Fein recently came out with their latest generation oscillating multi-tool, the FMM 350 Q. I bought a FMM 250 Q MultiMaster starter kit a few years ago, and it has been a darn good oscillating tool. Fein invented the oscillating multi-tool, and their experience definitely shines through with this tool. The new FMM 350 Q MultiMaster is said to be better in every way.
Although the MultiMaster is designed to work best with Fein accessories, it is compatible with many competitors’ universal blades and accessories. Fein MultiMount accessories now fit competitors’ tools as well.
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I have not put in as many hours with the FMM 350Q MultiMaster as my older Fein oscillating tool, or other brands’ models, but what I have seen thus far this will be the one I use for pretty much everything moving forward.
As with other oscillating multi-tools, the MultiMaster can be used for sanding, cutting, flush-cutting, plunge-cutting, grinding, and scraping applications, provided you use the appropriate blade or accessory.
FMM 350 Q Features at a Glance
- “Unrivaled performance and versatility”
- More efficient – up to 35% more power
- Quieter – up to 50% less noise
- Practically vibration-free – up to 70% less vibration
- Easier-to-read variable speed dial
- Tool-free quick-change accessory holder
- 13 foot durable rubber-clad power cable
- Made in Germany
Specifications
- 350W motor
- 10,000 to 19,500 oscillations per minute
- 2 x 1.7° oscillating range
High Performance Redesign
The new FMM 350 Q features a more powerful 350W motor. Given the 110V US voltage standard, this translates to about 3.2 A. Honestly, I never found the 250W motor of my Fein to be lacking in any way, but more power is always a good thing.
Fein put together a chart that shows how much speedier the 350 Q makes a series of cuts in birch compared to other oscillating multi-tools:
Fein’s sales flyer (PDF linked below) goes into depth describing other internal features, such as the perfectly balanced armature with ball bearings at each end, and a tacho generator that helps keep speed constant even under load. There’s also a new cooling fan that helps keep motor temperatures down. There are a lot of minor enhancements in the new MultiMaster which all contribute to a better-than-ever user experience.
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It’s the attention to details that makes the MultiMaster such a great tool. Even the power cord is well thought out. It’s made with fine-stranded industrial-quality cable. The fine strands make it more flexible, and the rubber cladding help to make it extremely durable.
Anti-Vibration Enhancements
The FMM 250 Q MultiMaster – now called the FMT 250 Q MultiTalent – was pretty good in terms of vibration reduction. The new FMM 350 Q MultiMaster has a few improvements, such as complete motor isolation from the housing.
After a few test cuts, I believe I can tell the difference between both tools. I don’t know whether I’m feeling 70% less vibrations, but the FMM 350 Q is definitely the best oscillating multi-tool I have ever used, and not just when it comes to hand vibrations.
The new FMM 350 Q is also quieter than its predecessor, and quieter than competing models. Compared to the 250 Q, the motor hum is also a little lower pitched, which makes things even better. Fein says that the new MultiMaster has outstanding noise dampening that helps provide for more pleasant working for you and your environment. From what I have felt and heard, this isn’t an exaggeration.
Initial Conclusions and Recommendations
I find myself REALLY liking the FMM 350 Q. It’s not just the power, lower vibrations, and lower noise. Or the tweaks that maximize user-friendliness. Or the lightweight design and solid-feeling quality construction. It’s that everything fits together to create a phenomenal product.
Most power tools are the sum of their features and parts. This MultiMaster seems to go beyond that. Fein has created a marvelous oscillating tool that couldn’t possibly be any better.
In writing this out, I’m sitting here trying to think of a downside to the new MultiMaster.
I cannot even complain about the price, as the new tool hits the same price points as its predecessor – $199 for the START kit that comes with a soft carrying case and a couple of accessories, and $349 for the TOP kit that comes with a kit box and lots of accessories.
If you’re looking for a new oscillating tool, the FMM 350 Q is as good as it gets. I have only started testing and using the tool, but thus far it’s proven to be a pleasure to use.
Buy Now(START Kit via Amazon)
Buy Now(TOP Kit via Amazon)
More Info(via Fein)
More Info(PDF Flyer via Fein)
Note: You might also see the FMM 350 Q advertised as the 2014 edition of the MultiMaster. The FMM 250 Q is in some places advertised as the 2013 MultiMaster, or 2014 FMT 250 Q MultiTalent.
Thank you to Fein for providing the review sample unconditionally. Review samples are typically given away, donated, or retained for editorial and comparison purposes. This sample will likely be retained for long-term testing.
fred
You write: “Fein has created a marvelous oscillating tool that couldn’t possibly be any better.”
That’s high praise indeed coming from you, but I’m hoping that Fein and others continue to stretch themselves to ignore the thought that what they have now “couldn’t possibly be any better.” Having used Fein Multimasters and Supercuts almost from their respective introductions – I have to say that they still are solid tools – but tweaks and upgrades along the way have much improved them. The original Multimaster design had a blade holding system that used a socket head screw and a hex key – that was time consuming to use. Worse yet – the original Multimaster used friction alone as the way to hold the blade in position – and no matter how much you tightened the holding screw down – some blades tended to slip around . Their quick change system is better – but as others have pointed out it has a holding pin, that while simple and effective – might be subject to dropping and loss. Nonetheless – based on everything considered – If I was in the market for a new corded oscillating tool – this new Fein would be it.
BTW – from experience in running a fabrication shop – Fein finishing tools like their WPO 14-25 and RS 12-70 are also tools worth a serious look.
Dan
I like the quick in system and whilst you could lose the pin you can more easily lose a socket head bolt. I bet you can get hold of replacements fairly easily if you need to.
Robert Wdowiak
I have the original Fein. Blades spin around. They wanted me to buy a sort of solution to fix their failed engineering. Will never buy a Fein product again.
Smelly
This makes no sense. Blades could come loose if not tightened but come on. Man up.
Dan
The original system had nothing to locate the blade in position, it relied on friction generated when the blade was clamped in with its retaining screw, so you could set the blade anywhere but they were prone to moving around.
Ran
I agree. The original that relied on friction is a real pain, in that you can’t tighten it enough to keep it from slipping with some cuts. I like the tool but the having to constantly stop it to reposition and retighten the blade is very irritating.
Jim
I also have the original tool and the same experience as Robert, the blades spin. I can’t believe an otherwise splendid (and cleverly designed) product could possibley have such a fatal defect. Fein should make good on these original tools with something that actually works, assuming they’ve solved this issue.
Puckman
Wow, complaining about a tool that they literally invented. W/O Fein there is NO portable plunge cut saw.
Sure the first rendition wasn’t perfect…..but pretty close. In fact after ALL those years to improve on a design, almost every other copycat manufacturer did very little to NOTHING. If I even had something I disliked about the Multimaster, it was how loud it was. Now that they say this is 1/2 as loud, looks like I’ll buy the new one for that improvement alone.
Take any further complaints to Schwabisch Gmund.
jack loganbill
Could not be any better, a bit of hyperbole there! Have you compared the Fein to the new Festool oscillating tool that includes plunge capability, depth stop, etc.?
There is always room and ways to improve!
JackL
http://www.thewoodshop.20m.com
Stuart
Apples vs. Oranges.
The Festool Vecturo (https://toolguyd.com/festool-vecturo/) is intended to compete with the SuperCut, and is priced accordingly.
Michel
Question: would a multimaster tool purchased in the US work in the EU. In other words, is it rated 100-220V, 50/60 Hz?
Ferris
Fein Multimaster tools sold in the US are not multi-voltage units. Only rated for 110-120v 60hz. Plugging them into 220-240v mains will damage the tool.
YIQUANONE .
I also have the original multimeter and the attachment system is terrible, they improved it on next model, I asked fein if they could upgrade mine and they said no updates . I feel fein should fix the older units , they are junk, anyway I will never buy another fein product. I have most of the Festool line and the only tool that is a little disappointing is their jigsaw, I will probably go with Festool venturo to get decent oscillating tool, and purchase the adapter from fein to use old and different blades.
Sam Singer
We have used earlier versions of the Fein multimaster for many years. Recently we bought three of these new versions. They are great for about four hours of use until they fail completely . All three just stopped working. We work these tools harder than any of you other can imagine. The old ones we have all still work, after ten years. but Fein somehow took a great tool an made it into a piece of crap. we depend on these tools to make a living and do not know what we are going to do. All three are under warranty and will be replaced or fixed at no cost to us. fine, but I am certain those will also die in short order. We are plasterers, which is a very uncommon trade , so few will ever work these tools as hard as we do.
Monte
Try the SuperCut. That´s the right tool for you.
faouzi
je crois que l’outil multiusage de marque Dewalt est meilleure que la meilleure des feins et de loin encore bien que je dois beaucoup de respect à cette dernière
Nathan
You prefer the Dewalt multiTool attachment system although you have no issues with the Fein products.
Is that about correct? Just curious.
I happen to agre that I like the dewalt/porter cable multi-tool connection system and I’ve never once had an issue with slippage or loss.
Doug
New out of box the pin will not release. Can’t use and still trying not to break the lever or pry the pin out for fear of damaging the blade locking mechanism. Not good,
David
had the 350 for just one month and it crapped out on me. Sparks started flying out of it. What i jip. Last one i had lasted 4 years of heavy everyday use.
Patrick whelan
I have a Fein tool FMMQ original that I use daily and blades are very affordable through Amazon at under a buck a blade. I buy them by the 50 pack. Very convenient to say the least! I went to purchase another Fein tool and they have this new star lock system? I’m looking for the original and if anyone has any information on this that would be most helpful.
Stuart
Looking at their website, it seems that Fein only makes Starlock oscillating multi-tools now.