The Best Multitools of 2026

Why we picked it: This American-made multitool is a balance of sleek form and impressive functionality.

What it comes with: Needlenose and Regular Pliers, Hard and Regular Wire Cutters, Wire Strippers, HC420 Serrated and Straight Blades, Spring-Action Scissors, 8-inch and 19-cm ruler, Can and Bottle Opener, Large and Small Bit Drivers, Flathead Screwdriver

The details: The Leatherman Wave checks all the right boxes, from convenience to quality. All the tools on the Wave exceeded our expectations when we tried them out, including the diamond-coated file and the two high-carbon blades.

The Wave has a smart design, with thick and rounded sides that prevent the multitool from cutting into your palms, even when you're squeezing the pliers as hard as you can. We also liked the fact that all the tools lock firmly into place, but can be released by pressing down on a textured button.

When we used the multitool to install a dishwasher, take apart a watch, and perform other household tasks, we found a lot of additional conveniences. For example, you can tell the serrated and straight blades apart without unfurling them because they have different spines–bumpy for serrated and smooth for straight. We also think the fact that you can operate the scissors with just your thumb is pretty clever.

We threw a lot of tasks at the Wave, and it handled all of them with ease.

Why we picked it: The Gerber MP600 provides no-frills functionality, giving you a lot of bang for your buck.

What it comes with: Needlenose and Regular Pliers, Pinch Cut Wire Cutters, Lanyard Ring, Serrated and Fine-edged Knife, Can and Bottle Opener, Cross Point, Ruler, Wire Crimper, File, Small, Medium, and Large Flathead

The details: Gerber is best known as a major supplier of tools to the US military, and the designers definitely kept that customer in mind when creating the MP600. This multitool is stark, cost-effective, and utilitarian.

The MP600 really held its own when we put it through its paces. Compared with all the multitools we tested, the MP600's pliers have the widest span, meaning they can deal with a wider variety of situations. We also really like the fact that you can deploy the pliers with a flick of your wrist.

However, the MP600 is definitely designed for less precise work. The various screw driver heads are a great showcase of this: They're all too big to deal with the screws on your glasses, but any screw on the wall is fair game. It's also not as comfortable to grip as the Leatherman Wave, nor does it have as many tools. Still, despite these flaws, it's a great budget option that any handy person will love.

Why we picked it: It's light, classy, and useful.

What it comes with: Large and Small Blade, Screwdriver, Flathead, Can Opener, Tweezers, Toothpick, Ream, Punch, Awl, Key Ring

The details: There's something to be said about sticking to the classics. While the Tinker isn't the first "Swiss Army" knife, it's manufactured in Switzerland by Victorinox, one of two manufacturers that supply the Swiss military with its famed multitools.

While testing the Tinker, we became enamored with its classy red case and compact design. Tipping the scales at just half an ounce, it's the lightest of the multitools we've tested. However, the Tinker's svelte build meant it wasn't as robust as the competition, lacking heavier-duty tools like a pair of pliers or a serrated blade. Even without these tools, we think this Swiss multitool will satisfy anyone who's looking to be just a little more prepared. Plus, unlike some of the heftier tools, it can fit comfortably in your pocket.

Our favorite feature is the pair of tweezers and toothpick hidden on each end of the Tinker. It speaks to the tool's more urbane sensibility, which the MP600 or Wave can't match.