2526-20 M12 Brushless 12-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool (Tool-Only) Review
Our verdict
The M12 Brushless 2526-20 packs a 20,000 RPM brushless motor into a 16-ounce body running on a 12-volt battery platform for $119.99, earning a 4.8-star rating from 684 owners and standing out as the lightest and most compact cordless option in this group.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Tradespeople and serious DIYers on a 12-volt cordless platform who need an ultra-compact, precise oscillating tool for confined-space and detail work
Skip if
Buyers not on a 12-volt battery platform or those who need maximum cutting power for heavy material removal where an 18V or 20V tool would be more appropriate
- Power Source Battery Powered
- Voltage 12 Volts
- Speed 20000 RPM
- Weight 16.01 Ounces
- Dimensions 12 x 5 x 3 inches
- Priced 62% above the category median ($74.00 across 41 tracked models)
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.8/5
4.8 average across 684 owner ratings
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Popularity3.5/5
684 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other power tools and workshop machinery we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The 2526-20 M12 Brushless oscillating multi-tool weighs only 16.01 ounces, making it the lightest tool in this comparison group by a substantial margin. That weight, combined with 12-volt battery power and 20,000 RPM from a brushless motor, makes it purpose-built for precision tasks in tight spaces: cutting flush with walls, trimming door casings, removing grout between tiles, and any application where control and access matter more than brute force.
At $119.99 it is a tool-only listing requiring a 12-volt battery, placing the effective cost higher for buyers starting fresh. The 4.8-star average from 684 reviews confirms strong satisfaction among owners, and 200 units selling per month is solid monthly demand for a $119 tool-only item. Brushless motor technology typically delivers longer run times and extended motor life compared to brushed alternatives at the same voltage.
The listed body dimensions of 12 x 5 x 3 inches are compact and grip-friendly. For buyers already in a 12-volt cordless ecosystem, the 2526-20 offers a genuinely lightweight and precise oscillating tool that complements a kit without the bulk of 18V or 20V platform tools. Those who need the full power range of higher-voltage oscillating tools should look at the DEWALT DCS356B or Ryobi P343 instead.
Pros
- 16.01-ounce weight is by far the lightest in this comparison group, reducing fatigue in precise or prolonged work
- Brushless motor technology at 20,000 RPM delivers efficient performance and longer motor life
- 12 x 5 x 3-inch body is compact and fits easily into tight work areas
- 4.8 stars from 684 reviews confirms high owner satisfaction at the $119.99 price point
- 200 units per month is strong demand for a premium compact cordless tool
Cons
- Tool-only at $119.99 requires a separate 12-volt battery purchase, increasing effective cost
- 12-volt platform delivers less torque than 18V or 20V alternatives for demanding heavy-cutting tasks
Specifications
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12 Volts |
| Speed | 20000 RPM |
| Weight | 16.01 Ounces |
| Dimensions | 12 x 5 x 3 inches |
Performance notes
The 2526-20 M12 Brushless runs on a 12-volt battery, reaches 20,000 RPM at no load, and weighs 16.01 ounces. Its body measures 12 x 5 x 3 inches. The brushless motor design improves efficiency compared to brushed motors at the same voltage, extracting more run time per battery charge. At 12 volts it is optimized for precision and ergonomics over high-torque material removal.
What buyers say
Owners frequently highlight the ultra-light weight as the defining advantage, reporting it as significantly more comfortable than heavier oscillating tools in tight spaces and overhead applications. The brushless motor receives positive remarks for run time and smooth operation. Buyers on a 12-volt platform describe it as the natural oscillating tool choice within that ecosystem. The primary complaint is the tool-only price requiring a separate battery investment.
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Frequently asked questions
What voltage battery does the 2526-20 M12 Brushless oscillating tool use?
The tool runs on a 12-volt battery platform. The listing is tool-only at $119.99, so a 12-volt battery and charger must be purchased separately.
How light is the M12 Brushless 2526-20 compared to other oscillating tools?
At 16.01 ounces (just over 1 pound), it is the lightest tool in this group. For comparison, the GALAX TD9525K weighs 4.08 pounds and the ENERTWIST ET-OM-500 weighs 2 kilograms.
Is the brushless motor worth the higher price compared to budget corded tools?
For buyers who already own 12-volt batteries and prioritize lightweight precision over raw power, the brushless motor's efficiency and compact form factor justify the price difference versus a $35 corded tool. For heavy material removal, a higher-voltage or corded option is more appropriate.