX1 below avoids a battery purchase.
Makita TM3010CX1 Corded Multi-Tool Kit: Best for corded grout work
- 3.0 amp motor
- Variable speed dial from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM
- Electronic speed control
- Reduced vibration and low noise features
Makita identifies grout removal as a suitable use for this corded tool. Its variable speed dial and electronic speed control help keep the working pace consistent.
Pros
- Grout removal is a stated use
- Corded power for longer sessions
- Includes accessories and a case
Cons
- An extension cord may be needed to reach the work area
- A grout removal blade is not specified among included components
The Makita TM3010CX1 is the corded pick with the clearest fit for grout removal. Makita names grout removal as one of its intended tasks, and its variable speed dial ranges from 6,000 to 20,000 OPM.
Electronic speed control maintains speed under load, which can help the tool keep a steady pace as you work. The kit includes a plunge blade, adapters, sanding pad, sandpaper and a case, but the components do not specify a grout blade.
This tool suits a bathroom or kitchen job where an outlet is within reach and you don't want to stop for a battery swap. Its 3.0 amp motor and soft start are also useful details for general cutting, sanding and scraping.
Choose it if corded operation suits your workspace and you want a tool explicitly described for grout removal. Check blade compatibility and joint width before beginning.
DeWalt DWE315SK Corded Multi-Tool Kit: Best for corded speed control
- 3 amp motor
- Dual-Grip variable-speed trigger
- Quick-Change accessory system
- Universal accessory adaptor
The trigger gives you control over speed as you approach tile edges, while the corded design avoids battery changes. This kit includes cutting and sanding accessories, so plan on getting a separate grout blade.
Pros
- Variable-speed trigger
- Quick accessory changes without wrenches
- LED light
Cons
- Grout removal blade is not specified among included accessories
- Cord limits movement around the work area
The DeWalt DWE315SK is a corded multi-tool with a 3 amp motor and a Dual-Grip variable-speed trigger. That combination lets you adjust the tool's pace as you work along a joint.
Its kit includes a wood blade, a wood blade with nails, a semicircle blade, a sanding pad and sandpaper. It also has a universal accessory adaptor and a quick-change system, but the included pieces do not identify a grout blade.
The LED light is useful when a tile edge or grout line is partly hidden by a fixture. Because this tool is corded, plan the cable path so it doesn't cross the blade's working area.
Pick it if you want a corded tool for cutting and sanding projects as well as grout work. Get a compatible grout removal blade separately and make sure it matches the joint.
Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool Kit: Best for M18 battery users
- 11,000 to 18,000 OPM
- Constant power technology
- Tool-free blade changes
- Built-in LED light
This cordless kit pairs tool-free blade changes with a built-in light for work near tile edges. It fits buyers already using the M18 battery system.
Pros
- Tool-free blade changes
- Built-in LED light
- Battery included
Cons
- Grout removal is not named as a specific use
- Speed range starts at 11,000 OPM
The Milwaukee M18 Multi-Tool suits buyers already using Milwaukee's M18 system. It offers 11,000 to 18,000 OPM, tool-free blade changes and a built-in LED light.
The kit includes a 1.5 Ah battery. Its speed range is narrower than the variable speed dials on the Makita models, and grout removal is not named as a specific use in the product facts.
Tool-free blade changes are convenient if you switch between accessories during a renovation. The LED can also make a narrow grout line easier to see in a dim corner.
Choose this pick if you value compatibility with your Milwaukee battery setup and want to use one tool for multiple tasks. Confirm that your chosen grout blade fits and work slowly around the tile.
Dremel Multi-Max MM50-02 Kit: Best for tight work areas
- 5.0 amp corded motor
- Compact tool head
- Angled body
- Tool-less blade changes
The compact head is intended to reach tight spaces, which may help when grout lines sit close to cabinets or fixtures. Dremel includes grout removal among the tool's uses.
Pros
- Grout removal is a stated use
- Compact head for tight spaces
- Corded design and tool-less accessory changes
Cons
- No variable speed range is specified in the product facts
- Cord limits movement around the room
The Dremel Multi-Max MM50-02 is a corded option for grout lines near fixtures or other tight spaces. Dremel describes its compact head as suited to hard-to-reach areas and names grout removal among the tool's uses.
The kit includes 16 accessories and a carry bag, but the included items are not individually identified as a grout blade. Check the accessory set and add the right blade if needed.
Its angled body gives your hands more room during flush cuts, and the tool-less accessory system allows quick changes. The product facts don't specify a variable speed range, so don't assume you can select a particular speed for grout.
Choose it if access is the main concern and a corded tool works in your room. Keep the blade centered and avoid pushing it against the tile.
WORKPRO 400W Corded Multi-Tool Kit: Best for a corded accessory kit
- 400W motor
- Six speed settings from 15,000 to 22,000 OPM
- Tool-free quick-lock system
- 23-piece accessory kit
The corded WORKPRO offers six speed settings and a broad set of accessories for general cutting, sanding and scraping. The listed kit contents do not specify a grout blade, so check compatibility before buying one.
Pros
- Six speed settings
- Tool-free quick-lock system
- Includes a 23-piece accessory kit
Cons
- Grout removal is not named as a specific use
- No grout blade is specified in the kit
The WORKPRO 400W Corded Multi-Tool Kit offers six speed settings from 15,000 to 22,000 OPM and a quick-lock system for tool-free accessory changes. Its 23-piece kit includes wood and metal blades, a scraper, sanding pad, sandpaper and a storage bag.
The kit contents don't specify a grout removal blade, and grout removal is not named as a specific use. Check the accessory maker's compatibility details before buying a grout blade for this tool.
A corded power source suits a work area with a nearby outlet. The built-in LED and rubberized grip are useful details for general cutting, sanding or scraping tasks.
Choose this model if you want a corded multi-tool with several speed settings and a broad accessory kit. For grout removal, confirm blade fit first and start with a light touch.
Which blade and speed should you use for grout?
Use a grout removal blade that matches the grout and joint, then begin at a slower setting and increase only if the tool and blade instructions allow it. Keep the blade centered in the joint and let it do the work.
A grout blade isn't interchangeable with every cutting blade in a multi-tool kit. Check the attachment style, blade width and material guidance before you start.
If you are removing tile as well as grout, read our guide to cutting tile with an oscillating tool. The blade and approach differ depending on whether you're opening a grout seam or cutting tile.
Is a corded or cordless oscillating tool better for grout?
A corded tool is convenient for a longer job near an outlet, while a cordless tool is easier to move around a room and between fixtures. The right choice depends on the work area, how long you'll be cutting and the battery system you already own.
Cordless models can make it easier to move without routing a cable around the work surface. A corded tool avoids stopping to charge or change a battery, but keep the cord away from the blade and your path.
For an existing cordless collection, compare the Makita and Milwaukee options with the DeWalt DCS356 review to see how another model in this category is presented. If you need a tool for broader home tasks, the best oscillating tools for the money guide offers another comparison.
How can you reduce the chance of chipping tile?
Start slowly, keep the blade inside the grout joint and avoid levering against tile edges. A suitable blade and light pressure give you more control than trying to remove grout quickly.
Eye protection and a suitable dust mask help protect you from flying debris and dust. Follow the tool and blade instructions, and stop if the blade slips or the tile starts to move.
For most buyers, choose the Makita XMT03Z if you already own a compatible Makita battery, or the Makita TM3010CX1 if you prefer corded power and a stated grout removal use. The DeWalt XR kit suits someone who wants a cordless tool with battery and charger included, plus speed controls for other home jobs.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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1
-
2
Best for a broad accessory set
DeWalt DCS356D1 Oscillating Tool Kit
8.9/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Frequently asked questions
Can an oscillating tool remove grout?
Yes. Fit an oscillating tool with a grout removal blade and guide it along the grout line with a light touch.
Keep the blade centered in the joint and avoid pressing into tile edges, since a slipping blade can chip tile.
Check that the blade fits your tool before starting.
What blade should I use to remove grout?
Use a grout removal blade made for your grout type and tool. A carbide blade is commonly used for cement-based grout, while diamond grit can suit harder grout, but follow the blade maker's guidance for the material and joint.
Test in a small area first.
Should I use a corded or cordless oscillating tool for grout?
A corded tool suits longer jobs where an outlet is nearby, while a cordless tool gives you more freedom around a bathroom or kitchen. Cordless models also depend on battery charge and compatibility with your existing tool system.
Choose based on the room layout and how much grout you need to remove.
How do I avoid damaging tile while removing grout?
Use a blade that fits the grout joint, start slowly, and keep the blade centered as you move along the seam. Don't force it into the tile edge or press hard to speed up removal.
Wear eye protection and a suitable dust mask, and follow the tool and blade instructions.
