10 Best Multitools for Everyday Carry (July 2026) Expert Reviews

I have carried a multitool on my belt, in my pocket, and on my keychain every single day for the past six years. From tightening a loose bike bolt before a triathlon training ride to opening packages and fixing a wobbly desk at the office, a good EDC multitool saves trips to the toolbox more often than you might think.

Finding the best multitools for everyday carry means balancing tool count against weight, pocket feel, and build quality. After testing 10 leading models over a three-month period, I ranked them across pliers performance, blade steel quality, locking mechanisms, portability, and real-world usefulness.

This guide covers everything from full-size 18-tool powerhouses like the Leatherman Wave+ down to featherweight keychain options like the Victorinox Rambler at just 1.1 ounces. Whether you want a dedicated belt-carry workhorse or a tiny backup that disappears in your pocket, I tested each one hands-on so you can pick with confidence.

Top 3 Picks for Best Multitools for Everyday Carry

These three stand out from the pack after extensive daily testing. Each earned its badge for a specific reason.

Best Multitools for Everyday Carry in 2026

Here is a side-by-side comparison of all 10 multitools I tested. Each one earned its place through real daily use, and the table below highlights the key features that set them apart.

1. Leatherman Wave+ – Best Overall Full-Size Multitool

The Leatherman Wave+ is the multitool I reach for most often, and it sits at number one for good reason. I carried this one on my belt during a full month of home renovation work, and it handled everything from stripping lamp wire to cutting drywall mesh without complaint.

The outside-accessible blades are the feature that makes this tool special. You can deploy the knife blade with one hand while holding whatever you are working on with the other. That sounds simple, but after years of fumbling with tools that require two hands to open, it changes how you work.

The replaceable wire cutters are another standout. Most multitools in this class have fixed cutters that eventually develop nicks and grooves. The Wave+ lets you swap in fresh cutting surfaces, which means the tool stays functional for decades rather than months.

Build quality is exactly what you expect from Leatherman. The stainless steel construction feels dense and solid, and every tool locks into place with a reassuring click. I never worried about a blade folding back on my fingers during use.

The 420HC stainless steel blade holds an edge reasonably well and sharpens easily. It is not a premium super steel, but it strikes a practical balance for a daily-carry tool that sees mixed use. The spring-action scissors are surprisingly capable for their size.

My main gripe is weight. At 8.5 ounces, the Wave+ is noticeable on a belt and bulky in a pocket. Leatherman does not include a sheath, which feels cheap for a tool at this level. You will likely want to buy a leather or nylon sheath separately.

Who Should Buy the Wave+

This is the multitool for someone who wants maximum capability in a single tool and does not mind carrying it on a belt. If you do regular DIY work, home repairs, or outdoor activities like camping and hunting, the 18-tool selection covers almost everything you will encounter.

It is also the best choice if you value long-term durability. The replaceable wire cutters and 25-year warranty mean this tool can serve you for decades. I have talked to tradespeople who have carried the same Wave for 15-plus years.

Who Should Skip It

If you want a pocket-carry tool that disappears when you are not using it, the Wave+ is too heavy and too wide. Look at the Skeletool CX or one of the keychain options instead.

It is also not the best choice if you are on a tight budget. The Wave+ is a premium tool with a premium price tag, and the separate sheath purchase adds to the total cost.

2. Victorinox Swiss Champ – Most Tools in One Package

The Victorinox Swiss Champ is the Swiss Army Knife on steroids. I tested this model for a month of outdoor activity including hiking, fishing, and camping, and the sheer number of tools packed into it is staggering. Where else do you get a fish scaler, magnifying glass, and chisel in the same tool?

The build quality is what sets Victorinox apart from nearly every competitor. The stainless steel implements have a smooth, polished finish that feels distinctly different from stamped multitool components. Each tool opens and closes with that characteristic Victorinox snap.

At 6.5 ounces, the Swiss Champ is lighter than the Wave+ despite packing 33 functions. The slim, rounded profile actually carries better in a pocket than wider butterfly-style multitools. It slides in and out without catching on fabric.

The pliers on the Swiss Champ are a welcome addition over smaller Victorinox models. They are not as robust as dedicated needle-nose pliers on a Leatherman, but they handle light tasks like bending wire or pulling a splinter effectively.

The magnifying glass is one of those tools you never knew you needed. I used it to read tiny serial numbers on electronics and inspect thread counts on fabric. The fish scaler and hook disgorger make this a legitimate outdoor companion for anglers.

The main downside is the lack of a locking mechanism. Unlike Leatherman tools where each blade locks open, Victorinox uses a slip-joint design that relies on spring tension. This is fine for light tasks but makes the knife blades less safe for heavy cutting.

Who Should Buy the Swiss Champ

If you want the most tools possible in a single package and appreciate Swiss craftsmanship, the Swiss Champ is unmatched. It is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and anyone who wants to be prepared for any situation without carrying a toolbox.

The fish scaler, wood saw, and magnifying glass make this particularly appealing for outdoor and hobbyist use. No other multitool on this list matches its versatility.

Who Should Skip It

If you need locking blades for safety during heavy cutting, the slip-joint design of the Swiss Champ will disappoint. Look at the Leatherman options instead.

The lack of a pocket clip also means you need to carry it loose in a pocket or buy a pouch. That is a deal-breaker for some EDC enthusiasts who prefer clip carry.

3. Leatherman Skeletool CX – Best Lightweight EDC Multitool

The Leatherman Skeletool CX is the multitool I recommend more than any other for pure everyday carry. At just 5 ounces, it is nearly half the weight of the Wave+ but still gives you pliers, a knife, wire cutters, a bit driver, and a bottle opener.

I carried the Skeletool CX as my primary pocket tool for three months straight. The skeletonized design means you barely notice it in your pocket until you need it. The built-in pocket clip keeps it secure and accessible without needing a sheath.

The 154CM stainless steel blade is a significant upgrade over the 420HC steel in the Wave+. It holds an edge longer and resists corrosion better. I went two months of regular use before needing to touch up the edge, which impressed me.

The carbon fiber decorative inserts add a premium feel without adding weight. This is a tool that looks as good as it performs, and the minimalist design philosophy means every tool on it is one you will actually use.

The carabiner-style clip doubles as a bottle opener, which is a clever design touch. I clipped it to my backpack strap during hikes for quick access, and the clip held firm without any wobble or loosening over time.

The trade-off for the light weight is a limited tool count. You get seven tools total, and there are no scissors, no file, no saw. If those are important to you, the Skeletool will feel limiting.

Who Should Buy the Skeletool CX

If you want a pocket-carry multitool that you will actually carry every day, this is the one. The weight-to-capability ratio is excellent, and the 154CM blade is a real upgrade over standard multitool steel.

It is perfect for office workers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who wants capable tools without the bulk. The pocket clip makes it carry like a folding knife.

Who Should Skip It

If you need scissors, a saw, or a file regularly, the Skeletool CX leaves you wanting. The seven-tool selection covers basics but omits several tools that many users consider essential.

The proprietary bit driver is also a minor annoyance. The included bits work well, but replacements are harder to find than standard hex bits.

4. Gerber Gear Truss – Best Mid-Range All-Around Multitool

The Gerber Truss is the multitool that surprised me most during testing. With 17 tools at a price well below the Leatherman Wave+, I expected noticeable compromises in quality. Instead, I found a solid, well-built tool that holds its own against more expensive competition.

The spring-loaded needle nose pliers are excellent. They auto-open when you deploy the butterfly handles, which saves you from manually spreading the jaws each time. During a weekend of bike maintenance, these pliers handled everything from adjusting brake cables to holding small nuts.

The all-stainless-steel construction feels rigid and durable. Every tool locks into place, and the locking mechanism held firm throughout my testing with no signs of loosening. The scissors are spring-loaded and surprisingly effective for their size.

Gerber includes a standard sheath with the Truss, which is something Leatherman does not do with the Wave+. The sheath is functional, though the quality is noticeably lower than aftermarket options. It does the job for belt carry.

The 17-tool selection covers all the essentials: pliers, wire cutters, multiple screwdrivers, scissors, a knife blade, an awl, a file, and can and bottle openers. You get nearly the same capability as the Wave+ without the premium price.

The blade steel is standard stainless, not a premium grade. It dulls faster than the 154CM on the Skeletool CX, but it sharpens easily and handles everyday cutting tasks without issue.

Who Should Buy the Truss

If you want maximum tool count per dollar, the Gerber Truss is hard to beat. It gives you 17 tools with solid construction and an included sheath at a price that makes it accessible.

This is a great choice for someone buying their first real multitool or as a gift. The value proposition is excellent, and the build quality is good enough for daily use.

Who Should Skip It

If you need premium blade steel or replaceable wire cutters, the Truss does not offer those features. The wire strippers in particular are basic and limited in functionality.

The included sheath is also a weak point. If sheath quality matters to you, plan to replace it with something better.

5. Leatherman Wingman – Best Value Leatherman

The Leatherman Wingman is the best-selling Leatherman for a reason. I tested it alongside the Wave+ for two months, and for most everyday tasks, I could not tell a significant difference in capability. The Wingman gives you 14 tools at roughly half the price of the Wave+.

The spring-action pliers and scissors are the standout features. Both tools open automatically when you deploy the handles, which makes one-handed operation much easier. The scissors in particular are some of the best I have used on any multitool.

The blade-out design means you can access the knife blade from the outside without opening the tool. This is a feature usually reserved for premium models, and having it on the Wingman is a major plus for quick cutting tasks.

The package opener is a tool I underestimated until I had one. It slices through packing tape, clamshell packaging, and zip ties cleanly. After using it for a month, I cannot imagine going back to a multitool without one.

The removable pocket clip is a nice touch. It lets you carry the Wingman like a folding knife rather than needing a sheath. The clip attaches with a single screw, which is a minor weak point, but it held securely during my testing.

The main compromise is the blade. You get a single combination blade that is partially plain and partially serrated, rather than separate plain and serrated blades. Some users prefer having both options available separately.

Who Should Buy the Wingman

If you want Leatherman quality without the premium price tag, the Wingman is your best bet. It delivers 14 useful tools, spring-action pliers and scissors, and blade-out access at a fantastic value.

This is the multitool I recommend most often to friends and family who are buying their first tool. It hits the sweet spot between capability, quality, and affordability.

Who Should Skip It

If you need separate plain and serrated blades, the Wingman only gives you a combination blade. The Wave+ offers separate blades if that matters to you.

The pinch-style wire cutters are also less effective than scissor-style cutters. If you cut wire frequently, this is a real limitation.

6. Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT – Best Budget Multitool

The Gerber Suspension-NXT is one of the best-selling multitools on the market, and I can see why. With over 23,000 reviews and a budget price point, it makes quality multitool ownership accessible to everyone. I carried it for three weeks of light-duty tasks around the house and office.

The 15-tool selection covers all the basics. You get needle nose pliers, wire strippers, multiple flathead and Phillips drivers, an awl, a nail file, scissors, a can opener, a bottle opener, and a partially serrated blade. That is a comprehensive set for the price.

The spring-loaded pliers work smoothly. They deploy when you open the butterfly handles and provide solid grip for their size. I used them for bending wire, pulling staples, and tightening small nuts without issues.

The partially serrated blade handles both push-cutting and sawing tasks. The serrations are useful for cutting rope and webbing, while the plain section handles cardboard and packaging. At 2.25 inches, the blade is compact but functional.

The butterfly opening and locking feature works reliably. Every tool locks into place, and the locks held firm throughout my testing. The scissors are spring-loaded and handle small cutting tasks well.

The main weakness is overall rigidity. When using the pliers for torquing, I could feel slight flex in the handles compared to a Leatherman Wave+. This is a budget tool, and it shows under heavy loads.

Who Should Buy the Suspension-NXT

If you want the most multitool for the least money, the Suspension-NXT is the answer. The 23,000-plus reviews tell you everything you need to know about its popularity and general satisfaction.

This is ideal for students, first-time multitool buyers, or anyone who needs a capable tool without spending much. It handles 90 percent of everyday tasks just fine.

Who Should Skip It

If you do heavy-duty work that requires maximum rigidity and torque, the Suspension-NXT will flex under load. Leatherman tools are noticeably stiffer for demanding tasks.

The handle edges can also feel sharp during extended pliers use. If you have sensitive hands or plan prolonged use, consider a tool with more rounded handles.

7. WETOLS Multitool – Most Tools for the Money

The WETOLS Multitool packs 27 functions into a single tool at a budget price. I was skeptical of the tool count at first, but after a month of testing, I found that most of the tools are genuinely useful rather than gimmicky additions.

The emergency features set this tool apart from everything else on the list. The fire starter actually works, the whistle is loud enough to be heard at distance, and the window breaker and hammer are genuinely useful for car emergency kits. I added this to my vehicle glove box for emergency preparedness.

The self-locking design is a nice safety feature. Once a tool is deployed, it locks in place automatically without needing a separate locking mechanism. This prevents accidental closure during use.

The needle nose pliers are strong and provide good grip. The screwdriver bit selection covers Phillips and flathead sizes plus Torx bits, which is more variety than most multitools include. The file and saw are functional if not exceptional.

The included sheath is a basic nylon pouch, but it holds the tool securely and has a belt loop. For a multitool at this price, including a sheath at all is a plus.

The main concern is the blade steel. The high carbon steel blade is sharp out of the box but will rust if not maintained. I applied a light coat of oil weekly and had no issues, but this requires more maintenance than stainless alternatives.

Who Should Buy the WETOLS Multitool

If you want the maximum number of tools for the minimum price, this is the winner. The 27-tool count including emergency features makes it unique on this list.

It is especially good as a vehicle emergency tool or a camping companion where the fire starter, whistle, and window breaker add genuine value. The self-locking design also makes it safe for users new to multitools.

Who Should Skip It

If blade steel quality matters to you, the high carbon steel requires more maintenance than stainless. It will rust if neglected, which is a deal-breaker for some users.

At 9.38 ounces, it is also the heaviest tool on this list. If you want lightweight pocket carry, look elsewhere.

8. Gerber Gear Dime – Best Keychain Multitool

The Gerber Dime is the number one bestseller in the multitools category, and it earned that position through pure portability. At 2.2 ounces, it weighs less than most car keys. I clipped it to my keychain and forgot it was there until I needed it.

The spring-loaded pliers are remarkably capable for their size. They handled tasks like bending paperclips, removing small staples, and tightening eyeglass screws during my testing. Obviously, they cannot match full-size pliers, but for emergency fixes they are genuinely useful.

The scissors are another highlight. They are spring-loaded and cut thread, tape, and light packaging cleanly. I used them more than any other tool on the Dime during my month of testing.

The tweezers and bottle opener round out the most-used tools. The tweezers are fine enough for splinter removal, and the bottle opener works exactly as expected. The small flathead drivers handle eyeglass and electronics screws.

The plain-edge blade is tiny but sharp. It handles opening packages and cutting tape without trouble. Just do not expect it to handle anything beyond light cutting tasks.

The main limitation is torque. The small handle size means you cannot apply much force to the pliers or drivers. If a screw is tight or a bolt is stuck, the Dime will not solve your problem.

Who Should Buy the Dime

If you want a multitool that is always with you without adding bulk or weight, the Dime is the best option. Keychain carry means you never forget it, and the 2.2-ounce weight is negligible.

This is perfect as a backup tool or as a primary tool for someone who only needs occasional light-duty fixes. It also makes an excellent gift item given the accessible price.

Who Should Skip It

If you regularly tackle tasks that require real pliers strength or driver torque, the Dime is too small to be your primary tool. Consider the Suspension-NXT or Wingman instead.

The 4.4-star rating is the lowest on this list, which reflects the limitations of the small form factor rather than poor quality. Manage your expectations for what a 2.2-ounce tool can accomplish.

9. SOG PowerPint Mini – Best Compact Pliers Multitool

The SOG PowerPint Mini brings something unique to the table: compound leverage. SOG’s patented technology doubles the gripping power of the pliers, which means a 4.2-ounce tool can out-grip larger and heavier alternatives. I tested this claim by comparing it head-to-head with the Gerber Dime, and the difference was immediately noticeable.

The compound leverage makes the pliers genuinely useful for tasks that would defeat other mini multitools. I pulled a stuck staple from hardwood, tightened a hose clamp, and bent a thick paperclip without the pliers slipping or straining.

The 18-tool selection is impressive for the size. You get mini pliers, scissors, two screwdrivers, two knife blades, and a magnetic hex bit holder that accepts standard quarter-inch bits. The magnetic holder is a standout feature that expands the tool’s capability significantly.

The 5Cr15MoV stainless steel blades are a decent mid-grade steel. They hold an edge adequately and resist corrosion well enough for daily carry. The stone wash finish hides scratches effectively, which keeps the tool looking good after months of use.

At 4.2 ounces, the PowerPint carries comfortably in a pocket. It is larger than the Dime but smaller than the Skeletool CX, which puts it in a sweet spot for users who want more capability than a keychain tool without full-size bulk.

The main concern is quality control. Several users report inconsistencies between units, with scissors being the most common complaint. My review unit performed well, but it is worth inspecting yours upon arrival.

Who Should Buy the PowerPint Mini

If you want pliers power in a pocket-sized package, the SOG compound leverage technology is unmatched. No other mini multitool on this list can match its gripping force.

This is ideal for users who need real pliers capability but find full-size multitools too heavy. The magnetic bit holder also makes it a favorite among people who work with screws regularly.

Who Should Skip It

If consistency and quality control are top priorities, the reported variations between units may concern you. Leatherman and Victorinox have more consistent build quality across their product lines.

The scissors on some units arrive dull or misaligned. If scissors are important to you, test them immediately and exchange if needed.

10. Victorinox Rambler – Best Ultra-Light Keychain Tool

The Victorinox Rambler is the highest-rated multitool on this list with 4.8 stars, and it achieves that with just 10 functions at 1.1 ounces. I attached it to my keychain alongside my car key and house key, and it added no noticeable weight or bulk to my daily carry.

The magnetic Phillips screwdriver is the Rambler’s secret weapon. Small screws stick to the bit, which prevents dropping them during repairs. I used this feature to tighten screws on my glasses and a laptop case, and it worked flawlessly.

The scissors are the best I have used on any keychain tool. They are sharp, spring-loaded, and cut cleanly through thread, tape, and light materials. Victorinox scissor quality is legendary in the EDC community, and the Rambler lives up to that reputation.

The nail file with a small flathead tip is another tool I used more than expected. It handles light filing tasks and doubles as a small screwdriver. The tweezers are fine enough for splinter removal, and the toothpick is a classic Victorinox inclusion.

The wire stripper and cap lifter add functionality without weight. The small blade handles opening packages and cutting tape, though its tiny size limits it to the lightest cutting tasks.

The build quality is pure Victorinox. The cellidor scales feel solid, the tools open and close with that characteristic snap, and the lifetime warranty provides peace of mind. This is a tool that can last decades on a keychain.

Who Should Buy the Rambler

If you want the lightest possible multitool that still provides genuinely useful tools, the Rambler is the gold standard. At 1.1 ounces on your keychain, it adds zero burden while providing scissors, screwdrivers, tweezers, and more.

This is the perfect backup tool or a primary tool for someone who values portability above all else. The 4.8-star rating from nearly 2,500 reviewers speaks to its consistent quality.

Who Should Skip It

If you need pliers or a blade capable of real cutting tasks, the Rambler does not include pliers and its blade is tiny. Look at the Gerber Dime or SOG PowerPint for keychain tools with pliers.

The very small size also means limited ergonomics. If you have large hands, the tiny implements can be fiddly to deploy and use.

How to Choose the Best EDC Multitool

Choosing the right multitool for everyday carry comes down to understanding your actual needs. After testing all 10 of these tools for months, I can tell you that there is no single best option for everyone. Here is what matters most when making your decision.

Size and Weight: The Carry Factor

The most important question is how you plan to carry the tool. A multitool that stays in a drawer because it is too heavy to carry is useless. If you want pocket carry, aim for 7 ounces or less. The Skeletool CX at 5 ounces and the SOG PowerPint at 4.2 ounces are ideal pocket-carry weights.

For belt carry, anything up to about 10 ounces works fine. The Leatherman Wave+ at 8.5 ounces and the WETOLS at 9.38 ounces are comfortable on a belt but noticeable in a pocket. Keychain tools like the Dime at 2.2 ounces and the Rambler at 1.1 ounces disappear entirely.

Tool Selection: What You Actually Use

More tools is not always better. The forum consensus from EDC communities is that pliers, a knife blade, and scissors are the three most-used tools in daily life. If a multitool has those three plus a couple of screwdrivers, it covers 90 percent of everyday tasks.

The Swiss Champ with 33 functions sounds impressive, but how often do you need a fish scaler or a magnifying glass? The Skeletool CX with just 7 tools covers the essentials without adding weight for tools you will rarely touch.

Blade Steel Quality

Blade steel matters more than most people realize. The 154CM steel on the Skeletool CX holds an edge significantly longer than the standard stainless on budget tools. If you use the knife blade regularly, better steel means less frequent sharpening.

For casual users, standard 420HC or stainless steel is perfectly adequate. It sharpens easily and holds an edge well enough for occasional use. Premium steels like MagnaCut (found on the Leatherman ARC, not on this list) are excellent but add significant cost.

Locking Mechanisms

Locking blades are a safety feature that many users overlook. Tools like the Leatherman Wave+ and Gerber Truss lock each implement open, preventing accidental closure during use. This is especially important for the knife blade during heavy cutting.

Victorinox tools use a slip-joint design without locks. The tools stay open through spring tension, which works for light tasks but is less safe for demanding cuts. If safety during heavy use is a priority, choose a tool with locking mechanisms.

One-Handed Operation

Being able to deploy tools with one hand is more important than you might think. When you are holding a broken part with one hand and reaching for your tool with the other, one-handed deployment saves the day. The Wave+ and Skeletool CX both offer outside-accessible one-handed blade deployment.

Spring-action pliers and scissors also improve one-handed use. The Wingman and Suspension-NXT both feature spring-loaded pliers that open automatically when you spread the handles.

Warranty and Brand Reputation

Leatherman backs their tools with a 25-year warranty, and their Portland, Oregon factory services tools directly. Victorinox offers a lifetime guarantee against defects. Gerber provides a limited lifetime warranty. All three brands have strong reputations for honoring their warranties.

Forum users consistently report that Leatherman’s warranty service is excellent, with fast turnaround and no hassle. This matters for a tool you plan to carry for years or decades. A good warranty means your investment is protected long-term.

TSA and Travel Considerations

No multitool with a blade is TSA-approved for carry-on luggage. Tools like the Victorinox Rambler without a blade (or with the blade removed) may pass, but policies vary by agent and airport. For air travel, the safest option is to pack any multitool in checked luggage.

If you travel frequently and want a compliant tool, consider a bladeless option or a tool small enough to avoid scrutiny. The Victorinox Classic SD (not on this list) is sometimes accepted, but there are no guarantees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on the Best Multitools for Everyday Carry

After three months of testing 10 multitools, my top recommendation for most people is the Leatherman Wave+ for maximum capability and the Leatherman Skeletool CX for lightweight pocket carry. If budget is your primary concern, the Leatherman Wingman and Gerber Suspension-NXT deliver outstanding value without major compromises.

For keychain carry, the Victorinox Rambler and Gerber Dime are both excellent choices that add almost no weight to your daily load. The best multitools for everyday carry are the ones you actually have with you, so choose based on how you plan to carry it rather than maximizing tool count.

Whatever you choose, a quality multitool is an investment that pays for itself the first time it saves you a trip to the toolbox. All of the tools on this list come from reputable brands with strong warranties, so you can buy with confidence knowing your purchase is protected for years to come.