Multi-tool blades come in three main fitting systems: Starlock (Bosch, Makita, Fein), OPEN-LOK (Milwaukee), and universal OIS (most other brands). The fitting system matters far more than you’d think — a Starlock blade won’t fit a Milwaukee OPEN-LOK tool, and universal blades won’t give you the quick-change convenience of a proprietary system. This guide rounds up the best multi-tool blades available in the UK right now, with direct links to buy online.
Whether you’re looking for metal-cutting blades, wood blades, or general-purpose sets, we’ve listed the top options for each fitting system, plus links to browse full ranges on Amazon. Most of these are available next day in the UK.
If you’re not sure which fitting system your multi-tool uses, scroll down to the “Which Fitting System Does My Multi-Tool Use?” section below.
Quick Links by Fitting System
| Fitting System | Compatible Brands | More Info |
|---|---|---|
| Starlock / StarlockPlus / StarlockMax | Bosch, Makita, Fein, Mafell | Bosch Starlock Guide |
| Milwaukee OPEN-LOK | Milwaukee | Milwaukee OPEN-LOK Guide |
| Universal OIS | DeWalt, Ryobi, Bosch (some), Makita (some) | Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide |
Best Starlock Multi-Tool Blades
Starlock is the industry standard for quick-change multi-tool blades. It’s used across Bosch, Makita, and Fein tools, and StarlockPlus/StarlockMax versions offer even faster blade changes. If your multi-tool has a push-button or lever release on the head, you’re almost certainly using Starlock.
Bosch Starlock Multi-Tool Blade Set
A comprehensive mixed blade set with wood-cutting, metal-cutting, and grout-removal blades. These work on any Starlock tool (Bosch, Makita, Fein) and are excellent value. ASIN: B094162ZJ3
Buy Bosch Starlock Blade Set on Amazon UK
Bosch Professional Multi-Tool Accessory Set
The professional-grade version with more specialist blades including carbide-grit saw blades for tile and stone. Heavier duty than the standard set and better value if you need variety. ASIN: B01N6Y1CBC
Buy Bosch Professional Set on Amazon UK
Makita Starlock Multi-Tool Blade
Makita’s own Starlock-compatible blades. These work on all Starlock tools but carry Makita’s reputation for consistency. Available as individual blades or mixed sets. ASIN: B07Y5HLY4T
Buy Makita Starlock Blade on Amazon UK
Fein Starlock Blade
Fein blades are known for precision cutting and fine-tooth action. Slightly more expensive than Bosch but excellent for detailed work in wood and composites. ASIN: B08F2GMZ6C
Buy Fein Starlock Blade on Amazon UK
Browse all Starlock blades on Amazon UK
More details: Bosch Starlock Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide | Makita Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide
Best Milwaukee OPEN-LOK Blades
Milwaukee OPEN-LOK is Milwaukee’s proprietary quick-change system. It’s incompatible with Starlock, but all Milwaukee oscillating multi-tools use it. OPEN-LOK blades click in and out in seconds and are widely available in the UK.
Milwaukee OPEN-LOK Multi-Tool Blade Set
Milwaukee’s official multi-blade set with all the essentials: metal-cutting, wood-cutting, and general-purpose blades. Fits all Milwaukee M18 and M12 multi-tools with the OPEN-LOK head. ASIN: B094QDP8JQ
Buy Milwaukee OPEN-LOK Blade Set on Amazon UK
Browse all OPEN-LOK blades on Amazon UK
More details: Milwaukee OPEN-LOK Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide
Best Universal Fit Blades
Universal OIS (Oscillating Interface System) blades fit tools from DeWalt, Ryobi, and many Bosch and Makita multi-tools. They use a simple twist-lock or side-pin system rather than a proprietary quick-change. Universal blades are the most widely compatible but slightly less convenient than quick-change systems.
DeWalt Multi-Tool Accessory Set
DeWalt’s universal-fit blade set works on any OIS multi-tool, not just DeWalt models. Includes wood, metal, grout, and general-purpose blades. Excellent value and widely stocked. ASIN: B00FRKFA7Q
Buy DeWalt Universal Accessory Set on Amazon UK
Ryobi Multi-Tool Blade Set
Ryobi universal-fit blades at budget price. Work on all OIS-compatible tools (Ryobi, DeWalt, many Bosch and Makita models). Good basic variety and reliable performers. ASIN: B077SQZFN3
Buy Ryobi Universal Blade Set on Amazon UK
Browse all universal multi-tool blades on Amazon UK
More details: DeWalt Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide | Ryobi Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide
Which Fitting System Does My Multi-Tool Use?
Multi-tool blade compatibility is determined entirely by the blade fitting system, not the brand or model of the tool itself.
Starlock (Bosch, Makita, Fein, Mafell)
Look for a push-button or lever release on the side or top of the multi-tool head. The blade clips in and out in seconds. Starlock is the quick-change standard. Some newer models have StarlockPlus or StarlockMax variants (faster, stronger), but all are cross-compatible.
OPEN-LOK (Milwaukee)
Milwaukee’s proprietary system uses a quarter-turn lock ring or slot-and-pin mechanism. Blades are incompatible with Starlock. All Milwaukee M18 and M12 multi-tools use OPEN-LOK.
Universal OIS (DeWalt, Ryobi, some Bosch/Makita)
The simplest system: blades fit into a slot with a side pin or bolt. No quick-change mechanism. Many older Bosch, Makita, and all DeWalt/Ryobi multi-tools use universal OIS. Some newer Bosch and Makita models accept both Starlock and universal via an adapter.
Not sure which you have? Check your tool’s manual or the maker’s website. Alternatively, see our full Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide with brand-by-brand breakdowns.
Brand Compatibility Guides
For detailed blade compatibility information by brand, see the guides below:
| Brand | Compatibility Guide |
|---|---|
| Bosch | Bosch Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide |
| Makita | Makita Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide |
| DeWalt | DeWalt Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide |
| Milwaukee | Milwaukee OPEN-LOK Compatibility Guide |
| Fein | Fein Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide |
| Ryobi | Ryobi Multi-Tool Blade Compatibility Guide |
UK Retailers Beyond Amazon
Multi-tool blades are widely stocked across UK power tool retailers. If you prefer not to buy from Amazon, try:
- Screwfix — Excellent range of Starlock and universal blades, same-day delivery available in many areas
- Toolstation — Wide selection of all three fitting systems, competitive pricing
- Power Tool World — Specialist retailer, often has stock of harder-to-find blades
- B&Q — Basic selection of Bosch and DeWalt blades, usually in stock
- Wickes — Limited range but good for emergency stock
- eBay UK — Often has bulk blade sets at discount prices
For brand-specific blades (Makita, Milwaukee, Fein), online retailers often have better availability and pricing than high-street shops.
Watch: Video Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Are multi-tool blades universal?
No. Multi-tool blades come in three incompatible fitting systems: Starlock (Bosch, Makita, Fein), Milwaukee OPEN-LOK, and universal OIS. A Starlock blade will not fit a Milwaukee OPEN-LOK tool, for example. However, universal OIS blades are designed to fit multiple tool brands that use the OIS standard. Always check your tool’s fitting system before buying blades.
Can I use Bosch Starlock blades on a Makita multi-tool?
Yes. Both Bosch and Makita multi-tools use the Starlock fitting system, so their blades are fully cross-compatible. You can use Bosch, Makita, or Fein Starlock blades interchangeably. Many tradespeople buy cheaper Bosch blades for their Makita tools for this reason.
What is the difference between Starlock and StarlockPlus?
StarlockPlus is a newer, improved version of the Starlock quick-change system. The main differences are faster blade changes (no screws needed) and stronger clamping force. All StarlockPlus blades work on regular Starlock tools, and all regular Starlock blades work on StarlockPlus tools, so they’re fully backward-compatible. StarlockMax is the latest evolution with even faster changes.
Where is the cheapest place to buy multi-tool blades in the UK?
Amazon UK typically has the best prices on blade sets, especially mixed variety packs. Bulk sets are usually 20–30% cheaper per blade than buying individual blades. Screwfix and Toolstation also run regular promotions. For single specialist blades (carbide tile cutters, metal-cutting bi-metal), eBay and specialist tool retailers sometimes undercut Amazon.
How long do multi-tool blades last?
This depends heavily on what you’re cutting and the blade quality. Budget blades last 30 minutes to an hour of continuous use; quality branded blades (Bosch, Makita, Fein) last 2–4 hours or more. Cutting harder materials (tile, metal, stone) dulls blades faster than wood. Most professionals keep 5–10 blades on hand and rotate them as they dull.
Can I use Fein blades on a Bosch multi-tool?
Yes. Fein and Bosch both use Starlock, so Fein blades work on any Starlock tool (Bosch, Makita, Mafell). Fein blades are typically more expensive but known for precision and longevity, so some professionals prefer them for detailed work.
