Which is better for cutting and sanding?

The M18 Oscillating Multi-Tool. The drill/driver cannot cut or sand; it only drills and drives.

Which is better for cabinet installation?

The M12 FUEL 4-in-1. Its offset and right-angle heads reach inside cabinets and overhead, where the multi-tool body will not fit.

Is the M12 drill worth $139 as a bare tool?

Only if you already own M12 batteries. Add a battery and charger and the total climbs well above the multi-tool's $116.95, which includes two batteries and a charger.

Both use brushless-type durability claims, but the multi-tool's blades and sanding pads are consumables that wear out. The drill has no consumables beyond bits, though some owners report rattling and rust.

If you do remodel work, yes. One cuts and sands; the other drills and drives in tight spots. They do not replace each other.

Which is the better deal right now?

The multi-tool at $116.95 at Amazon as of November 4, 2026, because it includes two 5.0 Ah batteries and a charger. The drill is $139.00 at eBay as of the same date with no battery.

Milwaukee M18 Oscillating Multi-Tool with 2 Pack Red Lithium 5.0 Ah XC Batteries vs Milwaukee 2505-20 M12 FUEL 4-in-1 Installation Drill/Driver

These are different tools, so the choice depends on the job. Buy the M18 Oscillating Multi-Tool for cutting, sanding, scraping and grout removal; it is $116.95 at Amazon as of November 4, 2026, and includes two 5.0 Ah batteries and a charger. Buy the M12 FUEL 4-in-1 Drill/Driver for drilling and driving in tight spaces; it is $139.00 at eBay as of November 4, 2026, and is a bare tool with no battery. The multi-tool is the better value because the batteries alone are worth much of its price.

Today the Milwaukee M18 Oscillating Multi-Tool with 2 Pack Red Lithium 5.0 Ah XC Batteries costs $42.04 less at its best price.

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