We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›
No one wants to lug around an armload of tools if they can use a single device capable of tackling multiple tasks. This awards category was all about spotlighting today’s new tools that go above and beyond by doing double duty. We feel that all of these winners earn their keep by being useful for more than one purpose.
Dremel 3100-1/15 Rotary Tool Kit
A major player in powered multitools, Dremel has long been known for its high-quality rotary tools and wide selection of bits that allow users to sand, grind, buff, and more. Its newest offering, the corded Dremel 3100-1/15 Rotary Kit, comes with 15 accessories for use at one of five speed settings. Particularly noteworthy on this model is a high-performance 1.2-amp motor and a new airflow system that keeps the tool cool, even with extended use. Plus, while it doesn’t impact the performance, a tool housing made of 65 percent recycled plastic still impressed us.
Get the Dremel Rotary Tool Kit at Amazon for $49.90.
HOZO M-Cube Pro Laser Measuring Tool Kit
The success of many DIY projects depends on accurate measurements, and the four-part modular HOZO’s M-Cube is designed to take any and all of them quickly on its digital touchscreen. With one attachment, the tool finds the distance (up to 164 feet), area, and more using a laser within 1/16-inch accuracy. But it doesn’t stop there: Swap out its magnetic add-ons and the M-Cube converts to a bilateral laser of up to 328 feet, transforms into a laser level, and even reads the room and renders a digital drawing of the floor plan on its digital screen. On the tool’s downloadable mobile app, called Meazor, users can see scanned floor plans in greater detail and edit.
Get the HOZO M-Cube at Amazon for $335.75.
Gorilla 2-in-1 Multi-Position Extension Ladder
Ladders are typically large, unwieldy, and take up too much storage space—and even then, many DIYers might need multiple ladders to work at different heights. Gorilla is streamlining garages everywhere with its new step ladder that converts into an extension ladder in minutes. In step ladder mode, it offers a 10-foot reach; in extension mode, the maximum reach increases to 14 feet. Like other Gorilla models we’ve tested, this Type 1A ladder (rated to support up to 300 pounds) features a wide base for stability and includes a removable project bucket.
Get the Gorilla Multi-Position Ladder at The Home Depot for $149.
Shark FlexBreeze Pedestal Fan
Anyone who’s worked in a hot environment knows the benefits of having a fan to cool off. The new Shark FlexBreeze is equipped to cool down indoor and outdoor spaces thanks to a highly flexible design. Lift the fan head out of its corded pedestal, and it’s suddenly a cordless fan on a short tripod base that moves virtually anywhere. For added cooling outside, attach the included misting attachment to the center front of the fan and connect a garden hose for the ultimate chill-down effect: the powerful fan sprays a gentle cooling mist over the work area or patio.
Get the FlexBreeze Fan with InstaCool at The Home Depot for $199.99.
Lasko Pinnacle Tower Fan
The second fan to land in the winner’s circle is a new product from Lasko. But don’t make the mistake of thinking this is just a fan: The Lasko Pinnacle circulates cooling comfort while also capturing dust and pet hair in its carbon filter. It oscillates to cool and clean the air at a quiet 24 decibels on the lowest of 12 speeds—about the same as a soft whisper. Then when dusk falls, a night-light comes on to illuminate the floor for safe walking, elevating it to a 3-in-1 room fixture.
Get the Lasko Pinnacle Tower Fan at Amazon for $86.56.
