Dremel Multi-Max MM45 Multi Tool Kit – Slice and Dice That To-Do List!

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases (more).

thd-sponsor-banner-468x60What's This?A few months ago, our fearless leader Marc reviewed the Dremel Multi-Max MM20, Dremel’s budget-minded oscillating multi-tool (OMT). Given its bargain price of $59 (which has since gone up to $69), Marc was impressed with its performance, and recommended it as a great entry-level or occasional-use tool. Recently, Dremel provided us with its higher-end OMT kit, the Dremel Multi-Max MM45, to evaluate for this sponsored post. There are a lot of choices out there when it comes to this type of tool, and some bargains to be had, especially with the holidays approaching. If you’re a pro, or a serious do-it-yourselfer, this latest version of their popular tool is definitely worth a look.

dremel multi-max mm45
The Dremel Multi-Max MM45 Oscillating Multi Tool

Here are the official specs and features from Dremel:
• Quick-Lock feature for fast, tool-free and secure accessory changes
• High Performance 3.5 amp motor – for the most demanding applications
• Quick-Fit accessory interface – for fast and easy accessory changes
• Quick-Hold magnetic flange holds accessories in place for easy tightening
• SmartBoost – maintains constant speed throughout toughest applications and materials
• Oscillation arc range of 3.2 degrees
• Up-front on/off switch – allows one-handed use and maintains speed setting
• 10,000 – 21,000 OPM speed range – for optimal performance in a variety of materials
• Maximum performance tested accessories – over $100 worth of accessories included in the kit (accessories vary)
• Ergonomically optimized soft grip for comfort and control
• 7 foot rubber cord for a wide working range
• Limited 2 year warranty, 90 day return policy
• Weight: 3.2 lbs.

The Dremel Multi-Max MM45 kit comes in a sturdy plastic case. Included in the kit are a variety of accessories to get your project list underway; accessories vary depending on which kit you choose. There are several blades, capable of cutting wood, metal and drywall. There’s also a drywall jab blade (the only oscillating blade that makes both straight and curved cuts in drywall), and a carbide grout removal blade.

dremel multi-max mm45
The kit comes with a nice variety of accessories – no excuse not to get to work! Shown is the MM45-03

To get your sanding projects going, there is also an MM14 hook and loop pad that mounts on the Dremel Multi-Max MM45, along with various sanding pads, good for both bare wood and painted or varnished surfaces. The instruction manual is very well written, and includes a lot of useful advice on how to best use the various accessories, along with tables showing recommended speed settings for each one.

Who Needs An Oscillating Multitool, Anyhow??

Many DIYers, and even some pros, may never have had a chance to use an OMT, and may wonder just how useful it would really be. The short answer? Amazingly useful. Ask anyone who owns one, and I guarantee they’ll rave about it. When I got my first one several years ago, a Bosch (and by the way, Bosch now owns Dremel), it quickly became one of the tools that accompanied me to every job. I’ve used an oscillating multitool to chisel up floor tile and mastic, cut off corroded toilet bolts, and make perfect cuts on a LOT of door trim while installing flooring.

dremel multi-max mm45
The MM45’s little brother undercuts a door jamb

I’ve also made cuts in exterior siding to install electric boxes, cut copper and PVC pipes, cut through armored BX cable, made precise cuts in hardwood trim and flooring, cut a hole in an aluminum gutter for a new downspout, sanded in some very tight spaces, removed hardened glazing compound from old windows, cut galvanized vent pipe…you get the idea. Having an OMT along has saved me time, money and frustration many a time.

There are a bunch of Dremel How-To videos on YouTube, showing how to use the Multi-Max tools in a number of ways. Here’s a sample video, showing a Dremel MM40 removing a broken ceramic tile:

http://youtu.be/zhxsN3UDSWI

The Dremel Multi-Max MM45 In Action

One of our pet peeves with lower-end OMTs, and tools in general, is the lack of a tool-free accessory changing system. Having to track down an Allen wrench or chuck key, remove a retaining bolt, swap out the accessory, reinsert the bolt and tighten it, and put the wrench back where you can hopefully find it NEXT time, is both annoying and time consuming. And if you happen to lose the wrench… ‘nuff said.

Bottom line: at HomeFixated we are BIG fans of tool-free accessory change setups, and the system on the Dremel Multi-Max MM45 is sweet. Simply rotate a lever on the top of the tool out, to just under 180°. Slide the accessory into the holder, making sure it engages all the pins on the flange. The flange is magnetized, a great feature that helps keep the accessory in position until you lock the clamp. Now just rotate the lever back onto the body, and you’re done! The accessories lock in solidly, no play at all. I timed several blade changes, and consistently came in under 10 seconds. And I’m an old guy with bad eyes!

dremel multi-max mm45
Tool free blade changes are simple. Just slide the lever open…
dremel multi-max mm45
Swing it to the front, just under 180 degrees
dremel multi-max mm45
Slide the accessory into position; the magnetic flange holds it in place
dremel multi-max mm45
Flip the lever closed, and you’re ready to oscillate!

The specs on the Dremel Multi-Max MM45 are impressive. I wanted to see it in action, though, so I devised a task this type of tool is commonly used for: installing electrical work boxes. I grabbed a couple of old-work boxes (designed to be installed in existing walls or ceilings): one typically used for outlets or wall switches, and a round ceiling box.

dremel multi-max mm45
An OMT is the perfect tool for making a work box cutout

I first wanted to see how the Dremel Multi-Max MM45 would do cutting through wood. I grabbed a 1X8, marked out the dimensions, and clamped the board down. This is something you’ll want to do with pretty much anything you cut. By their nature, all OMTs vibrate, so for safety, a neater cut, and to avoid unnecessary foul language, make sure your work piece is secure.

dremel multi-max mm45
Good vibrations coming; clamp your work piece down!

I started in at about a 45° angle, and worked my way along one of the long edges. I’ve used many multitools, and there are some that really require hearing protection. The noise level from the Dremel Multi-Max MM45 wasn’t bad at all; I left the earplugs out. I worked my way steadily around the edges; the tool had no trouble at all making the cut.

dremel multi-max mm45
Start the cut at about a 45 degree angle
dremel multi-max mm45
Cutting with the Dremel Multi-Max MM45 was smooth and fast

I went at a fairly steady pace, but a couple of times put extra pressure on the tool, to see what would happen. The Dremel compensated by ratcheting up the power a bit, and I forged steadily through. After about two minutes, I had a nice, neat hole, and the box fit perfectly into it.

dremel multi-max mm45
Quick and easy; on to the next!

For the next challenge, I wanted to try out the drywall jab blade. I’ve never used one, and was interested to see how it would do cutting a circle. Normally, I would use a spiral saw for that type of cut, but they can be tricky to use, and not everyone has one of those. I marked out my cut line, and plunged in.

dremel multi-max mm45
Ready for box number two
dremel multi-max mm45
The drywall jab saw blade, ready to do battle
dremel multi-max mm45
We’re jabbin’…

It’s a bit tricky working overhead; no matter what kind of tool you’re using, cutting drywall makes a lot of dust. The Dremel Multi-Max MM45 was fairly easy to control; the key is to take your time and try to stay right on the cut line. After a bit over a minute, my ceiling box hole was done; I’ll definitely be keeping a jab blade with my OMT!

dremel multi-max mm45
Round and round we go…
dremel multi-max mm45
Ready for the box; easy peasy!

thd-cube-300x250

Ready To Cut Your Project List Down?

The Dremel MM20 that Marc reviewed was a pretty basic model, as you would expect for such a low price. It had a 2.3 amp motor, and came with two blades and three sheets of sandpaper. The Dremel Multi-Max MM45 includes a lot of notable upgrades. Aside from a 3.5 amp motor, by increasing the oscillation angle to 3.2 degrees, the Dremel MM45 offers 2X faster speed of cut than the Dremel MM20. This increase in speed makes the Dremel Multi-Max MM45 one of the fastest cutting oscillating tools in the market.

The Dremel Multi-Max MM45 has a good, solid feel to it. It’s comfortable to hold, and the power switch is right where it should be, where your thumb naturally falls. The speed, which ranges from 10,000 to 21,000 oscillations per minute, is easy to control with the speed dial, and helps you set the perfect speed for your application. The tool cuts smoothly, it’s relatively quiet, and the included accessories in most kits should give you a good start on your project list.

dremel multi-max mm45
The Dremel Multi-Max MM45 is comfortable to hold
dremel multi-max mm45
The power switch is well-placed and easy to operate
dremel multi-max mm45
Dremel offers a great variety of accessories…
dremel multi-max mm45
In a pinch other universal fit accessories can save the day if necessary

As I mentioned earlier, the oscillating multitool is one of the handiest tools around; I’m constantly finding new ways to use mine. Once you have an OMT, you’ll wonder what you ever did without it, and kick yourself for waiting so long to get one! If you’re in the market for an OMT, for yourself or someone else, the Dremel Multi-Max MM45 is a solid value, and should provide years of slicing and dicing (and sanding, and grinding…). The Dremel Multi-Max MM45 is sold exclusively at Home Depot, and comes with a two-year warranty and a 90-day return policy. The kit we tested is the Dremel MM45 – 03, and it retails for $129 at The Home Depot!

Buy Now - via Home Depot

dremel multi-max mm45

Photo of author

About Phil

Phil’s path to the pinnacle of success as HomeFixated’s Senior Writer was long and twisted. At various stages of his life, he worked as a framing carpenter, attended motorcycle mechanics school, served as an Army MP, did a hot and itchy stint installing insulation in Phoenix, owned and operated a small contracting firm doing residential renovations, and worked as an employee of a major airline (Motto: We’re not happy ‘til YOU’RE not happy). He is currently semi-retired, but continues to take on little projects, such as the total renovation of an old farmhouse. Yes, he is a slow learner. Future projects include a teardown restoration of his 1965 BMW motorcycle, and designing and building a kick-ass playhouse for his grandsons. Phil loves spending time outdoors, hanging out with family and friends, cool tools, and a cold IPA when beer o'clock rolls around.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get access to free prizes, product sneak-peeks, reviews, how-to's and much more!

More Info | Email Privacy

10 thoughts on “Dremel Multi-Max MM45 Multi Tool Kit – Slice and Dice That To-Do List!”

    • It should be able to, if you found a good diamond-tipped blade for it. OMTs aren’t the best choice for cutting tile, other than the occasional small notch or cutout, or maybe cleaning up the edges of cuts made with a tile saw. The vibration makes it difficult to get good control, and cutting tile generates a LOT of dust and small flying particles that you’re better off NOT getting in your eye. If you’d rather not invest in a regular tile saw, a 4″ grinder with a diamond wheel is a better choice than an OMT, although you’ll still have the dust to deal with. And if you’re interested in the Dremel, here’s a link to the review on the latest version:
      https://homefixated.com/dremel-mm45-05-multi-max-review/

      Reply
    • Definitely. You may need an adaptor. There are several out there. They look like discs with different knobs meant for different manufacturer standards and are available for a few bucks from Home Depot or probably anywhere OMT tools are sold.

      Reply
    • For drywall, electrical boxes, floor cuts, plumbing, the list is endless. Love this tool. One of the most used tools when renovating. Has so many uses and accessories are very reasonably priced. 5 stars for sure.

      Reply
  1. Do you have a picture of the back of the box? I’m trying to compare with the mm45-02 and want to see what blades and accessories come with the mm45-03. Thanks!

    Reply
    • No picture, Calvin, but here’s a list of what came with the MM45-03:

      1 MM480 wood flush cut blade
      1 MM482 wood and metal flush cut blade
      1 MM485 carbide blade
      1 MM450 circular wood and drywall blade
      1 MM502 grout removal blade
      1 MM435 drywall jab saw
      1 MM14 Velcro sanding pad
      8 MM70W Various grits wood sandpaper
      7 MM70P Various grits for sanding painted surfaces.

      Hope this helps!

      Reply
  2. Wow, $100 is not a bad price at all considering just the cost of some of the blades alone! I just spent $30 at Home Depot buying a Dremel Accessory kit with something like 5-6 blades and a universal adapter and I thought that was a good deal! I just used my own OMT to adapt some new shoe moulding to some existing door trim, or vice versa when it made more sense, in addition to using it to cut off the extra tongues or notch out the laminate wood floor I recently installed. It’s definitely true that OMT’s are the tool you never thought you’d need but can’t live without once you get one!

    Reply

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.