Multi-tools aren't just for backcountry adventurers or over-prepared disaster theorists. Practically anyone can benefit from having a knife blade, screwdriver, and pliers within easy reach. Instead of using your housekeys to stab open delivery packages, setting a "mental reminder" to fix that loose doorknob every day for a week straight, or convincing yourself you can yank off a stray thread without ruining your sweater, a multi-tool can solve these issues right away.
The best multi-tools feature durable stainless steel construction, comfortable ergonomics, and a thoughtfully curated selection of commonly used tools — characteristics that also make them especially useful for everyday use to an emergency prep kit. These handy tools maximize your ability to problem-solve, perform basic repairs, and resolve tasks that would otherwise require you to carry a full tool kit.
I used my own extensive experience using multi-tools for decades, skimmed countless online reviews, consulted with EDC and survivalist experts, and personally tested 12 popular models in my evaluation process. The Leatherman Skeletool is the best overall, offering the ideal balance of functionality, build quality, and value. For those seeking a more affordable option, the Leatherman Bond delivers impressive versatility at about half the price, without compromising on overall tool size like most "budget" options.
Our picks of the best multi-tools
Best overall: Leatherman Skeletool - See at Amazon
Best budget: Leatherman Bond- See at Amazon
Best premium: Victorinox Swiss Army Swiss Tool X Plus Ratchet - See at Amazon
Best compact: Gerber Armbar Slim Drive - See at Amazon
Best keychain: Gerber Dime - See at Amazon
Best overall
Lightweight, highly functional, and simple to use, the stripped-down Leatherman Skeletool is the best multi-tool I've tested.
- Lightweight design
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Might not be versatile enough for some users
The Leatherman Skeletool doesn't have the largest tool collection but the options it does include are designed with convenience and accessibility in mind. The unique asymmetrical shape of the unit also virtually eliminates any wasted space, and its circular cut-outs help lower the weight to an impressive 5 ounces. This lack of extraneous tools and compact design makes this a near-perfect option for everyday carrying.
What stands out the most about the Leatherman Skeletool is the ability to easily flip its 2.6-inch knife blade out without opening the tool itself. You can also do the same with the extra-long bit holder and by extending the other side of the handle, you can essentially create a full-size screwdriver.
I'll admit that I was initially skeptical when I read about the second driver bit stored in the handle, fearing it would either be difficult to access when I needed it or not secure enough to avoid falling out. Neither was the case and the bit fits snugly into a cut-out in the handle, ready to be removed or replaced whenever necessary.
The addition of this second double-sided bit gives you two sizes of Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, something that other tools would require a totally separate bit holder to accomplish. It would have been nice to have a standard 1/4-inch bit holder so you can use your own bits — Leatherman's proprietary bits are a unique flat shape — but I realize this would have affected the slim design of the overall tool.
The carabiner clip is another useful feature and is large enough to easily clip onto my belt loop, something I didn't know how much I needed until I started using it. This clip, combined with the separate pocket clip, makes this tool really convenient to both grab and put away quickly.
Best budget
Even though it's on the lower end of the price spectrum, the Leatherman Bond still packs an impressive amount of tools into a high-quality, durable package.
- Affordable
- Sturdy construction
- Tools are easy to unfold
- Lacks a saw and scissors
- Can't be used one-handed
Even though there are cheaper multi-tools on our list, they're significantly smaller than the Leatherman Bond and aren't as useful as this full-size multi-tool — so, in this sense, "budget" is relative to its features. It packs 14 tools into its durable frame, and also features a full-size pair of pliers, just like the more expensive models.
This model does lack a locking mechanism but I still found the tools to be easy to use, and when fully extended, they felt nice and secure until I decide to fold them back in. The tools all performed well in my testing and I was especially impressed with the Phillips screwdriver due to its long length and sturdy feel. The 2.9-inch blade is also easy to flip out when you need it, thanks to a convenient cutout in the frame of the tool itself.
One of the main drawbacks is that the Bond lacks a pair of scissors. This isn't a dealbreaker but would make the tool far more versatile if it had it.
What does help its versatility is its inclusion of a lanyard ring that folds out. This can be used to attach the Bond to a lanyard or to clip it to a small carabiner or keyring. This is useful for anyone who works around water, on rooftops, or anywhere else where accidental drops could be disastrous.
Instead of the fingernail ridges that most tools use to unfold their components, the majority of the ones in the Bond use a small hook to pull them out. This took some time to get used to, but after a few tries, I got the hang of it and didn't feel it was more or less easy to use than other models.
Best premium
This heavy-duty model from Swiss Army features an impressive 38 functions — thanks to an included socket and bit set — and is rugged enough to take a serious beating without impacting its utility.
- Precision craftsmanship
- Durable
- Includes a bit set
- Extremely heavy
- Expensive
I was initially unsure what to think about the Swiss Army Swiss Tool X Plus Ratchet when I took it out of the package. It's heavy, intimidating, and with a separate ratchet and full set of mini bits, seemed like more trouble than it was worth. But, after testing several lower-quality options, I quickly came around and found this tool to be a great example of craftsmanship, durability, and functionality.
Its heavy weight and sturdy design really make you feel like it's indestructible and I was never in fear of damaging it even after several drops on concrete. There were zero loose connections or rattly components and every action had a smooth, sturdy feel to it. This model even had the easiest tools to extend and fold back up, which I didn't expect — though, perhaps I should've after over 20 years of carrying Swiss Army pocket knives on a nearly daily basis.
The tools themselves are premium, and I was especially impressed with the wide face of the prying tool. The scissors are large as well and have a strong spring to them. The blade locks kept the tools securely in place while I used them, and are easily depressed to disengage. This allowed me to get a good grip while testing out the saw and knife tool.
The separate socket and bit set are kind of cheating since they're not technically a part of the tool, but they do fit inside the leather carrying pouch that you're probably going to be using anyway (plus, they're just a great addition to have with this tool).
My favorite feature of the Swiss tool is the fact that you can access everything without opening the pliers. It is missing the ability to unfold any tools one-handed though, so do keep that in mind.
The biggest drawback is its high price tag, which at $190, is substantially more than other options I considered. That being said, and considering the quality craftsmanship, socket tool, and durability that will likely last a long time, I do feel like this isn't an unfair price. It's also bulkier and heavier than most others, so if you're looking for a tool you can slip into a pocket and not notice you have it, you'll probably be better off with a more compact option.
Best compact
The slim profile and light weight of this Gerber tool make it easy to slip in and out of your pocket, while still providing a basic tool collection to have you prepared for a range of tasks.
- Compact and lightweight
- Extended bit holder
- Double-sided bit
- Lacks a plier tool
- No pocket clip
Although the Gerber Armbar Slim Drive doesn't offer as many tools as others on this list, it does have a plain-edge knife blade, a bottle opener, and a 2-inch bit holder with a reversible tip. This extended bit holder makes the Gerber Armbar the best screwdriver I tested, and its slim profile made it as close to using a standard screwdriver as you can get.
My favorite characteristic of this tool is its convenient one-handed operation. Unlike other models that require two hands to access most of its tools, this one allows you to easily flip out the blade as well as the driver. It takes a little effort to do it, but you can even flip the reversible bit around one-handed as well. The locking mechanism also makes a big difference when using the knife and driver, and was comfortable to disengage, too.
The biggest issue with the Gerber Armbar Slim Drive — and what makes it so suitable for this category — is its lack of a plier tool, though the functionality of the driver makes it useful enough to be on this list. That being said, it's still a good option as a backup to a larger multi-tool, or if you frequently work with pliers and are more likely to have a set on hand.
Another drawback to this tool is that it doesn't feature a pocket clip, and I noticed it floating around in my pocket more than I would have liked (this made it less convenient to find when I needed it, too).
All in all, the small size, super functional operation, and low price made the Gerber Armbar Slim Drive a great compact option. It's also available in a nice variety of colors, which is always a great perk.
Best keychain
This pint-sized multi-tool provides nearly all the functionality of a full-size model, while remaining small enough to comfortably keep on your keychain.
- Sturdy feel
- Easy to open
- Spring-loaded pliers
- Affordable
- Small tools aren't effective enough for large tasks
- Paint scuffed on body easily
The Gerber Dime has a dense, sturdy feel to it, and doesn't have any of the rattles or loose elements that multi-tools sometimes have. This design gives the small tools, like the 1/2-inch long flathead screwdriver, more leverage and twisting power than you might think. Despite this tight feel, the tools are still easy to pull out and I didn't need much practice to access them.
This tool also packs an impressive amount of functionality into such a small package and even features a pair of pliers, a tool not always found in models this small. They're even spring-loaded, which makes them comfortable and fun to use. The bottle opener — which I'm not usually a fan of — sticks up from the end of the tool and makes it easy to open it up when you need to use the pliers.
All of these tools, apart from the pliers, can be accessed without opening the Gerber Dime, which makes this tool an even more convenient option.
My favorite feature of the Gerber Dime is the package opener, which has been the most-used tool in my entire testing process. This extra-sharp, angled blade can slice through plastic but, more importantly, can hook underneath and easily cut through zip ties. I honestly might have still chosen this tool if this was the only tool it had, it's just that useful.
The only real downside to the Gerber Dime is the relatively small keyring, which I replaced with a stronger ring after a couple of days. It also lacks a Philips head driver but the two flat heads should be able to handle a good range of Phillips screw heads. I also noticed that the paint finish began scuffing off the body fairly quickly. This isn't something that would bother me, but others might have an issue with it.
What else I tested
Leatherman Signal: Although this model featured several useful tools for camping — like a fire-starter, safety whistle, and hammer — it was too flimsy to make the overall list, especially considering its high price point. After just a couple of days of use, the handle was unable to remain closed and flipped open at will when I had its carabiner clipped to my belt. This may have been a quality-control issue with this product in specific though, so I'd be willing to test again with a replacement, and possibly include it in the future.
Leatherman Raptor Response: While this option had a solid, sturdy feel, and its blunt-nosed shears were unmatched when it came to effortlessly cutting through fabric and plastic clamshell packaging, it was ultimately not versatile enough to be named a top choice. If you do feel like you want to be prepared for emergency first aid though, I would highly recommend this tool.
Gerber Center-Drive Plus: I usually enjoy the smooth operation of Gerber multi-tools, especially the sliding plier head, but this one felt more flimsy and it rattled around more than I'd like. The scissors felt cheaply made and unfortunately fell apart after just a few times unfolding them, which is just not acceptable with a model this expensive. I did appreciate the extra-long bit holder that can be easily flipped out one-handed, and the large selection of bit that came with it.
What to look for in a multi-tool
Considering their complex appearance and multifunctional design, choosing one multi-tool over another can be intimidating. In order to select the best option for you and your needs, keep these factors in mind:
Functionality
What's great about multi-tools, according to Thomas Coyne, instructor and founder of Coyne Survival Schools, is that since they come with so many options, you get a tool that meets your exact needs. While almost all multi-tools feature a knife blade, some kind of plier system, and a screwdriver (covering your basic needs), think about other tools that might be useful to you and your specific tasks. For example, if you deal with a lot of cardboard delivery boxes or plastic clamshell packaging, the Gerber Dime and its dedicated "retail package opener" would be a great choice. Camping and hiking enthusiasts could also benefit from the firestarter on the Leatherman Signal (which also includes a safety whistle). Coyne's survivalist lifestyle affects his selection as well, explaining "I work a lot with wood so I want a sharp blade, a saw feature, and a file."
That said, more isn't always better. A multi-tool packed with tools you don't use is just a waste of money, space, and weight.
Portability
Multi-tools vary in size and weight, so make sure to select one that's not too heavy or large and is convenient to carry and transport, without affecting functionality too much. If everyday carry is your priority, and you're not a big fan of bulky items in your pockets, a smaller model with fewer tools might be the best option. Sure, you miss out on full-size tools or a wider tool variety, but a stripped-down tool is better than a bulky one that you're more likely to leave at home. Lighter options are also ideal for hikers or campers that need to maintain as little weight in their pack as possible. That being said, a larger size doesn't always equate to less portability. Most large, heavy multi-tools include belt-mounted holders or leather pouches, keeping your pockets free and your multi-tool easily accessible.
Brand Reputation & Warranty
The quality and construction of a multi-tool plays a major role in its effectiveness when you consider their importance as a tool, as well as the heavy-duty application they're likely to be used for. Look for reputable brands that have been making multi-tools for decades — like Leatherman, Gerber, and Victorinox — and take pride in the durability and quality of their products. Leatherman, for example, backs their multi-tools with a 25-year warranty, and Gerber boasts a lifetime warranty (in North America). As someone who relies on their tools for survival, I'm not sure there's a better endorsement of these high-quality brands than Coyne, who listed the Victorinox Swiss Tool, and Leatherman Raptor Medical Shears, Wave, Supertool among his personal kit.
With so many legitimate options to choose from, opting for an obscure or unreliable brand just to save a few bucks is probably a bad idea.
How we tested the best multi-tools
To accurately evaluate the 12 models in our testing pool — and better recommend certain options for specific use cases — we ran them all through a comprehensive testing process. Over the course of several weeks, I explored each models overall functionality by using all available tools for their intended tasks. This involved using their pliers to grab and yank staples and broken screws, clipping metal coat hangers with wire cutters, sawing through ¾-inch PVC piping and 2 ¼-inch cardboard tubing, and using screwdriver tools to tighten and remove a range of screw types.
Here's what we looked for in our top picks:
Ease of Use: In addition to the real-world tool testing, I also spent about an hour with each tool just unfolding and manipulating its components. I noted if the design and layout of the tool were straightforward and easy to use, or if any components were frustrating to grip and extend. I also compared which tools had the ability to access any of its tools one-handed, or without unfolding the pliers, both of which I found to be useful features.
Functionality: I counted and logged the tools included in each multi-tool, evaluating if its collection provided the most useful variety to the average user (at minimum, I looked for a pair of pliers, a knife blade, and some kind of screwdriver), and if any additional tools seemed superfluous or impractical. I also used each model's tool collection (and any uncommon or niche tools like firestarters or retail package openers) to better recommend it for specific use cases or individuals.
Overall Feel: Throughout the testing process, I also evaluated how comfortable and ergonomic the tool felt in my hand, both while carrying and during use. I also noted its handle length and shape, and if it allowed me to maintain a sturdy, solid grip when using the larger tools like knife blades, pliers, and files. I paid close attention to the overall build quality as well, looking for smooth, clean movements, and secure locking mechanisms. This focus on precision (as opposed to those with looser components that "rattle" around with extra play) bodes well for the tool's long-term durability.
Portability: I also considered portability, noting which models felt light enough to carry comfortably without compromising strength, whether heavier options provided a belt holder that was convenient to access and any helpful features like keychain rings or pocket clips.
Multi-tool FAQs
How do you use a multi-tool?
A multi-tool is essentially a pair of folding pliers, with multiple tool heads nested inside the handles. These tools are connected by a central pivot point, allowing you to unfold, extend, and lock them into place, using the multi-tool itself as the handle of the knife blade, saw blade, or screwdriver. After use, the tool then folds back into the handle, locking in place. However, the handle design can vary a bit; some multi-tools use multiple pivot points to fold more compactly or utilize sliding plier heads instead of folding, the general concept is the same.
What multi-tool is used in the Navy and Army?
According to Coyne, there is no "official multi-tool" of the military. However, he did mention that there are some models which seem to be the most favored amongst military, EMS, and law enforcement, "with Leatherman and Gerber seeming to be the most popular." He adds that Leatherman offers a popular "EOD" model (explosives ordinance disposal) designed specifically for EOD technicians, which includes a cap crimper, carbon scraper, and C4 punch, and a "MUT" model designed for working with the standard rifle of the US military.
Can you travel with a multi-tool?
Yes, you can definitely travel with a multi-tool. Thomas explains that while air travel prevents you from transporting it in your carry-on (due to the knife blade), "It is perfectly legal to have a knife in a checked bag on a flight in the United States, believe it or not." While the TSA claims that bladeless multi-tools with scissors four inches or shorter in length are allowed in your carry-on, I'd still recommend packing it in your checked luggage, as I've found that these TSA regulations can be up to the interpretation of the agent.
If you're the type of person who has several multi-tools floating around for different tasks, it's always worth double-checking your carry-on bag before departing (I say this as someone who has surrendered several expensive multi-tools to TSA checkpoints over the years).
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