We had a chance to see the new Bosch MX30E Multi-X oscillating multi-tool up close and personal when we attended Bosch's media event in July. It's a corded model, but it boasts a tool-less attachment blade change lever/mechanism that's sure to be popular since it works with all of Bosch's existing accessories. Bosch sells it in three configurations, including the MX30EC-21, MX30EK-33, and MX30KEL-37, depending on which accessories you want to include. The MX30E joins rather than replaces the Bosch MX25E and Bosch PS50-2A cordless multi-tool models. As you might expect, the move will see Bosch continue to grow and diversify its already impressive line of Bosch oscillating tools, OIS attachments, blades and accessories.
Of course, what's special about the MX30E is that it's the first Bosch oscillating tool to use a tool-less attachment change lever, putting it in sync with offerings from Fein and Porter-Cable. Tool-free blade change is one of the biggest advantages when using an oscillating tool, as it helps you work faster and the tool becomes more versatile. Not only can you swap out the attachments, but you can easily re-angle them to suit your application without the need for an Allen key, which may or may not still be attached to the tool or power cord. It's also worth noting that Bosch's new Multi-X tool-less system doesn't require removal of the center pin when changing accessories like the Fein Top Multitool does. When it comes to misplacing parts on the job, I need all the help I can get.
The Bosch MX30E is also the most powerful member of the Bosch Multi-X series, rated at 3.0 amps. We are not aware of any similarly priced products that exceed this power level. The MX30E's oscillation speed can be smoothly adjusted from 8,000 to 20,000 oscillations per minute (OPM), making it ideal for precision and heavy-duty applications. Bosch also included something called a "constant response circuit," which maintains a constant oscillation speed even when the tool is used in more aggressive applications.
Like the Bosch MX25 multi-tool, the MX30E uses a reinforced gear case that reduces vibration so you can hold the tool more comfortably for longer. There's plenty of rubber overmolding in all the right places, so it's easy and convenient to hold the tool at a variety of angles and grips. Bosch has an optional OSC003 dust collection kit that enables the MX30E to be used in more sensitive applications and jobs where you just need to control the amount of airborne particles (eg lead safe retrofit applications or when simply working in a home) its occupants may Will appreciate the extra care and reduced cleanup).
The Bosch MX30E Multi-X Oscillating Tool is available in three different kits (currently there is no option to purchase a bare tool):
Bosch MX30EC-21 kit ($199)
- OSC138JF Japanese Tooth Wood Saw Blade
- OSC2RSC Rigid Scraper
- OSC312F Wood/Metal Saw Blade
- OSC312RF RIFF Grouting Blade
- OSC112 wood cutting blade
- SDP001 sanding pad
- 15 wood and paint sandpaper
- Accessory box
- soft tote bag
Bosch MX30EK-33 kit ($249)
- OSC138JF Japanese Tooth Wood Saw Blade
- OSC2RSC Rigid Scraper
- OSC312F Wood/Metal Saw Blade
- OSC138MF metal saw blade
- OSC312RF RIFF Grouting Blade
- OSCC3DRF carbide grit file
- SDP001 sanding pad
- 25 wood and paint sandpaper
- OSC112 wood saw blade
- Accessory box
- hard suitcase
Bosch MX30KEL-37 Kit ($299)
- OSC138JF Japanese Tooth Wood Saw Blade
- OSC2RSC Rigid Scraper
- OSC312F Wood/Metal Saw Blade
- OSC138MF metal saw blade
- OSC312RF RIFF Grouting Blade
- OSCC3DRF carbide grit file
- SDP001 sanding pad
- 25 wood and paint sandpaper
- (2) OSC112 wood saw blades
- OSC34 wood entry blade
- OSC34F Wood/Metal Plunge Blade
- OSC214C caulking blade
- Accessory box
- Bosch L-Boxx Systainer Hard Suitcase
The new MX30E series of Multi-X multi-tools looks like a solid product that is doing well in the market. We're especially pleased that Bosch released them in three configurations, priced at $199, $249, and $299. Notably, the baseline MX30EC-21 kit comes with 5 cutting and scraping accessories and 16 grinding accessories, the MX30EK-33 increases this to 7 cutting, scraping and grinding accessories and a hard case, and the MX30EL-37 brings 11 Accessories and L-Boxx Systainer style case. The EK-33 and EL-37 kits also come with 26 sanding accessories. Find Bosch MX30E kits immediately available through authorized brick-and-mortar stores and online resellers.