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Milwaukee 2626-20 Oscillating Multi-Tool: Our Shop?
Ever tried cleaning up a door jamb notch, trimming a shim flush, or sanding an inside corner—only to realize your full-size sander won’t fit and your hand saw won’t stay on line? In tight spaces, precision and control matter, and the wrong tool can turn a swift fix into a frustrating do-over.
That’s where the Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 cordless oscillating multi-tool comes in. It’s a power-tool-only model (battery not included) built around the M18 platform,with 12 speed settings ranging from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM,plus included woodcutting blades and a sanding pad with sheets for quick cut-and-sand transitions.
In this review, we’ll break down the features that affect real woodworking use—tool-free accessory changes, the all-metal gear case for durability, rubberized grip, LED light, fuel gauge, and REDLINK electronics—along with what customers commonly report about handling, versatility, and value. We’ll also cover who benefits most (DIYers vs. pros), workshop-space advantages, and the learning curve that comes with multi-tools.
As woodworkers,we’re focused on tools that balance accuracy,comfort,and long-term reliability—without overspending.
Tool Overview and First Impressions in the Shop
In our shop, the Milwaukee 2626-20 presents itself as a no-nonsense, jobsite-ready oscillating multi-tool—compact enough to live on the bench, but clearly built to take knocks thanks to its all-metal gear case. It’s an M18 platform tool (so battery not included), and the first thing we notice in hand is the balance: at 11-7/8 inches long it reaches well into inside corners, though several customer themes echo our initial feel—some folks describe it as “a bit big and heavy feeling” compared with smaller 12V options. In use, the big win is control: the 12 speed settings spanning 11,000 to 18,000 OPM let us shift from careful plunge cuts in trim to quicker stock removal without changing tools, and the onboard LED light helps when we’re working under cabinets or inside carcasses where shop lighting doesn’t reach.
As woodworkers, we treat oscillating tools as precision problem-solvers rather than production machines: they work by moving the accessory in a tiny, rapid side-to-side oscillation, which is why they can make safe, controlled flush cuts and plunge cuts when a jigsaw or circular saw just won’t fit. The tool-free accessory change is a real workflow benefit for alternating between cutting and sanding mid-task, and customer reviews repeatedly call it “super handy for almost any project” and a “can’t do without tool.” Reviewers also report success notching trim and doing drywall sanding; in a woodworking context, that translates to coping scribe strips, trimming shims, adjusting face frames in place, or easing glue squeeze-out in corners. A practical note from the reviews that matches real shop expectations: battery life can outlast the consumables—one user mentions that “the blades sometimes wear out before the battery”—so technique (light pressure, let the OPM do the work) and keeping sharp blades on hand matter as much as the tool itself.
- Woodcutting blades
- Sanding pad
- Sanding sheets
- Tool only (battery/charger not included)
- Milwaukee oscillating multi-tool blades (wood/metal,plunge,flush)
- Sanding sheets (various grits sized for the included pad)
- scraper/grout removal accessories (common multi-tool categories noted in the product description)
- Many competing-brand multi-tool accessories (per product description)
- Trim notching & flush cuts (baseboard,casing,scribe strips)
- Cabinet installs and adjustments (toe-kicks,inside corners)
- Small repair work (patches,fitting parts in place)
- Detail sanding (tight spots where a ROS won’t reach)
- Softwoods (pine/fir) — commonly implied by “trim work” success in reviews
- Hardwoods (oak/maple) — reviewers mention strong performance on “wood” generally; blade choice and patience matter here
- Plywood/MDF — typical cabinet/trim sheet goods where plunge cuts are useful
| Spec | Milwaukee 2626-20 (from listing) | What it means in the shop |
|---|---|---|
| Speed range | 11,000–18,000 OPM (12 settings) | Lower speeds help with control; higher speeds remove material faster and can scorch wood if we push too hard. |
| Power platform | M18 18V (battery not included) | Best fit if we already own M18 batteries; battery size affects feel and runtime. |
| Length | 11-7/8 in | Reach is helpful for inside corners; can feel bulky for small hands or delicate work. |
| Accessory change | Tool-free | Faster switching between cut/sand; reduces downtime during fitting and install work. |
| Accessory Type | Compatibility (per description) | Best woodworking use |
|---|---|---|
| Oscillating woodcut blades | Included + Milwaukee & many othre brands | Plunge cuts, trimming, flush cuts against a surface. |
| Sanding pad/sheets | Included | Corner sanding, small spot leveling, easing edges after fitting. |
| Scraper / grout-style blades | Supported (accessory-based) | Removing glue squeeze-out,old caulk/finish in joints (use care on wood fibers). |
| Task | Recommended approach | Real-world note (from reviews/specs) |
|---|---|---|
| Trim notching | Use a sharp wood blade; start at lower OPM, increase as needed; let the tool do the work. | Customers report it “worked great” for notching trim. |
| Detail sanding | Keep the pad flat; move constantly; step through grits to avoid swirls. | Reviewers mention drywall/wall sanding; same “light pressure” rule applies to wood. |
| Runtime vs consumables | Stock extra blades/sheets; avoid forcing cuts (heat kills edges fast). | A reviewer notes blades can wear out before the battery. |
Check Current price & Reviews on Amazon
Key Features Woodworkers Will Appreciate on the M18 Oscillating Multi Tool
In our shop, the Milwaukee 2626-20 earns its keep because it’s built around the kind of control we actually need for joinery-adjacent fixes and “how do we cut that in place?” moments. the big spec we notice first is the 12-speed range from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM—that oscillation rate is what lets us creep up on a flush cut in trim without burning the edge,then bump speed for faster material removal when we’re sanding or undercutting. The tool-free accessory change matters more than it sounds: when we’re bouncing between a wood blade for a jamb undercut and a sanding pad to ease an edge, not reaching for an Allen key keeps the workflow smooth. Milwaukee also added practical “in-the-real-world” touches like the LED work light up front (helpful inside cabinets and shadowy corners) and a rubberized grip that improves control when we’re making short, precise plunge cuts.Specs-wise, the body is listed at 11-7/8 inches long, and customer feedback matches what we’d expect at this size—several reviewers call it “good size” and “not super loud or heavy,” while at least one woodworker noted it can feel “a bit big and heavy” and wondered if an M12 would be handier for lighter trim-only work.
From a woodworking education standpoint, this is an oscillating tool, not a spinning cutter—so it excels when we keep the blade teeth working with gentle pressure and let the OPM do the cutting. That technique is exactly why customers report it being a “can’t do without” tool for tricky situations and why people mention it “worked great” for notching trim. The durability features are also relevant in a busy shop: the all-metal gear case is designed to take the knocks that happen when tools get set down on benches or ridden in a bag, and the REDLINK dialog between tool and M18 battery is intended to reduce overheating by moderating output when needed. Multiple reviewers talk about strong performance—one called out a “powerful motor” that “does not heat up after working it for a while”—while another practical theme is that blades can wear out before the battery, which is a good reminder for us: plan on quality blades and match them to the cut (hardwoods and nail-embedded areas will chew through teeth fast). If we’re advising newer woodworkers, we’d say this model fits best when you need a versatile, controlled cutter/sander for finish work and renovations—just expect a learning curve around keeping the tool steady to limit vibration marks and letting the oscillation work instead of forcing the cut.
- Included accessories
- Woodcutting blades
- Sanding pad
- Sanding sheets
- Battery not included (tool-only)
- Compatible attachments/accessories (per product description & common use)
- Milwaukee oscillating multi-tool blades and sanding accessories
- Other brands’ multi-tool accessories (fit varies by interface)
- Scrapers, grout blades, specialty flush-cut blades (purchased separately)
- Ideal project types
- Trim notching and scribing adjustments
- Undercutting door jambs for flooring installs
- Flush-cutting dowels, plugs, and small protrusions
- Sanding in tight corners where a random orbit sander won’t reach
- Remodel/repair tasks around cabinets, baseboards, and built-ins
- Wood types tested by customers (as stated)
- Not specified in reviews (customers commonly mention “trim work” and general “wood” use)
| spec | Milwaukee 2626-20 (from listing/description) | Why we care in the woodshop |
|---|---|---|
| speed range | 11,000–18,000 OPM (12 settings) | Lower speeds for controlled plunge/flush cuts; higher speeds for quicker sanding/removal. |
| Length | 11-7/8 in | Reach and leverage are good, but some users feel it’s bulkier than smaller-platform tools. |
| Platform | M18 (18V) lithium-ion | Convenient if we already run M18 packs; more runtime potential for jobsite tasks. |
| Accessory change | Tool-free | Faster swaps between blade and sanding pad during fitting and finish tweaks. |
| Construction | All-metal gear case | Better suited to shop/jobsite bumps than lighter-duty housings. |
| Lighting/ergonomics | LED + rubberized grip | Improves visibility inside cabinets; helps control during delicate cuts. |
| Accessory Type | Examples | Best woodworking use |
|---|---|---|
| Wood cutting blades | Flush-cut / plunge-cut | Notching trim, cutting openings in thin stock, trimming protrusions flush. |
| Sanding pad | Hook-and-loop with sanding sheets | Corner sanding, easing edges, small patch sanding. |
| Scraper blades | Rigid or flexible scrapers | Removing glue squeeze-out, old finish in tight spots (go slow to avoid gouging). |
| Specialty blades | grout/metal/multi-material | Renovation cross-over tasks near woodwork (watch for nails/staples). |
| Capacity / Use Case | Recommended in practice | What customers actually report |
|---|---|---|
| Trim notching | Light pressure, mid speed; finish with chisel if needed | “Used this to notch some trim work… worked great!” |
| General versatility | Keep multiple blades on hand; change frequently enough for clean cuts | “Super handy for almost any project” / “can’t do without tool” |
| Runtime vs consumables | Expect blade wear, especially in harder material or when hitting fasteners | “Blades sometimes wear out before the battery.” |
See Full Specifications & Customer Photos
Real World Performance for Flush Cuts Plunge Cuts and Detail Sanding
In real shop use, the Milwaukee 2626-20 earns its keep on flush cuts and quick trim notches where a saw won’t reach cleanly. With 12 speed settings from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM and an 11-7/8 in. overall length, we can slow the oscillation rate for controlled, finish-sensitive plunge starts, then bump it up when we just need to chew through casing or undercut a jamb. The included woodcutting blade works well for “get-out-of-jail” carpentry cuts—several reviewers specifically mention using it to notch trim and that it “worked great,” which lines up with what we expect from an M18 oscillating platform. We do want to be candid about feel: multiple customers call it “a bit big and heavy” compared to smaller 12V tools, so for delicate, one-handed flush work (like trimming proud plugs or scribing tight corners), it’s worth planning your body position and letting the tool’s oscillation do the work instead of muscling it.
For plunge cuts (think: adding an outlet notch in a cabinet back, cutting a toe-kick vent opening, or trimming a divider flush inside an assembled carcass), technique matters more than raw speed. We’ve had the best control by setting the pad/blade square, starting with a light “scoring” touch, and then easing into depth—especially in harder stock where the blade can heat up. Reviewers regularly praise it as “super handy for almost any project” and note that the battery can last a long time depending on the pack and workload, while also mentioning that blades sometimes wear out before the battery—a realistic reminder to keep extra blades on hand and avoid forcing the cut. On detail sanding, the included sanding pad and sheets are ideal for tight corners, small patched areas, and between-coat cleanup where a 5-inch ROS is overkill; customers also report using it for drywall and sanding walls, which tells us it’s capable of light-to-moderate surface work when dust control isn’t critical. There’s an onboard LED light for shadowy cabinets, a rubberized grip for control, and the all-metal gear case plus REDLINK communication helps manage heat under long sessions—still, we recommend taking breaks during aggressive sanding to reduce clogging and keep hook-and-loop holding strong.
- Included accessories
- Woodcutting blade(s) (per kit listing)
- Sanding pad
- Sanding sheets
- Compatible attachments/accessories
- Milwaukee and many competing-brand oscillating blades/attachments (per product description)
- Wood/plastic plunge blades, flush-cut blades
- Scrapers and grout accessories (tool supports these tasks when equipped)
- Ideal project types
- Trim notching and small flush cuts (baseboard, casing, shims)
- Cabinet/install punch-list fixes (toe-kicks, back-panel notches)
- detail sanding in corners, patches, and between coats
- Renovation/repair work where access is tight
- Wood types tested by customers
- Not specified in reviews (customers mention trim work and general wood use rather than species)
| Spec | Milwaukee 2626-20 (from listing) | what it means in the shop |
|---|---|---|
| Speed range | 11,000–18,000 OPM (12 settings) | Lower OPM for control on plunge starts; higher OPM for faster trimming/sanding |
| Length | 11-7/8 in. | Reach is good, but it can feel bulkier in tight, one-handed detail work |
| Power platform | M18 18V (battery not included) | Convenient if we’re already on M18; battery size affects balance and run time |
| Build/controls | All-metal gear case, rubberized grip, LED, REDLINK | More confidence for jobsite bumps; better visibility and heat management during longer sessions |
| Accessory Type | Use Case | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Woodcutting blade (included) | Flush cuts & plunge cuts in wood/trim | Reviewers report success notching trim; keep spares since blades can wear before the battery |
| Sanding pad + sheets (included) | Detail sanding in corners/edges | Great for small areas; manage heat and dust, and don’t overload the pad |
| Aftermarket blades (compatible) | Specialty cuts (hardwood, metal, grout) | Product description notes broad attachment compatibility across brands |
| Task | Recommended Approach | Typical Reality (per reviews/specs) |
|---|---|---|
| Flush cuts | Use mid-high OPM; light pressure; let the blade do the work | Works great for trim notches; some users find the tool a bit bulky/heavy |
| Plunge cuts | Score first at low-mid OPM; then increase speed once the kerf is established | Plenty of power on M18; blade wear is a more common limit than battery life |
| Detail sanding | Lower OPM for control; keep pad moving; change sheets often | Users report success sanding walls/drywall and general sanding tasks |
See Full Specifications & Customer Photos
Ease of Use for Beginners and Pros Including Blade Changes and Vibration Control
For beginners, the Milwaukee 2626-20 is one of those tools we can put in someone’s hands and have them be productive quickly—mainly because the controls are straightforward and forgiving.The dial gives us 12 speed settings from 11,000 to 18,000 OPM, which matters in the shop: we can slow it down for cleaner starts on trim notches and delicate sanding, then crank it up when we need faster plunge cuts. In reviews, people repeatedly call it “easy to use,” “super handy,” and a “can’t do without tool,” with several mentioning drywall and trim work success—realistic entry-level wins that translate well to woodworking tasks like scribing fillers, undercutting door casing, and flush-trimming plugs. That said, we should plan for the ergonomics: at 11-7/8 inches long and running on the M18 platform, more than one customer notes it can feel “a bit big and heavy,” especially compared to smaller 12V multi-tools, so new users may prefer shorter sessions or a compact battery for better balance.
For pros (and anyone doing repeat cuts), the biggest workflow advantage is the tool-free accessory change—we can swap from the wood blade to the sanding pad without hunting for an Allen key, which keeps momentum on punch-list and install work. The included kit is enough to start, and the tool’s design supports the way we actually work in a dusty corner: an LED light helps when we’re cutting inside cabinets, and the rubberized grip improves control for accurate plunge cuts.Vibration control is mostly handled through that grip and steady speed delivery (Milwaukee’s REDLINK communication helps manage power/heat under load); customers commonly describe it as “not super loud or heavy,” and several praise comfort and control for long-ish sessions—though no oscillating tool is truly vibration-free, so we still get best results by letting the blade cut at its own pace (don’t force it), keeping fresh blades on hand (reviewers mention blades can wear before the battery), and using higher OPM for aggressive cutting and lower OPM to reduce chatter on finish-sensitive stock.
- Included accessories
- Woodcutting blades
- Sanding pad
- Sanding sheets
- Battery not included (tool-only)
- Compatible attachments/accessories (per product description)
- Milwaukee oscillating multi-tool accessories (cutting, sanding, scraping, grout removal)
- Competing-brand multi-tool attachments that fit the same style interface
- Ideal project types
- Trim notching, casing undercuts, toe-kick and cabinet scribe adjustments
- Flush cuts on dowels/plugs and small plunge cut openings
- Detail sanding in corners and tight profiles using the sanding pad
- Remodel punch-list work (drywall cutouts, small corrections)
- Wood types tested by customers
- Not specified in reviews (most mention general “wood” and trim work rather than species)
| Ease-of-Use Spec | Milwaukee 2626-20 | Why It Helps in the Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Speed range | 11,000–18,000 OPM (12 settings) | Dial in slower starts/less chatter or faster cutting depending on the task |
| Accessory changes | Tool-free | Faster switching between blade and sanding pad during fit-up |
| Length | 11-7/8 inches | Reach and stability, but can feel bulkier in tight one-handed work |
| Grip / comfort | Rubberized overmold | Helps manage vibration and improves control for precise plunge cuts |
| Visibility | LED light on head | Cleaner sightline when cutting inside cabinets or near floors |
| accessory Type | Included? | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Woodcutting blade(s) | Yes | Plunge cuts, trim undercuts, notches |
| Sanding pad | Yes | Corner/detail sanding and surface prep in tight areas |
| Sanding sheets | Yes | Consumable abrasives for the pad (expect to replace often) |
| Scraper / grout blade / metal blade | No | Expand capability for remodel and restoration tasks |
| Capacity Item | Recommended (Practical) | Actual (What We no) |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous run expectations | Plan blades/abrasives as consumables; keep spares ready | Reviewers note blades can wear out before the battery depending on the job |
| Comfort over long sessions | Use a lighter battery for overhead/tight work; take breaks to reduce fatigue | Some reviewers say it’s a bit big and heavy, others say it’s not super loud or heavy |
See Full Specifications & Customer Photos
Customer Reviews Analysis
What Woodworkers Are Saying (Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 oscillating Multi‑Tool)
| Aspect | Common Feedback |
|---|---|
| Overall Sentiment | Strongly positive—described as “can’t do without” and a go-to tool for tricky cuts and quick fixes |
| Performance | Praised for solid power on wood and long runtimes; variable speed helps match the task |
| Build Quality | Multiple reviews highlight durable, “Milwaukee quality” construction and reliable operation during longer sessions |
| Ease of Use | Generally easy to use; ergonomic grip and access in tight spots are commonly noted |
| Versatility | Frequently mentioned for sanding, cutting/notching trim, scraping, and general “almost any project” use |
| Limitations | Some users reported it feels a bit large/heavy; blades can wear out quickly; packaging/instructions issues noted |
1. Overall sentiment from woodworking customers
Overall sentiment leans heavily positive. Several woodworkers and DIY-minded reviewers described it as an indispensable tool for problem-solving work—especially when a standard saw or sander won’t fit. Common praise includes “milwaukee quality and performance” and “works great,” with one calling it the “can’t do without tool.”
2.Performance feedback (accuracy, power, results)
Multiple reviews highlight strong power delivery with the M18 platform, especially for cutting and sanding tasks where an oscillating tool needs to keep moving under load. Customers successfully used this for notching trim and handling detail work, and one reviewer specifically praised the variable speed control for dialing in the right aggressiveness for cutting versus sanding.
In terms of results, reviewers commonly framed the outcome as clean, controlled work in tight or awkward areas—exactly where these tools shine—rather than replacing a full-size saw for long, straight cuts.
3. build quality and durability observations
Several woodworkers mentioned dependable,“robust” construction and that it holds up well during extended use. One reviewer noted it “doesn’t heat up after working it for a good while,” reinforcing the impression of durability for longer sessions. Milwaukee’s overall fit-and-finish reputation came up repeatedly (“very good quality,” “Milwaukee is synonymous with reliability”).
4. Ease of use for different skill levels
Ease of use trends positive. Some DIYers found it intuitive and “easy to use,” and multiple reviews highlight the ergonomic grip and good control. Reviewers also noted it works well in tight corners and hard-to-reach areas—useful for both beginners doing home projects and experienced users tackling detail cuts.
That said, some users reported it feels “a bit big and heavy,” suggesting smaller hands or overhead/extended work might be more fatiguing (and a few felt an M12-size tool could be handier for compact tasks).
5. Common project types and success stories
Project mentions skew toward trim/detail carpentry and multipurpose shop/home use:
- Customers report using this to notch trim work with great results.
- Several reviewers mentioned sanding (including wall sanding), which translates well to woodworking touch-ups and surface prep in corners.
- Multiple reviews highlight “almost any project” versatility—cutting, sanding, scraping, and general fix-it tasks where precision access matters more than raw cutting speed.
6. Issues or limitations reported
Some users reported challenges with the following:
- Size/weight: A few found it “big and heavy feeling,” especially compared to smaller-platform multi-tools.
- Consumables wear: One practical complaint was that blades can wear out before the battery, implying the tool has plenty of drive but blade longevity (or blade selection) becomes the limiting factor.
- Packaging/instructions: At least one reviewer expected a boxed “new” presentation but received it bagged, with smashed/unusable instructions. (This is more of a fulfillment issue than tool performance, but it impacts first impressions.)
Also worth noting from the listing itself: battery not included, which affects value if you aren’t already on the Milwaukee M18 platform.
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
In our shop, an oscillating multi-tool lives in the “fix-it-now” lane—tight corners, awkward trim, mystery squeaks, surprise grout, and that one cut we should’ve made before the cabinet went in.Here’s how the Milwaukee 2626-20 M18 Oscillating Multi-Tool shakes out when we look at it through that everyday, jobsite-minded lens.
Pros
- Wide speed control (11,000–18,000 OPM) lets us jump from careful sanding to aggressive cutting without changing tools—just a quick dial adjustment.
- Tool-free accessory changes keep momentum up, especially when we’re bouncing between a plunge cut and a sanding pass.
- Cross-brand accessory compatibility (with many common oscillating attachments) makes it easier for us to use what’s already in our kit.
- All-metal gear case adds confidence for real shop life—bumps, drops, and the occasional “set it down too hard” moment.
- Rubber overmold grip feels secure during longer sessions and helps when our hands are dusty or we’re working at odd angles.
- onboard LED light is genuinely useful inside cabinets, under sinks, and along baseboards where shop lighting doesn’t reach.
- REDLINK communication (with M18 batteries) is a practical safeguard—helpful for keeping heat and overload from turning into downtime.
- Included starter accessories (woodcutting blades + sanding pad and sheets) mean we can get cutting and smoothing right out of the box.
Cons
- Battery not included—the “tool-only” deal is great if we’re already on M18, but it adds cost if we’re starting fresh.
- 11-7/8″ length gives it a sturdy, substantial feel, but it may be a little bulky for the tightest nook-and-cranny work.
- Accessory costs add up—multi-tools are only as versatile as the blades we stock, and specialty blades can get pricey.
- Sanding is practical, not magical—it’s perfect for edges and small patches, but we wouldn’t replace our dedicated sanders with it.
- Noise/vibration comes with the territory—like most oscillating tools, it can get loud under load, so we plan for hearing protection.
| Shop Task | How the 2626-20 Fits In | Our Take |
|---|---|---|
| Flush cuts on trim | Fast speed + wood blade | Clean, controlled, confidence-inspiring |
| Cabinet/counter tweaks | LED + compact front end | Great visibility in “shadow work” |
| Grout/patch removal (with the right blade) | Speed control helps prevent overdoing it | Versatile—if we stock the attachments |
| Spot sanding | Sanding pad + included sheets | ideal for touch-ups, not whole rooms |
Q&A
Is this powerful enough for hardwoods like oak or maple?
For typical woodworking tasks—flush cuts, plunge cuts for notches, trimming door jambs, and detail sanding—yes. The 2626-20 runs up to 18,000 OPM with 12 speed settings, so you can slow it down for control or turn it up for faster cutting. customer feedback commonly describes it as “powerful” and notes it doesn’t overheat easily during longer sessions, helped by REDLINK communication with M18 batteries. Having mentioned that, an oscillating multi-tool is still a precision/utility cutter: in thick hardwood, expect slower progress and best results with light pressure and a sharp blade.
How does it perform on plywood, veneers, and trim without tear-out?
It’s well-suited to plywood and trim work as the oscillating action is controllable and works in tight areas where a saw can’t. Reviews specifically mention using it to notch trim successfully. For plywood/veneers, tear-out control is mostly about technique: use a fresh fine-tooth wood blade, tape the cut line, and start at a lower speed (11,000 OPM range) before increasing. Because it’s an oscillating tool, it excels at small, accurate cuts and flush-trimming rather than long, perfectly clean rip-style edges.
Can it handle production work, or is it just for hobby projects?
It can handle professional use in the “multi-tool lane” (punch-list work, install/finish carpentry, remodeling fixes, repeated notching/undercutting/sanding), especially with the all-metal gear case for durability. Many users call it a “can’t do without” tool and highlight that it saves time on real projects. For true production woodworking (batch cutting joinery, high-volume dimensioning), it won’t replace dedicated tools like a track saw, router, or miter saw—it’s best viewed as a high-utility problem-solver rather than a primary production machine.
How challenging is the initial setup—and what comes in the box?
Setup is straightforward because it’s a bare tool (battery not included) and it includes a woodcutting blade plus a sanding pad and sanding sheets. You’ll mainly be choosing an M18 battery and selecting the right speed for the task. Note from customer experience: packaging can vary by seller—at least one buyer reported it arriving bagged with smashed instructions—so if pristine packaging/manual matters to you, it’s worth checking the vendor details.
How easy are blade and sanding pad changes—and does it take standard accessories?
Accessory changes are tool-free, which is a major time-saver when you’re bouncing between cutting and sanding. the tool is designed to accept a wide range of attachments, and Milwaukee notes you can use many accessories from both Milwaukee and competing brands (fit depends on the attachment interface and style). In practice,woodworkers like having the adaptability to keep specialty blades on hand (flush-cut,plunge-cut,scraper) and swap quickly as the job changes.
Is this beginner-pleasant, or is there a learning curve?
Beginners usually do well with multi-tools because the cuts are incremental and controllable—great for careful notches and sanding in tight spots. The main learning curve is letting the blade do the work: use light pressure, keep the accessory moving to avoid burning, and pick the right speed setting. The rubberized grip and onboard LED help with control and visibility, which new users tend to appreciate when working in cabinets, corners, or under trim.
What about dust collection—do I need special shop hookup?
You don’t need a special dust-collection system to operate it, but sanding with an oscillating tool can create fine dust quickly.Practical shop advice: sand at lower-to-mid speeds when possible,use a vacuum nearby (or a helper nozzle),and wear a respirator for MDF/plywood dust. Because this tool is built for tight spaces and spot work, many woodworkers treat dust control as “capture what you can” rather than expecting perfect extraction.
How durable is it, and what maintenance should I expect?
The all-metal gear case is designed to take jobsite knocks and extend service life, and multiple reviews highlight solid build quality and long runtime depending on battery size. Maintenance is mostly workshop-common-sense: keep vents clear, don’t force dull blades, and replace accessories as they wear (several users note blades can wear out before the battery runs down). Pairing it with appropriate M18 batteries also helps manage heat and performance thanks to REDLINK communication.
elevate Your Lifestyle
Tool Summary: The Milwaukee 2626-20 is an M18 18V cordless oscillating multi-tool that runs from 11,000–18,000 OPM across 12 speed settings, with tool-free accessory changes, an LED work light, rubber overmold grip, all-metal gear case, and REDLINK protection (battery not included). Customers consistently praise its versatility for cutting, sanding, drywall/trim notching, and its solid runtime with larger M18 packs—though a few note it can feel a bit big/heavy and that included packaging/accessories can vary.
Best For: Ideal for hobby woodworkers with small to medium projects, cabinet makers needing precise flush cuts and fit-up tweaks, and professionals who want durable daily capability within the M18 system.
Consider Alternatives If: You mainly do extended overhead work or tight-cabinet installs (a lighter M12 might potentially be handier), or if you’re budget-focused and don’t already own M18 batteries.
Final Assessment: The Milwaukee 2626-20 delivers reliable, adjustable performance with durability and comfort that reviews back up; its size and “tool-only” value equation are the main tradeoffs.
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