They said I couldn't find a high-quality multitool for under $30 – but this one's a winner

I’ve been a big fan of multitools and pocket tools for decades. I’ve owned several items from big names like Leatherman, Gerber, and Victorinox. Some I still have, others I’ve given away or lost. I’ve even broken a few, though in those cases, I was able to get replacements under warranty.

These are premium tools, often priced over $100, with some costing significantly more. For that price, you get a robust, long-lasting tool with a solid warranty to back it up. But not everyone wants or needs a $100+ multitool. Many people are simply looking for something affordable and reliable — a tool that gets the job done but won’t break your heart if it’s lost, stolen, or damaged.

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The problem is that cheap and good rarely go together, and I’ve had difficulty finding a decent multitool in the sub-$100 category.

Until now.

For the past few weeks, I’ve been using the NexTool E1 pocket tool. This multitool combines 10 different functions into a compact, pocket-friendly package.

All of this fits into a tool measuring just 3.1 x 1.0 x 0.7 inches and weighing under 3.5 ounces.

The tool’s components are made from heat-treated 30Cr13 stainless steel, known for its durability and toughness, while the scales are constructed from a tough polymer, making the multitool lightweight and sturdy. 

The screwdriver is a standout feature; if you like it, you can purchase a 10-bit expansion pack. These bits are also compatible with Leatherman’s bit holder, so if you use that multitool, these might be handy for you.

I’ve tested all the tools, and they are sharp enough to handle tasks effectively while retaining their sharpness even after extended use. The knife and the mini scraper have thumb studs on the blade to make opening easy, while the other tools use nail nicks. Some tools might feel a bit stiff to open at first — partly because the joints need to loosen and partly because there’s a knack to it. However, after a few days of use, it becomes second nature. 

The utility knife, in particular, requires some practice to open, but this is actually a good thing since it prevents accidental openings in your pocket. 

I like this pocket tool because it’s small enough to go unnoticed in your pocket but big enough to get the job done. Note that it doesn’t have a set of pliers or a keyring clip; if you want those, you must look at some of NexTool’s bigger offerings.  

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It’s also worth noting that because this tool includes two blades, it cannot be taken on flights and will likely end up in a TSA bin if you try to bring it through airport security. 

ZDNET’s buying advice

The Nextool E1 is a great pocket tool, and with a $27 price tag, it’s quite a bargain. This puts it into quite a unique category — a decent tool that’s also highly affordable. You don’t get the substantial long warranties that you see with the likes of Leatherman, but at only $30, if you break it or lose it, it’s not going to break the bank.