Skip advert
Advertisement

Multitools mini test

Garber has launched its new multi-tasking tool. We put it to the test against our current favourite

When storage space is tight, a multitool packs a lot of kit into a small package, making it ideal for stashing in a glovebox or door pocket for minor emergencies.

But you don’t have to be stranded at the roadside for a multitool to be useful, as they can help when eating meals on the go or making everyday repairs to whatever items you happen to be carrying.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The choice is wide, with as many options as there are combinations of tools packed into the handles. Gerber has just added to that choice with the Balance – a mid-priced tool with a smooth, pocket-friendly exterior. But how does it match up to our current favourite, the Victorinox SwissTool CS, which won our previous group test?

We assessed each tool’s blade, screwdrivers, pliers and scissors to find out. It soon became clear that these are aimed at different markets, with the comprehensive SwissTool coming out a step ahead in most areas.

The Gerber is a well made alternative for those who can’t stretch to the SwissTool’s price, but it really needs a tool lock.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Products editor

Kim has worked for Auto Express for more than three decades and all but a year of that time in the Products section. His current role as products editor involves managing the section’s content and team of testers plus doing some of the tests himself. 

New & used car deals

Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,690Avg. savings £5,321 off RRP*Used from £10,904
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,344 off RRP*Used from £10,195
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £39,025Avg. savings £3,224 off RRP*Used from £13,495
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £6,462 off RRP*
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

What do car journalists drive? The cars our experts spent their own cash on
Auto Express team members standing with their own cars

What do car journalists drive? The cars our experts spent their own cash on

The Auto Express content team is fortunate enough to drive many cars on a regular basis. But that knowledge sometimes translates into unusual private …
Features
29 Dec 2025
New Skoda Fabia 130 2026 review: a likeable warm hatch, but it’s no vRS
Skoda Fabia 130 - front tracking

New Skoda Fabia 130 2026 review: a likeable warm hatch, but it’s no vRS

The new 130 is the hottest Fabia we’ve seen in a while, but it’s also one of the most expensive
Road tests
29 Dec 2025
Jaguar will prove the naysayers wrong by building a monolith of design and taste
Jaguar design - opinion, header image

Jaguar will prove the naysayers wrong by building a monolith of design and taste

Jordan Katsianis thinks the criticism of Jaguar’s bold new approach is misplaced. If anything, it isn’t bold enough.
Opinion
29 Dec 2025