12 Best Grout Removal Tools of 2023

What if we told you that finding the best grout removal tool that precisely fits your needs isn’t as hard as it seems?

Most of our readers keep requesting we introduce more and more grout removal tools under a fair budget. We get it - home renovation isn’t a cakewalk unless you have one of these gadgets. It makes removing the most stubborn grout look as natural as spreading butter on a loaf. So, what stops us from buying one?

The market will never run out of products, but you have to learn to distinguish a reliable variant from an average one. To make the decision easier for you, our experts dove deep into the web and scraped out 12 of the best value-for-money options to consider. Also, we’ve added a buyer’s guide containing all the info you need to know what’s best.

So, without beating around the bush any further, let’s get into it!

Whether you're a seasoned contractor or a homeowner tackling a DIY project, these tools will make your grout removal tasks a breeze. So, without further ado, here's the list of the 12 best grout removal tools.

1. DEWALT DWE315K Corded 3-Amp Oscillating Tool kit - Best for Versatility

Whether you’re a heavy-duty professional or a home improvement DIY-er, Dewalt will never fail to surprise you with its distinctively efficient innovations. That said, the DWE315K gets the catbird’s seat on our list, as it’s highly rated for its superb performance and convenience features. Let’s find out more!

With this ultra-efficient tool, DEWALT has raised the bar quite high for convenience and product versatility. To begin with, the DWE315K is not only one of the top-performing grout removal tools on our list; it also comes in very handy for a plethora of secondary applications.

Whether you need a tool for cutting, scraping, sanding, or removing different materials, it’s the right fit. And when it comes to grout removal, it ensures zero damage to the tiles.

The reason behind its outstanding power is DEWALT’S patented 3 amp motor, which makes cutting, sanding, etc. feel like a breeze. With a maximum speed limit of 22,000 OPM, it allows you to take on the hardest of maintenance jobs with sheer confidence and precision.

Moreover, this product comes in a full-fledged 29-pc professional kit, comprising every possible attachment/accessory you’d need, and even more. As a bonus, you also get a sturdy box for storage.

When it comes to user comfort, this product gets it right with its ergonomic design and beginner-friendly control. Most importantly, its double-grip variable speed trigger allows you to control the motor for a more precise user experience. Last but not least, it also comes packed with a 20v volt battery, enabling you to work for longer hours.

Although this model had left us in awe with its versatile 29-pc kit, we were a little bummed out to find that its blade selection is minimal in comparison. You also might need to spend top dollar for replacement parts if your blades are damaged, as they’re pretty expensive.

2. DEWALT 20V MAX XR DCS355D1 Multi-Tool Kit - Best for DIY Enthusiasts

In case you’re searching for a more beginner-friendly alternative to our previous pick, then we have just the right DEWALT product in mind. The 20V MAX XR multi-tool kit promises nothing less than sheer precision and accuracy, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts with a tight budget. Let’s take a quick peek at its core features!

First and foremost, DEWALT’s promise regarding its performance makes it worth everybody’s attention. To be exact, the brand claims that its patented DEWALT brushless motor has been engineered to deliver 57% higher run time over any typical alternative, and totally lives up to it.

It’s designed for smooth performance and is built with premium-grade materials to last for a lifetime. If you prefer value-for-money products, then it is a package you shouldn’t ignore.

We’re also quite amazed by how it doesn’t convert the grout into dust while working, preventing you from cleaning up a huge mess post-use. Using it hardly makes your arms ache, as its ultralight body is designed ergonomically to provide sheer comfort to the user. Apart from that, it also ranks high in terms of user safety. We’re fans of its efficient grip, which prevents you from being affected by vibrations at higher speeds.

Moreover, this tool comes in a versatile 28-pc kit, including a wide array of sanding and cutting accessories for a smoother experience. It makes a quality grout removal tool, but you can also use it for several other jobs like our first pick. Last but not least, you get a universal accessory adaptor that complies with almost every brand.

Although it’s as versatile as our previous recommendation, it’s not nearly as powerful. We wouldn’t recommend it if you’re searching for a heavy-duty tool, as it may severely damage the motor. Furthermore, it’s priced nearly the same as the DWE315K, which we found a little unjustified.

3. Dremel 4000-2/30 Rotary Tool Kit - Best for Home Improvement Jobs

Dremel has been slowly emerging as one of the most trusted brands among American households when it comes to next-level innovations. The Dremel 4000-2/30 tool kit stands out as an efficient rotary tool kit, offering quality performance without costing a fortune. For those who are intrigued by highly versatile tools, this one is the real deal.

This product sets a very high standard for power with its incredibly high-performance motor, making it appropriate for heavy-duty jobs. To be precise, it can smoothly deliver a maximum speed of 35,000 OPM without any vibrations, which speaks volumes about its top-notch mechanism. As a bonus, similar to the DEWALT grout tools, it also features a variable speed trigger that allows you to control its power accordingly, upping the bar for utmost versatility.

This kit comes with a durable 4000 corded rotary tool, along with which you get 30 premium-grade accessories/attachments for higher versatility. With such an abundance of attachments, handling tasks such as grooving, slotting, shaping, and hollowing becomes quite easy. As a bonus, it enables the tool to handle the most detailed tasks in hard-to-reach areas. To ensure that the accessories aren’t lost or misplaced, Dremel provides a sturdy case for storage.

Coming to its build, the product appears to be reasonably attractive, and sturdy and is guaranteed to last for years to come. We’re fans of its 360-degree grip that ensures that the user doesn’t end up with fatigued wrists after using it for a long. Last but not least, you get an innovative ventilation mechanism that prevents overheating issues.

We’ve noticed that despite being very compact and user-friendly, it doesn’t offer a satisfactory user experience. To be honest, it has a frequent tendency to make a mess out of dust while being used for grout removal, which is a bit stressful at times.

4. DEWALT DWE305 12-Amp Corded Reciprocating Saw/Grout Grabber - Best Multipurpose Tool

If you’re a sucker for multipurpose tools, this two-in-one tool manufactured by DEWALT will blow your mind. Apart from being an efficient grout grabber, it also makes a capable reciprocating saw. Such ultra-high performance under an affordable makes it a complete steal. Let’s check out its core features!

Although it might not be the best suggestion we have for heavy-duty jobs, its ability to handle middle-duty grout removal remains unparalleled. This product offers a decent oscillating speed of 0-2,900 OPM, with a 1-⅛” stroke length. If you’re planning to take on simple home improvement jobs with ease, you’ll be delighted with its precision and accuracy. You can also handle cutting jobs with its reciprocating saw.

As it is a DEWALT tool, it’s not a surprise that it gets an advanced variable speed trigger. This user-convenient feature makes cutting a lot easier, as you can control the device’s speed as per your wish. Speaking of cutting efficiency, the manufacturers offer a 4-position blade clamp, which makes the tool highly eligible for flash cutting. Furthermore, we’re also satisfied with the patented brushless motor that lasts long, despite being used rigorously.

If compared to our other product suggestions, it’s quite underperforming in terms of power. Also, we’re not a big fan of its bulky design; it could have been a little more ergonomic and beginner-friendly. Last but not least, we’ve found that the product can’t be adequately controlled at lower speeds, which is a bummer.

5. Grout Grabber GG001 Grout Removal Tool - Best for Manual Use

Not everyone can afford world-class brand products, and neither do we require so for tasks that need minimal assistance. If this is the case with you, then the Grout Grabber GG001 unit is the most budget-friendly option to consider. Although it isn’t an independent tool per se, it still works wonders as an accessory. Let’s find out more!

Before we proceed any further - if you previously didn’t own a reciprocating saw, skip directly to our next product recommendation. That’s because it’s attached to saws to scrape your tile joints for grout removal. However, the bright side here is that the model beats every other alternative on our list in terms of portability. It’s so compact that you can carry it around in your back pocket without a care in the world.

What makes it even more convenient is its universal compatibility; it can be fitted on any reciprocating saw, which is quite incredible for such a low-priced product. Moreover, its build quality is extremely durable, enabling you to push it beyond its limits for a rigorous grout removal session. Furthermore, it’s guaranteed that you won’t chip the tiles while using it. For such an entry-level tool, such premium-grade user convenience is simply impressive.

To be frank, this product is strictly for those with a tight budget and minimal expectations. It’s not very long-lasting, and you’d notice the blades to be wearing out quite often. We’ve also tried using it on old and compacted grout, and it failed to impress. Last but not least, the tool tends to jump around at higher speeds, which can be risky for the user.

6. Dremel 4300-5/40 High-Performance Rotary Tool Kit

For the Dremel Tools fans searching for high-performance tool kits under a fair budget, the 4300-5/40 rotary tool kit is an intelligent alternative to consider. This convertible tool offers the utmost versatility and performance, which makes it suitable for heavy-duty jobs. Let’s find out more!

This product had initially caught our attention with its exclusive 1.8 amp motor, which offers superb performance to take on the hardest of jobs with ease. It allows you to rev it up to 35,000 OPM with electronic feedback, ensuring consistency in its power. Moreover, it has impressed us with its accuracy. Also, it’s quieter than most of our other product recommendations, giving itself a higher rank in terms of user convenience.

This 4300 high-performance rotary tool kit comes with multiple attachments that altogether enhance its versatility a few notches. You get a composed set of 40 attachments/accessories for a multipurpose user experience, which allows you to handle secondary jobs such as sanding and cutting. However, the icing on the cake is the iconic pivot light that keeps rotating to provide sufficient brightness for you to grout in hard-to-reach areas.

It might not feature a brushless motor, but it also doesn’t push you toward heavy maintenance stress. With this motor, you get a replaceable brush system that ensures a longer product life. Finally, you get a variable speed trigger to control its power, which is pretty incredible.

Although it’s a compelling device, it also has its fair share of drawbacks. It can get unstable at higher speeds due to frequent vibrations, and you might end up chipping the tiles. Also, we’re not pretty satisfied with its size, as it can be problematic for those with less space for storage.

7. BOSCH 1375A 4-½-Inch Angle Grinder

Moving on towards some of the most compact grout tools in the game, the BOSCH 4.5-inch angle grinder has created a big buzz with its ultra-smooth operation. Despite being an extremely maneuverable device, it packs sufficient power to go head-to-head against some of our professional-grade alternatives. Let’s check out its specs and functions!

This efficient grout grabber can be availed at a very pocket-friendly price, which makes it worth everybody’s attention. Apart from being very affordable, it’s also effortless to carry around, provided it weighs about 3.75 pounds. We’d especially recommend it to anyone who’s into plumbing, vehicular fabrication, and DIY home renovation jobs. It delivers superb performance without being damaged by regular use.

Moving on, this product comes equipped with an immensely strong 6.0 amp motor that performs up to 11,000 RPM with zero loads, which pretty much explains why it’s a top-notch professional’s choice. Moreover, we’ve found that its motor comes with a tiny field diameter that enables you to perform cutting jobs with much ease. It’s designed very ergonomically, and its handle grip makes it a very easy tool to grout.

When it comes to durability, BOSCH takes the cake with its epoxy-coated design that safeguards the tool from any abrasive debris. As a bonus, you get a Service Minder Brush system that immediately halts the motor if it detects any preventive maintenance needs. Overall, nothing defines the best values better than the BOSCH angle grinder.

We’ve found its lock button to be extremely sensitive, which may be a safety hazard in multiple cases. Furthermore, the motor makes an unpleasant noise while running when the electricity voltage is subpar.

8. QEP 10020 Grout Removal Tool

Some of us still like to do things the old-fashioned way, and we have just the right suggestion for those who prefer manual tools over automated alternatives any day. The QEP 10020 unit stands out as one of the most straightforward grout removal tools on our list, and it’s the appropriate companion to your simple day-to-day maintenance jobs.

Similar to the Grout Grabber GG001 unit, it is a very easy-to-use tool for quick grout removal. We’re fans of its ultra-compact design, making it eligible for being carried with no problem. You can easily slide in your toolbag without worrying about storage space; that’s how easily maneuverable it is. Although it isn’t necessarily a power tool, it gives 100% control to the user, which comes very handy while scraping off unwanted grout.

Using the QEP 10020 ensures nothing less than 100% user satisfaction, as it helps in obtaining a very clean and precise end result. The product also ranks very high in terms of ergonomics, and its ultralight body gives it an even higher advantage. Consequently, it doesn’t cause any stress on your arms after using it for long hours. The comfort grip helps the tool from slipping away, which is essential for the user’s safety while working.

Although it is unarguably one of the most inexpensive grout tools you’ll find in the market, it doesn’t mean that the product isn’t durable. In fact, it comes equipped with reversible carbide tips, which offer multiple scraping edges for long-lasting tool life.

As evident, it’s bound to take a long time to finish the tasks because it’s totally hand-held and manual. Also, we wouldn’t recommend it for medium/heavy-duty jobs, as its lack of automation restricts its eligibility for personal use.

9. Kraft Tool ST147 Grout Saw

Kraft Tool is one of the hottest up-and-coming brands in the American tools market, which has set the bar higher for manual grout tools with its ST147 unit. Right at first glance, it managed to grab our attention with its unique design. Speaking of performance, it’s an ideal competition for the QEP 10020. Let’s find out more!

Like our previous recommendation, this product is also a very budget-friendly grout removal tool to consider taking on small personal jobs. It’s completely manual, which means that you’re totally in charge of the job. It isn’t nearly as noisy as our other product suggestions, offering you a smoother and more comfortable experience. Neither would you be facing any vibration issues, provided that it is totally hand-held. Consequently, it allows you to scrape with ease.

It weighs around 3.2 ounces, which prevents you from ending up with fatigued wrists after using it for a long. The sturdy handle enables you to have a better grip at the base, which is needed to gain optimal control of the tool. Furthermore, we’ve found that its blades are replaceable, which instantly raises the bar higher for user convenience. Although it’s not recommended for heavy-duty usage, it is pretty accurate for minor tasks.

Provided that this product is solely developed for small-duty use, expecting it to compete with the heavyweights on our list would be quite futile. However, despite being so compact, it’s a little disappointing that it fails to offer optimal performance in the narrow joints.

10. REETREE Caulking/Grout Removal Tool

Next on our list is the kingpin of the manual grout tools category, the REETREE Caulking grout cleaner. This product, despite being entirely hand-held, offers extreme versatility and efficiency, which is incredible. Let’s have a quick peek at what it offers!

At such an affordable price, REETREE offers every possible feature you’d need from a manual grout removal tool. First, its design is exceptionally entry-level enabling you to perform small-duty grout removal/scraping with ease. The blades have been positioned in a way that doesn’t chip the tiles while being used, which is pretty incredible. Consequently, you can comfortably remove stubborn grout, dirt, caulking, and mortar stuck between the joints without chipping the tiles.

When it comes to building quality, the REETREE tool gains a straight edge over most of the manual alternatives in the market, which gives it a significant advantage in this category. We’re impressed with its sturdy quality, provided it’s built with super hard Tungsten steel that is much harder than the tiles. As a result, the chances of the tool being damaged while being used are meager, extending the product life by a fair deal.

The product also ranks very high in terms of efficiency, and its sharp tip allows you to dig deep into the surface and fit the width of maximum tile joints. This way, you can even use it to clean cracked tiles without any worry. If that doesn’t define best values, what does?

As most of the users have reported, it is tough to scrape off the wall edge grout with this tool, restricting its capability a little. Also, being a manual product, it may not be the best option for heavy-duty professionals. 

11. Genesis GMT15A 1.5 Amp Multi-Purpose Oscillating Tool

Our list would have been incomplete without mentioning the Genesis GMT15A, one of the best-selling multifunctional oscillating tools you’d find. It packs serious power that allows it to deliver numerous functions, making it a perfect tool for home renovation jobs. Let’s have a more in-depth look at its key features!

This product has seriously impressed us with its build quality, as its die-cast aluminum gear case safeguards it from any internal damage to extend its life overall. Also, the futuristic design plays a significant role in preventing the tool from overheating issues.

Furthermore, the four-pin flange system ensures that the external attachments are tightly connected to the device while being used for versatile jobs. This way, Genesis has raised the bar too high for safety.

When it comes to power, this product beats most of our other recommendations with its 1.5 amp motor that can rev as high as 21,000 OPM. With such high oscillation power, it makes grout removal easier and smoother than ever.

Apart from that, its multiple accessories (including a scraper blade, flush cut blade, saw blade, delta sanding pad, sandpaper, and Allen wrench) make it eligible for tasks such as scraping, cutting, sanding, etc.

Despite being a pro-grade tool, it weighs as little as 2.8 pounds. Consequently, you can carry it around anywhere with ease. Its non-slip handle also provides a comfortable grip to perform stress-free home renovation jobs without stressing out your arms. Finally, it comes with a two-year warranty period as an assurance of quality.

Some users have reported that during long-term regular use, its motor begins to malfunction. It’s best to use it periodically, which can otherwise threaten its longevity. Apart from that, we also found it to be quite loud, and it’s best to wear protection gadgets while using it.

12. Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool

The final product on our list is one of the most popular grout removal innovations launched by the globally leading brand Makita Tools. The XMT03Z makes an efficient companion for roaming professionals, as the cordless feature gives it an upper advantage. Let’s check out its core features!

A unique feature that this product offers is its cordless feature. In brief, it comes with an 18v battery that allows it to run for about 20 minutes on a single charge. If you’re a roaming professional who also works in areas with no electric outlet, then it’s the best option to consider. Furthermore, it can be placed upright when it is not being used, making it a little more convenient.

Its powerful electric motor can deliver up to a maximum speed of 20,000 RPM, allowing it to take on middle-duty home renovation tasks with ease. As a bonus, you also get an extraordinary oscillation angle of 3.2 degrees, which enhances its performance a notch. Whether it is grout removal, sanding, cutting, or any similar task, this versatile product provides you sufficient help in completing it within a short period.

This product appears to be very easy to use, as its large on/shutdown makes it a lot more convenient to operate. Moreover, you get a tool-free clamp system that allows you to install the accessories a lot quicker.

First things first, this product is pretty large and bulky. Using it for a long time continuously may lead to pain in your wrists, so beware. Also, it would’ve been better if the product came with an LED in the front for high visibility in dark areas.

What Are the Differences Between the Top Grout Removal Tools Essential for Home Improvement?

The table provides detailed comparisons of top grout removal tools, highlighting power sources, tool types, and blade specifics.

Buying Guide for the Best Grout Removal

When searching for the most reliable grout removal tools, you must be aware of a list of features to consider to make sure that you’re choosing the best option out there. Here’s a comprehensive list of the main factors to consider before purchasing.

1. Tool type

The types are mainly two- automatic and manual. If you’re a hardcore professional, you’d need more power and convenience, which can be availed from the mechanical/automatic variants. However, if you’re a DIY enthusiast who’s searching for personal-use tools, then the manual variants are a smart and budget-friendly option to consider.

2. Blade type

As the blade is an essential part of the tool, it’s vital to ensure that you’re not settling for average quality. The most common blades among grout removal tools are made of carbide, which provides excellent durability and performance. But in case the budget isn’t an issue, you can go for tungsten steel blades, which offer higher performance and longevity.

3. Size and design

It’s essential to ensure that the product is ergonomically designed for a smooth and stress-free user experience. Bulkier models lead to storage issues, so it’s best not to opt for one unless you have enough space in your toolbox.

If you prioritize portability more than anything, then manual grout removal tools are the best options to consider. You can simply carry these without any issues, all thanks to their ultra-compact size.

4. Safety

Last but not least, let’s not forget that we’re dealing with blades that oscillate at an average of 20,000 OPM. It’s fundamental to ensure that the product comes with sufficient safety measures to prevent any unforeseen accidental damage for a more secure user experience. For instance, make sure that it comes equipped with a protective gear case that saves both you and the tool from any accident.

Conclusion

That said, we hope that our expert guide to the best grout removal tools in the game has helped you a little in finding the one that best suits your requirements. Before we sign off, here’s a brief recap of our editor’s picks.

The Dewalt DWE315K has it all under a reasonable budget - whether it is speed, power, or convenience. The Dremel 4000-2/30 tool kit is the most versatile kit we’ve tested till now, and you can consider it if you need a tool for more than just grout removal. Last but not least, the Grout Grabber GG001 unit is the perfect low-budget pick for DIY home improvement folks.

Stay tuned with us for more informative content, and we’ll see you soon!