I got the Menard's Performax variable oscillating multi tool for $30 at BF (also can be had on clearance now for same price if your store has any left). It is very good, smooth and powerful and a great deal for the price with a very full set of complimentary blades. The HF variable speed is the same as well (earlier version was *exactly* the same as the earlier Performax brand one). The cheaper HF non-variable work too but are much louder and vibrate all over more (not just on the tool end where it is supposed to). Dremel, Bosch, Fein, etc. make better ones that are also all more money, some alot more money. I like the $30 one I got and can get a couple more of those for the cost of one of the others if I wanted to. I no longer like the cheapest HF ones as they are very loud and not as fun to use for long periods due to the vibrations. Variable speed is nice.
For Dremel rotary type tools, Dremel is king of course but also biased towards very low torque ability with very high speeds needed to do the job. Some brands provide more torque to do the job at lower speeds. The Black and Decker is a good high torque type, as is a Ryobi type. I have one of each. Variable speed again is nice to have. I also have some Dremels that spin very fast, but any digging in (high torque) will break those bits or stop it in its tracks, so I consider those not good for every type of job. The B&D or Ryobi don't do that, but drive right in without slowing down much when torque is needed and are less likely to break bits as a result. I like that style tool better most of the time. Many more expensive options there too like Bosch, etc. Depends again what you want to do with it, your needs, and your budget. As a DIY homeowner type, who also likes to have good tools that are nice and work well, I won't spend more than about $40 for either of these type of tools, and don't need to anymore today. There are good low cost options out there. - Paul
